AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Filter Modules Under $100 2026
The top pick is Doepfer A-124 VCF5 Wasp Filter ($99). Behringer 904B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter Eurorack… gives you the most for the money at $31. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 13 models across 3 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 15, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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The Doepfer A-124 Wasp Filter is a quirky, characterful module that delivers a distinct, gritty sound. It's a fantastic choice for sound designers and experimental musicians looking to add a touch of vintage edge and controlled chaos to their patches—it’s not a substitute for a clean, surgical filter, but a flavorful accent.
Pros
- Unique, aggressive filter character inspired by the Waspin synth
- Provides distinct distortion and 'dirty' sonic textures
- Offers bandpass and combined low/notch/highpass outputs for versatility
Cons
- Limited resonance control compared to more modern filter designs
- Can be noisy if gain staging isn't carefully managed
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Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type Voltage Controlled Filter
A-106-5 SEM Filter · Doepfer
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
This A-106-5 SEM filter is a fantastic recreation of a classic voice – it’s a genuine slice of vintage synth goodness in a tiny package. Perfect for those wanting that warm, resonant SEM sound without the expense of a full vintage module, and it slots neatly into any Eurorack system.
Pros
- Classic SEM filter character, instantly recognizable and warm
- Excellent build quality typical of Doepfer's meticulous engineering
- Compact 8HP footprint, ideal for dense modular setups
Cons
- Limited filter modes compared to more modern, complex filters
- Power draw might be significant for smaller power supplies
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Behringer 914 Fixed Filter Bank Eurorack Synthesizer Module
914 Fixed Filter Bank · Behringer
6 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The 914 is a seriously impressive piece of kit for the price. It delivers a unique, almost Moog-like vibe with its fixed filter bank, perfect for sound designers and experimental musicians looking to add texture and movement without diving deep into complex modulation. It’s a great entry point into filter banks, offering a lot of sonic potential in a small package.
Pros
- Exceptional value for a 12-band filter bank.
- Provides complex, resonant filter sweeps easily.
- Parallel inputs/outputs offer flexible routing options.
Cons
- Fixed filter frequencies limit creative experimentation.
- Plastic housing feels less robust than higher-end modules.
65AudioFu
Index↓ 11.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$66 · Aug 14$58 now$58€52 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer 904B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter Eurorack…
904B VC High Pass Filter · Behringer
7 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This filter is great if you need a compact, cheap way to cut low frequencies in your rack. You can automate the cutoff with three CV inputs, and the two frequency ranges give you quick options. It works well as a simple tool, but the lack of gain and resonance controls means you won't get deep sound shaping. Perfect for beginners or those who just need to remove bass.
Pros
- Two distinct frequency ranges let you shape tone quickly.
- Compact 8 HP width fits tight modular cases perfectly.
- Three CV inputs let you automate the cutoff smoothly.
Cons
- Single high-pass mode lacks low-pass flexibility for full control.
- No gain or resonance knobs limit shaping the filter voice.
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Behringer 121 Dual VCF Eurorack Synthesizer Module
121 Dual VCF · Behringer
5 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Behringer 121 Dual VCF is a seriously cool way to get that vintage inSystem vibe in your modular system. It's a fantastic value for anyone wanting a warm, characterful filter sound, especially if you’re into experimental sound design or recreating classic synth tones – it's a real workhorse for the budget-conscious modular enthusiast.
Pros
- Authentic inSystem 100Min recreation delivers a classic, warm filter tone
- Dual filter design enables complex, evolving soundscapes and parallel processing
- Flexible 3-mode HP filter adds significant tonal shaping options
Cons
- Plastic housing feels noticeably less robust than higher-end Eurorack modules
- Limited HP modes compared to more versatile filter designs
59AudioFu
Index↓ 4.5%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$49 · Aug 14$47 now$47€42 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer 1006 FiltAmp 4-Pole VCF / VCA Eurorack Module
Filtamp Module 1006 · Behringer
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Filtamp 1006 is a surprisingly capable little module. It delivers a warm, classic filter tone and the built-in VCA makes it a complete sound source. This is a fantastic entry point for beginners exploring modular synthesis, or a budget-friendly utility for experienced users.
Pros
- Excellent 24dB filter character, reminiscent of classic Moog designs
- Integrated VCA provides a complete voice-like functionality
- Affordable price point opens modular synthesis to more users
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less robust than higher-end modules
- Limited filter modes restrict sonic versatility compared to pricier options
58AudioFu
Index↓ 33.9%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$66 · Aug 14$44 now$44€39 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer 904A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter Eurorack…
904A VC Low Pass Filter · Behringer
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Behringer 904A nails that classic Moog ladder filter vibe, offering a surprisingly rich and expressive sound for the price. It's an absolute steal for experimental electronic musicians, modular beginners, or anyone wanting a seriously characterful low-pass filter without emptying their wallet. The resonance is particularly fun to play with.
