AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Filter Modules Under $500 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. 4MS Spectral Multiband Resonator leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 81 models across 27 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 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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Xaoc Devices Belgrad Dual Peak State Variable Filter
Belgrad · XAOC Devices
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Belgrad is a powerhouse of a filter module – it’s seriously versatile. It’s ideal for sound designers and experimental musicians who want a wide palette of filter sounds, from subtle movement to chaotic, screaming textures. The non-linear feedback adds a real edge and makes it a real characterful module.
Pros
- Exceptional filter character, blending warmth and aggressive resonance.
- Unique filter modes offer incredible sonic versatility.
- Robust build quality with a reassuringly solid feel.
Cons
- Power consumption is relatively high for a single module.
- Steeper learning curve for mastering all filter modes.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$363 now$363€325 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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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 ↗ -
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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4MS Spectral Multiband Resonator
Spectral Multiband Resonator · 4ms
12 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The Spectral Multiband Resonator is a seriously unique tool for sound design. It’s not a simple filter; it’s a resonant landscape generator perfect for experimental electronic music, ambient soundscapes, and anyone wanting to push the boundaries of modular synthesis. Be prepared to dig in – it's rewarding, but takes some effort to truly master.
Pros
- Exceptional tonal sculpting with six independently tunable bands.
- The scale quantization offers surprisingly musical and predictable results.
- Envelope follower per channel unlocks unique rhythmic and textural possibilities.
Cons
- The 26U width demands significant space in a modular setup.
- Steep learning curve; mastering all controls requires dedication.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$479 now$479€429 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
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$221 now$221€198 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The QPAS is a powerhouse for sound designers and experimental musicians. Its ability to sculpt a wide stereo field with its unique filter topologies is genuinely impressive—it's a characterful, complex module that rewards exploration. This is perfect for those looking to add serious texture and movement to their modular patches.
Pros
- Exceptional stereo image creation with unique filter cores
- Smile pass mode offers truly novel and characterful filtering
- Pre-VCA adds useful dynamic shaping capabilities
Cons
- Relatively high current draw can strain power supplies
- Steep learning curve for mastering all modulation options
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$467 now$467€418 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 81 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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Doepfer A-121dDoepfer · 4 finishes60↓ 2.7%$162€145$162€145Check ↗
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Doepfer A-120 VCF1 24dB Low Pass FilterA-120 · Doepfer · 2 finishes59Stable$128€115$128€115Check ↗
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Verbos Electronics Noise & FilterVerbos Electronics57Stable$139€124$139€124Check ↗
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Behringer 121 Dual VCF Eurorack Synthesizer Module121 Dual VCF · Behringer56Stable$47€42$47€42Check ↗
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Joranalogue Audio Design Filter 8Joranalogue Audio Design56Stable$330€295$330€295Check ↗
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Doepfer A-101-1 Vactrol VCFA-101-1 · Doepfer55↓ 4.1%$155€139$155€139Check ↗
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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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Befaco Pony VCF Eurorack Synthesizer ModulePony VCF · Befaco52Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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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$109€98$109€98Check ↗
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Doepfer A-101-2 Vactrol Lowpass GateDoepfer45Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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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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Tiptop Audio OctopassTiptop Audio44↓ 9.6%$423€379$423€379Check ↗
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Schlappi Engineering 100 GritSchlappi Engineering · 2 finishes43Stable$312€279$312€279Check ↗
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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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Erica Synths Black LPGErica Synths40Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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Erica Synths Black 3109 VCF/VCAErica Synths40Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
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Erica Synths Drum Stereo DJ VCFErica Synths40Stable$233€209$233€209Check ↗
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Erica Synths Graphic Resonant FBErica Synths40Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
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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 ↗
- 49
Tiptop Audio ResonatorTiptop Audio39Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
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ADDAC 604 Dual FilterADDAC39Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
Filter Modules by the numbers
Measured across all 92 models we track, not a sample.
Median $196 — half of all filter modules here cost less.
How to choose the best filter modules
Filter Type
Moog-style ladder filters are the gold standard for that fat midrange honk and aggressive resonance, but State Variable Filters (SVFs) offer a cleaner, more versatile sound - great for subtle movement or glassy textures. Consider what kind of vibe you're after.
Resonance
How far can you push that self-oscillation before it gets noisy and unusable? A good resonance control gives you screaming leads or subtle warmth, depending on the setting. Cheap modules often have resonance that just fizzles.
Drive/Saturation
Does the filter module have a built-in drive stage? This adds harmonic richness and grit, taking it beyond a clean sweep. It's a huge factor in getting that vintage, saturated sound.
Slope/Cutoff Range
A steeper slope (e.g., 24dB/octave) gives you more aggressive filtering, while a wider cutoff range lets you really sculpt the sound. Limited range can feel restrictive in complex patches.
Modulation Inputs
Can you modulate the cutoff, resonance, or even the filter type? This opens up a world of dynamic and evolving sounds. Look for CV inputs - they're essential for expressive patching.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're diving into the modular world but don't want to mortgage the house for a decent filter? Smart move. Filters are the heart of so much character - that warm, saturated low-end, the screaming resonance, the smooth vowel-like transitions - and you don't need to drop a grand to get something that'll inspire you. Let's look at some killer filter modules you can snag for under $500.
At this price point, you're trading off something. Some modules might have a slightly limited frequency range, others might have a less-refined resonance response. Don't expect boutique-level components or incredibly precise tracking - that's what you pay extra for.
Focus on modules with solid build quality and a sound that inspires you, even if it's not perfect. A great filter isn't about pristine accuracy; it's about vibe.
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 92 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 12dB/octave and 24dB/octave filters?
12dB filters are gentler, more subtle. 24dB filters are more aggressive, cut frequencies faster, and self-oscillate more readily. It's a matter of preference and what you're trying to achieve.
Can I use these filters for basslines?
Absolutely! A Moog-style filter with a little drive can give you that classic, warm low-end thump. SVFs are great for cleaner, more precise bass sounds too. Just pay attention to headroom.
What does 'self-oscillation' mean?
When the resonance is cranked high enough, the filter starts generating its own audio signal, independent of the input. It's a cool effect for leads and textures, but can be noisy if not controlled.
I'm new to modular, which filter type should I get?
Start with a Moog-style filter. It's incredibly versatile and a great foundation for learning the basics of sound design. Then explore SVFs for something different.
Are there any filters that are prone to noise?
Cheaper modules sometimes use components that introduce a little hiss or hum. It's usually subtle, but worth being aware of if you're recording in a quiet environment. A good power supply can help too.
