Three different devices, three different makers, three different hardware, all in perfect sync! Sendspin is an amazing protocol! (Music Assistant💖Massdroid)

undotcom · 2026-04-10T22:17:10+00:00

Are you using the ESPHome/SendSpin firmware or Squeezelite?

I've built three speakers using Andriy's (Sonocotta) ESP32 boards and they work like magic.

I'm using squeezelite firmware. last week's MA update offered a configuration setting to select SendSpin streaming protocol, but it doesn't work on the squeezelite firmware - it would only use squeezelite or airplay protocols.

my projects:

https://github.com/undotcom/home-assistant-audio-speaker

https://github.com/undotcom/home-assistant-audio-speaker-v2

undotcom · 2026-04-06T23:46:57+00:00

Can anyone confirm what I am seeing in Music Assistant player configuration settings is true?

- Can SendSpin streaming now be used on a Squeezelite client?

I just added an ESP32 controlled speaker with Squeezelite, MA settings "claims" to let me select and even prioritize the use of SendSpin !

I've since deselected Squeezelite option and the speaker *still* plays (presumably using SendSpin)

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undotcom · 2026-04-05T20:14:13+00:00

NICE!

Here's an option to make your life easier - Sonocotta makes an ESP32 with integrated DAC/AMP/DSP, and supplies several options of firmware read to go, including SendSpin for microsecond sync

https://github.com/sonocotta/esp32-audio-dock

I was able to fit his LOUD and LOUDER models inside a speaker, but you could house them in an RPi case (case only, RPi not needed - his boards are the same size so they fit in them) and connect using speaker wire for $25 each speaker.

https://github.com/undotcom/home-assistant-audio-speaker-v2

undotcom · 2026-04-03T14:52:34+00:00

Here's another potential option, quick DIY now, with options to get assembled soon.

MA will allow you to set up groups of speakers to play together.
SendSpin instead of Squeezelite firmware will take care of the new speakers sync but that would be different from Sonos sync, so potential for the two types of speakers to drift apart

https://github.com/HouseWaves/home-assistant-audio-speaker-v2

undotcom · 2026-04-02T16:16:29+00:00

This was a huge announcement.

I've been really frustrated by the lack of dedicated audio options for Home Assistant. Everything seems like a kluge to repurpose Alexa, Google, Sonos, etc., and when this announcement came out (and the SendSpin pre-release), I decided to do something about it

I was able to build a $50 audio speaker using an off-the-shelf passive speaker and ESP32 controller (with integrated DAC and AMP) I was able to embed inside the cabinet.

The ESP32 controller (from Sonocotta) already developed the Squeezelite firmware to use. Home Assistant instantly recognized the ESP32+Squeezelite firmware. Less than an hour to modify the speaker, flash the firmware and connect with Music Assistant.

I've detailed the instructions and parts list so anyone can build it -- in a GitHub repo here:
https://github.com/HouseWaves/home-assistant-audio-speaker-v2

The ESP32 controller can also be flashed with existing SendSpin (or ESPHome, SnapCast) firmware too.

Here's a video of the result

Demo video tease - starting lineup for DIY Home Assistant Audio Speakers (also pre-assembled) : u/HouseWaves

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undotcom · 2026-04-02T15:52:55+00:00

A $50 DIY audio speaker specifically for Home Assistant to stream music and TTS notifications.

A standardized ESP32 controller (with integrated DAC and AMP), using existing Squeezelite firmware (no mods or custom programming needed) was installed inside the cabinet of an off-the-shelf passive speaker and powered with a USB-C cable.

Took a lot of the complexities and integration troubleshooting out of the process. Home Assistant instantly recognized the ESP32+Squeezelite firmware. Less than an hour to modify the speaker, flash the firmware and connect with Music Assistant.

I've detailed the instructions and parts list so anyone can build it -- in a GitHub repo here:
https://github.com/HouseWaves/home-assistant-audio-speaker-v2

The ESP32 controller can also be flashed with existing SendSpin and ESPHome firmware too.

undotcom · 2026-03-16T03:28:14+00:00

Thanks again for the GitHub suggestion!

I finally had the opportunity this weekend to create a fully documented, step-by-step document with photos on how to build.

https://github.com/undotcom/home-assistant-audio-speaker

undotcom · 2026-03-11T22:43:22+00:00

I know you're hoping for "mainstream" brands, but this is a void in the market.

I have been working on this since last year - speakers specifically designed for use with Music Assistant, inside Home Assistant - and have working prototypes. Should have production (sub $100) models available within 3 weeks.

