AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Filter Modules Under $200 2026
The top pick is Doepfer A-124 VCF5 Wasp Filter ($98). Behringer 904B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter Eurorack… gives you the most for the money at $31. Endorphin.es Squawk Dirty To Me Eurorack Synth Module leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 40 models across 13 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 4, 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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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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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 ↗ -
Behringer 904B Voltage Controlled High Pass Filter Eurorack…
904B VC High Pass Filter · Behringer
8 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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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$167 · 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$129 now$129€115 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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
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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 40 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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Behringer 1006 FiltAmp 4-Pole VCF / VCA Eurorack ModuleFiltamp Module 1006 · Behringer53Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
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Behringer 914 Fixed Filter Bank Eurorack Synthesizer Module914 Fixed Filter Bank · Behringer53Stable$58€52$58€52Check ↗
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Doepfer A-124-2Doepfer · 2 finishes51Stable$106€95$106€95Check ↗
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Doepfer A-105-2Doepfer · 2 finishes51Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Behringer 904A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter Eurorack…904A VC Low Pass Filter · Behringer49Stable$31€28$31€28Check ↗
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Behringer WASP Deluxe Desktop SynthesizerWasp VCF · Behringer49Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
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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-103 18dB Low Pass FilterDoepfer45Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Doepfer A-102Doepfer45Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Doepfer A-121-3Doepfer45Stable$110€98$110€98Check ↗
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Doepfer A-101-2 Vactrol Lowpass GateDoepfer45Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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Doepfer A-123-2Doepfer45Stable$129€115$129€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$167€149$167€149Check ↗
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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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Behringer SurgesBehringer41Stable$40€36$40€36Check ↗
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Behringer Multi Filter/Resonator 1047Behringer41Stable$53€47$53€47Check ↗
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Behringer SwordsBehringer41Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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ADDAC 607 CrossoverADDAC39Stable$129€115$129€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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Shakmat Modular HiPassShakmat Modular38Stable$99€89$99€89Check ↗
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Befaco BanditBefaco38Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
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NANO Modules FONTNANO Modules37Stable$101€90$101€90Check ↗
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Rides In The Storm HFDRides In The Storm37Stable$108€97$108€97Check ↗
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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 ↗
Filter Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models we track, not a sample.
Median $129 — half of all filter modules here cost less.
How to choose the best filter modules
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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 48 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
Can I really get a 'good' filter for under $200?
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.
What's the difference between 12dB/octave and 24dB/octave?
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.
My filter sounds noisy. Is that normal?
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.
Can I use these filters for basslines?
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.
I want a Moog-style filter. Are there any options?
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'.