Pros
- Classic Moog-inspired tone at a fraction of the cost
- Versatile resonance sweeps create pronounced, musical filtering
- Three frequency ranges offer broad sonic sculpting possibilities
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less robust than higher-end filter modules
- Limited input headroom can cause distortion with strong signals
51AudioFu
Index↓ 3.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$32 · Aug 14$31 now$31€28 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Behringer Surges is a surprisingly capable filter module for the price, clearly inspired by Mutable Instruments' Ripples. Its sound is warm and musical, perfect for adding character to evolving textures or creating resonant sweeps – a real boon for experimental electronic music producers and those exploring modular synthesis on a budget.
Pros
- Excellent filter character, recalling classic Japanese synths
- Remarkable value, especially considering Ripples inspiration
- Flexible slope switch (12/24dB) offers tonal versatility
Cons
- 8HP footprint can be limiting in smaller modular systems
- Analogue circuit might exhibit slight drift over extended use
50AudioFu
Index↓ 20.0%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$50 · Aug 14$40 now$40€36 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Behringer WASP Deluxe Desktop Synthesizer
Wasp VCF · Behringer
3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
This Wasp VCF is a seriously fun little module. It captures a surprising amount of the original Wasp Deluxe's character, making it perfect for those wanting that classic, gritty 80s synth vibe without a massive investment. It's a great entry point into analog filtering for beginners, or a fun addition for experienced modular users.
Pros
- Classic Wasp filter sound at a fraction of the original's cost
- Surprisingly musical resonance, capable of subtle warmth or aggressive sweeps
- Multiple filter modes offer decent versatility for a single module
Cons
- Plastic housing feels a bit flimsy compared to higher-end filter modules
- Limited CV input attenuation range can be restrictive in modulation setups
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This Behringer 1047 is a shockingly capable filter module for the money. It delivers a genuinely aggressive resonance and a surprising range of tones, making it perfect for experimental sound design and adding grit to techno or industrial tracks – especially for those just getting into Eurorack.
Pros
- Excellent resonance character, truly usable for screaming sounds
- Surprisingly robust build quality for the price point
- Four distinct filter modes offer tonal versatility
Cons
- Plastic knobs feel cheap and lack precise control
- Limited HP width restricts integration in smaller racks
47AudioFu
Index↓ 11.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$59 · Aug 14$53 now$53€47 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 13 filter modules
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
Filter Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 15 models we track, not a sample.
Median $58 — half of all filter modules here cost less.
How to choose the best filter modules
Resonance
This is the thing. Cheap filters often have weak or fizzy resonance. We're looking for that sweet spot where it adds character, not just harshness. A good resonance can make a simple oscillator sound like a whole patch.
Filter Slope (dB/Octave)
12dB/octave is common at this price point, offering a decent cut. 24dB/octave is more aggressive and can introduce more self-oscillation, but you're less likely to find it under $100. Know what you're getting.
Frequency Range
A wider frequency range lets you shape sounds more dramatically, from subtle low-cut warmth to aggressive high-frequency filtering. Limited range means limited tonal options.
Drive/Saturation
Many cheaper filters lack dedicated drive. This means you're relying on the input signal to create harmonic richness, which can be inconsistent. Some modules sneak in a simple drive circuit, which is a huge bonus.
Build Quality/Pots
Let's be honest, pots get scratchy and knobs fall off. We're assessing how well these modules will survive gigging or even just regular use in a bedroom studio - plastic knobs vs. metal, flimsy jacks, overall construction.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're diving into modular and want filters, but your bank account's looking a little thin? Totally get it. Good filters are the heart of a lot of sounds - that grit, that warmth, that vowel-like resonance - and you don't need to drop a grand to get something usable. We've hunted down some solid filter modules under $100 that won't leave you wanting too badly.
At this price, you're making trade-offs. Expect some compromises - the pots might be a bit noisy, the resonance might not be as smooth as a Moog, and the build quality won't be industrial. Don't expect a wide range of filter types - most will be variations on the Moog ladder filter.
Focus on the core character; a gritty filter can be amazing for distorted basslines, while a cleaner one is better for pads and evolving textures.
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 15 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
Are these filters going to sound as good as Eurorack giants?
Nope. They're a different league. But they can still sound good, just in a different way. Think of them as a starting point, or a way to add character without breaking the bank.
What's the difference between a low-pass, high-pass, and band-pass filter?
Low-pass lets low frequencies through, high-pass cuts them, and band-pass isolates a specific frequency range. Experiment - combinations of these can create wild effects.
My filter sounds fizzy when I increase the resonance. Why?
That's a common problem with cheaper filters. It's often a sign of poor component quality or a poorly designed resonance circuit. Try reducing the input signal level or adding a buffer before the filter.
Can I use these filters with non-Eurorack synths?
Potentially. You'll need a Eurorack-to-1/4" converter. The signal levels might not be ideal, but it's a way to get the filter's character into your existing setup.
Are there any filters that offer more than just low-pass filtering?
Some modules include a high-pass or band-pass mode, but it's rare to find a full multi-mode filter under $100. Look closely at the module's description and patch examples.
