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Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller

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Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller

$211.00 to $305.00 Price Tier: Standard

All time low price

Find out who is using Doepfer A-198

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Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated June 25, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

$305.00

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$305.00 3 available New

$89.00 1 available Used

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4.9 (26)

$211.00

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Average Price: $228

Standard/Professional

$149

$350+

Price Tier

In the Modular Synthesizers category, Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Unleash your sonic creativity with the Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller, a unique instrument that bridges the gap between traditional playing and modular synthesis. This remarkable tool combines the A-198 module with its responsive ribbon controller, giving you the freedom to explore new soundscapes. The ribbon controller allows you to generate control voltages effortlessly with just a touch, manipulating pitch, envelopes, and modulation rates with precision.

Designed for the discerning Eurorack enthusiast, the A-198's two sub-units—position and pressure—enable dynamic expression through an integrated pressure sensor. This makes it perfect for nuanced performances, as you can adjust the depth and volume of your effects in real-time. Whether you're crafting ambient textures or pushing the boundaries of experimental music, the A-198 offers a tactile playing experience unlike any other.

With CV1 and CV2 inputs, you have the flexibility to control separate voltages and fine-tune your sound. Its compact Eurorack format ensures it fits seamlessly into your setup, while adjustable Hold/scale and Threshold/scale options provide further customization. Elevate your compositions and explore a world of sonic possibilities with the Doepfer A-198.

Key Features:

Combines A-198 module with ribbon controller
Generates control voltage for pitch and modulation via position and pressure sensors
Integrated pressure sensor for enhanced expression
CV1 and CV2 allow separate control voltages with adjustable Hold/scale and Threshold/scale
Compact Eurorack format, 8 HP wide and 40 mm deep
Power requirements: +40mA (+12V) / -20mA (-12V)

Product specs

Type	Manual/Ribbon Controller Module
Controls	Hold, Scale, Threshold
Other I/O	2 x CV out, 2 x Gate out
USB	1 x Type A (for Trautonium Manual only)
Depth	1.57" (40mm)
HP Size	8HP
Power Usage	+12V 40mA, -12V -20mA
Power Supply	Requires Eurorack case and power supply

FAQs

How does the Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller integrate with a modular synthesizer setup?: The Doepfer A-198 provides 2 CV and 2 Gate outputs, allowing it to control pitch and gate signals in a modular synthesizer system. It requires a Eurorack power supply and case to function.
What are the key controls available on the Doepfer A-198 Ribbon Controller?: The Doepfer A-198 features Hold, Scale, and Threshold controls, which adjust how the ribbon controller interacts with your modular synth, affecting sustain, pitch scaling, and sensitivity.
Is the Doepfer A-198 Ribbon Controller compatible with USB devices?: The Doepfer A-198 includes a USB Type A port, but it's specifically for the Trautonium Manual, not for direct connection to computers or other USB devices.
What is the depth and size of the Doepfer A-198 module for Eurorack systems?: The Doepfer A-198 has a depth of 1.57 inches (40mm) and occupies 8HP in a Eurorack system, making it a compact choice for modular setups.
What power requirements does the Doepfer A-198 have for use in a Eurorack system?: The Doepfer A-198 requires a Eurorack power supply, consuming +12V at 40mA and -12V at -20mA.

Videos

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temaniak

Doepfer A-198 Ribbon Controller

temaniak

"A-198 Trautonium/Ribbon Controller" - Doepfer A-100 - A Patch A Week #4

Mike Yip music

Flutterance - A hypnotizing performance on the Doepfer pressure-sensitive Ribbon controller.

Hermisphere

Sonic Experiments - Testing: Trautonium Ribbon Controller (A-198)

VisionsMusicGroup

Reviews

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PROS

Highly responsive and expressive touch controls
Easy to tune for personalized setups and specific oscillators
Allows for a 3, 4, or 5 octave range switch
Capable of producing a wide tonal range, including microtonal options
High-quality build with durable materials
Unique analog-only path provides distinct sound quality
Fun and engaging to play, enhancing creativity
Compatible with standard USB extension cables for longer reach
Ideal for various musical applications, from droning to microtonal improvisations

CONS

Pressure sensor can be less precise for progressive effects
Requires practice to avoid sounding out of tune
Plastic surface can grip fingers if skin is dry
Limited ability to naturally trill with two fingers
Position gate out becomes non-functional with hold mode on
Manual connection at the front may be inconvenient

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Doepfer A-198 Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller.

Features and functionality

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The A-198's "hold" mode can cause voltage drift, with the pitch rising or falling unpredictably, particularly noticeable with higher "scale" knob settings.
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The Doepfer ribbon controller allows for techniques similar to original Trautoniums, including tapping, sliding, and multi-finger control.
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The Doepfer A-198 manual includes two ribbon sensors stacked plus an FSR, potentially enhancing linearity and control precision over single-sensor designs.
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The Doepfer A-198's internal sample-and-hold feature can be 'droopy', suggesting it benefits from a higher quality external S&H for holding pitches steadily.
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Setup and maintenance

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Voltage drift stabilizes after prolonged power-on, suggesting temperature influences the module's stability and operation.
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Mods and upgrades

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Potential fixes include examining and possibly replacing the TL084 opamp, which might cause high offset voltage, or addressing issues in the sample-and-hold circuit.
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User experience

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Some users report voltage drift of approximately one semitone every 15-20 seconds, indicating a consistent but slow drift issue.
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Build quality

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PCB contaminants, especially near the "hold" switch area, have been linked to voltage drift problems, requiring cleaning with isopropyl alcohol for potential improvement.
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Value and pricing

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The Doepfer A-198 ribbon module costs approximately $290, making it a more affordable alternative to traditional Trautoniums, which can run into several thousand euros.
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Use cases and applications

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The module can be part of a modular monosynth setup, providing a unique control experience with ribbon and joystick integration.
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The A-198 is recommended for those seeking CV-only control, with its tactile response making it suitable for expressive playing styles.
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Comparisons

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While not identical, the Doepfer setup can mimic some aspects of a Trautonium, especially when coupled with other Doepfer modules for a modern replica.
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The Eowave ribbon controller has been critiqued for a cheaper feel compared to the Doepfer, which is preferred for its tactile quality.
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The Kurzweil PC2RIB offers superior performance for extensive pitch slides, being favored for jazz and funk applications over basic ribbon controllers.
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