Seeking advice building a Raspberry Pi based media player: Power, audio, and connections

Thread Starter

castas

Joined Sep 23, 2024
1
Hello, AAC community!

I’m currently in the process of building an audio/video player for my office, and I’m seeking some advice on certain components and configurations. Here’s a brief overview of the project and what I need help with:

Components I have:

  • Adafruit Stereo 20W Class D Audio Amplifier
  • RS PRO AC/DC Adapter (12V dc Output, 1A)
  • Raspberry Pi (Yodeck Playbox 4K with 4GB)
  • SEAS 5” Midwoofer (MCA15RCY)
  • 6.7” TFT-LCD with HDMI input

I Need advice on:

1) Power distribution: I will be using a 12V, 12W, 1A power supply and need to distribute power to components requiring 12V and 5V. The Raspberry Pi is normally powered by 5V through a USB-C connection, and the other two components (monitor and amp) require a 12V supply through a standard DC barrel jack. Is using a DC to DC converter to step down from 12V to 5V the best approach here? What specifications should I look for in a converter to ensure stable and sufficient power delivery to all components?

2) External Connections: This unit will be built in a closed wooden box. Therefore, I plan to have extended HDMI, audio, and USB-C ports. Any recommendations on specific connectors or setups? (The external USB-C is optional since this port might be used for powering the Pi).

3) Audio Output: If I can’t utilize the 3.5mm jack from the Raspberry Pi, what would be the best way to extract audio signals from the HDMI output? And if I decide to also send the audio signal to an external port, what would be the best approach here?

4) Switches and Knobs: I am looking for a durable and reliable option for a main power switch (located on the outside of the box). What parameters should I be looking for in such a switch? For volume control, I have a “10kΩ Rotary Potentiometer” with a knob, which will be soldered to the amplifier’s volume controls.

Any guidance, particularly with practical examples or specific product recommendations, would be greatly appreciated! As new as I am to this kind of build, I am also curious of necessary tools for the jobs.

Thank you in advance for your help!
Best regards a late bloomer, newborn AAC member.
 
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