4ms Pod20 (2022–)

Name: 4ms Pod20
Brand: 4ms

A small armored case for your favorite Eurorack module. No soldering, just plug and play.

Overview

The 4ms Pod20 (Powered) is a 20HP black lunchbox that turns one or two orphaned modules into a self-contained instrument. It's not a synth and not a module, and it's hardly a full case in the traditional sense. It has been built since at least June 2022 (first spotted at Thomann). There is no chassis assembly and no power distribution to sort out. You get anodized aluminum, threaded rails, and a clean internal supply ready to go.

Fundamentally it's a powered Eurorack enclosure: compact, portable, and simple. You can toss it in a gig bag, set it next to a laptop or drum machine, and use it to run a single effects processor, a voice, or a utility module without committing to a full rack. The Pod20 gives you 20HP of usable space and a depth of 34.2mm (1.34") for modules. That rules out the deepest modules but fits the vast majority. A threaded M3 rail system lets you mount modules with the included stainless steel screws. It weighs 170 grams, but feels dense.

The power is built in and low-profile. It outputs 700mA on +12V, 280mA on -12V, and 200mA on +5V, which is plenty for a couple of modest modules. You feed it with a 15-20VDC barrel jack (2.1mm, positive tip), and it has two input jacks so you can daisy-chain multiple Pods together. That's where the 4ms ecosystem starts to show. The system scales from a single voice to a larger desktop setup. To expand, grab a Pod26 or Pod32. For more power, the Pod60 bumps up to 1.4A on +12V.

Owners report it's "extremely practical and reliable," "compact and light, making it ideal for mobile setups and smaller studio environments," and praise the "robust construction from sturdy aluminum." One reviewer put it plainly: "This product fulfills its function perfectly, well-built, no issues to report, it seems serious!" It's not cheap for what it is, since $99 is a premium price for a 20HP case, but the build quality justifies it. There are no sharp edges, no wobble, and no flimsy plastic. It's all black anodized aluminum, with rubber feet to keep it planted.

It's tiny, so you're not building a full synth here. If you run multiple modules, you'll need a multi-power cable accessory to share the rails, because the internal supply only has two connectors. The power input is on the back, and depending on your cable it might feel cramped. One reviewer noted the jack placement can get "a bit tight." The power brick is not included. You'll need the 4ms Power Brick 45W (art. 544815) or a compatible 15-20VDC supply, plus a barrel cable. That's an extra cost, but it's standard for the format.

For what it does, the Pod20 is focused and simple. It does its job and leaves the modules to do the rest.

Specifications

Manufacturer	4ms
Model	Pod20 Powered
Production Years	Available since June 2022
Width	20HP
Total Usable HP	20HP
Available module depth	34.2mm (1.34")
External Dimensions	106.1 x 159.5 x 36 mm (4.18" x 6.28" x 1.42")
Power supply output	700mA @+12v, 280mA @-12v, 200mA @+5v
Power connectors	2
Power input	Two barrel jacks for daisy-chaining, 15V-20VDC, 2.1mm positive tip
Included screws	M3 x 8mm pan-head screws, stainless steel (10)
Mounting	M3 threaded holes
Included accessories	Adhesive rubber feet (4)
Weight	0.17 kg / 170 g
Material	Made from 100% anodized aluminum
Color	black anodized aluminum
Features	2 Slots for modules
Matching power supply	4ms Power Brick 45 W power supply unit (art. 544815, not included)
Does not include	barrel cable or power brick

Key Features

Built-In, Daisy-Chainable Power Supply

The Pod20's biggest trick is the power supply already installed, so there's no DIY soldering and no external distribution board. It delivers 700mA on +12V, which is generous for a case this size, and splits the power across two connectors so you can run two modules without issue. The daisy-chaining is the other half. With two barrel jacks on the back, you can link multiple Pods together and power them all from a single brick. That means a Pod20 for a filter, a Pod26 for a sequencer, and a Pod32 for a VCO, all running off one supply. If you're already using 4ms Row Power, the Pod20 works with that system too.

Threaded Rails & Secure Mounting

There are no rails to install and no nuts to lose. The Pod20 has M3 threaded holes built right into the aluminum frame. You mount modules directly with the included stainless steel pan-head screws (10 of them, 8mm long), and they won't budge. It's compatible with M3 Knurlies too, if you want a tool-free look. The rails are precision-cut, the threading is clean, and there are no sharp edges to snag cables or fingers.

Compact, Rugged Aluminum Enclosure

At just over 4 inches wide and under 1.5 inches deep, the Pod20 is small on a desk, but it doesn't feel cheap. The entire chassis is machined from 100% anodized aluminum, finished in black that resists scratches and fingerprints. It's lightweight (only 170g), but the density of the metal gives it some heft. Four adhesive rubber feet keep it from sliding, and the construction is tight, with no creaks, no flex, and no wobble. One reviewer called it "cleanly processed and robust," with "no wobbling."

Scalable, Modular Design Philosophy

The Pod20 is part of a family: 20HP, 26HP, 32HP, and 60HP variants, all sharing the same design language and power system. You can mix and match them with desktop synths, pedals, or other gear. For more space, add a Pod. For more power, upgrade to the Pod60 or bring in Row Power. Instead of committing to a 84HP case on day one, you start small and expand only what you need.

Collectibility & Value

The 4ms Pod20 (Powered) carries a current market price of $99.00. That's a premium for a 20HP case, but it reflects the build quality and integrated power. It's not a vintage item yet (production began in 2022), so collectibility is more about utility than rarity. There's no data on common failures or long-term reliability issues, but early reviews suggest it's solidly built and problem-free. The main extra cost is the required power brick and cable, both sold separately.