MAX98357A I2S 3W Audio Amplifier Module for Raspberry Pi and Arduino Zero

This MAX98357A audio amplifier module is an I2S digital amplifier board for microcontrollers and microcomputers that output I2S audio. It is intended for Raspberry Pi, Arduino Zero, and any other microcontroller or microcomputer with I2S audio output. The module takes an I2S audio signal and provides amplified output, so it can be used in small audio projects where a compact amplifier board is needed. With a 5V power supply, the output power is 3.2W into 4Ω at 10% THD, or 1.8W into 8Ω at 10% THD. The board supports I2S sampling rates from 8kHz to 96kHz and does not require an MCLK signal. It includes click and pop suppression, five-pin optional gain settings, and hot shutdown protection. It is supplied as an assembly and testing tap board with a small optional head and a 3.5mm wiring board; if connectors and wiring boards are required, some welding is required. The packing list includes one audio amplifier.

Features and Construction

The module centres on the MAX98357A amplifier IC and is built as an assembly and testing tap board. It provides I2S audio input, optional gain setting via five pins, and protection features for practical project use. The source text gives no dimensions or further material details, so this description stays within the stated specifications.

Material and Build

The product is an audio amplifier module supplied as an assembly and testing tap board. It includes the MAX98357A amplifier and a small optional head, with a 3.5mm wiring board also mentioned. Five needle optional gain is available at 3dB, 6dB, 9dB, 12dB, and 15dB. If connectors and wiring boards are required, some welding is required. No additional materials or construction details are given in the source text.

Size and Practical Fit

No dimensions are stated in the source text. The module is intended for Raspberry Pi, Arduino Zero, and other microcontrollers or microcomputers with I2S audio output. Its practical fit depends on the host board and the I2S connections available. The 5V power supply requirement and the stated output power figures should be considered when planning a build.

Uses and Placement

This amplifier module is suited to I2S audio projects where a small board is used with a compatible microcontroller or microcomputer. It can be placed in a project enclosure or on a bench setup, depending on the build. The source text does not specify an enclosure rating or mounting dimensions, so placement should be planned around the host board and available space.

Event or Professional Use

For event or professional use, the module can provide amplified audio when paired with a compatible I2S audio source and a 5V supply. It supports sampling rates from 8kHz to 96kHz and does not need an MCLK signal. The five-pin gain settings allow adjustment between 3dB, 6dB, 9dB, 12dB, and 15dB. Output power is 3.2W into 4Ω at 10% THD or 1.8W into 8Ω at 10% THD with a 5V supply.

Everyday Home Use

For everyday home use, the module can be used in DIY audio projects built around Raspberry Pi, Arduino Zero, or another I2S-capable microcontroller. It offers I2S sampling from 8kHz to 96kHz, click and pop suppression, and hot shutdown protection. The board does not require MCLK, which can simplify wiring for compatible setups. If connectors or the 3.5mm wiring board are needed, some welding is required.

Benefits and Buying Value

The main practical value is the combination of I2S input, 5V operation, selectable gain, and a stated output power range in a single amplifier module. It also includes click and pop suppression and hot shutdown protection. The source text does not provide price or warranty information, so value should be assessed on the stated specifications and intended use.

Reuse and Low Maintenance

The module is supplied as an assembly and testing tap board and includes one audio amplifier in the packing list. There are no stated user-serviceable parts beyond the optional connectors and wiring board mentioned in the source text. If those are used, some welding is required. No maintenance schedule or lifespan is given, so no further claims can be made.

Why Choose This Product

Choose this module if you need an I2S audio amplifier for Raspberry Pi, Arduino Zero, or another microcontroller or microcomputer with I2S audio output. It provides 3.2W into 4Ω at 10% THD or 1.8W into 8Ω at 10% THD with a 5V supply, supports 8kHz to 96kHz sampling, and does not require MCLK. It also offers five-pin optional gain, click and pop suppression, and hot shutdown protection.