A compact, open-source DIY sound computer for Raspberry Pi, the norns shield XL Pro is a rework of the monome norns shield with the familiar norns ecosystem in mind. It’s designed as a kit with SMD components already assembled, making it a more approachable build while still keeping the hands-on, experimental feel of the original concept.
Inside, it uses a CS4270 audio codec, 6.5 mm line-level audio in and out, a 2.7-inch OLED display, three pushbuttons, and three rotary encoders for tactile control. The shieldXL also uses the stock monome shield disk image and is Raspberry Pi compatible, with support noted for Pi3B+ and Pi4B.
The result is a desktop-format instrument that sits between hardware and code: a flexible platform for running norns scripts and exploring digital sound design in a self-contained enclosure measuring 138 mm x 96 mm x 30 mm.
