SparkFun Spectrum Shield

The SparkFun Spectrum Shield equips your Arduino device to split a stereo audio input into seven distinct frequency bands per channel. By reading the amplitude of each channel using your Arduino's analogue-to-digital converter (ADC), you can trigger physical hardware such as LEDs and motors, or even pumps and relays, based entirely on sound.

Pass-Through Audio and MSGEQ7 Filters

At the core of this board are two MSGEQ7 graphic equaliser display filter ICs that process the incoming audio signals. To make adding this shield to an existing setup as simple as possible, we designed it to sit directly in your audio path.

• In-Line Pass-Through: Features two 1/8-inch stereo jacks (the standard headphone jack size). One acts as your audio input, while the second provides a pass-through output, allowing you to place the shield directly between your audio source and your stereo system without interrupting the music.
• Standard R3 Layout: The board utilizes the standard Arduino R3 footprint for easy physical compatibility with your microcontroller.
• Customisable Assembly: The shield arrives without pre-soldered headers, allowing you to select and solder the exact pin style your specific project requires.

Whether you are building an interactive art installation or a reactive fire-breathing prop, this shield enables your project to physically respond to audio input. There are plenty of projects out there using the Spectrum Shield, so do a bit of searching if you need some more inspiration!

Note: This product is a collaboration with Ben Moyes of Bliptronics. A portion of each sale goes back to them for product support and continued development.

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Hookup Guide
• Datasheet (MSGEQ7)
• GitHub Hardware Repo