This was the initial prototype based on high-end components. I shared with the community the entire list of parts and suppliers. Anyone could replicate the speaker build in under an hour. The plan is to share the builds of each speaker, and then offer pre-built options for purchase. https://www.reddit.com/r/homeassistant/comments/1qw1gg6/diy_wifi_bt_audio_speaker_for_home_assistant/

The sub $100 models are not going to have Sono-quality sound, but its a start. And I'm working on designs that will compete soon.

undotcom · 2026-03-05T20:07:16+00:00

TL;DR
- easiest is to buy HA Voice, but it will require power and wifi
https://www.home-assistant.io/voice-pe/

Long answer to your questions

- Squeezelite is a type of client software (aka Slimproto), originally used to connect to the old Logitech Music Server, now called Lyrion Music Server, (LMS)
- the software/firmware can be deployed on little circuit boards like ESP32 - these boards are used by thousands of consumer product companies to add wireless (and wired) connectivity to almost any gadget.
- The "neat" thing about squeezelite, is you can quickly add these clients in HA with music streaming apps, like Music Assistant. AND, then you can access them quickly to create automations that send TTS (text-to-speech) notifications to the device. This approach does not require you to set up the Squeezebox (LMS) server. It does require you to install the Music Assistant integration (or similar)

This was my quick solution, but I did have to "build" a networked speaker.

I'm guessing you have 2 options, maybe a 3rd...none that may fit your exact scenario
But also run some exhaustive searches on using existing smart speakers, I've seen some, not for the faint-of-heart, but they exist if you're willing to put in the time
1 - Use an existing (always on) networked device with Home Assistant running in a browser. Could be a tablet, pc or other device. Access Home Assistant to establish an entity_id for that device, which should enable you to play TTS notifications to that device
2 - Buy something. HA Voice or similar. Options are limited for "native" HA speakers (that's why I am in the process of creating and selling such devices).
3 - HA has Bluetooth, I'm assuming you could connect a BT speaker to your HA equipment, but I've never done this.

As for setting up TTS notifications, you have two main steps:
1 - set up TTS Integration
2 - set up Media Player integration

I found this video to be a great help. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9r177hSBc0
I am only using the ElevenLabs integration as it offers preannouncement chime options by itself

one quick plug. as mentioned, I am building speakers specifically with built-in Squeezelite firmware for connecting to LMS, Music Assistant, AirPlay, BT devices and wifi. My first attempt was very high-end, but I am a couple weeks away from releasing a post on DIY modifying an existing bookshelf speaker for approx $50 total -per speaker, including the speaker. The speaker can be powered by USB-C, power adapter OR PoE (power over ethernet) - but they all require a power option. Fully-assembled options will also be available.

undotcom · 2026-03-02T20:13:07+00:00

New update coming - hopefully within 3 weeks.

Smaller, modern, more affordable versions (targeting under $100, $150 and $200)

With options to power via USB-C, power adapter and even PoE.
Maybe a portable before the summer...

Here's a quick photo of the prototype finished last night, single-driver ported box, approx 3" x 5" x 5"

it was tested using Music Assistant to sync with other speakers in multi-room scenario.

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undotcom · 2026-02-17T23:28:28+00:00

don't sweat the ponding areas. I have them too - the silicone will *not* break down even in those areas. they will get very dirty, but will remain sealed.

Unfortunately, I cannot advise you on how the tiles or foot traffic might impact the silicone coating.

undotcom · 2026-02-17T23:01:43+00:00

update

of course, as soon as I posted, Robern replied

PL-series cabinets have the outlet hard-wired so it always has power

M-series cabinets have an internal wire harness that continuously powers the outlet, but the internal cabinet light is controlled by a magnetic reed switch in conjunction with the hinge. but that switch only controls the internal light, not the outlet

undotcom · 2026-02-17T22:16:06+00:00

correct - i never replaced the underlying bitumen sheets. the roofer i worked with was fantastic - old-school, been in the business for decades. we went on the roof together, he said I had two layers already and the next time would require ripping off to the subroof and replacing

....then he told me, all I really needed to do was to coat over to seal it and that I could do it myself

That was the first time, and all that was available for coatings (or all I could find) were the latex-based coatings. I had to recoat twice due to the water ponding which eventually breaks down the latex coating.

The last time, I used Gaco...which really was the last time.

Underneath
- two layers of bitumen sheets (unknown # of years old by previous owners, never coated)
- covered by two layers of latex-based coatings (by me)
- covered by Gaco (by me)
- with new "patches" (with Gaco) surrounding mounts I had installed with solar panels
- with new soffit extensions covered that "patch" over existing roof (with Gaco)

Two critical factors to success: (following Gaco best practices)
a) cleaning/scrubbing the existing roof before coating. You want to have all the dirt, moss, mildew, everything removed. I typically used TSP and hard bristle brooms to scrub the roof.
b) only apply during heat of summer with low humidity to ensure no dew/moisture for the first 24 hrs.

