AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Filter Modules for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Doepfer A-124 VCF5 Wasp Filter ($98). Erica Synths Black Polivoks VCF V2 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 89 models across 29 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Doepfer A-124 VCF5 Wasp Filter
A-124 Wasp Filter SE · Doepfer
12 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
This little Doepfer Wasp Filter SE is a fantastic way to inject some serious attitude into your modular system. It’s got that classic Wasp edge, surprisingly versatile despite its size, and the build quality is solid for a module in this price range. Perfect for experimental sound design or adding grit to percussive elements.
Pros
- Distinct Wasp character delivers aggressive, resonant filtering tones.
- Black front panel with yellow caps offers a unique, eye-catching aesthetic.
- Compact 8HP footprint makes it ideal for space-constrained modular setups.
Cons
- Limited multimode options compared to more complex filter modules.
- Power draw of +30mA might be significant in systems with limited power.
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Endorphin.es Squawk Dirty To Me Eurorack Synth Module
Squawk Dirty To Me Silver · Endorphin.es
7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The Squawk Dirty To Me is a fantastic character module for Eurorack. It’s a surprisingly versatile stereo filter with a real edge – perfect for sound design, experimental music, or adding grit to more conventional patches. This is a great option for anyone wanting a unique sonic signature without needing to commit to a full modular system.
Pros
- Exceptional filter character, uniquely aggressive and musical.
- Integrated VCA streamlines patching and sound shaping.
- Meta-CV scanning provides evolving, dynamic filter textures.
Cons
- Limited filter type control compared to a full Grand Terminal.
- 120mA draw can be significant for power-constrained racks.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 2.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$200 · Aug 17$196 now$196€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Erica Synths Black is a fantastic, character-rich multimode filter that's a real workhorse. It's a great entry point into more complex filtering, especially if you’re chasing that vintage Moog vibe, and its small size is a huge bonus for Eurorack users. Perfect for sound design, experimental music, and adding warmth to synths.
Pros
- Gorgeous, warm filter character with genuine germanium overdrive tone
- Excellent resonance sweep provides screaming, musical feedback possibilities
- Compact 10HP footprint makes it ideal for dense modular setups
Cons
- The lowpass mode can be a bit muddy with extreme resonance
- Limited filter modes compared to some pricier, more complex options
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$200 now$200€179 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Pico VCF1 is a fantastic little module for anyone wanting that classic, gritty Polivoks filter sound without the bulk. It's a real workhorse for experimental sound design and adding some edge to your modular patching, especially if you're into darker, industrial textures.
Pros
- Authentic Polivoks filter character, surprisingly powerful for its size
- Russian NOS op-amps deliver a unique, vintage-flavored tone
- Self-oscillation is clean and usable for wild sound design
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to full-sized counterparts
- Power draw is a bit higher than some other Pico modules
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This Erica Synths Polivoks VCF V2 is a fantastic little module for recreating that gritty, Russian synth vibe. It’s a no-frills design, but it nails the aggressive character of the original Polivoks filter, perfect for industrial, experimental, or anyone craving a raw, analog edge in their modular patch. A great choice for those seeking a specific, iconic sound without a huge commitment.
Pros
- Authentic Polivoks character with original K140UD12 chips
- BP mode delivers aggressive, resonant sweeps and textures
- Compact 10HP footprint ideal for space-constrained modular systems
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to more versatile options
- Can be quite aggressive and noisy at higher resonance settings
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$221 now$221€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The A-121d is a workhorse filter module for Eurorack systems. Its dual filter design and delta control make it ideal for creating evolving textures and complex tones – a great choice for experimental sound designers and those seeking classic, resonant filter character. It's a fantastic value and a solid foundation for any modular setup.
Pros
- Dual filters offer incredible flexibility for complex sound design.
- Delta control provides unique and evolving timbral shifts.
- Solid Doepfer build quality ensures long-term reliability.
Cons
- 8HP footprint can be limiting in smaller Eurorack cases.
- Filter resonance can get quite aggressive, requiring careful control.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 2.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$166 · Aug 17$162 now$162€145 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Doepfer A-120 VCF1 is a workhorse filter module delivering that classic Moog warmth. It's a fantastic entry point into modular synthesis, especially if you're after a vintage vibe and don’t need a ton of bells and whistles. Perfect for sound designers and those wanting a solid, reliable filter foundation.
