I am trying to build some kind of alarm that would play an mp3 file. I wanted it to be loud, so I managed to get my hands on a horn speaker 15W/100V (SURPASS: SP-H15P).
I am not an expert in audio but I am trying to understand how to do a simple setup to connect it to an Arduino.
I currently have an Arduino Uno and a MP3-TF-16P. If I just connect them directly, I can play the mp3 file but the volume is quite low (as expected).
Should I just try to get a simple amplifier in front of the MP3-TF-16P in front of the speaker.
Can I use the speaker without a 100V setup?
The idea of 100V speaker systems is to make it possible to distribute audio all over a large building with minimum loss of signal. Are you aware of I^2*R and how it is used to reduce transmission losses on long power distribution circuits? It's why electricity grids operate at high voltages. Same principal.
A 100V speaker needs an amplifier with a 100V output, except that, in my experience at least, 100V speakers are normal low impedance speakers with a transformer to match them to the 100V distribution, so, if that's the case with the speaker, you just have to remove the transformer and use a normal audio amplifier. 15W class D amplifiers are available on your favourite retail web site for a few £, $ or whatever the currency is in you part of the world.
I know it was made for big buildings and long cables, but I wanted this speaker more for the look and was hoping to find a way to connect.
I just opened it and I did find the transformer and will remove it and get my hands on a 15W Class D amplifier.
I will let you know as soon as I can test it.