Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Reverb
5.0 (6)
$833.94 New
$630.00 Used
Thomann
4.8 (57)
$849.00 $839.00 $10.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£749.99

Average Price: $768

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Sherman Filterbank 2". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.

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Description

Unlock the raw potential of your sound with the Sherman Filterbank 2, a powerhouse of analog processing that is revered by audio enthusiasts and sound designers alike. This versatile effects processor isn't just a tool—it's a portal to sonic exploration. Whether you're sculpting the perfect bass tone or creating futuristic soundscapes, the Filterbank 2 offers the flexibility and control to bring your creative visions to life.

At its core, the Sherman Filterbank 2 is equipped with two independent filter banks, capable of operating in low pass, band pass, and high pass modes, giving you unparalleled control over your audio signal. Each filter comes with its own resonance, frequency, and ADSR controls, allowing you to shape sounds with precision and depth. The unit's distinctive overdrive, which mimics the characteristics of tube distortion, can add warmth and grit, bringing your sounds to life with rich harmonic content.

Designed for both studio professionals and experimental musicians, the Sherman Filterbank 2 can be operated in parallel or serial modes, offering a versatile approach to signal processing. Whether you're looking to add subtle enhancements or embark on a journey of radical sound design, this unit offers a world of possibilities.

Key Features:

  • Analogue filter and distortion unit with overdrive (tube characteristics)
  • Two independent low pass, band pass, and high pass filters
  • Resonance, frequency, and ADSR (positive - negative) controllers
  • Switchable parallel or serial operation modes

Product specs

Available since September 2000
Bass Pedal No
Breath Controller No
MIDI Controller No
Filter Yes
Effects No
Sequencer No
Product Specific Expansion No

FAQs

What type of filters does the Sherman Filterbank 2 use?

The Sherman Filterbank 2 is equipped with analog filters, known for their rich, warm sound and versatility, allowing for a wide range of sound manipulation.

Can the Sherman Filterbank 2 be controlled with a MIDI device?

No, the Sherman Filterbank 2 does not have MIDI control capabilities, focusing instead on manual and analog manipulation for sound processing.

Is the Sherman Filterbank 2 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Sherman Filterbank 2 is designed for both studio and live environments, offering hands-on control and the ability to create dynamic sound alterations in real-time.

How does the Sherman Filterbank 2 differ from its predecessor?

The Filterbank 2 includes additional switches, an extra input for a foot pedal, new LEDs, and improved sound quality, along with a new silver-grey finish with durable varnish.

What precautions should I take when using the Sherman Filterbank 2?

Users should be cautious of the potential for producing low frequencies that can damage speakers, and it is advisable to use a compressor/limiter to manage output levels safely.

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Sherman Filterbank 2 With TR606 Demo

Video thumbnail for Sherman Filterbank 2 With TR606 Demo by Perfect Circuit

Sherman Filterbank 2 With TR606 Demo

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for Sherman Filterbank Walkthrough and Demo by Starsky Carr

Sherman Filterbank Walkthrough and Demo

Starsky Carr

Starsky Carr

Video thumbnail for SHERMAN FILTERBANK 2 // KORG VOLCA FM // the (Mostly) Clean Approach 1 by LESINDES

SHERMAN FILTERBANK 2 // KORG VOLCA FM // the (Mostly) Clean Approach 1

LESINDES

LESINDES

Video thumbnail for SHERMAN FILTERBANK 2 // KORG VOLCA FM // the (Mostly) Clean Approach 3 by LESINDES

SHERMAN FILTERBANK 2 // KORG VOLCA FM // the (Mostly) Clean Approach 3

LESINDES

LESINDES

Reviews

PROS

  • Achieves crunchy distorted drum rhythms easily

  • Versatile: enhances guitars, synths, and more with clarity or distortion

  • Offers broad sonic range, from subtle to total destruction

  • Solid build quality and durable design

  • Inspires creative sound exploration and experimentation

  • Capable of producing unique, weird synth sounds

  • Provides musical and usable filter effects

  • Features like dual MMFs, FM, AM, ADSR, LFO, and amp AR add depth

  • Encourages fun, immersive play with sound

  • Can recreate sequencer behavior, adding to its versatility

CONS

  • Steep learning curve; takes time to master

  • Manual is not user-friendly

  • Sensitive input requires careful adjustment

  • Lacks finesse for its price point

  • Rack mount version offers features (e.g., LFO output) not found in this version

  • Can be dangerously loud; may damage speakers or hearing if not careful

  • Not suited for clean filter sweeps; focuses on grunge and character

  • Some may find the distortion difficult to use effectively

  • Not universally applicable; may not suit all music styles

  • Limited demos available, making it hard to understand before purchase

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sherman Filterbank 2.

Comparisons

  • The Sherman Filterbank 2 pushes users toward more industrial sounds akin to Skinny Puppy, contrasting with the Filter Factory's Daft Punk-style sweeps.

    Source
  • The Vermona DAF-1, similar to the Filter Factory, lacks distortion and features like tap tempo LFO, but offers individual filter control for double filter sweeps.

    Source
  • Some users find the Electrix Filterfactory more suitable due to larger sweet spots, while others prefer the digital filter options in gear like the Spectralis.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Running drum busses through the Filterbank adds grit and movement, enhancing the texture and dynamics of mixes.

    Source
  • Cranking gain, using FM, and setting both filters to band pass with medium resonance can result in acid-like sounds, particularly effective on toms.

    Source
  • Users find that sending static chords through the Filterbank and step-sequencing the filter with MIDI or CV creates dynamic techno sounds.

