AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 500 Series Components Under $1,000 2026

Q: Are there any clones that are actually worth buying?

Absolutely. Some clone builders offer incredible value, often using similar components to the originals but at a lower price. Just do your research - read reviews and listen to demos before pulling the trigger.

Q: What's the deal with power supplies? Do I need a fancy one?

Your power supply matters. A cheap, noisy power supply can negate any sonic improvements you've made with your modules. A decent quality power supply is worth the investment - look for something with plenty of headroom and clean power delivery.

Q: Can I really build a usable rack for under $1000?

You can, but be smart about it. Prioritize a good power supply, then focus on 2-3 key modules that will make a significant difference in your sound. Resist the urge to fill the rack with impulse buys.

Q: What about used gear? Is that a viable option?

Definitely! The used market is your friend. You can often find excellent deals on 500 series modules, but always test them thoroughly before buying - check for noisy pots, loose jacks, and any signs of physical damage.

Q: What's the difference between 'clean' and 'character' in this context?

A 'clean' module aims for transparency - it processes your signal with minimal coloration. 'Character' means it imparts a specific sonic flavor - maybe it adds warmth, saturation, or a vintage vibe. It's about what you're trying to achieve with your sound.

The top pick is Rupert Neve Designs R6 6-Slot Powered 500 Series Frame ($783). Fredenstein Bento 6S 6-Slot Powered 500 Series Frame gives you the most for the money at $373. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 106 models across 30 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

106models in this chart

30brands

$582median price

55price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 500 Series Components Showing: Under $1,000 · clear

Price

Skill level

Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

Rupert Neve Designs R6 6-Slot Powered 500 Series Frame
R6 · Rupert Neve Designs
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight4.31 kg
The R6 is a seriously well-built rack, offering a taste of that classic Neve sound in a compact format. It's ideal for engineers and producers wanting to add a touch of vintage warmth to their mixes, or for smaller studios needing flexible routing and reliable performance—just be prepared for a premium-priced investment.
Pros
- Solid steel chassis provides exceptional durability and roadworthiness.
- Flexible I/O options simplify integration with various studio setups.
- Neve's signature sonic character adds warmth and richness to signals.
Cons
- Price point places it beyond the reach of many home studios.
- Limited channel count might not suit larger, complex projects.
69AudioFu
Index
- Demand85
- Lineup43
- Price74
- Specs50
- Maker83
↓ 7.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$851 · Aug 14$783 now

$783€699 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Fredenstein Bento 6S 6-Slot Powered 500 Series Frame
Bento 6SB · Fredenstein
5 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
The Fredenstein Bento 6SB is a seriously well-built 500-series rack. Its internal power supply is remarkably quiet, and the rear-panel routing is a clever touch for keeping your signal chain tidy. This is a great option for engineers and producers looking to build a compact, high-quality API 500 system without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Robust steel chassis offers excellent module protection.
- Integrated power supply delivers exceptionally clean, low-noise operation.
- Rear-panel switching simplifies routing and reduces cable clutter significantly.
Cons
- Rack kit is a separate purchase, adding to overall investment.
- Limited to 6 modules; expansion requires another chassis.
68AudioFu
Index
- Demand52
- Lineup100
- Price64
- Specs50
- Maker100
↓ 4.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$391 · Aug 14$373 now

$373€333 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Rupert Neve Designs Portico 511 500-Series Mic Pre Module with Silk
511 · Rupert Neve Designs
31 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The 511 is a fantastic preamp if you’re chasing that classic Rupert Neve sound. It’s a great option for vocalists, acoustic instruments, or anything needing a touch of warmth and character – it's a premium-priced single channel that delivers a lot of mojo.
Pros
- Classic Rupert Neve sonics, delivering warmth and harmonic richness
- Discrete Class-A design provides exceptional clarity and headroom
- Silk mode adds subtle, pleasing saturation for vintage character
Cons
- Limited to a single channel, requiring multiple modules for multi-mic setups
- Requires a 500 series frame, adding to the overall investment
68AudioFu
Index
- Demand100
- Lineup43
- Price72
- Specs0
- Maker83
↓ 7.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$929 · Aug 14$862 now

