Ensoniq TS10
A 32-voice digital workstation synthesizer with 12-part multitimbrality and expandable sampling, reviewed in 1993.
Overview
The Ensoniq TS10 is a workstation synthesizer produced by Ensoniq in the early 1990s, specifically reviewed in August 1993. It belongs to the TS series, a line that followed earlier Ensoniq instruments like the Mirage, ESQ-1, VFX, and ASR-10. Marketed as a "Performance Composition Synthesizer," it combines sample-based synthesis with performance-oriented features, targeting live musicians and composers. The unit uses Ensoniq’s S+S (samples + synthesis) architecture and includes a built-in sampler with 2MB of RAM, expandable to 8MB.
Specifications
| MIDI SysEx Specification | Ensoniq TS10/TS12 MIDI SysEx Specification v2.0 |
| Polyphony | 32 voices |
| Multitimbrality | 12 parts |
| Sampler memory | 2MB (expandable to 8MB) |
| Effects | 74 effects algorithms via custom Ensoniq chip |
| Dimensions | 40 3/8" (102.5 cm) wide x 4" (10.2 cm) high x 14 1/2" deep |
| Original price | £1999 RRP |
Design
The TS10 is based on Ensoniq’s S+S (samples + synthesis) architecture, utilizing a Transwave engine composed of 128 single-cycle waves derived from processed samples. The effects processing is handled by a custom Ensoniq chip, building on the design of the DP-4 effects processor, offering 74 distinct algorithms.
Context
The TS10 was part of Ensoniq’s TS series of workstation synthesizers, positioned after the ASR-10 sampler and continuing the company’s legacy of integrated music production tools. It was distributed in the UK by Sound Technology plc and arrived during a period of growing competition in sample-based synthesis instruments. Ensoniq was later acquired by Creative Technology in 1998.
Market
Common issues reported include keyboard calibration errors, non-responsive keys, low output volume, distorted audio, and potential power supply or line filter failures. Replacement parts such as output modules and push buttons have appeared on the used market, with listings observed as recently as 2012.
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