Pricing and availability

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Reverb
5.0 (2)
$99.31 New
$94.00 Used
Thomann
4.6 (46)
$98.00 $96.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $104

Budget/Beginner

$149

$350+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Doepfer A-178". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock a new dimension of sonic exploration with the Doepfer A-178, a Eurorack Theremin Control Voltage Source that invites you to sculpt sound through gesture. This innovative module transforms the way you interact with your modular synthesizer setup, allowing for a tactile and expressive modulation experience. By simply waving your hand around its antenna, you generate control voltage signals that can be mapped to any CV parameter, offering a hands-on approach to sound design.

The A-178 is perfect for those looking to infuse their performances or compositions with authentic theremin-like control. Create sweeping pitch changes or dynamic modulation effects with ease. For the adventurous, using two A-178s can simulate the full theremin experience, independently controlling pitch and modulation.

Whether you're a seasoned Eurorack enthusiast or new to the modular scene, the Doepfer A-178 offers endless creative possibilities, making it an essential tool for any sonic explorer. Dive into new realms of sound with this uniquely interactive module and let your hands become an integral part of your musical expression.

Key Features:

  • Control Voltage source with a Theremin-style antenna
  • Manipulate CV by moving your hand within the antenna's range (approx. 30cm)
  • CV output voltage ranges from -10V to 10V; Gate ranges up to 10V
  • Ideal for controlling filter cutoff, modulation amount, wave shaping, and more
  • Compact design: 8HP width, 40mm depth
  • Power requirements: 60mA (+12V), 20mA (-12V)

Product specs

Type Theremin CV Controller Eurorack Module
Other Controllers Theremin CV Control
Depth 1.57" (40mm)
HP Size 8HP
Power Supply Requires Eurorack case and power supply

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Doepfer A-178 Theremin CV Controller?

The Doepfer A-178 functions as a control voltage (CV) source for Eurorack modular systems, using a theremin-style antenna to generate CV based on proximity, allowing for hands-free modulation of other modules.

How does the Doepfer A-178 integrate with other Eurorack modules?

The Doepfer A-178 outputs control voltage that can be patched into other Eurorack modules to modulate parameters such as pitch, filter cutoff, or amplitude, facilitating dynamic, expressive performances.

Does the Doepfer A-178 require any additional equipment to operate?

Yes, the Doepfer A-178 requires a Eurorack case and power supply to function, as it is a Eurorack module designed to be integrated into a modular synthesizer setup.

Can the Doepfer A-178 be used to control parameters in a non-modular setup?

While primarily designed for Eurorack systems, the Doepfer A-178 can control any device that accepts CV inputs, provided you have the appropriate connections and converters if necessary.

What size is the Doepfer A-178 and how much space does it take in a Eurorack setup?

The Doepfer A-178 is 8HP wide and has a depth of 1.57 inches (40mm), making it a compact module that fits easily into most Eurorack cases.

やる気スイッチGate OFFのモジュラーおじさん

やる気スイッチGate OFFのモジュラーおじさん

A-178 Theremin Control Voltage Source

Video thumbnail for A-178 Theremin Control Voltage Source by やる気スイッチGate OFFのモジュラーおじさん

A-178 Theremin Control Voltage Source

やる気スイッチGate OFFのモジュラーおじさん

やる気スイッチGate OFFのモジュラーおじさん

Video thumbnail for Doepfer A-178 Theremin test with very close wired antennas by creativegallerysynth

Doepfer A-178 Theremin test with very close wired antennas

creativegallerysynth

creativegallerysynth

Video thumbnail for Modular Jam with Doepfer Theremin by Jim Hegarty

Modular Jam with Doepfer Theremin

Jim Hegarty

Jim Hegarty

Video thumbnail for Live Eurorack jam - Doepfer A-178 Theremin by Bill's Place

Live Eurorack jam - Doepfer A-178 Theremin

Bill's Place

Bill's Place

Reviews

PROS

  • Adds fun, Theremin-style pitch control to A100 setups

  • Versatile, modulates various parameters beyond pitch

  • Offers creative play, like modulating filter frequency with hand angle

  • Surprisingly affordable for its capabilities

  • Transmits gate for controlling oscillators and envelope generators

CONS

  • Response curve is "exponential," may require adjustment for precise control

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Doepfer A-178.

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note the A-178 often requires close proximity to the antenna for a gate signal, even when adjusting the threshold.

    Source
  • It’s observed that newer circuit boards, labeled as Version 6, include two trimpots, contrary to the manual's listing of only one.

    Source
  • Experimentation with the two trimpots on the circuit board can potentially improve the module's performance in terms of range and sensitivity.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Newer versions of the A-178 with a BNC connector reportedly offer slightly more range than older models.

    Source
  • The Doepfer A-178 is praised for creating semi-random chaos in patches, particularly through interaction with human touch or proximity to the antenna.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report that playing with two A-178 theremin modules simultaneously offers more dynamic and entertaining interactions.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Some owners suggest pairing the A-178 with a joystick controller like the Planar for more varied modulation effects in live performances.

    Source

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Genre Usage

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