$862€769 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Harrison Audio D510r Chassis
Harrison Audio
Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight4.7 kg
The Harrison D510r is a seriously well-built 500 series chassis, designed for studios prioritizing clean, reliable power and expandability. It’s a great foundation for building a custom signal chain, especially if you’re already invested in the Harrison sound and want to add Dante connectivity down the line. This is ideal for engineers and producers wanting a professional, expandable core for their studio.
Pros
- Robust steel construction ensures long-term reliability and stability
- Harrison’s signature clean power delivery minimizes noise and distortion
- Expandable Dante interface offers future-proofed digital integration
Cons
- Premium-priced, requiring a significant investment for a bare chassis
- Limited internal routing capabilities necessitate external patching solutions
66AudioFu
Index
- Demand30
- Lineup86
- Price100
- Specs100
- Maker70
↓ 20.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$1,119 · Aug 14$895 now

$895€799 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Black Lion Audio Bluey 500 500-Series Limiter Module
Bluey-500 · Black Lion Audio
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Weight7.17 kg
The Bluey-500 is a seriously cool compressor, delivering that Chris Lord-Alge vibe in a 500 module. Its discrete design and Cinemag transformers impart a pleasing, slightly aggressive character—perfect for adding some grit to drums, vocals, or anything needing a touch of modern polish. It's a premium-priced tool, but the sonic results are rewarding.
Pros
- Discrete circuit delivers a punchy, colored compression character.
- Cinemag transformers add warmth and subtle harmonic richness.
- Continuous attack/release offers extreme flexibility in shaping dynamics.
Cons
- The hefty weight demands a sturdy 500 rack.
- The modified design might not appeal to purists seeking original dynamics.
62AudioFu
Index
- Demand74
- Lineup43
- Price84
- Specs50
- Maker40
↓ 11.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$884 · Aug 14$783 now

$783€699 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Heritage Audio OST-6 V2.0 6-Slot 500 Series Powered Rack
OST-6 V2 · Heritage Audio
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
- Weight2.368 kg
The OST-6 V2 is a solid, no-frills 500 series chassis – exactly what you need to build a focused signal chain. It's perfect for engineers and producers who want a reliable, well-powered home for their favorite modules without breaking the bank. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and the On-Slot feature is a real time-saver.
Pros
- Robust sheet steel chassis offers excellent module protection.
- On-Slot technology ensures clean, reliable power to each module.
- Aluminum front panel adds a professional, refined aesthetic.
Cons
- Limited to six 500 modules, restricting expandability.
- External power supply adds clutter and potential noise floor.
60AudioFu
Index
- Demand52
- Lineup43
- Price50
- Specs100
- Maker83
Stableno change since Aug 14
Aug 14$671 now

$671€599 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Lindell Audio PEX-500 Passive EQ 500 Series Module
PEX-500 · Lindell Audio
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The PEX-500 is a fantastic way to inject that classic Pultec warmth and character into your mixes without getting bogged down in complex parameters. It's a real workhorse for engineers tracking vocals, guitars, or anything needing a touch of vintage vibe – especially those aiming for a retro soul, R&B, or classic rock sound.
Pros
- Transformer coupling delivers a warm, vintage Pultec-inspired coloration.
- Hybrid gain stage adds subtle harmonic richness and perceived loudness.
- Simple, stepped controls ensure predictable and repeatable EQ settings.
Cons
- Limited frequency range compared to fully parametric EQs.
- Stepped controls lack the finesse for precise surgical EQ moves.
59AudioFu
Index
- Demand66
- Lineup68
- Price66
- Specs0
- Maker90
↓ 5.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$425 · Aug 14$402 now

