Psychoacoustic Masking Synthesiser Kit with ESP32 + LED
ESP32 Psychoacoustic Masking Synthesiser — Explore Sound Just Below the Threshold of Hearing
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
This kit transforms an ESP32 into a real-time synthesiser that implements a psychoacoustic masking model. Instead of producing conventional musical tones, it calculates the auditory masking threshold of incoming ambient sound and synthesises new audio in the frequency bands that fall just below perception — creating a sonic experience that hovers on the edge of audibility. Musicians, sound designers, and researchers use this to study auditory perception, generate hidden layers in installations, or experiment with sub-threshold soundscapes.
What You'll Build
You assemble a standalone hardware unit with a microphone input, digital-to-analogue converter, amplifier, and dual speakers. The ESP32 runs a psychoacoustic algorithm that continuously analyses the microphone signal, computes the global masking threshold via a simplified MPEG-1 model, and drives a multi-band oscillator bank through the MCP4728 DAC. Two rotary encoders and an OLED display let you navigate parameters: frequency band selection, masking offset, and synthesis waveform type. The final output plays through the stereo speakers, perceptually invisible yet measurable — a practical demonstration of auditory masking you can hold in your hands.
What You'll Learn
- Implement a simplified psychoacoustic model (absolute threshold of hearing, critical band analysis, spread of masking) on a microcontroller
- Configure I2S audio input from the MAX9814 microphone and operate the MCP4728 DAC over I2C for multi‑channel output
- Design a parametric user interface with a 0.96″ OLED display and rotary encoders, handling menu navigation and real‑time parameter updates
- Solder and assemble surface‑mount and through‑hole components onto prototype boards to create a reliable, enclosed audio instrument
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| ESP32 Dev Board | 1 |
| MAX9814 Mic | 1 |
| MCP4728 DAC | 1 |
| PAM8403 Amp | 1 |
| 3W 8Ω Speaker | 2 |
| Rotary Encoder | 2 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 100nF Caps | 15 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 3 |
| 5V 2A PSU | 1 |
| Enclosure Box | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
This kit serves advanced makers: M.Tech and PhD candidates in signal processing or auditory perception, audio DSP engineers prototyping masking-based compression, and experimental music technologists. It is frequently adopted by laboratories at IITs, NITs, and IISc for perception demonstrations, and by musicians designing sound installations that play with the unconscious threshold of hearing. If you have prior experience with ESP32 programming and soldering, this project will stretch your skills into psychoacoustics.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code on the box to start a conversation with the AI companion, trained on the exact masking synthesiser code and circuit. If needed, our team on WhatsApp will step in with debugging advice within hours.
Can I modify the psychoacoustic model to work with different frequency resolutions?
Yes. The AI companion explains where to adjust the FFT length and Bark scale mapping in the firmware, so you can customise the critical band analysis for your own research or artistic needs.
Does the kit require an external computer to operate once programmed?
No. After you flash the ESP32 and calibrate the mic input, the unit operates standalone — the OLED and encoders handle all parameter changes, and audio synthesis runs entirely on the board.
Is the masking threshold algorithm ready to use, or do I write it from scratch?
The AI companion guides you through the provided algorithm — a simplified MPEG-1 Layer I psychoacoustic model adapted for ESP32 — so you understand every line and can extend it later.
ESP32 implements psychoacoustic masking model to synthesise audio in frequency bands just below hearing threshold.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items