We're only using one speaker here but you could connect two if you like (and mount them in two locations)

Analog Control

In this project, we'll use analog control since it's the easiest way to get going with the amplifier board. By default, the amplifier breakout is in digital mode. To put it in analog mode we need to close the three solder jumpers labeled Analog, AD1 and AD2.

Adding Terminal Blocks

The terminal blocks will be used to connect the speaker to the audio output of the MAX9744. Follow the negative and positive symbols and insert them appropriately. Solder them in to place for a solid connection. We chose the RIGHT channel.

Adding Capacitor

Insert the capacitor with the longer lead going into the pad marked + Push it in all the way and bend the leads to keep it in place while you solder it in.

1K Potentiometer

Add pieces of shrink tuning to the wrapping wire for a safe and secure wire connection. Tin the three leads of the potentiometer to make the wrapping wire stick to the leads better. Solder the wrapping wire to the potentiometer. Position the pieces of shrink tubing over the terminal leads and use a heat source to shrink the tubing.

Volume Control

We're using a panel mount style potentiometer which is a bit bigger than the 1k pot that comes with the kit. Solder three strands of wrapping wire to the pin outs labeled Pot. Vol. Line up the leads of the pot with the pins to ensure turning it to the right will encase the values. Solder the far right lead of the pot to Pot. Vol. pin 3

Adding Speakers

Since the amplifier can pump 20 watts of power, you should use some equally capable speakers. The positive and negative connections of the speakers should align up with the terminal blocks on the side. Use a small screw driver to loosen and tighten the screws of the terminal.

In this tutorial project we're only using one speaker, which is just fine and nothing needs to be done to put the speaker in 'mono' mode, it'll just play out of one speaker only. You can also connect two speakers for 2 x the noise!

To ensure a secure connection, gently yank on each wire after clamping it into the terminal block, it should be a solid connection, not possible to yank out of place. Loose wires will be a problem!