I am an absolute novice with Arduino and electronics. I have been trying to make a sound module, as part of a larger device. I am using a DFPlayer Pro, PAM8302, 8 ohm microspeaker, 3.7v LiPo with a TP4057 USB charging board.
I need a module that plays a single, dedicated sound, continuously while powered. I will need a few of these, each playing a different dedicated sound.
I got this impression this would be fairly straightforward, but it has been a nightmare. I've stumped GPT, Claude, and Gemini.
After (finally) getting the player programmed with an UNO, (Claude was really helpful with that,) This thing won't make sound.
The DFPlayer Pro LED lights up and responds to the onboard PLAY button — audio is faintly audible through a speaker connected directly to R+ and R-. However when routing through the PAM8302 for amplification, I get no output. DACL shows zero voltage on a multimeter. Specific questions: Is DACL compatible with PAM8302 input? Is R+/R- compatible with PAM8302 A+/A-? Do I need a different amplifier?
The DFPlayer Pro seems to be rather new and the documentation is poor. It is not clear from the data sheet whether it has a speaker amplifier and I can't find any good examples of how it is to be used. The data sheet suggests that the DAC can handle a 32 Ohm load (e.g. headphones), but at only 11 mW output, so your 8 Ohm speaker would overload it.
On the other hand, the DFPlayer Mini MP3 module is popular, with plenty of examples. The speaker output is mono only, but stereo is possible using your amplifier.
Nice sketch, it helps. I agree with @b707 There is more then one type of module. Can you post links to technical information on the parts you are using. I am concerned if you have enough voltage. If you do not have a multi meter you should get one, they may cost less then a pack of cigarettes.
@jremington indicates it may not have the power to drive s speaker, try using a headphone in place of the speaker.
Going out on a limb here, but try using the DACR output instead of the DACL. It might be possible that the audio you are playing's audio is mostly/completely silent.
I used the Pro module for this 'Music Box' and it worked well with an 8 ohm speaker load. Volume fills an average (UK) room using its built-in amp on R+/R-.
I soon switched to the SD module for its 32 GB capacity (and have used that for all subsequent players). But if you're still working on it I may be able to help. Please show your full sketch.
