The MAX98357A I2S 3W Class-D Audio Decoder Amplifier Module takes an I2S digital audio stream and outputs up to 3W of amplified audio directly to a speaker at 4 ohm impedance on 5V supply. No DAC chip is needed between your microcontroller and the speaker. The i2s amplifier accepts data on BCLK, LRCLK, and DIN pins, so the ESP32 or Raspberry Pi stays to just three signal lines.
The max98357a audio decoder runs at up to 92% efficiency in Class-D operation, which means far less heat than linear amplifier designs at the same output power. A detail is that this module outputs mono audio only. The gain is fixed by a single resistor pad on the board. Five selectable gains from 3dB to 15dB cover most speaker and room combinations, but cannot adjust gain in software at runtime. The 3.2W output spec at 10% THD with 4 ohm speaker is the real-world figure rather than the headline 3W at 1% THD.
Engineering students and IoT makers use the max98357a i2s amplifier module with Arduino, ESP32 and ESP8266 boards for smart projects. StemVolt provide max98357a module connect to any I2S-capable microcontroller.
Related Products:
- Checkout Bluetooth 3.0 Audio Receiver Module
Features:
- Output power of 3W at 4 ohm and 5V drives small to medium desktop speakers
- Class-D amplifier type reaches 92% efficiency keeping the module cool during operation
- I2S digital audio interface carries data on three signal lines without any DAC
- Selectable gains of 3dB to 15dB in five steps cover most speaker room volumes
Technical specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | MAX98357 |
| Amplifier Type | Class-D Mono |
| Output Power | 3W @ 4Ω, 5V |
| Operating Voltage | 2.7 – 5.5 V |
| Interface Type | I2S Digital Audio |
| Power Supply | 2.5V–5.5V DC |
| Efficiency | Up to 92% |
| Selectable Gains | 3 dB, 6 dB, 9 dB, 12 dB, 15 dB |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) | 100dB |
Applications:
- Intercom system uses i2s amplifier esp32 to broadcast voice announcements over a small wall-mounted speaker
- Robot voice output uses 100dB SNR audio output to play pre-recorded phrases on trigger command
- IoT projects uses the max98357 module to play a custom audio file stored in flash memory on visitor arrival
Package includes:
- 1 x MAX98357A I2S 3W Class-D Audio Decoder Amplifier Module














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