The MKS Monster8 V2 is a powerful 32-bit control board designed for 3D printing enthusiasts looking to elevate their machines. As an advanced upgrade from its predecessor, it packs enhanced safety circuits, dedicated power for a Raspberry Pi, and broad compatibility with firmwares like Marlin and Klipper. Specifically targeting complex builds such as the Voron 2.4, while also being a significant upgrade for popular printers like the Ender 3 series, this board is built for performance, flexibility, and extensive customization.
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Brand
plplaaoo
Basic Product Information
- Product Name: MKS Monster8 V2 32 Bit Control Board
- Processor: 32-bit for high-speed processing.
- Key Feature: 8-axis control, perfect for complex printers like the Voron series.
- Firmware Support: Fully compatible with Marlin 2.0.x and Klipper.
- DIY-Friendly: Features 8 swappable stepper driver slots and 9 motor interfaces for extensive customization.
- Connectivity: Includes a WiFi interface, microstorage card slot, and independent DC5V power for Raspberry Pi.
- Included Display: Comes with the MKS Mini12864 V3 LCD graphic screen with customizable RGB backlighting.
- Price: Varies, check the link for the current price.
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Buyer Guide (3D Printer Control Boards)
Processor: Check for a 32-bit processor for faster and more complex calculations, which is crucial for modern firmwares like Klipper.
Driver Support: Ensure the board supports the stepper motor drivers you plan to use (e.g., TMC2209 for quiet operation). This board supports a wide range.
Connectivity: Look for necessary ports like USB, SD card slot, and connections for screens, fans, and sensors. WiFi is a great bonus.
Firmware Compatibility: Verify that the board is compatible with your preferred firmware, such as Marlin or Klipper.
Expandability: Consider the number of motor outputs and extra ports for future upgrades like multiple extruders or other accessories.
Real-World User Experience
Users who have upgraded to the MKS Monster8 V2 consistently praise its immense flexibility and power, especially in the DIY and custom-build communities. For those building Voron printers, the 8-axis control is a game-changer, simplifying complex wiring and enabling advanced configurations that aren’t possible with standard boards. The support for Klipper firmware is a major draw, with many reporting smoother, faster, and higher-quality prints after making the switch. The inclusion of an independent 5V power supply for a Raspberry Pi is another celebrated feature, as it provides stable power and eliminates the need for a separate buck converter, cleaning up the electronics bay significantly.
However, the experience is not without its challenges, which primarily revolve around setup. This is not a plug-and-play board for beginners. Users stress the necessity of being comfortable with compiling and flashing firmware from resources like GitHub. As one experienced builder noted, the documentation can be sparse, requiring some trial and error. But for those willing to put in the effort, the results are well worth it.
As one reviewer, ‘VoronBuilder88’, stated, ‘This board is an absolute beast for Klipper. The 8 driver slots gave me everything I needed for my 2.4 build without compromise. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you know what you’re doing, it’s perfect.’
Another user, ‘EnderModder’, who upgraded their Ender 3, said, ‘It felt like giving my printer a brand new brain. The performance jump was incredible, especially with linear advance and input shaping. Just be ready to spend an afternoon with the firmware configuration.’
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly Versatile: With support for 8 stepper drivers, 9 motor outputs, and compatibility with both Marlin and Klipper, this board can handle almost any custom 3D printer build you can imagine. It’s particularly well-suited for complex machines like the Voron series.
- Feature-Rich for Power Users: Thoughtful additions like the independent 5V power output for a Raspberry Pi, a dedicated WiFi interface, and the included RGB LCD screen provide tremendous value and convenience for advanced users.
- Excellent for DIY Projects: If you love tinkering and pushing your printer to its limits, this board is a dream. The extensive connectivity and support for a wide range of stepper drivers (from the basic A4988 to silent TMC2209s) give you complete control over your hardware.
Cons:
- Steep Learning Curve: This is not a beginner-friendly product. Successful installation requires manually finding, configuring, and flashing firmware. If you’re not comfortable with code and following technical guides on GitHub, you may find the process frustrating.
- Potential Overkill for Simple Setups: If you just have a standard printer and only plan on basic prints, the features of the Monster8 V2 might be more than you’ll ever need. A simpler, more affordable board could be a better fit.
- Requires Self-Sourced Drivers: The board comes with sockets but not the stepper drivers themselves. This adds an extra purchase and installation step to the process, though it also allows for customization.
Conclusion
The plplaaoo MKS Monster8 V2 is a formidable control board that lives up to its name, offering monstrous power and flexibility for the serious 3D printing enthusiast. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a custom Voron build or a supercharged Ender 3 upgrade, provided you have the technical skills to unlock its full potential. While it’s certainly not for beginners, its robust feature set—including 8-axis control, Klipper support, and thoughtful integrations for peripherals like Raspberry Pi—makes it a top-tier choice for those who want to build a high-performance, future-proof machine. If you’re ready to move beyond basic upgrades and take complete control of your printer’s hardware and firmware, the Monster8 V2 is an outstanding investment. Given its popularity in the DIY community, stock can be limited. We recommend checking this month’s promotion now, as there are only a few left, and you won’t want to miss out on this powerful upgrade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MKS Monster8 V2 compatible with an Ender 3?
Yes, it is compatible with the Ender 3 series, but it’s an advanced upgrade that requires manual firmware updates. It’s best suited for users comfortable with tinkering and compiling their own firmware.
What firmware does this control board support?
It supports both Marlin 2.0.x and Klipper firmware, offering great flexibility for different user preferences and printer setups.
Does this board come with stepper motor drivers?
No, the board has sockets for 8 stepper drivers, but the drivers themselves (like TMC2209, A4988, etc.) are sold separately. This allows you to choose the ones that best fit your project and budget.
What is the main advantage of the V2 over the V1?
The V2 features upgraded safety circuits for more reliable operation, an independent DC5V power supply for a Raspberry Pi, and a dedicated WiFi interface, making it a more robust and integrated solution.
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