AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Effect Modules 2026
The top pick is Strymon StarLab Time-Warped Reverberator ($702). Doepfer A-199 SPRV Spring Reverb gives you the most for the money at $133. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 61 models across 20 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
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All Effect ModulesTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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You get a reverb module for ambient sounds, with three reverb types, an infinite freeze and an adjustable shimmer that shifts pitch up or down one octave. It suits you if you build Eurorack setups and want deep, textured spaces you can control with CV and presets. Plan for its 28 HP width and the power it draws from your case.
Pros
- Three selectable reverb types for a wide range of ambient textures
- Infinite freeze holds the input signal before the reverb tank
- LFO with different waveforms modulates delay time, reverb size or filter
Cons
- Its 28 HP width and 41 mm depth need enough room in your Eurorack case
- Needs a Eurorack power supply, drawing 210 mA on +12 V and 210 mA on -12 V
85AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$702 now$702€629 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The ZVERB Black is a solid, affordable reverb module for your Eurorack. It delivers a surprising amount of character and tweakability, particularly with the Fidelity control helping to tame digital harshness. It's a great entry point into digital reverb for those wanting more than just spring or plate sounds.
Pros
- Excellent algorithm variety for diverse sonic textures
- Fidelity control noticeably cleans up the digital artifacts
- Compact 8HP footprint maximizes modular space
Cons
- Limited modulation destinations compared to higher-end reverb modules
- Mono input restricts stereo processing capabilities
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$245 now$245€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a lot of effects from one small module here, with 24 algorithms that range from chorus and flanger to tape echo and shimmer reverb. The time, filter and modulation controls let you shape each effect, and the CV inputs let you change them from other modules in your rack. It suits you if you build a Eurorack setup and want one module that covers many effect types.
Pros
- Digital multi-effect module with 24 different effect algorithms in one unit
- Covers chorus, flanger, ensemble, tape echo, multitap delays, reverb and shimmer reverb
- Adjustable time, filter and modulation depth or feedback for each effect
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$222 now$222€199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
This is a digital delay module for a Eurorack modular setup. It gives you 24 different echo styles, from BBD and tape simulations to ping pong, multitaps, and shimmer. If you already run a modular rig and want many delay types in one small module, you will likely find it useful.
Pros
- Digital delay with 24 different algorithms to choose from
- Includes BBD simulation, tape echo, ping pong, multitaps, and shimmer taps
- Fidelity control improves the DSP clock and audio quality
Cons
- Eurorack format means it needs a Eurorack power supply to run
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$233 now$233€209 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Endorphin.es Ghost Eurorack Synth Module
Ghost Black · Endorphin.es
12 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The Ghost Black is a powerhouse of digital effects, offering incredible flexibility for sound design and creative processing. It's a fantastic choice for experienced modular users who want to sculpt complex, evolving soundscapes, though beginners might find the routing a bit overwhelming initially. The quality of the effects themselves is genuinely impressive.
Pros
- Exceptional signal processing clarity at 32-bit/96kHz resolution.
- Karplus-Strong synthesis via stereo delay offers unique textures.
- Flexible M/S stereo widening dramatically enhances spatial depth.
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to routing complexity and sheer number of options.
- Limited modulation destinations compared to larger, more expensive modules.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Endorphin.es Milky Way Eurorack Synth Module
Milky Way Silver · Endorphin.es
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
You get sixteen effects here, split into two groups called Airways and Darkwaves. Airways holds reverbs and delays, while Darkwaves adds effects like a flanger, ring modulator, overdrive, and compressor. Each effect has two parameters you can control with CV, which makes it a good pick if you want to shape your sound from a Eurorack patch.
Pros
- Sixteen effects split into two groups: Airways and Darkwaves
- Two parameters per effect program, each with its own CV input
- Volume control with its own CV input
Cons
- Power draw is 120mA on +12V and 15mA on -12V, so it needs a Eurorack power supply
- Its 6 U width and 30 mm depth take up real space in a rack
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$195 now$195€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
If you build a Eurorack modular rig and want a delay that can also loop, this module puts both in one panel. You get long loop times, tap tempo, and hold and reverse buttons, so you can build loops and change them as you play. It suits anyone who wants to control the delay with CV and triggers from the rest of their modular setup.
