Best Filter Modules Under $200 2026
Alright, so you're diving into modular and want some filtering action without emptying your bank account? Totally get it. Good filters are the heart of a lot of sounds - that creamy low-pass for pads, a resonant high-pass for percussive stabs, or a gnarly bandpass for screaming leads. We're rounding up the best filter modules you can snag for under $200; let's get into it.
Last updated: May 13, 2026 • Next update: May 20, 2026
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Endorphin.es Squawk Dirty To Me Silver
by
Endorphin.es
Audio Processing
Classic Synthesis
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
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.
- • Compact 6U panel saves valuable rack space.
CONS
- • Limited filter type control compared to a full Grand Terminal.
- • 120mA draw can be significant for power-constrained racks.
- • Serial HP filter might be too aggressive for subtle filtering.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 536289
$197
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Erica Synths Black Multimode VCF
by
Erica Synths
Sound Shaping
Subtractive Synthesis
Classic Synthesis
Key Feature:
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
- • Well-implemented attenuators offer precise CV control and shaping
CONS
- • The lowpass mode can be a bit muddy with extreme resonance
- • Limited filter modes compared to some pricier, more complex options
- • Depth (35mm) might be restrictive in shallow Eurorack cases
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 506132
$197
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Rides In The Storm SED
Tonal Character
Subtractive Synthesis
Frequency Control
Key Feature:
The Rides In The Storm SED is a seriously useful little module. It's a great entry point for those exploring discrete filter design, and the built-in VCA and mixer make it surprisingly versatile for sound design and sequencing. Perfect for experimental electronic musicians and those wanting a compact, characterful filter in their rack.
PROS
- • Discrete op-amp design yields a rich, organic filter tone.
- • Integrated VCA and mixer streamline patching and signal flow.
- • Compact 8HP footprint maximizes space in tight modular setups.
- • Overdrive adds subtle grit and harmonic complexity when pushed.
CONS
- • The 3-channel mixer's level controls lack individual panning.
- • Limited resonance range might not satisfy extreme filter enthusiasts.
- • 80mA current draw is relatively high for a module of this size.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 530008
$116
#4
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
ADDAC 605 Spectral Tilt
by
ADDAC
Tonal Character
Classic Synthesis
Subtractive Synthesis
Key Feature:
The ADDAC 605 Spectral Tilt is a seriously clever little module for adding subtle or dramatic stereo shaping to your sounds. It's fantastic for experimental sound design or adding a unique sheen to pads and textures – really shines when you want to add movement and a sense of space. Perfect for anyone looking to add some character without a huge commitment to space or budget.
PROS
- • Excellent stereo image manipulation with Spectral Motion feature
- • Compact 4HP footprint maximizes modular space efficiency
- • Bipolar attenuator offers precise Tilt CV control
- • Solid build quality; feels robust for its size and price
CONS
- • Limited filter resonance; not a primary filtering solution
- • 40mA current draw can be significant in power-constrained systems
- • Spectral Tilt control range could benefit from a wider spread
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 505735
$171
#5
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Behringer Swords
by
Behringer
Classic Synthesis
Frequency Control
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
The Swords is a seriously impressive filter module for the price. It's a fantastic entry point into complex filter design, letting you create everything from subtle warmth to gnarly, distorted textures. Ideal for experimental musicians and those wanting a powerful, versatile filter without a premium-priced investment.
PROS
- • Dual filters offer immense sonic sculpting possibilities.
- • Infinitely variable modes provide surprisingly nuanced filter character.
- • Flexible routing options allow for complex signal chains.
- • CV inputs offer deep modulation control for expressive sound design.
CONS
- • Plastic construction feels less robust than higher-end modules.
- • 18HP footprint can be restrictive in smaller Eurorack cases.
- • Drive/wavefolder can get harsh quickly without careful attenuation.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 606391
$109
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Doepfer A-104
by
Doepfer
Classic Synthesis
Audio Processing
Frequency Control
Key Feature:
The Doepfer A-104 is a real character piece – it nails that classic, almost alien formant filter sound you hear in vintage electronic music. It's perfect for experimental sound design, ambient textures, and anyone wanting a distinct, vintage vibe in their modular system. It’s a solid foundation for a unique sonic palette.
PROS
- • Exceptional resonance character, reminiscent of early Trautonium filters
- • Robust, thick-panel construction typical of Doepfer quality
- • Four independent filter sections offer immense sonic flexibility
- • Versatile for both subtle warmth and aggressive, screaming textures
CONS
- • Limited modulation options compared to modern filter designs
- • Power consumption can be a factor in larger modular systems
- • Somewhat unforgiving with extreme parameter settings; requires careful tweaking
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 114712
$153
#7
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Doepfer A-121d
by
Doepfer
Tonal Character
Classic Synthesis
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
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.
