I recently wrote about a DIY ESP32-S3 internet radio, and “raspbeguy” commented on favoring an ESP32-based DIY DAB+ receiver kit, such as the one provided by the PE5PVB project using a Skyworth SI4684 receiver.
I first learned about Digital Audio Broadcast (DAB) in 2003 when we considered incorporating it into a CD player. Essentially, it’s the digital version of traditional FM/AM radios. DAB and the more recent DAB+ standard are mainly prominent in Europe. However, PE5PVB’s open-source hardware DAB receiver may still be of interest.
PE5PVB’s SI4684 ESP32 DAB+ receiver specifications include:
– Controller: ESP32 microcontroller with WiFi and Bluetooth (DoIT ESP32 devkit v1)
– Storage: MicroSD card slot
– Display: Color LCD screen with 320×240 resolution (SPI)
– Audio:
– 2x RCA connectors for speakers
– 3.5mm headphone jack with amplifier
– DAB+ receiver: Skyworks SI4684 with DAB+ firmware loaded at startup.
– Miscellaneous:
– 2x rotary encoders, 3x push buttons
– Top encoder: Frequency or memory channel
– Bottom encoder: Service or set headphones’ volume
– Top button: Short press for service information; long press for stand-by mode
– Middle button: Short press to set mode; long press opens menu
– Lower button: Toggle slideshow view.
– Power Supply: 12V DC input
Most of Europe is covered by DAB+ (while the UK still uses DAB), and it is also available in Australia, South Korea, and some Middle Eastern and North African countries. In other regions, DAB+ signal generation would require test equipment.
The project is fully open-source, with KiCad hardware design files (schematics and PCB layout) for the ESP32 controller board and mainboard (SI4684), Gerbers, 3D files for the enclosure, and the PlatformIO/Arduino firmware, all accessible on GitHub. Building this is more complex than just loading Arduino firmware, as it involves ordering PCBs, sourcing components, soldering, printing the enclosure, and assembly.
Despite being about two years old, the radio isn’t available on AliExpress. However, another PE5PVB project featuring “TEF6686 with ESP32” and FM/LW/MW/SW radio support appears more popular, similar to the LILYGO T-Embed SI4732 ESP32-S3 development board we discussed last year. It is priced at around $40 on AliExpress.
Jean-Luc began CNX Software in 2010, eventually transitioning to full-time news and reviews writing in 2011 after leaving a software engineering manager position.
Support CNX Software by donating via cryptocurrencies, becoming a Patron on Patreon, or purchasing goods through Amazon or Aliexpress. We use affiliate links in articles to earn commissions if purchases are made after clicking on those links.