AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Filter Modules Under $300 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. Erica Synths Black Polivoks VCF V2 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 58 models across 18 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.
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Endorphin.es Squawk Dirty To Me Eurorack Synth Module
Squawk Dirty To Me · Endorphin.es
9 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
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.
Cons
- 6HP is tight; space is at a premium in most racks.
- Limited modulation destinations beyond cutoff and resonance.
67AudioFu
Index↓ 2.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$200 · Aug 14$196 now$196€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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 ↗ -
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
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$200 now$200€179 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.
63AudioFu
Index↓ 8.8%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$178 · Aug 14$162 now$162€145 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$222 now$222€198 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.
-
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.
Cons
- Limited CV input attenuation range can be restrictive.
- 4HP width might feel cramped in some patching scenarios.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 17.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$129 · Aug 14$106 now$106€95 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 58 filter modules
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Behringer 121 Dual VCF Eurorack Synthesizer Module121 Dual VCF · Behringer59↓ 4.6%$47€42$47€42Check ↗
- 12
Doepfer A-120 VCF1 24dB Low Pass FilterA-120 · Doepfer · 2 finishes59Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 13
Behringer 1006 FiltAmp 4-Pole VCF / VCA Eurorack ModuleFiltamp Module 1006 · Behringer58↓ 33.9%$44€39$44€39Check ↗
- 14
Doepfer A-101-1 Vactrol VCFA-101-1 · Doepfer55↓ 4.1%$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 15
Doepfer A-105-2 VEDoepfer · 2 finishes53↓ 4.8%$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 16
Verbos Electronics Noise & FilterVerbos Electronics53Stable$139€124$139€124Check ↗
- 17
Befaco Pony VCF Eurorack Synthesizer ModulePony VCF · Befaco53Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
- 18
BASTL Instruments Cinnamon Voltage Controlled State Variable FilterCinnamon · Bastl Instruments52Stable$196€175$196€175Check ↗
- 19
Behringer 904A Voltage Controlled Low Pass Filter Eurorack…904A VC Low Pass Filter · Behringer51↓ 3.5%$31€28$31€28Check ↗
- 20
Behringer SurgesBehringer50↓ 20.0%$40€36$40€36Check ↗
- 21
Behringer WASP Deluxe Desktop SynthesizerWasp VCF · Behringer50Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 22
Doepfer A-108 VCF8A-108 · Doepfer49Stable$172€154$172€154Check ↗
- 23
Doepfer A-121 VCF2 Multimode FilterA-121-2 · Doepfer · 2 finishes48Stable$140€125$140€125Check ↗
- 24
Doepfer A-106-6 XP FilterDoepfer48↓ 5.7%$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 25
Behringer Multi Filter/Resonator 1047Behringer47↓ 11.3%$53€47$53€47Check ↗
- 26
NANO Modules FONTNANO Modules46↓ 18.2%$101€90$101€90Check ↗
- 27
Doepfer A-105-4 Quad Poly VCFDoepfer46↓ 2.2%$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 28
Doepfer A-103 18dB Low Pass FilterDoepfer45Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 29
Doepfer A-121-3Doepfer45Stable$110€98$110€98Check ↗
- 30
Doepfer A-101-2 Vactrol Lowpass GateDoepfer45Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 31
Doepfer A-123-2Doepfer45Stable$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 32
Doepfer A-106-1 Xtreme Filter (MS20)Doepfer45Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
- 33
Doepfer A-104Doepfer45Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 34
Doepfer A-102Doepfer44↑ 1.1%$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 35
Doepfer A-101-6 Opto VCF Opto FET Filter / PhaserA-101-6 · Doepfer42Stable$115€103$115€103Check ↗
- 36
Behringer SwordsBehringer41Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 37
Erica Synths Black LPGErica Synths41↓ 2.1%$207€185$207€185Check ↗
- 38
Befaco BanditBefaco40↓ 3.4%$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 39
Erica Synths Black 3109 VCF/VCAErica Synths40Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
- 40
Erica Synths Drum Stereo DJ VCFErica Synths40Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
- 41
Tiptop Audio Forbidden Planet Analog FilterTiptop Audio39Stable$154€138$154€138Check ↗
- 42
Tiptop Audio ResonatorTiptop Audio39Stable$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 43
XAOC Devices KatowiceXAOC Devices39Stable$289€258$289€258Check ↗
- 44
XAOC Devices ZagrzebXAOC Devices39Stable$290€259$290€259Check ↗