$402€359 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Lindell Audio 510 Power Mk2 10-Space 500 Series Rack
510 Power MKII · Lindell Audio
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size19"
The Lindell 510 Power MKII is a no-nonsense 500 series rack that’ll get your signal flowing reliably. It's a solid choice for engineers and producers building a custom processing chain, particularly those prioritizing clean gain and flexible routing without the fuss of complex automation. It's a great, practical platform for expanding your sonic palette.
Pros
- Solid aluminum housing feels robust and minimizes noise
- Gold-plated connectors ensure clean, reliable signal transfer
- Feed switches offer flexible signal routing between modules
Cons
- Limited current per module restricts high-power module choices
- Aluminum housing, while light, may feel less premium than steel
58AudioFu
Index
- Demand56
- Lineup43
- Price71
- Specs50
- Maker90
↓ 6.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$649 · Aug 14$604 now

$604€539 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Cranborne Audio Camden 500 Series Microphone Preamp
Camden 500 · Cranborne Audio
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Camden 500 is a seriously clean and capable preamp. It's perfect for engineers and musicians who need a transparent front-end with a touch of character when needed. The DI is a real bonus for recording acoustic instruments or bass directly.
Pros
- Exceptional transparency preserves subtle mic nuances.
- Discrete saturation offers genuinely usable tonal shaping.
- BJT DI circuit delivers a warm, articulate direct signal.
Cons
- Requires a 500 series rack, increasing overall system cost.
- Saturation circuits, while good, might be too subtle for some.
57AudioFu
Index
- Demand85
- Lineup43
- Price53
- Specs0
- Maker65
↓ 1.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$447 · Aug 14$443 now

$443€395 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗
Elysia mpressor 500 Mono 500 Series Compressor Module
mpressor 500 · Elysia
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Elysia mpressor 500 is a serious contender for anyone wanting a boutique-style compressor in a 500 format. It’s got a distinct, warm character thanks to the Class-A design and THD Boost, making it ideal for drums, vocals, or anything needing some analog grit. This is a fantastic choice for engineers and producers seeking a creative and characterful compression tool.
Pros
- Discrete Class-A design delivers exceptional warmth and punch.
- THD Boost adds pleasing harmonic complexity for character.
- Auto Fast & Anti-Log features offer intuitive, dynamic control.
Cons
- Relatively high noise floor compared to ultra-clean compressors.
- API 500 format necessitates a frame, adding to overall expense.
57AudioFu
Index
- Demand74
- Lineup43
- Price77
- Specs0
- Maker75
↓ 9.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
$738 · Aug 14$671 now

$671€599 at Thomann · in stock
Check price ↗

All 106 500 series components

Sort

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

11
Elysia skulpter 500 Discrete 500 Series Class-A Mic Preamp Moduleskulpter 500 · Elysia

Index 56↓ 6.7%
56
↓ 6.7%$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
12
Elysia nvelope 500 Stereo / Dual-Mono 500 Series Impulse Shaper /…nvelope 500 · Elysia

Index 55↓ 11.1%
55
↓ 11.1%$816€728
$816€728Check ↗
13
IGS Audio ONE LA 500 Tube Optical Compressor ModuleOne LA 500 · IGS Audio

Index 55↓ 12.4%
55
↓ 12.4%$981€875
$981€875Check ↗
14
SPL 1505 BiG 500-Series Stereo Image Bigger Maker ModuleBiG · SPL

Index 54Stable
54
Stable$543€485
$543€485Check ↗
15
Harrison Audio Comp 500 Series Compressor ModuleComp · Harrison Audio

Index 53↓ 44.3%
53
↓ 44.3%$268€239
$268€239Check ↗
16
Harrison Audio 32Cpre+ 500 Series Microphone Preamp Module32Cpre+ · Harrison Audio

Index 53↓ 42.5%
53
↓ 42.5%$470€419
$470€419Check ↗
17
Elysia karacter 500 2-Channel 500 Series Saturator Modulekaracter 500 · Elysia

Index 53↓ 6.1%
53
↓ 6.1%$862€769
$862€769Check ↗
18
Fredenstein Bento 2 Horizontal 2-Slot Powered 500 Series RackBento 2 · Fredenstein

