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Reverb
5.0 (3)
$87.13 6 available New
Thomann
4.7 (60)
$83.00 $82.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $85

Budget/Beginner

$149

$350+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

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

What type of filter is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter?

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.

What are the output options for the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter?

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.

How wide is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter module?

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.

Is the Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter suitable for beginners in modular synthesis?

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.

Raul's World of Synths

Raul's World of Synths

Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter Basics

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter Basics by Raul's World of Synths

Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Filter Basics

Raul's World of Synths

Raul's World of Synths

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-106-5 demo by Zoë Blade

Doepfer A-106-5 demo

Zoë Blade

Zoë Blade

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A106-5 12 db SEM filter vs. A124 Wasp Filter Pt. 1a LP/HP/Notch by Raul's World of Synths

Doepfer A106-5 12 db SEM filter vs. A124 Wasp Filter Pt. 1a LP/HP/Notch

Raul's World of Synths

Raul's World of Synths

Video thumbnail for Eurorack SEM filter comparison by John Schussler

Eurorack SEM filter comparison

John Schussler

John Schussler

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-105 and A-106-5 demos by Zoë Blade

Doepfer A-105 and A-106-5 demos

Zoë Blade

Zoë Blade

Video thumbnail for Doepfer SEM and Wasp filter comparison by Guitars and Synths

Doepfer SEM and Wasp filter comparison

Guitars and Synths

Guitars and Synths

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-106-5 (SEM Filter) test by AnalogSweden

Doepfer A-106-5 (SEM Filter) test

AnalogSweden

AnalogSweden

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Type Filter by Detroit-Berlin

Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Type Filter

Detroit-Berlin

Detroit-Berlin

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A106-5 12 db SEM filter Modulation Part 1b-LP/HP/BP by Raul's World of Synths

Doepfer A106-5 12 db SEM filter Modulation Part 1b-LP/HP/BP

Raul's World of Synths

Raul's World of Synths

Reviews

PROS

  • Affordable SEM-style filter with versatile output modes

  • High pass, low pass, band pass, and notch filter capabilities

  • Introduces pleasant mild distortion when overdriven

  • Produces sweet, warm tones ideal for pads and strings

  • Complements other filters well in a modular setup

  • Unique sounds available with some experimentation

CONS

  • Does not self-oscillate unless modified

  • May experience issues such as clicks and internal short circuits

  • 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

  • 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.

    Source
  • Proper grounding of the power supply is crucial to minimize interference and cross talk, potentially reducing CV bleed issues.

    Source
  • A buffered mult is necessary to prevent signal droop when duplicating signals; passive mults or stack cables may degrade signal quality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • The Erica Synths Link is praised as an effective 6.3mm to 3.5mm converter, operating bidirectionally without drawing power from the Eurorack case.

    Source

User experience

  • Even with adjustments, some bleedthrough may persist and might require additional AC coupling through another module or mixer for mitigation.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Comparisons

  • 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.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • While the A-106-5 doesn't produce self-oscillating sine waves, its tonal character is preferred for ambient and drone music compositions.

    Source
  • The A-138s mixer is confirmed suitable for blending filter outputs into a stereo signal, crucial for managing SEM filter setups.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • For compact setups, the A-135-2 quad VCA is recommended for stereo mixing, offering more versatility with four VCAs in a single module.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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See how Rick Smith uses Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF

Rick Smith

Music Producer

Freur

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Hrdvsion uses Doepfer A-106-5 12dB SEM Type VCF

Hrdvsion

Music Producer, DJ

Midnight Operator

...
Verified via Photo

In a picture showing a message from Hrdvsion listing his equipment, he mentions the "Doepfer A-106-5 SEM Filter."

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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