How to use DFPlayer mini to play MP3 without Arduino

What is a DFPlayer?

The DFPlayer Mini MP3 Player For Arduino is a small and low-priced MP3 module with a simplified output directly to the speaker. The module can be used as a stand-alone module with an attached battery, speaker and push buttons or used in combination with an Arduino UNO or any other with RX/TX capabilities. Know More

This is the MINIMAL setup
This tutorial shows how to use the module without a microcontroller and looping one single song with no volume control.

We have another tutorial showing how to use this module with Arduino.

File handling

The mp3 file needs to be placed in a folder named mp3, and the file needs to be named as 0001.mp3.

MAC User Attention!
If you are using Mac OS X to copy the mp3, the file system will automatically add hidden files like: "._0001.mp3" for index, which this module will handle as valid mp3 files.

It is really annoying. To remove them, follow the steps below:

1. Finder - Go to your USB drive
2. Press Shift + Command + . to reveal all hidden files
3. Select all .XXXXXX files and directories and delete
4. Empty Bin
5. Eject your USB drive

Wiring

Wiring up the sensor is quite complex, the pins are not labelled, so you will have to refer to the pinout.

Power

In this tutorial, we are using 3 AAA batteries, which provide 4.5V. The module can take 3.3V-5V as power input. Be mindful when you use other types of power input.

DFplayer Mini Wiring

1. VCC to Battery + (Power)
2. GND to Battery - (Power)
3. SPK_1 to 3.5mm audio jack middle pin
4. SPK_2 to 3.5mm audio jack left/right pin
5. ADKEY_1 to GND

Now plug in your 3.5mm headphone or speaker, and the MP3 should be looping.

Other functions

With the AD keys, you can expand the functionality without using a microcontroller. Please reference the circuit diagrams and the table below.