Doepfer A-120
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Doepfer
A-120
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
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.
Product Description
Doepfer A-120, 24 dB Low Pass 1 (VCF1)
- Module A-120 is a voltage-controlled 24 dB low-pass filter
- which filters out the high frequency components from a sound spectrum while allowing the low frequencies to pass unhindered. The cut-off frequency (corner frequency) determines the point at which this effect occurs. They can be set or modulated both manually and via control voltages (filter modulation
- with an LFO for example). The VCF1 is configured as a "transistor cascade" with an edge slope of -24 dB / octave
- which is also used in various Moog synthesizers
- This results in the typical
- "legendary" Moog sound. The resonance (emphasis) can be adjusted at the VCF 1 to the point of self-oscillation. In this case
- the filter operates as a sinusoidal oscillator.
- 24 dB low pass 1 (VCF1)
- Voltage-controlled 24 dB low-pass filter
- Width: 8TE / 40.3 mm
- Depth: 65 mm (measured from the back of the front panel)
- Power Requirement: 30mA (12V) / -20mA (-12V)
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.
- • Compact Eurorack format allows for easy integration into modular systems.
CONS
- • Limited filter modes compared to more modern designs.
- • Can be noisy at higher resonance settings – typical of older designs.
- • The 24dB slope can be aggressive, requiring careful modulation.
Product Video
Key Features
Filter Type
24dB Low-Pass
Modes
Single Mode
HP Width
N/A
Depth
1.5U
Power Draw
+15V: 10mA, -15V: 2mA
CV Inputs
Cutoff Frequency
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Frequently Asked Questions
It captures the essence of the Moog sound but lacks some of the refinements and additional features found in modern Moog designs, at a significantly lower price point.
Yes, the self-oscillation is quite pronounced and can be useful, but it's a bit raw and requires careful control to avoid unwanted artifacts.
LFOs, envelope generators, and even manual control work well; slower modulation rates tend to yield the most musical results due to the filter’s steeper slope.
