Show HN: Configurable Open Source Audio Spectrum Analyzer

3 points

9 months ago

Hi, I’ve developed an open-source app for practicing basic skills in digital signal processing and computer graphics using OpenGL. It’s written mainly in C++ for data processing and visualization, with Python used for data input and configuration. This makes it easier to run experiments or adjust settings without recompiling the code, lowering the entry barrier for users unfamiliar with C++.

By default, the app captures audio from a microphone in real-time and displays its spectrum on the screen. It’s highly customizable — you can change the number of bars, colors, and the overall color theme. The app runs on both Raspberry Pi and standard Ubuntu desktops.

In my Raspberry Pi setup, I use a HiFiBerry DAC+ DSP to analyze music in real-time. The signal comes via optical input (TOSLINK) from a CD player, but you can also connect a microphone for live audio visualization.

I’ve written instructions and a tutorial to help you get started — feel free to check it out and give it a try!

Demo video (Ubuntu): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sjx05eXpgq4

Demo video (raspberry pi with hifiberry dac+dsp): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QA2DYmdZ_Gw

Simplified spec: https://sylwekkominek.github.io/SpectrumAnalyzer/

Hope someone finds it useful or fun to play with!