Eurorack Case: A Complete Buyer's Guide

Choosing a eurorack case involves decisions that shape the entire system you build on top of it — size, power quality, form factor and budget all interact with each other and with the modules you plan to use. Getting the fundamentals right here saves significant cost and inconvenience later.

Decide on Size First

The most consequential decision is how many HP the rack should have. Standard advice is to buy more space than your current module list requires. The typical progression is: you buy a small case, fill it within six months, buy more space, and spend more than the additional capacity on a larger initial purchase would have cost. Budgeting for at least 84HP at entry level — and ideally 104HP or more — accommodates growth without forcing an early rebuild. Two rows of 84HP is a practical target for anyone who expects to develop the system over time.

Power Supply Quality

The power supply is the most important component in any eurorack case. A weak, underpowered or noisy supply introduces hum, interference and instability across the entire signal path. Spending more on a good supply is more efficient than cutting costs here and paying later in noise problems or module damage. Look at the total mA ratings on the ±12V and +5V rails relative to the modules you plan to use. Leave 20–30% headroom between your total draw and the supply's rated capacity.

Form Factor Options

A eurorack case divides into skiffs (shallow, portable, typically single-row), standard desktop models (more depth, two or more rows) and rack-mountable units. For home use and performance, a desktop case with 60–80mm depth handles the majority of modules. A skiff makes sense for a specific performance rig where portability and weight matter and module selection is controlled. Rack-mounted setups are for studio installations where the case is permanently positioned. Most first-time buyers should look at a desktop powered case in the 84–126HP range.

Wood, Aluminium or Plastic

The material affects weight, durability and aesthetic. Aluminium cases are durable, professional-looking and common among mid-range and higher-end products. Wooden cases are warmer aesthetically, slightly heavier and generally found at boutique manufacturers. Plastic cases are lighter and cheaper but may not provide the rigidity needed for a larger system. For a system that will be moved regularly, aluminium is the practical choice. For a studio installation, any material that provides structural rigidity is adequate.

Brands Worth Considering

Intellijel makes some of the most widely owned eurorack cases — the Palette series for portable skiff builds and the Performance Cases for larger setups. Make Noise produces the Skiff, popular for its compact form. Pittsburgh Modular's Structure series covers the mid-range desktop category well. Tiptop Audio's Happy Ending Kit is an entry-level option for getting started without significant investment. Each addresses different needs; none is universally best. For a walkthrough of setup and first use, see the beginner's guide. The overview covers the fundamentals.

Frequently Asked Questions