What is it?

The Monome Norns Shield DIY Complete Unit is a fully assembled, ready-to-use music computing device that transforms a Raspberry Pi 3B+ into a powerful, open-source sound instrument. Based on monome's open-source hardware design, this shield adds professional audio I/O, a high-contrast OLED display, and tactile controls to the Raspberry Pi, creating a portable platform for electronic music creation, synthesis, and live performance. Each unit comes pre-configured with the latest firmware and an extensive library of scripts, requiring no soldering or technical assembly—simply power on and begin creating.

Why did you make it?

We created this complete unit to make the innovative Norns ecosystem accessible to musicians who want premium hardware without the complexity of sourcing components and manual assembly. While the original Norns Shield is a brilliant open-source project, building one requires selecting compatible parts, 3D printing cases, and troubleshooting hardware variations. Our version streamlines this process by offering a meticulously assembled device with quality-of-life improvements: a significantly smaller footprint (89×84×36mm), robust ALPS rotary encoders, gold-plated audio connectors for superior signal integrity, and a thoughtfully designed 3D-printed enclosure that retains all Raspberry Pi port access. We handle the technical details so you can focus entirely on sound exploration.

What makes it special?

This unit distinguishes itself through premium craftsmanship and unmatched out-of-box readiness. The custom-engineered 3D-printed case reduces volume by ~30% compared to standard shields while improving ergonomics and durability, with interchangeable black acrylic and white printed faceplates to suit your aesthetic. Audio quality is enhanced via gold-plated 3.5mm jacks and the proven CS4270 codec, ensuring clean line-level stereo I/O. The control interface features genuine ALPS encoders with custom machined knob caps for precise, satisfying parameter control. Most notably, the included 64GB Samsung SD card arrives pre-flashed with 70+ immediately playable scripts—over 30 specially curated for musical depth—plus our exclusive Flappy Bird game, eliminating the time-consuming setup process. The comprehensive package includes a replacement white panel, specialized screwdriver, white bottom stand, and insured SF Express shipping, providing everything needed for immediate creative deployment. Whether you're a seasoned electronic musician or a curious beginner, this complete unit delivers a professional-grade Norns experience with zero assembly friction.