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$275€245
$275€245Check ↗
19
Heritage Audio Lang 312L 500-Series Microphone PreampLANG 312L · Heritage Audio

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
20
Radial Engineering Workhorse The CubeRadial Engineering

Index 52Stable
52
Stable$582€519
$582€519Check ↗
21
WesAudio Phoebe NG500 Microphone Preamp ModulePhoebe · WesAudio

Index 51↓ 4.6%
51
↓ 4.6%$929€829
$929€829Check ↗
22
Lindell Audio 6X-500 Mic Pre / EQ 500 Series Module6X-500 · Lindell Audio

Index 50↓ 5.4%
50
↓ 5.4%$391€349
$391€349Check ↗
23
Heritage Audio OST-4 V2.0 4-Slot 500 Series FrameOST-4 V2 · Heritage Audio

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$414€369
$414€369Check ↗
24
Fredenstein Bento 8 Pure Analog 8-Slot 500 Series RackBento 8 Pure Analog · Fredenstein

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$481€429
$481€429Check ↗
25
AEA SnaqBox 2-Slot 500-Series RackSnaqbox · AEA · 2 finishes

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$559€499
$559€499Check ↗
26
Cranborne Audio Carnaby Harmonic EQ 500-Series Equalizer ModuleCarnaby 500 · Cranborne Audio

Index 50↓ 1.7%
50
↓ 1.7%$660€589
$660€589Check ↗
27
Heritage Audio OST-10 V2 10-Space 500 Series Rack FrameOST-10 V2 · Heritage Audio

Index 50Stable
50
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
28
Elysia xfilter 500 Stereo 500 Series Equalizer Modulexfilter 500 · Elysia

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$880€785
$880€785Check ↗
29
Radial Engineering Workhorse SixPackRadial Engineering

Index 49Stable
49
Stable$894€798
$894€798Check ↗
30
Lindell Audio 7X-500 500 Series FET Compressor Module7X-500 · Lindell Audio

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$402€359
$402€359Check ↗
31
Lindell Audio 7X500VIN Vintage Series 500 Series Compressor Module7X-500 Vintage Edition · Lindell Audio

Index 48↓ 4.8%
48
↓ 4.8%$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
32
Rupert Neve Designs 545 Primary Source Enhancer 500-Series Module545 · Rupert Neve Designs

Index 48Stable
48
Stable$985€879
$985€879Check ↗
33
Empirical Labs Pump 500-Series Compressor ModulePump · Empirical Labs

Index 47↓ 4.5%
47
↓ 4.5%$963€859
$963€859Check ↗
34
Fredenstein Artistic Comp Plus 500 Series FET Compressor ModuleArtistic Comp Plus · Fredenstein

Index 46↓ 3.1%
46
↓ 3.1%$249€222
$249€222Check ↗
35
IGS Audio 576 Blue Stripe 500 Series FET Compressor Module576 Blue Stripe · IGS Audio

Index 46Stable
46
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
36
API Audio 500-8P LunchboxAPI Audio

Index 45Stable
45
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
37
Drawmer MQ-2Drawmer

Index 44↓ 3.9%
44
↓ 3.9%$559€499
$559€499Check ↗
38
SSL 500-Series 611 DYNSSL · 2 finishes

Index 44↓ 8.0%
44
↓ 8.0%$659€588
$659€588Check ↗
39
IGS Audio Alter 500 FET Compressor LimiterAlter 500 · IGS Audio

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$851€759
$851€759Check ↗
40
AEA TRP500 500-Series Ribbon Microphone PreampTRP 500 · AEA

Index 44Stable
44
Stable$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
41
Fredenstein Blank Panel GoldFredenstein · 2 finishes

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$19€17
$19€17Check ↗
42
Harrison Audio MR3eq 500 Series Equalizer ModuleMR3eq · Harrison Audio

Index 43↓ 44.3%
43
↓ 44.3%$268€239
$268€239Check ↗
43
SPL DeS 500-Series De Esser ModuleDeS · SPL

