Summary of ESP32-LyraT – An Open Source Development Board For Smart Audio Applications
The ESP32-LyraT is an open-source development board designed to enhance Espressif Systems' audio applications. Released in 2018, it supports the ADF framework and enables dual-mode Bluetooth and Wi-Fi solutions for smart speakers, wearables, and home automation. Unlike previous kits, it offers comprehensive documentation and features voice wake-up, recognition, and cloud access, facilitating rapid consumer electronics development.
Parts used in the ESP32-LyraT:
- UART
- USB Power Port
- Battery charger chip
- Audio codec chip
- Built-in sound card
- PA chip
- JTAG header
- UART header
- Function keys
- Boot keys
- Micro SD slot
- Green LED
- Red LED
- ESP32 WROVER Module
Espressif systems has been working on different audio applications including smart speakers. Despite the fact that they have been developing their audio applications, as of February 2018, none of ESP32 software development kits was easily accessible and the hardware kits were not able to take on any new tasks. So, there were no chances to improve or implement new things using the hardware kits. Therefore, it was not surprising when the company released ESP32-LyraT.
ESP32-LyraT is an open-source development board, supporting Espressif Systems’ ADF (ESP-ADF Audio Development Framework), one-key Wi-Fi configuration, a wake-up button, voice wake-up, voice recognition, cloud platform access, and an audio player.
The goal was to improve the audio applications of the kits being produced, and this was achieved through ESP32-LyraT, the only board released by Espressif Systems with adequate documentation. ESP32-LyraT has different voice commands and interactive voice functions; it allows the fast development of applications relating to consumer electronics, wearables, smart speakers, smart home applications and automation. The board facilitates the quick and easy development of dual-mode (Bluetooth + Wi-Fi) audio solutions.
The block diagram below presents main components of the ESP32-LyraT and interconnections between components.
Features of ESP32-LyraT include UART, USB Power Port, a battery charger chip, an audio codec chip; a sound card which is built in the motherboard for providing sound output. There is also a PA chip, a JTAG header, and UART header. Other parts include the two keys which are the function keys and the boot keys. ESP32-LyraT has a micro SD slot available, a green and a red LED and an ESP32 WROVER Module.
Read more: ESP32-LyraT – An Open Source Development Board For Smart Audio Applications
- What is the primary purpose of the ESP32-LyraT?
It is an open-source development board designed to improve audio applications for smart speakers, wearables, and smart home devices. - Does the ESP32-LyraT support both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?
Yes, the board facilitates the quick development of dual-mode audio solutions combining Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. - Can I use the ESP32-LyraT for voice commands?
Yes, it includes features for voice wake-up, voice recognition, and various interactive voice functions. - Is the ESP32-LyraT compatible with the ESP-ADF framework?
Yes, it supports Espressif Systems' ADF Audio Development Framework. - How does the ESP32-LyraT differ from earlier hardware kits?
It is the only board released by Espressif Systems with adequate documentation and improved capabilities for new tasks. - What power options are available on the board?
The board includes a USB Power Port and a battery charger chip. - Are there indicators for status on the ESP32-LyraT?
Yes, the board features a green LED and a red LED. - Does the board support external storage expansion?
Yes, it has a micro SD slot available for additional storage.