Pros
- Classic Moog-inspired filter sound, instantly recognizable and warm.
- Robust construction with reliable, discrete transistor circuitry.
- Excellent resonance control, capable of self-oscillation for unique tones.
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to more modern designs.
- Can be noisy at higher resonance settings – typical of older designs.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$128 now$128€115 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type Voltage Controlled Filter
A-106-5 SEM Filter Special Ed. · Doepfer
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
This A-106-5 SEM Filter Special Ed. is a fantastic way to inject that classic, creamy Sequential Circuits sound into your modular setup. It's a relatively compact module, perfect for those wanting a distinct vintage vibe without a huge commitment. Ideal for sound designers and synth enthusiasts craving that SEM warmth.
Pros
- Classic Sequential Circuits SEM filter sound in a compact Eurorack module.
- Cream-colored panel and black knobs offer a visually appealing, vintage aesthetic.
- Provides a rich, resonant, and characterful tone ideal for basslines and pads.
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to more complex multi-mode offerings.
- 8HP footprint can be restrictive in smaller modular systems.
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The Noise & Filter is a beautifully simple module, perfect for adding textured soundscapes and subtle movement to your patches. Its fixed filter bank encourages experimentation and delivers Verbos’ signature warm, organic tone. Ideal for ambient, textural, or experimental sound design where you want a ready-made sonic palette.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity and definition across the filter bands
- Verbos' signature warmth and organic character shines through
- Compact 4HP footprint makes it incredibly space-efficient
Cons
- Fixed filter frequencies limit ultimate flexibility for precise shaping
- Noise source can be a bit aggressive without careful attenuation
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$139 now$139€124 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The A-101-1 is a fantastic entry point into classic Steiner filter territory. Those vactrols really impart a creamy, organic character that's hard to replicate – it’s a go-to for ambient, experimental, and vintage synth sounds. Perfect for modular explorers wanting a core filter voice without a huge investment.
Pros
- Vactrols deliver a uniquely smooth, resonant filter response
- Classic Steiner filter design provides a warm, vintage character
- Compact 16HP footprint suits smaller modular systems
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to more modern designs
- Power draw is relatively high for a single module
55AudioFu
Index↓ 4.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$162 · Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 89 filter modules
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Befaco Pony VCF Eurorack Synthesizer ModulePony VCF · Befaco52Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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Doepfer A-124-2 SEDoepfer · 2 finishes51Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Doepfer A-105-2 VEDoepfer · 2 finishes51Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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BASTL Instruments Cinnamon Voltage Controlled State Variable FilterCinnamon · Bastl Instruments49Stable$196€175$196€175Check ↗
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Doepfer A-121 VCF2 Multimode FilterA-121-2 · Doepfer · 2 finishes48Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
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Doepfer A-108 VCF8A-108 · Doepfer48Stable$172€154$172€154Check ↗
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Doepfer A-123-2Doepfer45Stable$128€115$128€115Check ↗
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Doepfer A-106-1 Xtreme Filter (MS20)Doepfer45Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Doepfer A-104Doepfer45Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
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Doepfer A-106-6 XP FilterDoepfer45Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
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Doepfer A-105-4 Quad Poly VCFDoepfer45Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
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Erica Synths Black 3109 VCF/VCAErica Synths40Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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Erica Synths Black LPGErica Synths40Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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Erica Synths Drum Stereo DJ VCFErica Synths40Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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ADDAC 607 CrossoverADDAC39Stable$128€115$128€115Check ↗
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Tiptop Audio Forbidden Planet Analog FilterTiptop Audio39Stable$154€138$154€138Check ↗
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ADDAC 605 Spectral TiltADDAC39Stable$196€175$196€175Check ↗
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Tiptop Audio ResonatorTiptop Audio39Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
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ADDAC 604 Dual FilterADDAC39Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
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Befaco BanditBefaco38Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
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Befaco BF-22 Sallen Key FilterBefaco38Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
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TouellSkouarn Kala GoañvTouellSkouarn37Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
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NANO Modules ST-FONTNANO Modules37Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
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Joranalogue Audio Design Flow 3Joranalogue Audio Design37Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
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Make Noise DXGMake Noise37Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
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Doepfer A-101-2 Vactrol Lowpass GateDoepfer45Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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Doepfer A-121-3Doepfer45Stable$109€98$109€98Check ↗
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Doepfer A-101-6 Opto VCF Opto FET Filter / PhaserA-101-6 · Doepfer42Stable$115€103$115€103Check ↗
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Rides In The Storm L5DRides In The Storm37Stable$125€112$125€112Check ↗
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Intellijel Designs SVF 1UIntellijel Designs35Stable$177€158$177€158Check ↗
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Behringer SwordsBehringer41Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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Doepfer A-102Doepfer45Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Doepfer A-103 18dB Low Pass FilterDoepfer45Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Rides In The Storm HFDRides In The Storm37Stable$108€97$108€97Check ↗
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Xaoc Devices Belgrad Dual Peak State Variable FilterBelgrad · XAOC Devices72Stable$363€325$363€325Check ↗
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Shakmat Modular HiPassShakmat Modular38Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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NANO Modules FONTNANO Modules37Stable$101€90$101€90Check ↗
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Verbos Electronics Dual Four PoleVerbos Electronics69↓ 15.1%$502€449$502€449Check ↗
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Behringer 914 Fixed Filter Bank Eurorack Synthesizer Module914 Fixed Filter Bank · Behringer53Stable$58€52$58€52Check ↗
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Behringer 121 Dual VCF Eurorack Synthesizer Module121 Dual VCF · Behringer56Stable$47€42$47€42Check ↗
Filter Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 101 models we track, not a sample.