Index 43Stable
43
Stable$414€369
$414€369Check ↗
44
Lindell Audio 506 Power Mk2 6-Space 500 Series Rack506 Power MKII · Lindell Audio

Index 43↓ 11.1%
43
↓ 11.1%$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
45
thingyfab Blank Panel 500 Rosewoodthingyfab

Index 42↓ 23.3%
42
↓ 23.3%$11€10
$11€10Check ↗
46
Fredenstein Artistic MicPre Plus 500 Series Microphone Preamp ModuleArtistic MicPre SE · Fredenstein

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$111€99
$111€99Check ↗
47
Drawmer MQ-1Drawmer

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$391€349
$391€349Check ↗
48
Drawmer FC1 FET CompressorDrawmer

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
49
Drawmer OC1 Opto CompressorDrawmer

Index 42Stable
42
Stable$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
50
SSL 500 B-Series Dynamic ModuleSSL

Index 42↓ 13.9%
42
↓ 13.9%$626€559
$626€559Check ↗
51
Cranborne Audio Brick Lane 500Cranborne Audio

Index 42↓ 21.2%
42
↓ 21.2%$750€669
$750€669Check ↗
52
Midas Microphone Preamplifier 502 V2Midas

Index 41↓ 18.9%
41
↓ 18.9%$154€137
$154€137Check ↗
53
SPL HPmSPL

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$414€369
$414€369Check ↗
54
Lindell Audio PEQ-501ALindell Audio

Index 41↓ 8.8%
41
↓ 8.8%$582€519
$582€519Check ↗
55
Fredenstein Bento 8 Pro Pure AnalogFredenstein

Index 41↑ 10.7%
41
↑ 10.7%$582€519
$582€519Check ↗
56
WesAudio Supercarrier II 11-Slot Powered 500 Series RackSupercarrier II · WesAudio

Index 41Stable
41
Stable$929€829
$929€829Check ↗
57
Fredenstein Bento 2 Pure Analog 2-Slot 500-Series FrameBento 2 Pure Analog · Fredenstein

Index 40↓ 3.3%
40
↓ 3.3%$324€289
$324€289Check ↗
58
HLABS EQ169HLABS

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$402€359
$402€359Check ↗
59
Lindell Audio 6X-500 VIN "Vintage Edition" Mic Pre / EQ 500 Series…6X-500 Vintage Edition · Lindell Audio

Index 40↓ 4.9%
40
↓ 4.9%$436€389
$436€389Check ↗
60
HLABS PRE169HLABS

Index 40Stable
40
Stable$862€769
$862€769Check ↗
61
Fredenstein Artistic Mic Pre PlusFredenstein

Index 39↓ 1.8%
39
↓ 1.8%$241€215
$241€215Check ↗
62
Midas L10 Legend 10-Slot Rackmount 500 Series ChassisLegend L10 · Midas

Index 39↓ 3.7%
39
↓ 3.7%$289€258
$289€258Check ↗
63
Lindell Audio 503 PowerLindell Audio

Index 39↓ 5.1%
39
↓ 5.1%$335€299
$335€299Check ↗
64
API Audio 505 Di Direct InputAPI Audio

Index 39↓ 2.8%
39
↓ 2.8%$871€777
$871€777Check ↗
65
API Audio 565 Filter BankAPI Audio

Index 39↓ 2.8%
39
↓ 2.8%$871€777
$871€777Check ↗
66
Lindell Audio 77X-500 Stereo Compressor / Limiter 500 Series Module77X-500 · Lindell Audio

Index 39↓ 3.6%
39
↓ 3.6%$895€799
$895€799Check ↗
67
API Audio Blank Panel 500er 5B1API Audio

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$25€22
$25€22Check ↗
68
IGS Audio S-Type 500 VUIGS Audio

Index 38↓ 1.2%
38
↓ 1.2%$807€720
$807€720Check ↗
69
IGS Audio NE573IGS Audio

Index 38↓ 1.3%
38
↓ 1.3%$828€739
$828€739Check ↗
70
API Audio Select SV14 4-Band EQAPI Audio

