ESP-LED-02 Audio-Reactive WLED Controller with ESP32-S3 Supermini and THT Components

This project is the second version of the custom-designed WLED Controller ESP-LED-01 based on the powerful ESP32-S3 SuperMini, created specifically for sound-reactive and auto-brightness LED applications.

Features

Same features as ESP-LED-01, but also some improvements:

• Sound Reactive: Digital INMP441 microphone over I2S for real-time audio effects.
• Ambient Light Control: JST-connected light sensor for auto-brightness.
• IR Remote Support: Dedicated IR receiver header (e.g., TSOP38238).
• Extra GPIOs: GPIOs 1–7, TX/RX, 3.3V/5V/GND broken out for easy expansion.
• Improved Level Shifting: SN74AHCT125 fix for unused EN pins = no flicker.
• Reverse Voltage Protection: Diode rated to 5A + large capacitor for power stability.

Additionally, the ESP32-S3 SuperMini and the IMP441 microphone can be mounted via female header sockets, making it easy to replace, upgrade, or reprogram components without any soldering work. However, for permanent installations, direct soldering is fully supported.

Build Guide

For a full build guide, assembly photos, and detailed configuration instructions, check out the blog post here:

https://espboards.dev/blog/esp-led-02

Comparison with ESP-LED-01

• IR Receiver Support: Added dedicated header for remote control with standard IR remotes (e.g. 44-key).
• GPIO Expansion: GPIOs 1–7, TX/RX, and power lines are now broken out for buttons, sensors, and usermods.
• Level Shifter Fix: All unused SN74AHCT125 channels now have EN pins tied HIGH, preventing flicker and noise.
• Cleaner Circuit Design: Same core layout as v1 but with better routing and pin assignments for improved stability and expansion.