buy on ebay The Ensoniq ASR-88 Advanced Sampling Recorder, another milestone in digital sampling keyboards. The ASR-10 revolutionizes the way sampling is integrated into a workstation, by including 24-bit dynamic effects processing and allowing the stereo audio input to be monitored, sampled, and resampled through the effects. And only ENSONIQ offers all the expressive control that turns a sampler into a truly musical instrument.

Sampling

The ASR-88 features true stereo Sigma-Delta (one-bit) 64 times oversampling technology with a selectable sample rate of 30kHz or 44.1 kHz. Samples can be recorded from a variety of input sources including: the stereo audio inputs, the optional DI-10 Digital I/O Board (consumer AES/EBU digital interface) or the ASR-10’s own Main Audio Output (for resampling).

The ASR-10 can sample while the sequencer is playing, and can even sample its own sequencer playback. CD quality output circuitry provides state of the art playback performance. The ASR-10 has all the on-board editing functions you’ll ever need. Auto Looping, volume smoothing, gain normalization, and multiple types of crossfading provide complete control over your sampled sounds.

An advanced Time Compression/Expansion function allows you to change the length or tempo of a sample without affecting the pitch, a necessity for dance music or broadcast needs.

Synthesis Functions

Not only does the ASR-88 provide superb stereo sampling, it is also a full function synthesizer, allowing you to reshape your sampled sounds with maximum flexibility. 31 voice polyphony, multiple filters and envelopes, and a comprehensive modulation matrix gives the ASR-10 the power to manipulate your WaveSamples into many exciting new sounds.

Effects

The ASR-88 incorporates effects processing into a sampler in new and exciting ways — with 50 different 24-bit effect algorithms, the ASR-88 provides a complete arsenal of signal processing and conditioning tools for your use. State-of-the-art Reverbs, Chorusing, Flanging, Phasing, Distortion, Digital Delays, and Speaker Effects, will make your sampled sounds and sequenced music sound totally professional. Signal conditioning effects, like EQ, Compression, and Ducking can be used to process sounds as they are being sampled to get the perfect sound everytime.

The ASR-88 offers continuous audio monitoring of the stereo audio inputs on two dedicated Audio Tracks. The audio inputs can be monitored through the effects and if desired, audio input can be sampled through the effects. Audio Tracks also allow live external signals to play through the effects processor, so that you can use the ASR-10’s high quality effects on other instruments in your rig, or allow fellow musicians to plug right in and play — no mixer required! The ASR-10 also has the ability to resample sounds with effects in real time. For example: add reverb to a drum sample, resample it, then reuse the effects processor to further color your music.

Sequencing

The ASR-88 is also a 16-track sequencing workstation with complete mixdown capabilities. You can record and edit your performances with a wealth of creative tools. And only ENSONIQ sequencers allow you to audition your changes to decide which version to keep. This flexible combination of high fidelity sampling and synthesis, versatile effects processing, and sequencing is what makes the ASR-10 unique.

Audio Track Recording Capability

Version 2 O.S. adds two tracks of digital audio recording capability to the ASR-10. Audio Tracks can be recorded directly into RAM (RAMTracks™) or directly to a SCSI storage device (hard disk, removable media, etc.) via the optional SP-3 SCSI Interface (DiskTracks™). Now you can combine live performances with MIDI sequenced tracks for full production recording within the ASR-10. Sing, play your guitar, blow your horn — add whatever live performances you wish. Recognizing that you want to get up and running quickly, we strongly recommend that you try the section titled “An Audio Track Tutorial” in Section 18 — Audio Track Applications to get a feel for the Audio Track recording process.

Support for the Optional DI-10 Digital I/O Interface

ASR-88 Version 2 supports the optional DI-10 Digital I/O Interface. When installed, the DI-10 provides direct digital input and output connection to and from the ASR-10 using RCA-type connectors. The Digital Output will provide 44.1 kHz digital output of the Main Out mix when the current effect uses a 44.1 kHz sample rate. The Digital Input can be used for direct digital sampling from an external digital audio source at 44.1 or 48 kHz.

The Digital Input and Output conforms to the S/PDIF standard (Sony/Phillips Digital Interface Format). S/PDIF is a digital audio communication standard for digital hardware devices. Be sure that any digital devices used with the DI-10 conform to this standard. For more information about using the DI-10 Digital I/O Interface, refer to the DI-10 Manual.

Additional 44.1 kHz Effect Algorithms

The O.S. disk also includes 12 additional effect algorithms, designed exclusively for the ASR-10, that use the 44 .1 kHz system sample rate (note: polyphony is reduced to 23 voices). Audio Tracks recorded at the 44.1 kHz sample rate can be output directly from the ASR-10’s Digital I/O Output jack (which requires the optional DI-10 Digital I/O Interface). For a complete description of all the effect algorithms, see later in this document.

Product specs

FAQs

What are the key features of the Ensoniq ASR-88 Advanced Sampling Recorder?

The Ensoniq ASR-88 features an 88-key weighted keyboard, digital sampling capabilities, and a polyphony of 31 voices. It includes MIDI input, output, and through for integration with other MIDI devices.

How does the weighted keyboard of the Ensoniq ASR-88 benefit musicians?

The weighted keyboard of the ASR-88 provides a more realistic piano feel, making it ideal for pianists who require expressive control and dynamic playing in their performances and recordings.

Is the Ensoniq ASR-88 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Ensoniq ASR-88 is suitable for live performances due to its robust build, full-size weighted keys, and versatile sampling capabilities, allowing for dynamic sound manipulation on stage.

Can the Ensoniq ASR-88 integrate with modern DAWs?

While the ASR-88 is a vintage sampler from 1992, it can still integrate with modern DAWs via MIDI connections, allowing musicians to use it as a controller or sound module with contemporary production setups.

What kind of sounds can I create with the Ensoniq ASR-88?

The Ensoniq ASR-88 allows for extensive sound creation through sampling, enabling users to record, edit, and manipulate a wide range of audio sources, from instruments to vocals, for both studio and live applications.