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
71
IGS Audio Photon 500 Series Opto Compressor ModulePhoton · IGS Audio

Index 38Stable
38
Stable$839€749
$839€749Check ↗
72
Fredenstein Bento 2 Pure Analog ExtensionFredenstein

Index 37↑ 2.1%
37
↑ 2.1%$223€199
$223€199Check ↗
73
Midas L6 Legend 6-Slot Powered 500 Series FrameLegend L6 · Midas

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$224€200
$224€200Check ↗
74
SSL 500-Series SiX ChannelSSL

Index 37↓ 2.9%
37
↓ 2.9%$369€329
$369€329Check ↗
75
IGS Audio IQ505IGS Audio

Index 37Stable
37
Stable$705€629
$705€629Check ↗
76
Neve 88RLB Preampmodule 500er APINeve

Index 37↓ 3.9%
37
↓ 3.9%$828€739
$828€739Check ↗
77
Behringer 73 500-Series Microphone Preamp73 · Behringer

Index 36↓ 10.0%
36
↓ 10.0%$231€206
$231€206Check ↗
78
Golden Age Audio Project Comp-554Golden Age Audio

Index 36↓ 7.0%
36
↓ 7.0%$447€399
$447€399Check ↗
79
SSL 500-Series UltraViolet EQSSL

Index 36Stable
36
Stable$526€469
$526€469Check ↗
80
SSL 500-Series VHD+ PreampSSL

Index 36↓ 1.6%
36
↓ 1.6%$694€619
$694€619Check ↗
81
thingyfab Blank Panel 500 Bamboothingyfab

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$11€10
$11€10Check ↗
82
thingyfab Blank Panel 500 Vintage Comp.thingyfab

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$22€20
$22€20Check ↗
83
thingyfab Blank Panel 500 Reverbthingyfab

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$22€20
$22€20Check ↗
84
thingyfab Blank Panel 500 Preampthingyfab

Index 35Stable
35
Stable$22€20
$22€20Check ↗
85
Golden Age Audio Project Pre-573 MKIIIGolden Age Audio

Index 35↓ 4.7%
35
↓ 4.7%$319€285
$319€285Check ↗
86
Empirical Labs EL-DS-V Derresser VerticalEmpirical Labs

Index 35↓ 5.4%
35
↓ 5.4%$667€595
$667€595Check ↗
87
Roger Schult W2393 TiltBaxxEQRoger Schult

Index 35↓ 1.6%
35
↓ 1.6%$705€629
$705€629Check ↗
88
SPL TDxSPL

Index 34Stable
34
Stable$436€389
$436€389Check ↗
89
Golden Age Audio Premier Pre-573Golden Age Audio

Index 34↓ 2.4%
34
↓ 2.4%$458€409
$458€409Check ↗
90
Tegeler MythEQTegeler

Index 34↓ 1.9%
34
↓ 1.9%$746€666
$746€666Check ↗
91
Tegeler Vocal LevelerTegeler

Index 34↓ 1.5%
34
↓ 1.5%$761€679
$761€679Check ↗
92
Roger Schult W2395cRoger Schult

Index 34Stable
34
Stable$871€777
$871€777Check ↗
93
Roger Schult W2377 MK2Roger Schult

Index 34↑ 22.1%
34
↑ 22.1%$929€829
$929€829Check ↗
94
Roger Schult V2359j amp4ribbonRoger Schult

Index 34Stable
34
Stable$985€879
$985€879Check ↗
95
Radial Engineering X-AMP 500Radial Engineering

Index 33Stable
33
Stable$414€369
$414€369Check ↗
96
IGS Audio RB500 Rubber Bands 500 Series Passive Equalizer ModuleRubber Bands 500 · IGS Audio

Index 33↓ 0.6%
33
↓ 0.6%$756€675
$756€675Check ↗
97
Tegeler MythVCA 500Tegeler

Index 33Stable
33
Stable$783€699
$783€699Check ↗
98
Heritage Audio HABPNL 500 Series Blank PanelHABPNL · Heritage Audio

