Pimoroni Pirate Radio Project Kit
Best DIY project for audio enthusiasts wanting a custom streaming speaker.
This is the perfect weekend project for anyone who wants to build their own smart speaker without diving into deep engineering. While you sacrifice the polished, seamless experience of a store-bought device, you gain a charming, retro-styled piece of hardware that you can actually customize and call your own.
$49.50
at
Seeedstudio
Who it's for
- Users needing a portable, space-saving audio solution
- Makers wanting a flexible platform for custom IoT projects
- Beginners eager to learn electronics and basic programming
Who should skip it
- Novices intimidated by soldering and command-line configuration
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound quality
- Developers requiring high-performance processing for complex tasks
Performance breakdown
Assembly Accessibility
Straightforward build process that rewards patience with a satisfying final result.
Audio Fidelity
Surprisingly punchy sound for a compact, DIY-focused speaker setup.
Customization Potential
Python library support offers endless possibilities for hobbyist software tweaks.
Aesthetic Appeal
Retro acrylic design brings a charming, nostalgic vibe to any desk.
Educational Value
Excellent hands-on introduction to IoT concepts and basic electronics assembly.
Component Quality
Reliable pHAT BEAT DAC and amplifier hardware for consistent performance.
Key Specs
Processor
Raspberry Pi Zero W
RAM
512 MB
Amplifier
MAX98357A
Audio Output
3W per channel
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Operating System Compatibility
Raspberry Pi OS
Dimensions
135x85x70mm (WxHxD)
Power Input
5V
GPIO Pin Count
40
Programming Language
Python
Know before you buy
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Ask Metto anything about the Pimoroni Pirate Radio Project Kit before you decide.