Sonatino is now open source!Sonatino hardware design files are open source!
What's changing in v4
Stereo Input and Output
Dedicated input and output jacks allow simultaneous audio recording and playback, both in stereo.
A Better Codec
A modern audio codec replaces the separate DAC and ADC, with higher dynamic range and lower distortion, built-in EQ, and configurable automatic gain control.
Bluetooth Audio
A new ESP32 module adds Bluetooth audio capability, so streaming audio to and from phones, speakers and headsets is finally on the table.
Balanced Audio Jacks
The input and output jacks can run as balanced mono lines – great for long cable runs and pro audio gear.
Stereo Speaker Output
The onboard Class-D amplifier drives two speakers instead of one.
More Headphone Power
A new headphone amplifier adds more than five times the power of v3 into 16 ohm headphones, along with volume control from software.
Built-In Microphone
A digital MEMS microphone enables voice projects to work with no extra gear needed.
Longer Battery Life
The audio chain, LEDs, and supporting parts all shut down for sleep, making for incredibly low standby draw.
USB Audio, MIDI and More
The USB-C port can appear to your computer as a sound card, MIDI device, keyboard or storage drive, while still being the port you use for programming.
Simple Configuration
Input level, output level, gain and volume are all set from your sketch with simple pin writes. Full I2C configuration is also available for power users.
Everything You Already Liked
Same Raspberry Pi Zero footprint, a next-generation ESP32 module, USB-C, microSD, GPIOs, battery charging and deep sleep, with open-source hardware design files.
The v4 design is nearing completion. It is built on a next-generation ESP32 module that is not expected to be available until early 2027, so boards will be available soon after that. This note will be updated as things move.
The demo featured a plush reindeer toy (with Sonatino stuffed inside), programmed to listen and respond to spoken questions in real-time. Watch it here.
