lib/README.md

Piper Library Files

This directory contains the compiled library files required for Piper TTS to function correctly.

Files

espeakbridge.so (541 KB)

• Purpose: Bridge library for eSpeak-ng phonemization
• Platform: Linux x86_64
• Python: 3.11
• Required: Yes, for text-to-phoneme conversion

Installation

Option 1: Using pip (Recommended)

The easiest way is to install piper-tts via pip, which will compile the necessary libraries:

pip install piper-tts

Option 2: Using the provided library

If you're on a compatible Linux system (x86_64, Python 3.11), you can use the provided library:

# Copy to your piper installation
cp lib/espeakbridge.so $(python3 -c "import piper; import os; print(os.path.dirname(piper.__file__))")

Option 3: Build from source

For other platforms or Python versions, build from source:

git clone https://github.com/rhasspy/piper
cd piper/src/python
pip install -e .

Platform Compatibility

The provided espeakbridge.so is compiled for:

• OS: Linux
• Architecture: x86_64
• Python: 3.11

For other platforms:

• macOS: Build from source or use pip install
• Windows: Use pip install (will download pre-built wheels)
• Other Python versions: Build from source or use pip install

Troubleshooting

ImportError: cannot import name 'espeakbridge'

This means the library is not in the correct location or is incompatible with your system.

Solution:

pip install --force-reinstall piper-tts

OSError: lib/espeakbridge.so: cannot open shared object file

The library file is missing or in the wrong location.

Solution:

1. Ensure piper-tts is installed: pip install piper-tts
2. Or copy the library to the correct location (see Option 2 above)

Wrong ELF class or architecture mismatch

The provided library is for x86_64 Linux. You need to build for your platform.

Solution:

pip install piper-tts  # This will build for your platform

Notes

• The library is platform and Python version specific
• When using pip install, the library is automatically compiled for your system
• The provided library is included for reference and quick setup on compatible systems
• For production use, we recommend using pip install to ensure compatibility