---
title: "Esparagus Echo: ESP32-S3-Based Voice Control Devices for Home Assistant"
url: "https://maker.wiznet.io/matthew/projects/esparagus-echo-esp32-s3-based-voice-control-devices-for-home-assistant/"
markdown_url: "https://maker.wiznet.io/matthew/projects/esparagus-echo-esp32-s3-based-voice-control-devices-for-home-assistant/md"
type: "UCC: User Created Content"
author: "Gareth Halfacree"
author_url: "https://www.hackster.io/news/sonocotta-s-espressif-esp32-powered-esparagus-audio-streamers-can-now-listen-too-with-the-echoes-ccd6d8ce6427"
editor: "WIZnet"
editor_url: "https://maker.wiznet.io/"
original_author: "Gareth Halfacree"
original_url: "https://www.hackster.io/news/sonocotta-s-espressif-esp32-powered-esparagus-audio-streamers-can-now-listen-too-with-the-echoes-ccd6d8ce6427"
published: "2025-01-22"
language: "en"
tags: ["W5500"]
likes: 0
views: 1425
comments: 0
source: "WIZnet Makers (https://maker.wiznet.io/)"
---

# Esparagus Echo: ESP32-S3-Based Voice Control Devices for Home Assistant

> Polish open-hardware specialist Sonocotta introduces the Esparagus Echo series, featuring the ESP32-S3-based Esparagus Solo and Duo devices. These edge voice co

Original author: Gareth Halfacree (source: https://www.hackster.io/news/sonocotta-s-espressif-esp32-powered-esparagus-audio-streamers-can-now-listen-too-with-the-echoes-ccd6d8ce6427)

## Article

**Hardware Components:**

- Espressif ESP32-S3 microcontroller

- TDK InvenSense ICS-43434 MEMS microphone

- Analog Devices MAX98357 I2S DAC

- WIZnet W5500 SPI Ethernet controller (Esparagus Duo)

- RGB LEDs

- Aluminum enclosure

**Software Apps and Online Services:**

- ESPHome

- Home Assistant

**Introduction**

Sonocotta, led by Polish open-hardware enthusiast Andriy Malyshenko, has expanded its Esparagus family with the introduction of the Esparagus Echo series. This new lineup includes two ESP32-S3-based devices, the Esparagus Solo and Esparagus Duo, designed to provide edge voice control capabilities tailored for Home Assistant integrations.

**Esparagus Solo**

The Esparagus Solo is a compact device featuring an Espressif ESP32-S3 microcontroller paired with a single TDK InvenSense ICS-43434 MEMS microphone. It incorporates an Analog Devices MAX98357 I2S digital-to-analog converter (DAC), delivering monaural audio output suitable for 4Ω 3W and 8Ω 5W speakers. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), facilitated by the ESP32-S3's integrated radio. The front panel houses two RGB LEDs for visual feedback, while power and speaker connections are conveniently located on the backside.

**Esparagus Duo**

Building upon the Solo's foundation, the Esparagus Duo offers enhanced features, including dual microphones and amplifiers, enabling stereo audio output. In addition to Wi-Fi and BLE, the Duo model is equipped with a connector for an external antenna and a wired Ethernet port, powered by a WIZnet W5500 SPI Ethernet controller. This configuration ensures robust and flexible connectivity options for various home automation setups.

**Integration with Home Assistant**

Both Esparagus Echo devices are designed to operate seamlessly with ESPHome, serving as edge components within a Home Assistant-based voice control system. Malyshenko has developed two firmware variants: one functions as a media player, and the other, still under development, offers voice assistant capabilities with always-on wake-word detection. This integration empowers users to implement voice control in their smart homes without relying on external cloud services, thereby addressing common privacy concerns associated with mainstream voice assistants.

**Conclusion**

The Esparagus Echo series by Sonocotta represents a significant advancement in open-source, privacy-focused voice control solutions for Home Assistant enthusiasts. By leveraging the capabilities of the ESP32-S3 microcontroller and integrating seamlessly with ESPHome, the Esparagus Solo and Duo provide versatile and secure options for enhancing home automation experiences.

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Source: https://maker.wiznet.io/matthew/projects/esparagus-echo-esp32-s3-based-voice-control-devices-for-home-assistant/