HiFi-ESP32 Plus
The HiFi-ESP32 Plus represents the next evolution of HiFi-ESP32 boards, featuring the advanced PCM5122 DAC with built-in DSP capabilities
WIZnet - W5500
x 1
The HiFi-ESP32 (and its newer variant HiFi-ESP32-S3) from Sonocotta are audio-streaming development boards built around the WIZnet W5500 Ethernet option and high-quality I²S DACs. The boards are designed to upgrade legacy hi-fi systems with modern streaming capabilities while offering optional wired Ethernet for high-reliability networking.
🔍 Key Features & Highlights
Combines ESP32 or ESP32-S3 MCU + line-level audio output via high-end DAC (PCM5100A for the original, PCM5122 for the S3 version) delivering very low noise levels.
Optional header for W5500 SPI Ethernet module, enabling wired Ethernet connectivity instead of (or in addition to) WiFi.
Shift from the original to the S3 version adds advanced DSP features (parametric EQ, DRC, crossover) thanks to the newer DAC hardware with built-in processing.
Designed for streaming use cases: e.g., connect to your stereo amplifier, stream via WiFi or Ethernet, buffer in PSRAM, and output high-fidelity line-level audio.
👍 Why This Is Relevant to Makers
This project aligns nicely with your focus on embedded Ethernet and maker-friendly hardware. The integration of a W5500 module shows a practical wired Ethernet use case, complementing wireless connectivity and demonstrating how wired networking can improve reliability for audio streaming or other high-data/low-latency tasks.
Also, for your community around embedded chips and Ethernet stacks, this board gives a concrete example of combining audio + MCU + wired networking in a compact form factor.
⚠️ Considerations & Things to Note
While the board offers optional Ethernet, installation of the W5500 module may affect mechanical fit (height, case compatibility) as noted in the documentation.
Although powerful, the board is oriented toward audio streaming — if someone wants to repurpose it for other Ethernet-heavy data tasks (e.g., industrial control, large file transfers), they may need to evaluate the SPI speed, buffer sizes, and overall networking performance.
When writing the post, summarise and attribute rather than copy large sections of specs or marketing text.
📋 Attribution
Board: HiFi-ESP32 & HiFi-ESP32-S3 by Sonocotta
Created by: Sonocotta (Poland)
Disclaimer: This board was developed and published by Sonocotta. We are featuring it here to inform and inspire makers in the community. All credit belongs to the original creators, and we do not claim ownership or rights over this hardware or design.