#1
Make Noise Skiff
3U 84hp Powered Eurorack Case · 3U, 84hp, built-in power (1200mA @ +12V, 600mA @ ±12V), aluminum frame$150–$220 usedBest for: Beginners wanting the most compact starter system
The Skiff is the gold standard intro case. Compact, powered, affordable. 84hp holds about 8-12 small modules. Three rows of 28hp each. Built-in power is genuine — 1200mA on the positive rail is plenty for a starter patch. Used Skiffs at $150-220 are common. Perfect entry point.
What to check used: 84hp is tight once you start adding more modules. Many players buy a Skiff, love it, then want a bigger case within 6 months. Know this limit going in.
#2
Intellijel 7U 84hp
7U 84hp Powered Case · 7U, 84hp, 2000mA @ +12V / 1500mA @ ±12V, bus board included, modular power options$200–$280 usedBest for: Modular enthusiasts building medium-depth systems
Intellijel cases are built for modularity. 7U format gives you extra rows for deeper patches and power management. 84hp is the sweet spot — more room than a Skiff, still portable. Power is generous (2000mA at +12V). Used at $200-280.
#3
Doepfer A-100LC6
6U 84hp Powered Case · 6U, 84hp, 1500mA power headroom, compact travel case design, lid included$150–$220 usedBest for: Touring musicians and minimal system builders
Doepfer is legendary in modular. The A-100LC6 is compact, powered, and includes a hard lid for travel. Six rows give you layout options while staying portable. 84hp is the standard skiff size. Used at $150-220.
#4
Tip Top Happy Ending Kit
DIY Powered Case Kit · 6U 84hp, DIY power supply, wooden frame (assemble yourself), Intellijel bus$80–$120 usedBest for: Budget builders and DIY enthusiasts
The Happy Ending Kit is a case you assemble yourself. Costs less than pre-built cases. Wooden frame is lightweight and modular-friendly. Good for first-time builders learning about power and bus routing. Used at $80-120.
#5
Arturia RackBrute 6U
6U 84hp Powered Case · 6U, 84hp, 3000mA headroom, integrated sequencer, 3x CV outputs$150–$220 usedBest for: Musicians wanting sequencing and CV I/O built in
RackBrute adds a built-in 32-step sequencer with CV outputs. This is unique — most cases are just power and organization. Generous power (3000mA at +12V). Used at $150-220.
#6
Tiptop Mantis
4U 104hp Powered Case · 4U, 104hp, 1200mA power, compact but deep, powder-coated aluminum$180–$250 usedBest for: Minimalists who want more hp than a Skiff without a large footprint
Mantis splits the difference — 104hp is 20hp wider than a Skiff but still fits in a backpack. Four rows give you depth. Power is adequate for a starter system. Used at $180-250.
#7
Nifty Case 104HP
3U 104hp Budget Powered Case · 3U, 104hp, 1000mA power, anodized aluminum, desktop friendly$120–$180 usedBest for: Budget builders wanting more hp on a tight budget
Nifty Cases are budget Eurorack cases. 104hp is more than a Skiff (84hp) at a lower price. Three rows is compact. Used at $120-180. Quality is decent for the price.