Description
Change how you create with sensors and sound: Bela Gem is an open, real-time platform for expressive audio systems, powered by PocketBeagle 2.
Bela Gem Multi is a high-performance, open hardware platform that turns the PocketBeagle 2 into a powerful, multi-channel platform for real-time audio and physical computing. With expanded audio I/O, multiple DC-coupled analog outputs, and rich digital connectivity, it’s designed for building advanced instruments, spatial audio systems, interactive installations, and complex sensor-driven environments where precision and scalability matter.
Core Capabilities
- Multi-channel audio 10ch I/O for complex audio routing and spatial systems
- Low-latency real-time processing using the Bela software environment
- DC-coupled analog outputs for control voltages, modulation, and hybrid audio/CV systems
- Expanded analog and digital I/O for sensors, gates, and triggers
- USB host and device support for MIDI, networking, and peripherals
- Open-source hardware and software, designed for hacking, modification, and research
What You Can Build
- Multi-channel and spatial audio systems
- Advanced digital and hybrid modular synthesisers
- Interactive installations and large-scale sound environments
- Sensor networks and distributed control systems
- Research, teaching, and experimental real-time audio platforms
What’s Included
| Item | Bela Gem Multi – Board Only | Bela Gem Multi – Starter Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Bela Gem Multi board | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| PocketBeagle 2 | — | ✔️ |
| Flashed microSD card | — | ✔️ |
| 2 extension boards with 4 stereo 3.5 mm jacks for all audio channels | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Baseplate | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Spacers | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Mounting screws | ✔️ | ✔️ |
The Starter Kit includes everything you need to power up and start building with Bela Gem Multi straight out of the box.
Technical Specifications
Audio
- Inputs: 10 channels, up to 24-bit / 96 kHz
- Outputs: 10 channels, up to 24-bit / 96 kHz
- DC Coupling: optional for 8 of the output channels
Analog I/O
-
Inputs: 8 channels, 16-bit / 24 kHz
Digital & Connectivity
- GPIO: 16 digital I/O (3.3 V logic)
- USB Device: USB Type-C
- USB Host: USB-A (WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB MIDI)
- I²C: Dedicated pins and Qwiic connector
Power
-
Input: 5 V (battery powered supported)
Mechanical
- Dimensions: 70 x 58 mm
- Height: 22 mm, 32 mm with extension boards attached
Compatibility
-
Designed exclusively for PocketBeagle 2
Software & Development
Bela Gem Multi runs the Bela web-based IDE, giving you a fast, browser-based workflow for developing real-time audio and interactive systems directly on the board. You can program in C++, Pure Data, SuperCollider, and other supported environments, with access to a large library of examples, tutorials, and open-source tools. The platform is designed for both rapid prototyping and long-term development, supported by an active community and extensive documentation.
Need a Smaller, Simpler Setup?
For compact projects and stereo-focused systems, take a look at Bela Gem Stereo.
