4ms Pod32 (2022–)

The Pod32 is not a synth. It is a plain aluminum case that lets you plug in and play a Eurorack system.

Overview

The 4ms Pod32 doesn't make a sound, and it won't patch itself. It holds modules and powers them. Introduced in June 2022, it is part of 4ms's line of portable, powered Eurorack enclosures, called "Pods." The idea is to get you running without sourcing power supplies, rails or a chassis. It gives you 32HP of anodized aluminum to fill with modules.

It weighs just 250 grams, but it feels solid because of the 100% anodized aluminum construction. It is built for the tabletop: no lid, no rack ears. You drop in your modules, plug in a compatible power brick (the 4ms Power Brick 45 W is recommended, though not included), and you're live. One review called it "a perfect way to get started in Eurorack, or add a couple more modules to your monster system." You could build a tiny voice with a Loquelic Iteritas Percido and S.B.G., or just give your SQ-1 and TT-606 a dedicated spot.

Specifications

Manufacturer	4ms
System	Eurorack
Formfactor	Desktop
Width	32HP
Total Usable HP	32HP
External dimensions	167.1mm (W) x 159.5mm (H) x 36mm (D)
Internal depth (max module depth)	34.2mm (1.34")
Weight	0.25 kg (250 g)
Power supply output	700mA @+12v, 280mA @-12v, 200mA @+5v
Power input	Two barrel jacks for daisy-chaining, 15V-20VDC, 2.1mm positive tip
Number of power connectors	2
Power connectors	Two 16-pin Eurorack power shrouded headers
Screw type	M3, 10x included
Screw fixation	Enclosure is threaded (M3 threaded holes)
Includes	M3 screws (10) and adhesive rubber feet (4)
Scalable	Yes (via daisy-chaining)
Lid	No
Matching power supply unit	4ms Power Brick 45 W (not included)
Has distinctive red, white, and blue LED power indicators	Yes

Key Features

Aluminum Build, Minimalist Intent

The case is 100% anodized aluminum. No plastic, no flimsy corners. The finish is clean and the edges are sharp but not aggressive. The threaded M3 holes mean you don't need nuts or washers - just screw your modules in directly. It comes with ten M3 screws and four adhesive rubber feet, which do a decent job of keeping it from sliding around on glass or wood. There is no lid, and that's by design. This is a desktop instrument, meant to be accessed, tweaked and played.

Built-In Power, Ready to Chain

Power is one of the biggest hurdles for new Eurorack users: rails, distribution, voltage limits. The Pod32 has a built-in, daisy-chainable power supply. It delivers 700mA on +12V, 280mA on -12V, and 200mA on +5V, which is more than enough for a modest voice or effects chain. Two 16-pin Eurorack power headers let you populate both sides of the bus board. The dual barrel jacks let you daisy-chain multiple Pods or connect to the 4ms Row Power system. You can start with a 32HP, add a 20HP later, and link them together. The one catch is that the power input barrel is slightly wider than standard, so not every Eurorack power supply in the 15V - 20V range will fit perfectly. One reviewer noted it's "not a real issue," but it's something to watch if you're mixing and matching gear.

Visual Feedback That Works

On the front, near the power input, are the red, white, and blue LED power indicators. They light up to confirm +12V, -12V, and +5V are all live, so you're never guessing whether the unit is powered correctly. Many skiffs give you no feedback at all. These don't blink or code anything. They just show solid color when things are good.

Compact, But Think About Cables

At 167.1mm wide and just 36mm deep, the Pod32 is built for tight spaces. One Thomann reviewer pointed out: "Consider the height of your modules as you should consider some extra space for the connection cable." Your modules might fit, but the patch cables sticking out the top can make it feel crowded fast. Plan your layout with cable clearance in mind, especially with taller modules or stacked connections.

Collectibility & Value

The 4ms Pod32 is not a vintage item in the traditional sense. It has been available since June 2022, and there's no indication production has ended. It's collected for utility, not rarity or nostalgia. The current market price is a consistent $119.00 USD across major retailers, though used units have been seen as low as $65.00. There's no data on common failures or long-term maintenance issues, likely because it's a passive enclosure with no moving parts or complex circuitry. User feedback is practical: the power jacks aren't labeled, which is a minor annoyance when daisy-chaining, and the barrel input's width can limit power supply compatibility. Neither is a dealbreaker.