Ensoniq ZR-76 (1998)
A 76-key synthesizer and sampler workstation released by Ensoniq in 1998 with 64-voice polyphony and a 16-track sequencer.
Overview
The Ensoniq ZR-76 is a synthesizer and sampler workstation manufactured by Ensoniq and released in 1998. It features a 76-key weighted-action keyboard and functions as a stage and studio workstation with onboard sequencing and MIDI control capabilities. The unit includes over 1200 digital ROM sounds and supports 64 voices of polyphony. It was designed as a complete 16-track sequencer workstation, capable of splitting sounds across the keyboard and responding to velocity and after-touch. The ZR-76 was used by artists in rock, pop, and R&B, including Baby Face.
Specifications
| Product type | synthesizer and sampler workstation |
| Keyboard | 76-key, weighted action |
| Polyphony | 64 voices |
| Sound ROM | over 1200 digital ROM |
| Sequencer | 16 track |
| MIDI | 16 simultaneous MIDI channels, velocity and after-touch response |
| Production year | 1998 |
| Original price | $149.00 |
| Current used price | $299.99 |
Design
The ZR-76 is described as heavy and built like a tank, with a robust construction suitable for stage and studio use. It includes After Touch and MIDI master controller features, and its output jacks are detailed in the owner's manual.
Context
The Ensoniq ZR-76 was released in 1998 alongside other Ensoniq products such as the Fizmo, ASR X Pro, and PARIS Digital Audio Workstation. It was positioned as a full-featured workstation for musicians needing sequencing, sampling, and performance controls in a single unit.
Market
The ZR-76 has been listed in used condition at $299.99, with some listings noting fully functional units including the printed manual and disks. It has a user rating of "It's Good" on Vintagesynth.com and has been described as both "wonderful" and "infuriating," indicating strong performance with some usability challenges. Repair discussions exist, but no specific common failure points are documented.
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