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, released in 1998. It has a 76-key weighted-action keyboard and works as a stage and studio workstation with onboard sequencing and MIDI control. It carries over 1200 digital ROM sounds and 64 voices of polyphony. Ensoniq designed it as a complete 16-track sequencer workstation. It can split sounds across the keyboard and respond to velocity and after-touch. Artists in rock, pop, and R&B used it, 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, which suits stage and studio use. It has After Touch and MIDI master controller features. Its output jacks are detailed in the owner's manual.
Context
Ensoniq released the ZR-76 in 1998 alongside other products such as the Fizmo, ASR X Pro, and PARIS Digital Audio Workstation. It was positioned as a full-featured workstation for musicians who needed sequencing, sampling, and performance controls in a single unit.
Market
The ZR-76 has been listed used at $299.99, and some listings note fully functional units with the printed manual and disks. Vintagesynth.com gives it a user rating of "It's Good." It has been called both "wonderful" and "infuriating," which points to strong performance with some usability problems. Repair discussions exist, but no specific common failure points are documented.
eBay Listings
As an eBay Partner, we earn from qualifying purchases. This helps support our independent vintage technology research.