Best Controller Modules Under $300 2026
Affordable controller modules under $300 - great value without compromising quality
Last updated: January 14, 2026 • Next update: January 21, 2026
#1
⭐
4.6/5
(23 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Erica Synths Black Joystick 2
by
Erica Synths
Performance
Modular Control
Automation
Key Feature:
• Great for system integration
✓ PROS
- • Often includes switches and buttons
- • Manual control over modular parameters
✗ CONS
- • May be redundant with external controllers
- • Requires patching for every use
Erica Synths Black Joystick 2Eurorack ModuleJoystick with 8 CV outputs - 4 channelseach with output for X and Y axis2...
⭐
4.6/5
(23 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 513262
$273
#2
⭐
4.5/5
(20 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Make Noise Pressure Points
by
Make Noise
Automation
System Integration
Studio Control
Key Feature:
• Manual control over modular parameters
✓ PROS
- • Multiple control voltage outputs
- • Manual control over modular parameters
✗ CONS
- • Can be expensive for simple functionality
- • May be redundant with external controllers
Make Noise Pressure PointsEurorack ModuleController module with touch plates that generate a gate signal (gate out)...
⭐
4.5/5
(20 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 414541
$270
#3
⭐
4.6/5
(33 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Endorphin.es Total Recall Silver
by
Endorphin.es
System Integration
Automation
Performance
Key Feature:
• Multiple control voltage outputs
✓ PROS
- • Often includes switches and buttons
- • Manual control over modular parameters
✗ CONS
- • May be redundant with external controllers
- • Requires patching for every use
Endorphin.es Total Recall SilverEurorack ModuleCV Preset Manager3 Channelseach with adjustable fixed voltage via rotary...
⭐
4.6/5
(33 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 545031
$219
#4
⭐
4.9/5
(50 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Doepfer A-198 (Module + Manual)
by
Doepfer
System Integration
Live Modular
Automation
Key Feature:
• Often includes switches and buttons
✓ PROS
- • Manual control over modular parameters
- • Often includes switches and buttons
✗ CONS
- • Takes up HP space in modular case
- • May be redundant with external controllers
Doepfer A-198 (Module + Manual)Trautonium ControllerConsists of Doepfer A-198 Module and Ribbon ControllerRibbon...
⭐
4.9/5
(50 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 114754
$241
#5
⭐
4.6/5
(26 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Doepfer A-174-4 3D Joystick VE
by
Doepfer
Live Modular
Automation
System Integration
Key Feature:
• Essential for live modular performance
✓ PROS
- • Often includes switches and buttons
- • Manual control over modular parameters
✗ CONS
- • Requires patching for every use
- • Takes up HP space in modular case
Doepfer A-174-4 3D Joystick VEEurorack ModuleVintage Edition with black front panelJoystick with X-/Y-axisRotation...
⭐
4.6/5
(26 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 507178
$218
How to Choose the Best Controller Modules
Budget Planning
- • Under $200: Entry-level
- • $200-$500: Intermediate
- • $500-$1000: Advanced
- • $1000+: Professional
Quality Check
- • Sound clarity & tone
- • Build materials & finish
- • Hardware durability
- • Overall craftsmanship
Key Features
- • Your musical style
- • Skill level match
- • Intended use case
- • Brand reputation
Frequently Asked Questions
Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Higher-priced controller modules typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.
