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

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.