Chapter 2. Portable Speaker System

In this chapter, we will build a wireless, battery-powered speaker system that can be controlled using a web browser or smartphone.

To provide the music for the speaker system, we will use the Logitech Media Server software, which is a piece of software that can be used to stream music, videos, and photos from one computer on a network to multiple other devices. It also allows us to control the playback from any computer or smartphone on the same network.

Initially, we will set up the Pi to connect it to an existing server (the one running on a laptop for instance), which is suitable for use around your home or garden. Later, we will look at how to make the system truly portable by removing the need for an existing server and network.

The system will be self contained within a standard flight case with the speakers exposed when the lid is opened as it is possible to run Logitech Media Server on the Pi itself. It is not necessary that you have any controls on the system itself other than a power switch.

This project is based on a similar project made by Iain Yarnall at Maker Space, Newcastle.