- 45
Shakmat Modular HiPassShakmat Modular38Stable$100€89$100€89Check ↗
- 46
Befaco BF-22 Sallen Key FilterBefaco38Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 47
Shakmat Modular Dual DaggerShakmat Modular38Stable$278€248$278€248Check ↗
- 48
Rides In The Storm HFDRides In The Storm37Stable$109€97$109€97Check ↗
- 49
Rides In The Storm L5DRides In The Storm37Stable$125€112$125€112Check ↗
- 50
TouellSkouarn Kala GoañvTouellSkouarn37Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 51
NANO Modules ST-FONTNANO Modules37Stable$218€195$218€195Check ↗
- 52
Make Noise DXGMake Noise37Stable$241€215$241€215Check ↗
- 53
Joranalogue Audio Design Flow 3Joranalogue Audio Design37Stable$241€215$241€215Check ↗
- 54
ADDAC 604 Dual FilterADDAC37↑ 4.8%$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 55
ADDAC 607 CrossoverADDAC36↑ 5.5%$129€115$129€115Check ↗
- 56
Intellijel Designs SVF 1UIntellijel Designs35Stable$177€158$177€158Check ↗
- 57
Stylophone CPM DF-8Stylophone35Stable$289€258$289€258Check ↗
- 58
ADDAC 605 Spectral TiltADDAC33↑ 12.9%$196€175$196€175Check ↗
Filter Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 68 models we track, not a sample.
Median $144 — half of all filter modules here cost less.
How to choose the best filter modules
Resonance Character
A cheap filter often has a fizzy, uncontrolled resonance that just sounds harsh. We're looking for a sweet spot - a resonance that can get gnarly without turning into digital noise. That sweet spot is critical for basses and pads.
Filter Slope (dB/Octave)
12dB/octave filters are common at this price point, and that's okay. But a 24dB/octave filter gives you more aggressive filtering and a steeper cutoff, which can be vital for sculpting sounds or creating sub-bass rumble. Be aware that steeper slopes can also introduce phase issues if you're not careful.
Drive/Saturation
Many affordable filters lack built-in drive. This means you'll need a separate distortion module to get that gritty, overdriven character. Modules with built-in drive offer more immediate gratification, though the drive circuit itself may be a bit basic.
Keyboard Tracking
Accurate keyboard tracking is a must if you plan on using the filter in a melodic context. Poor tracking results in a constantly shifting tone, which is distracting and unusable. This is often a compromise in cheaper modules.
Build Quality & Noise Floor
Let's be honest, plastic enclosures and noisy components are common. A higher noise floor means more hiss and unwanted artifacts, which can bury your signal. It's not always a dealbreaker, but it's something to be aware of.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're diving into the modular world but your bank account isn't thrilled about spending a fortune on filters. Totally get it. A good filter is the heart of a lot of sounds - that creamy low-pass, a gritty resonance sweep, or a surgical high-pass to clean up the mud. We're focusing on modules under $300 that actually deliver usable tone, not just cheap components and compromised design.
At this price point, you're making tradeoffs. Expect simpler controls, potentially a less refined sound, and maybe a slightly less robust build. Don't expect Moog-level warmth or Buchla-style complexity.
Focus on modules that nail the core filter characteristic you need, and be prepared to supplement with other modules later. A well-chosen, affordable filter is still a huge step up from a stock synth's filter - it's just about knowing what to prioritize.
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 68 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 low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and notch filter?
Low-pass cuts highs, high-pass cuts lows, band-pass lets a narrow range of frequencies through, and notch cuts a narrow range. Each has its own vibe and application - low-pass is classic for warmth, high-pass for clarity, band-pass for unique textures.
Can I use these filters with my Eurorack case?
Most likely, yes. These are generally designed to be Eurorack format. Just make sure your power supply has enough headroom to handle the module's power draw.
Is a 12dB/octave filter 'bad'?
Not at all! It's a perfectly valid filter slope. It just won't give you the extreme cutoff characteristics of a 24dB/octave. It's often smoother and more musical, too.
My filter is making a lot of noise - is that normal?
Some noise is unavoidable, especially with cheaper modules. But excessive noise indicates a problem - either a noisy power supply or a poorly designed filter circuit. Try different power rails to see if it helps.
I want a filter that sounds like a Moog - is that realistic for under $300?
No. Moog filters are legendary for a reason, and that quality comes at a cost. You can get inspired by Moog filters, but don't expect a direct clone. Look for filters that emphasize a warm, resonant low-pass character.
