Ensoniq ASR-X Pro
A professional sampler and music production workstation manufactured by Ensoniq, described as a "Resampling Production Studio" with flexible sample rate selection and expandable memory.
Overview
The Ensoniq ASR-X Pro is a sampler and music production workstation built by Ensoniq. It was referred to as a "Resampling Production Studio" in official promotional material, highlighting its ability to resample audio internally. The unit features a pressed steel casing measuring 17" wide, 13" deep, and 4" high, and weighs 12.5 lbs (5.67 kg) without packaging. The ASR-X Pro was released between 1997 and 1999, with some sources citing 1998 as the release year.
Specifications
| Product type | A music production/sampling workstation |
| Production year | 1997–1999 (conflicting sources) |
| Manufacturer | Ensoniq |
| Sample rate | 30 to 44.1 kHz |
| Bit depth | 16-bit |
| Memory type | 72-pin SIMM memory |
| Memory expandability | Sample RAM expandable via SIMMs |
| OS storage | OS and system settings stored in Flash memory |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 17" (43.1 cm) × 13" (33.1 cm) × 4" (10.1 cm) |
| Weight | 12.5 lbs (5.67 kg), unboxed |
Design
The ASR-X Pro features a pressed steel casing and supports resampling workflows, allowing users to process and re-sample audio within the unit. It uses 72-pin SIMM memory for sample expansion, with two sockets that have different size requirements. The operating system and settings are stored in Flash memory, preserving configurations without reliance on battery-backed RAM.
Context
The ASR-X Pro was released between 1997 and 1999, approximately 18 months after the original ASR-X. It arrived during a period of active product development at Ensoniq, alongside the ZR-76, Fizmo, and PARIS digital audio workstation—all also listed for 1998. The model name and functionality suggest it was positioned as an enhanced version of the ASR-X, tailored for advanced sampling and production tasks.
Market
Listings for vintage units show prices around $933, with accessories such as aluminum flight cases and replacement power supplies (featuring aluminum capacitors) available separately. Repair parts including lower chassis assemblies and power housings are offered, indicating ongoing support within the user community.
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