You know you need modules, a case, and power for your Eurorack system. This article isn’t about that, it’s about all the other stuff you don’t know yet will save your ass down the road.
Sure, you’ve been researching modules, watching videos, and talking in Discords or forums. But there’s a whole category of tools and hardware you don’t learn about until you’re installing a new module or troubleshooting a power issue and wishing you had them.
Here’s my list of essential items that will keep you focused on making sound make modular life easier, safer, and far less frustrating.
Ribbon Cables
Should you really be counting on your new module arriving with the right ribbon cable? Any one of these things could happen:
- No cable included
- Wrong length
- Wrong pin count
- Header pin stuck in connector
- Connector installed backwards (can damage modules)
- Broken cable
Ribbon cables are inexpensive, so get a few spares in various lengths and types.
Power Headers
Running out of power headers is more common than you think. Using smaller modules can fill up a busboard fast. If your power supply has enough juice but not enough headers, you’ve got some options:
- Add a “flying busboard” ribbon cable with multiple connectors spaced along it
- Add a small passive busboard and connect it to your main busboard with a 16-to-16 pin ribbon cable
Both options let you power more modules without adding a second case or supply.
Screws & Friends
You can’t mount modules without them, and you’d be surprised how many cases ship without a full set. Don’t get screwed (forgive the pun) when a module shows up without mounting hardware. Instead of having it swing from its ribbon cable, keep extra screws on hand.
LMNTL Eurorack Modular Screws – M3 – The standard option, durable and widely available. Downside: rack rash, marks left on the panel from tightening.
Frap Tools Ø3 Black Plastic Washers – If rack rash bothers you, these protect panels from scratches. You’ll likely need longer 8mm screws to use these.
Befaco Knurlies – Finger-tightened screws with built-in washers that make swapping modules fast and tool-free. Downside: they stick up a bit and could get in your way.
Screwdrivers
Even if you prefer knurlies, it’s smart to keep a decent screwdriver on hand for other screws and general tasks. A magnetic tip is essential, and a small powered screwdriver is a game changer.w
Magnetizer
A simple magnetizer/demagnetizer block can turn any driver into a screw-holding champ. It’s saved me from fishing fallen screws out of my case more times than I care to admit.
External Mults
Inline or passive mult modules work, but if your case is cramped, an external mult — like a small box or cable-style splitter — frees up HP and makes patching easier between cases.
LMNTL 1×5 Splitter Hub – Small, cheap, functional.
Tiptop Audio Stackcable – A classic cable-based multiple.
Tendrils Stakkas – Right-angle stacking cables.
Cable Clips & Velcro Ties
Managing cables can be an art form, but it doesn’t have to be hard.
Cold Earth Industries Eurorack Patch Cable Clips – Keep cables out of the way in your case. These little things are amazing.
Velcro ties – 100 for super cheap. Bundle patch cables or use around the studio.
Nylon Paintbrush
A soft nylon paintbrush is one of the safest ways to dust your modules without scratching panels or blowing dust around. I like a 1 1/2” angled brush to get under knobs.
Befaco Synth Duster – If you must get a branded brush, this is the one.
Hex and Knurled Nut Drivers
If you swap out panels, you’ll need to remove and tighten nuts. There’s really only one option that won’t scratch panels.
Nylon Electronic Pry Tool
Ever tried to remove a knob from a potentiometer and worried you’d scratch the panel? A nylon pry tool gives you leverage without damage. Essential if you do frequent module swaps.
Final Thoughts
Starting eurorack is exciting, but it’s easy to overlook these less glamorous items. Stocking up on them early means fewer frustrating interruptions and more time making music. Build a small Eurorack toolkit so you’re never hunting for the right screw or cable.
What would you add to this list? Every synth setup has its own quirks, and your must-haves might be completely different from mine. Share yours in the comments.
