Smart Speakers Summary

Home Assistant Voice Control Hardware Device

• A new Home Assistant Voice Control Hardware Device running Home Assistant’s local smart home voice assistant is planned for release at the end of the year.

Pi Setup with HiFiBerry

• Using a Raspberry Pi with a HiFiBerry hat and a USB ReSpeaker 4mic array to create a custom smart speaker setup.
• Can be built for cheaper than Sonos speakers.
• Works well with Volumio for audio playback and Wyoming-Satellite/OpenWakeWord for assistant integration.

Google Home Mini with Audio Output

• Google Home Mini with soldered audio output connected to a cheap amp and speakers works well, although mono.
• Legacy Chromecast Audio is great but somewhat difficult to find/expensive.
• Pair nicely with Music Assistant for music playback.

Squeezelite-based ESP32-WROVER with Amplifier

• Developed a Squeezelite-based ESP32-WROVER device with an amplifier connected to a Samsung speaker via line-in.
• Integration with Music Assistant faced challenges.

Apple Airport Express A1392

• Apple Airport Express A1392 is recommended for users in the Apple ecosystem, offering an excellent DAC and AirPlay 2 compatibility at a low cost on platforms like eBay.

Sonos

• Sonos is highly praised for its integration with HA, sound quality, and ease of use.
• Allows for playing audio announcements alongside music, with some limitations.
• Integration with HomeAssistant + MusicAssistant (BETA) adds flexibility for multi-room audio.

Yamaha MusicCast

• Yamaha MusicCast is lauded for its integration, customization, and automation capabilities.
• Offers a range of devices like receivers, preamps, and speakers for multi-room audio setups.

Smart Speaker Alternatives

• Cleer Crescent Smart Audio Speaker is highlighted for its sleek design, impressive sound quality, and usability in daily routines.

Privacy Concerns

• Concerns raised about privacy and data collection by smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home, especially in relation to audio recordings and potential risks of data misuse.

User Experiences

• Varied experiences with smart speakers ranging from initial skepticism to eventual adoption based on practical benefits like convenience, control over smart home devices, and integration with daily activities.

Opinions on Different Smart Speakers

• Preferences for HomePod Mini for Apple ecosystem, Google Nest Audio for broad compatibility, and Sonos for sound quality and ecosystem integration.
• Concerns about data collection and privacy issues with smart assistants.
• Recognition of the need for security measures and caution in using IoT devices for data privacy.