    Source
  • It is noted for its distinctive, aggressive character, making it ideal for industrial and heavily distorted sound design rather than clean filtering.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Starting in mono and using MIDI clock can simplify initial setup and help users understand LFO and modulation timings more clearly.

    Source
  • Owners report that linking the filters and setting the output knob to parallel allows for stereo output, enriching the sound design possibilities.

    Source
  • The dual filters on the Sherman can be synchronized using a distinctive "harmonics" knob, enhancing its sound design capabilities.

    Source
  • The Sherman Filterbank 2 requires a very hot signal to trigger its envelopes effectively, which can lead to additional distortion.

    Source
  • The Sherman Filterbank 2 includes complex envelope generators and separate AR envelopes, with AM, FM, and pitch tracking capabilities, offering unique sound sculpting options.

    Source

User experience

  • The manual is noted for its unique, engaging style and includes exercises that help owners visualize frequency spectrum filtering.

    Source
  • Some users prefer filament printers for custom rack ears due to better structural integrity and less mess compared to resin printers.

    Source
  • Owners often use a limiter with the Filterbank 2 to manage its output and tame its unpredictable nature.

    Source
  • The Filterbank 2 is described as difficult to manage, with small sweet spots and a tendency to become wild and uncontrollable without careful adjustment.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A used Sherman Filterbank 2 Compact typically offers a modest savings over new prices, maintaining strong resale value since the late 90s.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Sherman Filterbank 2 Compact

soundonsound.com

The Sherman Filterbank 2 Compact is a versatile powerhouse that retains its legendary status as an analog sound mangler. Its compact design is ideal for modern setups, offering robust analog warmth and distortion. The connectivity on the top panel enhances its tabletop functionality. While its modulation capabilities and filter flexibility earn high praise, the pitch tracking can be inconsistent. For those willing to invest time in mastering its features, the Filterbank rewards with endless creative potential and analog charm. The review affirms the Filterbank's relevance in contemporary music production, making it a valuable tool for any studio.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 30 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
deepsignalstudios

Mangle anything

The Sherman FB2 can mangle any sound really good. Two series or parallel filters can fade between LP, BP, and HP. LFO can be applied to the cutoff and the frequency can go into the audio range. An envelope can also be applied to the filter. It is a little complicated but the manual does a really good job of explaining everything.

trevor_p_dericks

My Favorite unit in my home studio!

I sold a Korg Z1 for the filterbank 2. I love how this unit was designed and more importantly how it can make so much new life into any sound that passes through it. The only drawback to the unit is that I don't have a 2nd one to do stereo fx. but its not hard to just pass things through twice and expand the sound. You have to play with it to love it!

noize_guerilla_subalot

This bad motherf***** makes things DIRTY ! Holey moley!

DISTORTION DISTORTION DISTORTION, DIRTY DIRTY DIRTY... get it you won't regret it. Synths/Drums ... fuck it, it just eats it raw and spits it out shermaningly digested ... I love it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Biosphere uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Biosphere

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via BBC

Filterbank 2 can be seen on BBC Radio 3's photo.

See how Mefjus uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Mefjus

...
Verified via Photo

The Filterbank is below the screens. He uses it to distort bass and lead sounds.

See how Mark Bell uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Mark Bell

Music Producer

LFO

...
Verified via YouTube

at 0:10 into this live Bjork video you can see a Sherman Filterbank underneath the sampler hes modulating by hand. can be seen throughout the video.

J

Joakim

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via CROWDSPACER STUDIO NYC

According to a list of equipment which is used in his studio, Crowdspacer, Joakim is also a user of Sherman Filterbank 2.

See how Billain uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Billain

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 3:11 he uses the filterbank to distort bassline sounds.

See how Enei uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Enei

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:39 in the "Enei - Sinking (Official Video)" by UKF Drum & Bass on YouTube, the Sherman Filterbank 2 is visible to the right of Enei, indicating its use in the studio setup.

See how Anthony Marinelli uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Anthony Marinelli

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video showcasing the 909 drum machine running through effects processors, you can see the Filterbank 2 take action.

See how goreshit uses Sherman Filterbank 2

goreshit

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Instagram

In an Instagram post, goreshit confirms the use of the Sherman Filterbank 2 by stating, "ted got himself a sherman filterbank today and recorded some horrible kicks to his mpc."

See how Seismal D uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Seismal D

Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

Seismal D uses the Sherman Filterbank 2 in his studio setup, as demonstrated in an Instagram post where he showcases its use alongside the Prophet 8 to create an analog Reese bass sound.

See how James Kelly uses Sherman Filterbank 2

James Kelly

Guitarist

Altar of Plagues

...
Verified via Photo

"rehearsing & burning my retinas & coming out of my cave to play my last show for a while tmrw in Paris at Point Éphémère. I've also been working on new music. It sounds like altar of plagues and wife have collided and I'm pretty excited about it. I also think metal is in dire need of being dragged into the year 2017 so I'm gonna try to do that too" - wifesounds

See how Lowroller uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Lowroller

...
Verified via Facebook

In this picture, he shows us his Sherman Filterbank 2.

See how Polar Inertia uses Sherman Filterbank 2

Polar Inertia

Music Producer

...
Verified via XLR8R

"The Shermann Filterbank is a strong and flexible analog filter, with lots of character and aggressiveness. Independent low pass, band pass, and high pass filters with resonance, frequency, and ADSR, which can be switched between parallel and serial. You have to put your knowledge and discipline aside, to concentrate fully on the results. It’s a very peculiar and unpredictable instrument. It’s always standing on the high-end of our modular system, especially for bass treatments and a little dose on the pads, to weave in a bit of warmth and distortion. It's a real beast."

Album Usage

The Sherman Filterbank 2 has been featured on the following albums:

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 Sherman Filterbank 2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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