Ensoniq Fizmo (1998)
A rare 1998 hybrid synthesizer using Transwave digital synthesis with real-time front-panel control.
Overview
The Ensoniq Fizmo is a hybrid synthesizer featuring both analog and digital components, released in 1998. It uses Ensoniq's Transwave synthesis, which is based on wavetables but designed to produce evolving, acoustic-like sounds. The unit includes a 61-note velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive semi-weighted keyboard and is known for its hands-on control via five dedicated front-panel knobs labeled F, I, Z, M, and O. A rack-mount version, the Fizmo Rack, is a 5U module with expanded patch capacity.
Specifications
| Polyphony | 48 voices |
| Oscillators | 2 per preset, 8 simultaneous |
| ROM sounds | 128 ROM sounds |
| RAM sounds | 128 RAM sounds |
| Presets | 64 presets |
| Effects types | 41 types |
| Keyboard | 61-key semi-weighted, velocity- and aftertouch-sensitive |
| ROM size | 4 MB of ROM |
| Synthesis type | Digital Acoustic simulation Transwave |
Design
The Fizmo uses a Digital Acoustic simulation Transwave engine with 4 MB of ROM. Transwaves are wavetables, but Ensoniq's implementation allows for dynamic, time-varying waveforms. The front panel features five dedicated controls labeled F, I, Z, M, and O, enabling real-time parameter manipulation. All front-panel adjustments can be recorded in real time to an external sequencer. The synthesis and effects engines are integrated onto a single silicon chip, though details about the chip are incomplete.
Market
A unit listed on Facebook Marketplace in excellent condition sold for $2300, including a power fix for the voltage regulator—a known issue requiring modification. One knob was noted as non-original. Another unit was listed without price at Nightlife Electronics. A Reddit user mentioned an opportunity to buy one for $1000, reflecting the challenge in pricing due to rarity. Replacement patches are available under product code SEP-005 from SoundEngine, and the owner’s manual is accessible online.
eBay Listings
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