I want to build a small circuit to use in a child's toy that will produce some led effects and play four or five different sounds in response to various inputs. I have searched the site for ideas, but not found anything that matches what I'm looking for.
I already have a ATtiny841 based board design that I use for simple led effects; it has eight outputs (via an ULN2803) and 3 inputs (direct to the 841). If its possible, I'd like to use this in conjunction with a mp3 playback unit. Now, I know less than nothing about audio, so I'm looking for some advice on the best mp3 unit to use, any suitable amplification (if needed) and how best to program to use it.
As my ATtiny board has only 3 inputs available, are there any mp3 units that can be controlled directly, but with a way of synchronising the sound to the ATtiny outputs perhaps?
If necessary, I'm not averse to using a UNO for the control, and hence a suitable shield, but would much prefer to use the ATtiny841 board because of its small size.
I think I'll look into the VS1053B chip to see if its feasible to build an mp3 board myself. If not, well that Sparkfun shield with a UNO is an, albeit pricey, aternative :-\
I've reached a bit of a sticking point with this project. I need a breakout board really, as a shield is going to be a bit big as it turns out. I also need polyphonic sound which is probably the biggest problem.
The shield that Pauly brought to my attention, ie
is ideal in its function (although perhaps a wee bit overkill), but it is large - and also expensive. Does anyone know of an alternative that could perhaps be controlled by a Promini and be similar in size to the Promini?
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