Low-cost, accessible, multichannel acoustics for sound-source localisation in ecosystem monitoring

MAARU – Multichannel Acoustic Autonomous Recording Unit

schematics showing sound source localisation and beamforming

Using algorithms developed for robot hearing, MAARU can be used to track sound sources in near real-time. The MAARU provides an exciting, accessible, low-cost option for those looking to explore spatial soundscape ecology accurately and easily.
Ultimately, the added directional element of the multichannel recording provided by MAARU allows for a new type of exploration into sonic environments.

Find out more about the sonic theory here.

We built MAARU as an adaptation of the SAFE Recorder, an autonomous omnidirectional recorder which has recorded across the globe countries and currently sends a live stream of data to a website you can tune in to here.
MAARU is a multichannel acoustic recorder that can run online or offline and can be powered by batteries or autonomously through renewable energy sources. MAARU is designed to be built by anyone. All the components are purchasable online, the code is all open source, and the only technical expertise needed is the ability to use a screwdriver!

Find out how to build your own MAARU here.

microphone array schematic

This work has been a collaborative effort between scientists working at Imperial College London.

Find out more about the team and get in contact here