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Average Price: $85
Budget/Beginner
$149
$350+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
Harness the power of analog synthesis with the Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF, a versatile addition to your modular synthesizer rig. Inspired by the legendary SEM filter, this module delivers a 12 dB multi-mode filter that captivates with its nuanced tonal capabilities. Whether you’re crafting sharp, biting leads or lush, evolving pads, the A-106-5 offers a rich palette of sonic textures that will elevate your performances and productions.
Designed with the modern musician in mind, its compact size fits seamlessly into any Eurorack setup, taking up just 8HP of space while offering a robust variety of sounds. The module provides a smooth transition between low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass modes, allowing you to sculpt your sound with precision. With a focus on quality and reliability, the A-106-5 is built to withstand the demands of both studio and live environments, ensuring consistent performance wherever your music takes you.
Key Features:
- 12 dB multi-mode filter with SEM-inspired circuitry
- Compact 8HP width for efficient space utilization
- Smooth transition between low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass modes
- Power requirements: +30 mA (+12V) / -20 mA (-12V)
Product specs
| Available since | September 2010 |
| Width | 8 TE / HP |
FAQs
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What type of filter is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter?
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The Doepfer A-106-5 is a 12dB multimode filter based on the Oberheim SEM filter circuit. It features a band pass output and a combined low/notch/high pass output, allowing for versatile filtering options in modular synthesizer setups.
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What are the output options for the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter?
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The Doepfer A-106-5 provides a band pass output and a combined low/notch/high pass output. A control knob on the module allows you to adjust the balance between the low and high pass signals, offering flexible sound shaping capabilities.
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How wide is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter module?
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The Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter module is 8 TE / HP wide, making it a compact option for modular synthesizer setups, ideal for those looking to conserve rack space while adding versatile filtering capabilities.
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Is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter suitable for beginners in modular synthesis?
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Yes, the Doepfer A-106-5 is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward design and versatile filtering options, making it an excellent choice for those new to modular synthesis who want to explore classic SEM-style filter sounds.
Videos
Raul's World of Synths
Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter Basics
Reviews
PROS
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Affordable SEM-style filter with versatile output modes
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High pass, low pass, band pass, and notch filter capabilities
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Introduces pleasant mild distortion when overdriven
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Produces sweet, warm tones ideal for pads and strings
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Complements other filters well in a modular setup
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Unique sounds available with some experimentation
CONS
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Does not self-oscillate unless modified
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May experience issues such as clicks and internal short circuits
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Doesn't match the sound quality of pricier eurorack filters
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF.
Setup and maintenance
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Some owners experience CV input bleedthrough as a low-pitched thump, especially with fast LFO modulation, and suggest adjusting trimpots for CV reject on the module.
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Proper grounding of the power supply is crucial to minimize interference and cross talk, potentially reducing CV bleed issues.
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A buffered mult is necessary to prevent signal droop when duplicating signals; passive mults or stack cables may degrade signal quality.
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Features and functionality
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The A-106-5 has 4 trimpots; the top pair are for CV scaling and cutoff offset, while the lower pair manage CV rejection for each stage of the 13700 IC.
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The Doepfer A-106-5 is noted for not self-oscillating, which differentiates it from many 4-pole filters that can produce clean sine waves.
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The A-106-5 is praised for its sound quality, particularly in ambient and drone music, though it lacks the overdriven Moog filter sound some users seek.
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Gain staging is crucial; using an input module like the Joranalogue RX 2 is recommended to elevate line level to Eurorack level for optimal filter saturation.
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The Erica Synths Link is praised as an effective 6.3mm to 3.5mm converter, operating bidirectionally without drawing power from the Eurorack case.
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User experience
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Even with adjustments, some bleedthrough may persist and might require additional AC coupling through another module or mixer for mitigation.
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Users highlight the 106-5's engaging sonic character, with some preferring it over other Doepfer filters for its suitability in creating airy, ambient textures.
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Comparisons
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The A-106-5 and Doepfer Wasp are appreciated for their rich character, but both are 12db filters that don't self-oscillate, offering different tonal options compared to 4-pole filters.
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Use cases and applications
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Artist usage
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This image posted to Underworld's Instagram profile shows a Eurorack full of modules. The A-106-5 unit can be seen in the bottom-right area of the picture.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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