Median $207 — half of all filter modules here cost less.
How to choose the best filter modules
Filter Type
Moog-style ladder filters are your bread and butter for that fat, warm, resonant low-pass sound. State Variable filters offer more flexibility with simultaneous high and low pass outputs. Knowing what you want-a creamy pad, a searing lead, or something in between-will guide your choice.
Resonance Control
This isn't just about screaming feedback; it's about adding character and movement. A good resonance control offers a wide range, from subtle thickening to self-oscillation, and should respond predictably to modulation.
Modulation Capabilities
Can you modulate the cutoff frequency with envelopes, LFOs, or even velocity? This is what breathes life into your filters, allowing for dynamic movement and expressive textures. Look for CV input jacks and ideally, attenuators to dial in the modulation depth.
Steepness/Slope
The slope determines how quickly the filter attenuates frequencies. A steeper slope (24dB/octave) is more aggressive and useful for dramatic filter sweeps, while a gentler slope (12dB/octave) is smoother and more subtle.
Drive/Overdrive
Many filters offer a drive stage that adds harmonic distortion. This can be used to add warmth, grit, or outright fuzz, but be mindful of how it affects headroom and overall mix clarity. It's easy to get carried away and muddy the sound.
Buying guide
So, you're past the basic oscillator and envelope setup and starting to crave some serious tonal sculpting? Filter modules are the key to unlocking that character, that grit, that warmth - or icy bite, depending on what you're after. But wading through the Eurorack jungle of filters can be overwhelming. This guide is for the intermediate player who wants to move beyond the basics and really start shaping their sound.
At this level, you're probably willing to spend a little more for quality. Avoid the absolute bottom-tier clones - they often cut corners on component quality, leading to noisy operation and unpredictable behavior. Focus on modules with solid build quality, a responsive control panel, and a clear, defined sound.
Don't chase the 'latest and greatest' - classic designs often have a reason for their popularity.
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 101 filter 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 Moog ladder filter and a State Variable filter?
Moog-style filters are known for their creamy, resonant low-pass character - think classic synth basslines. State Variable filters offer more flexibility, with simultaneous high and low pass outputs, making them great for complex filtering and stereo effects.
I'm on a budget. What's the best value filter?
Mutable Instruments Shifting Pattern Generator is a surprisingly versatile option, offering multiple filter types and modulation capabilities for a reasonable price. Just be aware it's a bit more complex to learn initially.
My filter sounds noisy. What's causing it?
Noise can be caused by a number of factors - cheap components, improper grounding, or excessive resonance. Try adjusting the resonance, reducing the drive, and ensuring your power supply is clean and stable.
How do I get a 'vintage' filter sound?
It's not just about the filter type; it's about the entire signal chain. Experiment with overdrive, EQ, and subtle modulation to recreate the vibe of classic synths. Also, old filters often had limitations in headroom - pushing them closer to clipping can help emulate that characteristic sound.
Can I use a filter module as a standalone effect?
Absolutely! Many filter modules can be used as external effects processors by sending audio from other sources through them. Just be mindful of input levels to avoid distortion or clipping.