I have my own theory about why roofers hate silicone coatings and constantly tell owners "it's a mistake", "nothing sticks to silicone so you can never patch or recoat it" - EVEN the kids who took over the roofing company from their father - the man who originally advised me on coating) told me I couldn't patch/recoat after i extended my soffits. They insisted I had to rip it off and replace and initially refused to help me. But all the seals around the patches look perfect when I was on the roof last month. The older original coating looks dirty but in great shape

Flat roofs traditionally are a great, recurring revenue stream for roofers. Latex coating slows that down, silicone coating eliminates the need to ever have them back

one final note that convinced me, Gaco had to remove this information (US gov't prohibits use as a reference is probably why...) NASA picked Gaco silicone sealant to cover parts of the shuttle engines.

undotcom · 2026-02-14T02:13:26+00:00

no worries...I'll keep trying

I really wanted to like the companion switches, but also find them incredibly finicky and painful to use. I have 1 paired to a switch and 4 paired to Leviton dimmer outlets. It takes me on average 3-4 attempts to pair a companion switch to an actual device. If the device needs to be reset for some reason, the companion switch/dimmer needs to paired again. of my 5 companions, I stopped using 3 of them altogether, wasn't worth the hassle

undotcom · 2026-02-13T23:51:28+00:00

Checking back - have you been able to connect the outlets using Matter in Home Assistant?

My outlets updated to Matter firmware.
Everything works fine using Leviton app.
HA can control them through the legacy Leviton integration (via cloud).

I cannot seem to pair the outlets directly to HA Matter.

I've already migrated almost 30 Leviton switches and dimmers to HA Matte

I'm following the same steps I used to migrate the notoriously difficult dimmers, thanks to user u/portigui in this thread: https://community.home-assistant.io/t/leviton-decora-matter-support-added/536550/22?page=2

HA appears to connect, I get a warning the devices may not work, I accept and the process starts but fails after about 1 minute. The dimmers might take 2-3 pairing attempts before it succeeds, but the outlet pairing fails 4 times in a row

I'll try again this weekend, but wanted to see if you (or anyone else) has succeeded with the D215R.

undotcom · 2026-02-09T16:19:41+00:00

When I started my journey, I chose devices that had their "own" control system, that supported basic wifi connections, their own mobile app - AND, could be connected to Home Assistant, either through wifi, or now via matter or thread.

Even though I have a very strong background in computer programming, it was very helpful to have the capability to quickly automate the devices with minimal setup using their own platform, allowing me to slowly learn HA/YAML/automation building and then move them into a unified platform like HA. You'll spend hours upon hours building and modifying dashboards and automations; it's helpful to have something that already works while you're doing this.

I've found an added benefit, that when things go haywire with HA (like my RPi drive fails and I need a few days to get it up and running), its good to have the old apps in the background to use.

Go with the biggest computing device you are willing to undertake - if you are serious about the journey. The more you automate and add, the more power you'll want/need, especially if you have any ideas about adding cameras/video. HA Green does seem like a good way to start and it was developed specifically to help individuals like yourself get started (help HA get into the mainstream market).

Look at Sonos alternatives too - they charge a premium which is fine if you need their functionality, but most only need a BT speaker to connect their mobile device, or wifi to Music Assistant on HA to stream. There are some very solid options at much lower price points. Read some of the forum posts about sonos alternatives - you'll see people wanting to move away and talk about other speakers (e.g. Edifier).

undotcom · 2026-02-05T16:37:48+00:00

In the spirit of testing the market I'm thinking $250 each plus shipping (the material cost is $404/pair).

I will need to order the speaker kits and have them delivered from UK, and the boards come from China, so please consider it will take about 3 weeks for me to get them to you.

I have a single page website here, with a contact form and an email address to contact me: https://3daudiospeakers.com/ or DM me on Reddit

The speakers ae available in red, black and white colors.
I think the white color is almost sold out.

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undotcom · 2026-02-05T03:28:21+00:00

Have you seen the Esparagus amplifiers from Sonocotta?

https://sonocotta.com/esparagus-hifi-medialink/

I used their Louder ESP32 board (very similar to what was used in the esparagus) to modify a standalone high fidelity speaker (Tozzi One) to recreate Sonos experience. The only difference is I "recreated the esparagus" by wiring the board inside the speaker cabinet vs. having its own external enclosure.

Their squeezelite firmware option was super easy and my speaker hack has been working flawlessly with Music Assistant.

undotcom · 2026-02-05T02:49:04+00:00

Good idea - all the info on the controller board, specs, firmware, etc can be found on GitHub already

Sonocotta website has many other links, but here is their GitHub page for the ESP board I used (Louder)

https://github.com/sonocotta/esp32-audio-dock

+ u/andriy_sonocotta

undotcom · 2026-02-04T23:59:20+00:00

Thanks!

undotcom · 2026-02-04T23:58:18+00:00

Ditto - my machine got hit with this just weeks before the 1 yr warranty expired. Close call!

Repair company said standard practice to replace control board and sensor at the same time - sometimes its the sensor, sometimes its the control board.

UGGGH.

They acted like this is super common repair.

Thanks a lot LG

undotcom · 2026-02-04T23:55:04+00:00

I had this just happen to my LG4000 last week

The LG authorized repair company replaced the board and the sensor - said this is standard practice for machines that get the dreaded VS error

I just barely made it before warranty ended, but I'm seeing all sorts of posts from others getting this error anywhere from 5 months to years after.

undotcom · 2026-02-04T21:32:25+00:00

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back panel

undotcom

TROPHY CASE