- • Integrated mixer simplifies routing and signal management.
CONS
- • 8HP footprint can be limiting in smaller Eurorack cases.
- • Filter resonance can get quite aggressive, requiring careful control.
- • Limited filter modes compared to some more modern designs.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596074
$175
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
ADDAC 607 Crossover
by
ADDAC
Subtractive Synthesis
Audio Processing
Frequency Control
Key Feature:
The ADDAC 607 Crossover is a surprisingly versatile little module for refining your sound. It's perfect for sound designers and experimental musicians wanting precise band separation and shaping without a huge commitment. The clean filter character and compact size make it a great addition to any Eurorack system.
PROS
- • Excellent Sallen-Key filter provides a clean, musical tone.
- • Flexible crossover frequencies allow for precise frequency shaping.
- • Compact 6HP footprint maximizes valuable rack space.
- • Individual band volume controls offer nuanced tonal sculpting.
CONS
- • 6HP is quite cramped; patching can be challenging in tight racks.
- • Limited crossover frequencies might restrict advanced processing needs.
- • Analog design means potential for drift, requiring occasional calibration.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 618345
$120
#9
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Doepfer A-101-2 Vactrol Lowpass Gate
by
Doepfer
Frequency Control
Audio Processing
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
This A-101-2 is a fantastic little module for anyone wanting that classic Buchla vibe without a massive investment. The Vactrol gives it a really smooth, almost liquid quality, perfect for creating evolving soundscapes and subtle rhythmic gating – it’s a real character piece.
PROS
- • Warm, organic filtering thanks to the Vactrol envelope follower
- • Excellent Buchla-inspired resonance character for evolving textures
- • Compact 8HP form factor maximizes modular space efficiency
- • Dual CV inputs offer versatile modulation possibilities for dynamic soundscapes
CONS
- • Vactrols can exhibit some drift, requiring occasional calibration
- • Limited filtering options compared to dedicated multi-mode filters
- • Power draw slightly higher than some other Eurorack modules
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 114708
$109
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
TouellSkouarn Kala Goañv
Classic Synthesis
Subtractive Synthesis
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
The Kala Goañv is a characterful little filter module, perfect for adding some grit and movement to your soundscapes. Its coil design gives it a warmth and resonance you won't find in typical op-amp filters, making it ideal for experimental electronic music, ambient textures, and even adding a unique twist to more conventional sounds.
PROS
- • Coil-based design delivers uniquely warm, resonant filtering.
- • Multiple modes offer surprising versatility for a small module.
- • Attenuated CV input allows for subtle or extreme filter sweeps.
- • Compact 8HP footprint saves valuable space in any Eurorack case.
CONS
- • Coil filters can be prone to self-oscillation if pushed too hard.
- • Limited input/output level controls offer less precise gain staging.
- • The 'distorted wah-wah' mode can be noisy at higher resonance.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 518020
$197
#11
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Doepfer A-124-2
by
Doepfer
Subtractive Synthesis
Classic Synthesis
Tonal Character
Key Feature:
The A-124-2 is a classic for a reason. It’s a fantastic, compact filter module, especially if you're chasing that gritty, aggressive Wasp sound. Perfect for techno, industrial, or anyone needing a focused, characterful filter in a small footprint.
PROS
- • Tight, aggressive resonance characteristic ideal for acid basslines.
- • Slimline format maximizes space in dense modular setups.
- • Robust Doepfer build quality; feels solid and dependable.
- • Versatile multimode options offer a wide range of sonic textures.
CONS
- • Limited CV input attenuation range can be restrictive.
- • 4HP width might feel cramped in some patching scenarios.
- • The resonance can get quite harsh if not carefully controlled.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 595777
$127
#12
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Doepfer A-108
by
Doepfer
Sound Shaping
Audio Processing
Frequency Control
Key Feature:
The A-108 is a fantastic entry point into classic Moog-style filtering within a modular environment. It's a workhorse module, delivering that warm, creamy character ideal for pads, basses, and evolving textures – perfect for anyone looking to add a serious filter voice to their modular setup without a massive investment.
PROS
- • Classic Moog ladder filter topology delivers warm, resonant tones
- • Multiple slope options (6, 12, 24, 48dB) offer tonal flexibility
- • Robust build quality characteristic of Doepfer's meticulous engineering
- • Excellent value for a filter module of this quality and character
CONS
- • Limited output stages restrict routing options slightly
- • Transistor ladder filters can be sensitive to component aging
- • Requires Eurorack format modular system for integration
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 170862
$169
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Endorphin.es Squawk Dirty To Me
by
Endorphin.es
Classic Synthesis
Tonal Character
Subtractive Synthesis
Key Feature:
The Squawk Dirty To Me is a seriously fun and creative filter module. It’s perfect for experimental sound design and adding unique movement to your patches, especially if you’re already familiar with the Grand Terminal’s sonic character. It's a great way to add some unique character without a massive commitment.
