Doepfer A-100 (1995–present)

Name: Doepfer A-100
Brand: Doepfer

A modular synthesizer system that helped define the modern Eurorack standard.

Overview

Doepfer introduced the A-100 modular synthesizer system in 1995, and it remains in production as of the latest information. It laid the foundation for the Eurorack format, now a widespread standard in modular synthesis. Signals are routed with patch cords and 3.5 mm jacks. The power supply is ±15V and the control voltage standard is 1V/octave, so the system works with a broad range of modular gear. A "Mini Case" configuration is available as a compact way into the system.

Specifications

Form factor	Eurorack system
Form factor height	3U
Power supply voltage	±15V

Design

The A-100 uses patch cords and 3.5 mm jacks throughout. Pitch control follows a volts/octave standard, typically 1V/octave, which allows precise tuning across modules. The "Mini Case" form factor gives a space-efficient setup for modular patching.

Context

The A-100 system contributed to a Trautonium prototype. It supplied the electronics for the manual controller, the subharmonic oscillator (A-113), and the key sound-generating modules: VCOs, VCAs, noise generators, mixers and filters. Modules developed specifically for this project include the A-113 (subharmonic oscillator), A-104 (Trautonium Formant Filter), and A-198 (Trautonium Manual / Ribbon Controller). The MAQ16/3 sequencer was designed with input from KRAFTWERK and has CV/Gate outputs compatible with the A-100 system.