I am planning to build my own Zynthian and could use some advice on selecting the best components. I want a smooth and stable setup…, but with so many options out there…, I am feeling a bit overwhelmed.
Here’s what I have in mind so far :-
Raspberry Pi Model – Thinking of using a Pi 4, but is the 8GB version overkill?
Sound Card – Should I go with a HiFiBerry DAC+ ADC or another option?
Touchscreen Display – Any recommendations for a responsive, easy-to-read screen?
Encoders & Buttons – What’s the best setup for usability and durability?
I would love to hear from experienced builders—what worked best for you: ?? Are there any hidden issues or things I should avoid: ??
You are unlikely to need 8G. Especially if you are considering a Pi4.
THe Dac Cards don’t have the USB overhead, so are probably considered preferable but you can certaily get a flaour with a small USB interface to see what you are dealing with and in our new USB hotplug world this can be used as well as an ADC card setup.
The far more important consideration is how it is all mounted because an audio card places limitations on your physical construction and where connectors go.
Big as possible. Personally I go with 7" official screens but, again your perception of what kind of box this all goes in decides much of the design. The official touchscreen avoids issues by being very standard. Some displays can be involved to configure so it’s best to avoid “too good to be true” offers.
If you are running with a Pi 4 then you might be best to consider a v4 style implementation with encoders either side of the screen, v5 relies heavily on a keypad of some description to interact with so this might be functionality you welcome.
But you can get away with 4 encoders.
The machine was designed around encoder use, so the user experience is considerably increased by there presence .
Make sure you can get to the SSD disk.
Make sure you can get to the connectors. If you intend to extend connectors from the Pi to the case make sure you have lots of space inside for the wire and the connectors.
Consider how the final device will be mounted.
How will the wire connectors affect the mounting?, will it be snaking all over the table you require?. Could you bolt it to a mic stand ? That sort of consideration.
Get a good PSU and look to some form of protection for the power supply connector. Many barrel connectors don’t respond well to tugs on the cable, especially from the side.
The one Power supply is the one device you can’t perform without. Make sure it’s rugged.
When positioning encoders, rig it up with a USB audio if you can and mount the encoders on a piece of cardboard to get a feel for final positions with the screen.
We will have you dreading your daily dose of rook soup before long.
Yes, official kit should be most trouble free option! Sadly it seems to be unavailable right now.
And Pi5 with 4GB seems to be only 5 € more expensive than a Pi4 4GB so that’s a no-brainer.