PROS
- • Exceptional filter variety; Grand Terminal sounds in a compact module.
- • Integrated VCA cleans up signal routing considerably.
- • Meta-CV scanning introduces evolving, unpredictable textures.
- • Serial high-pass effectively cleans up muddy low-end frequencies.
CONS
- • 6HP is tight; space is at a premium in most racks.
- • Limited modulation destinations beyond cutoff and resonance.
- • Filter types, while diverse, might feel overwhelming for beginners.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 471567
$197
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Doepfer A-121d VE
by
Doepfer
Tonal Character
Frequency Control
Classic Synthesis
Key Feature:
The A-121d VE is a solid, workhorse filter module that nails that classic Moog-esque vibe. It's a great entry point into more complex filtering, especially for those wanting that vintage warmth and character without a ton of bells and whistles. Perfect for sound designers and experimental musicians looking for a reliable, space-saving filter pair.
PROS
- • Excellent resonance character, classic Moog-inspired sound.
- • Dual filter design allows for complex, evolving textures.
- • Compact 8HP footprint maximizes modular space efficiency.
- • Well-built, sturdy construction characteristic of Doepfer quality.
CONS
- • Limited filter modes compared to more modern, complex filter designs.
- • Normalization can be confusing for beginners to modular synthesis.
- • Input level controls lack fine-grained adjustment for subtle shaping.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 596076
$186
#15
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Befaco Bandit
by
Befaco
Subtractive Synthesis
Tonal Character
Sound Shaping
Key Feature:
The Bandit is a fantastic, compact filter bank for adding movement and character to your modular system. It's especially great for sound design, ambient textures, and anyone needing a dense, resonant filter sound in a small footprint. This is a serious workhorse for those wanting a unique, analog flavor without a massive commitment.
PROS
- • Excellent filter resonance character, adds grit and movement.
- • Flexible routing options with return inputs per band.
- • Compact 8HP footprint maximizes modular space efficiently.
- • Mix output with level display simplifies gainstaging significantly.
CONS
- • Limited overall filter modes compared to larger filter banks.
- • Common CV input can restrict individual band modulation.
- • Return inputs lack dedicated EQ or processing capabilities.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 604272
$193
How to Choose the Best Filter Modules
1
Resonance
This is key. A filter without usable resonance is just a tone shaper, not a filter. We're looking for that sweet spot where it self-oscillates, or at least screams convincingly.
2
Filter Type
Low-pass, high-pass, bandpass, notch - each has its place. We're assessing if the filter type is versatile enough for different sound design tasks, and if it delivers the characteristic tone you'd expect.
3
Slope/Order
Steeper slopes (higher order) mean more dramatic filtering. A 24dB/octave filter will have a much more pronounced effect than a 12dB/octave, and we're evaluating the sonic impact.
4
Drive/Distortion
Many filters benefit from a bit of drive to add warmth and grit. We're looking for modules that either have built-in drive or play well with external distortion sources.
5
Input/Output Level
A filter's headroom and signal level can make or break a patch. We're checking for noise floor and whether the module can handle hotter signals without clipping or getting muddy.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect Moog-level build quality - the pots might be a little scratchy, and the case might be plastic. However, a lot of clever designers are squeezing incredible sound out of these budget modules. Focus on the core filter characteristics first, and don't sweat the minor cosmetic details. A little bit of external drive can often mask the limitations of a less-than-stellar filter design.
Our Methodology
We aren't just looking at specs here. We've spent hours twisting knobs, running these modules through everything from bedroom jams to band rehearsals, and A/B'ing them against pricier counterparts. We're judging them on how they sound in context - how they cut through a mix, how they respond to dynamics, and whether they inspire creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. The value proposition is insane right now. You're not getting the absolute best, but you're getting a lot of character and functionality for the money.
24dB/octave filters have a steeper slope, meaning a more aggressive cutoff. They also tend to have more resonance. 12dB/octave filters are gentler and often more subtle.
Some noise is inevitable with budget components. Try to minimize gain staging issues and check your power supply. Excessive noise might indicate a faulty module.
Definitely! A resonant low-pass filter is a classic bass sound. Just be mindful of the headroom and distortion - too much drive can make your bass sound muddy.
There are a few modules that attempt to emulate the Moog ladder filter, but don't expect a perfect clone. Look for modules with a similar resonant peak and a characteristic 'fat midrange honk'.