Pros
- Digital delay and looper running at up to 24 bit / 48 kHz
- Up to 87 seconds of loop time in mono and 43 seconds in stereo
- Tap tempo and external sync through a trigger input and ping button
Cons
- Stereo loop time is 43 seconds, shorter than the 87 seconds in mono
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$300 now$300€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a Eurorack effects module with 24 effects, and each effect has three parameters you can control with CV. It also has a clipping LED, a 7 segment display for picking effects, and a way to store all your effect settings. This one suits you if you already run a modular rack and want many effects in a single module.
Pros
- Offers 24 effects, each with three parameters that accept CV control
- Sample rate adjustable from LoFi up to 48 kHz, and CV controllable
- Analog wet/dry controller with stereo inputs and outputs
Cons
- Draws 70 mA on +12 V and 56 mA on -12 V, so your rack's power must cover it
- Takes 16 TE of rack space with 35 mm installation depth
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$334 now$334€299 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
You get a two-channel digital delay that can also loop audio for up to 2:54 minutes. Each channel has its own time, feedback, and mix controls, plus hold and reverse buttons. It suits you if you build a modular synth and want a delay you can sync to tempo and control with voltage.
Pros
- Two independent delay channels, each with its own time, feedback, and wet/dry controls
- Records up to 2:54 minutes at 16 bit / 48kHz for looping
- Trigger inputs and a ping button for tap tempo and external synchronisation
Cons
- Needs 188mA on +12V and 48mA on -12V, so your power supply must cover both rails
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$497 now$497€445 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Doepfer A-199 SPRV Spring Reverb
A-199 Spring Reverb Module · Doepfer
7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
You get a spring reverb module that uses spiral springs to recreate the reverb effect electronically. It is 8 HP wide, so it fits in a small modular case, and it draws +80 mA on +12V and -10 mA on -12V. This one suits you if you build a modular synth and want a spring-style reverb in your setup.
Pros
- Electronically reproduces the reverb effect using spiral springs
- Spring system uses three separate springs
- Reverb signal can be placed on the input
69AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 61 effect modules
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Erica Synths Dual FXErica Synths68Stable$328€294$328€294Check ↗
- 12
Erica Synths Pico VCOPico DSP · Erica Synths66Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 13
Erica Synths Black Spring ReverbErica Synths66Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 14
Erica Synths Black Spring ReverbBlack Stereo Reverb · Erica Synths66Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 15
Doepfer A-188-1D 4096 Stages BBD ModuleA-188-1D · Doepfer · 2 finishes65Stable$195€175$195€175Check ↗
- 16
4MS Tapographic DelayTapographic Delay · 4ms65Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 17
Endorphin.es Golden Master 1U Eurorack Synth ModuleGolden Master · Endorphin.es64Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 18
Tiptop Audio FSUFSU White · Tiptop Audio64Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 19
Erica Synths Black Stereo Delay 2 ModuleBlack Stereo Delay2 · Erica Synths64Stable$366€328$366€328Check ↗
- 20
Doepfer A-189-1 VBM Voltage Controlled Bit ModifierA-189-1 · Doepfer57Stable$117€105$117€105Check ↗
- 21
Joranalogue Audio Design Delay 1Joranalogue Audio Design56Stable$389€348$389€348Check ↗
- 22
Behringer 911A Dual Trigger Delay Eurorack Synthesizer Module911A Dual Trigger Delay · Behringer54Stable$21€19$21€19Check ↗
- 23
Behringer CC300 Chorus Space-CSpace FX · Behringer54Stable$56€50$56€50Check ↗
- 24
Joranalogue Audio Design Enhance 2Joranalogue Audio Design54Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 25
Befaco Spring Reverb Eurorack Synthesizer ModuleSpring Reverb · Befaco54Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
- 26
Intellijel Designs Digiverb 1UIntellijel Designs53Stable$80€72$80€72Check ↗
- 27
OXI Instruments Meta BlackOXI Instruments · 2 finishes53↓ 1.0%$441€395$441€395Check ↗
- 28
Cosmotronic Messor SilverCosmotronic · 2 finishes52Stable$262€235$262€235Check ↗
- 29
Tiptop Audio Buchla Model 277tTiptop Audio50Stable$323€289$323€289Check ↗
- 30
Tiptop Audio Buchla Model 285tTiptop Audio50Stable$355€318$355€318Check ↗
- 31
Tiptop Audio Z-DSP NS BlackTiptop Audio50Stable$468€419$468€419Check ↗
- 32
Erica Synths Stereo CompressorErica Synths49Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 33
Erica Synths Drum Stereo FXErica Synths49Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 34
Behringer Vocoder VC16Behringer48Stable$88€79$88€79Check ↗
- 35
