How to Use ESP32 for I2S Audio Playback and Recording with MAX98357A and INMP441

Introduction

The ESP32 is a powerful microcontroller that supports I2S audio playback and recording, making it an ideal choice for audio projects. In this tutorial, we will explore how to use the ESP32 with a MAX98357A Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) for audio playback and an INMP441 microphone for audio recording in PCM format. By the end of this guide, you will be able to set up your hardware and software to play and record audio effectively.

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of programming and electronics.
• ESP32 development board.
• MAX98357A DAC module.
• INMP441 microphone module.
• Arduino IDE with ESP32 board support installed.
• Jumper wires for connections.

Parts/Tools

• 1 x ESP32 Development Board
• 1 x MAX98357A DAC
• 1 x INMP441 Microphone
• Jumper wires
• Arduino IDE

Steps

1. Wiring the Components
   • Connect the MAX98357A DAC:

   
   VCC -> 3.3V
   GND -> GND
   LRC -> GPIO25
   BCK -> GPIO26
   DIN -> GPIO27
               

   • Connect the INMP441 Microphone:

   
   VCC -> 3.3V
   GND -> GND
   SCK -> GPIO22
   WS -> GPIO23
   SD -> GPIO21
               

2. Set Up the Arduino IDE
   • Open the Arduino IDE.
   • Go to File > Preferences and add the ESP32 board manager URL:

   
   https://dl.espressif.com/dl/package_esp32_index.json
               

   • Go to Tools > Board > Boards Manager, search for “ESP32”, and install it.
3. Install Required Libraries
   • Go to Sketch > Include Library > Manage Libraries.
   • Search for and install the following libraries:
   • “I2S” (comes with ESP32 core)
   • “Audio” library (for handling audio playback)
4. Write the Code
   • Start a new sketch in the Arduino IDE and include the necessary libraries:

   
   #include <Arduino.h>
   #include <I2S.h>
   #include <Audio.h>
               

   • Define I2S configuration:

   
   void setup() {
       I2S.begin(I2S_PHILIPS_MODE, 44100, I2S_BITS_PER_SAMPLE_16BIT);
   }
               

   • Set up the playback and recording functions:

   
   void playAudio() {
       // Audio playback code
   }
   
   void recordAudio() {
       // Audio recording code
   }
               

5. Upload the Code
   • Select your ESP32 board from Tools > Board.
   • Connect the ESP32 to your computer via USB.
   • Click the Upload button in the Arduino IDE to upload your code.

Troubleshooting

• ESP32 not connecting: Ensure the correct COM port is selected under Tools > Port.
• No sound from the DAC: Check the wiring connections; make sure the DAC is powered and all pins are connected correctly.
• Microphone not recording: Verify the INMP441 wiring and ensure the audio library is set up to capture audio from the correct pins.
• Compile errors: Ensure all libraries are installed and up to date; check for typos in your code.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we have covered how to set up the ESP32 for I2S audio playback and recording using the MAX98357A DAC and INMP441 microphone. By following these steps, you can create audio applications that can play and capture sound in PCM format. Experiment with different audio files and configurations to further enhance your project. Happy coding!