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$21€19
$21€19Check ↗
99
Rodec K7 AdapterRodec

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$201€179
$201€179Check ↗
100
Meris 500 Series Mercury 7 ReverbMeris

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$604€539
$604€539Check ↗
101
MÄAG EQ2-500MÄAG

Index 32Stable
32
Stable$996€889
$996€889Check ↗
102
Roadworx Blank Panel 500Roadworx

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$6€6
$6€6Check ↗
103
Drawmer DS101 500 Series Noise Gate ModuleDS101 Noise Gate · Drawmer

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$559€499
$559€499Check ↗
104
Cloud Microphones CL-520 True Blue 500-Series Microphone Preamp ModuleTrue Blue CL-520 · Cloud Microphones

Index 31Stable
31
Stable$884€789
$884€789Check ↗
105
Meris 440 500 Series Mic Preamp Module500 Series 440 Mic Preamp · Meris

Index 30↓ 3.6%
30
↓ 3.6%$593€529
$593€529Check ↗
106
Fredenstein Rack-Kit Bento 6Fredenstein

Index 23Stable
23
Stable$44€39
$44€39Check ↗

500 Series Components by the numbers

Measured across all 114 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $582 — half of all 500 series components here cost less.

<$50$50–150$150–300$300–500$500+

Size19"

median of 12 models · 19"–19"

Weight0.8 kg

median of 16 models · 0.38 kg–4.7 kg

How to choose the best 500 series components

Tone/Character

This is the big one. We're talking about unique sonic signatures - that subtle saturation, a warm low-end, or a cutting high-end that helps your sound sit in the mix. It's not just 'good' - it's what kind of good.

Build Quality

500 series modules get gigged. Cheap pots and flimsy jacks will fail fast. We're looking for something that can handle the abuse of a working musician's life.

Usability/Workflow

A fantastic sound is useless if the controls are confusing or the module is a pain to dial in. Intuitive layouts and clear markings are a huge plus.

Noise Floor

Even the best modules can be compromised by excessive noise. We're evaluating the signal-to-noise ratio - how much unwanted hiss and hum creeps into your signal.

Versatility

Can this module do more than just one thing? A compressor that can subtly glue a vocal or smash a drum bus is more valuable than a hyper-specialized unit you'll only use occasionally.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're diving into the 500 series world but don't want to remortgage the house? Smart move. Building a great-sounding rack doesn't require a trust fund, but it does require knowing where to spend your money. We're focusing on components under $1000 each - enough to build a solid foundation without breaking the bank, and still getting some serious mojo.

At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Expect some modules to have slightly less headroom than their pricier counterparts, or maybe a few compromises in the quality of the transformers. Focus on modules that nail a specific sound you're after - don't try to buy everything at once.

A few well-chosen modules will do far more for your sound than a rack full of mediocre ones.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 114 500 series components from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

Are there any clones that are actually worth buying?

Absolutely. Some clone builders offer incredible value, often using similar components to the originals but at a lower price. Just do your research - read reviews and listen to demos before pulling the trigger.

What's the deal with power supplies? Do I need a fancy one?

Your power supply matters. A cheap, noisy power supply can negate any sonic improvements you've made with your modules. A decent quality power supply is worth the investment - look for something with plenty of headroom and clean power delivery.

Can I really build a usable rack for under $1000?

You can, but be smart about it. Prioritize a good power supply, then focus on 2-3 key modules that will make a significant difference in your sound. Resist the urge to fill the rack with impulse buys.

What about used gear? Is that a viable option?

Definitely! The used market is your friend. You can often find excellent deals on 500 series modules, but always test them thoroughly before buying - check for noisy pots, loose jacks, and any signs of physical damage.

What's the difference between 'clean' and 'character' in this context?

A 'clean' module aims for transparency - it processes your signal with minimal coloration. 'Character' means it imparts a specific sonic flavor - maybe it adds warmth, saturation, or a vintage vibe. It's about what you're trying to achieve with your sound.