Behringer Bode Freq Shifter 1630Behringer48Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
- 36
Behringer HalosBehringer48Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 37
Behringer SkiesBehringer48Stable$122€109$122€109Check ↗
- 38
XAOC Devices MinskXAOC Devices48Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 39
XAOC Devices Kamieniec IIXAOC Devices48Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
- 40
XAOC Devices KoszalinXAOC Devices48Stable$367€329$367€329Check ↗
- 41
XAOC Devices TimiszoaraXAOC Devices48Stable$367€329$367€329Check ↗
- 42
Doepfer A-126-2 Frequency ShifterDoepfer48Stable$367€329$367€329Check ↗
- 43
4ms Mesa4ms48↓ 2.6%$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 44
XAOC Devices SarajewoXAOC Devices48Stable$490€439$490€439Check ↗
- 45
XAOC Devices SamarkandaXAOC Devices48Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 46
Intellijel Designs Springray IIIntellijel Designs47Stable$322€288$322€288Check ↗
- 47
4ms Leveling EQ Amplifier (LEQA)4ms47Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 48
Intellijel Designs SealegsIntellijel Designs47Stable$519€465$519€465Check ↗
- 49
Intellijel Designs SwellsIntellijel Designs47Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 50
Empress Effects ZOIA EuroburoEmpress Effects44↓ 1.4%$769€689$769€689Check ↗
Effect Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 70 models we track, not a sample.
Median $312 — half of all effect modules here cost less.
How to choose the best effect modules
Sound Quality
This is obvious, but 'good' is subjective. Are we talking about a lush, diffused reverb tail, or a brittle, digital shimmer? Does the distortion add warmth and sustain, or just harshness? Listen critically and think about the tone you're after.
CPU/Power Consumption
Modular systems are already power-hungry. A module that demands a ton of juice or eats up precious CPU cycles can cripple your setup. Especially important for Eurorack users - headroom is a precious commodity.
Modulation Options
Can you modulate the effect's parameters? A static reverb is fine, but a reverb that breathes with your LFOs? That's where things get interesting. Look for CV inputs and flexible routing options.
Hands-on Control
Some modules are designed for deep, knob-twiddling exploration, while others are more patch-centric. Consider your workflow and how much tactile control you need for live performance or quick adjustments during recording.
Size/Format
Eurorack modules are tiny, but they add up fast. 5U of modules gets heavy quickly. Other formats like Ableton or skiff-friendly formats can be limiting depending on your setup. Consider how the module fits your physical space and workflow.
Buying guide
So, you're diving into modular synths - awesome. Don't get so caught up in oscillators and filters that you forget the glue that holds it all together: effects. A pristine, sterile patch sounds like a demo; a well-affected patch breathes and has character. We're talking reverb, delay, distortion, modulation - the stuff that takes your sounds from 'functional' to 'inspiring'.
Don't chase the hype. A cheap reverb module might sound okay for basic ambience, but it'll likely lack the depth and detail of something more refined. Distortion modules often cut corners on the filtering, resulting in a muddy, unpleasant mess.
Paying more often gets you better components, more nuanced sound, and a more robust build - things that matter when you're gigging or recording.
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 70 effect modules 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
What's the difference between a digital and analog reverb module?
Analog reverbs tend to have a warmer, more organic character, but can be limited in their features. Digital reverbs offer more flexibility and longer decay times, but can sometimes sound sterile if not implemented well. It's a tonal preference, really.
How much power should I budget for effect modules?
It depends, but assume each module will draw at least 20mA. Factor in headroom for transient spikes - things can draw significantly more momentarily. Overestimate rather than underestimate - a brownout mid-gig is no fun.
Are there any good budget-friendly distortion modules?
Sure, but be realistic. Expect some compromises - they might lack the nuanced harmonic complexity of higher-end options. Look for modules with simple, well-implemented circuits; avoid anything that sounds overly harsh or fizzy.
Can I use VST effects with my modular synth?
Absolutely! Many modular systems can send audio to a computer and process it with VST plugins. It's a great way to expand your sonic palette, but introduces latency, which can be an issue for live performance.
What's the best way to use modulation with effects?
Experiment! Try modulating reverb decay time for a pulsing ambience, or using an LFO to subtly shift the cutoff frequency of a distortion. Small changes can have a big impact on the overall feel of your patch.
