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Description

Designed for the discerning DJ and music producer, the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus is a powerhouse in the realm of audio samplers. This versatile piece of gear combines advanced sampling capabilities with intuitive controls, making it an essential tool for creating dynamic and innovative soundscapes. Known for its digital signal processing (DSP) effects, the EPS 16 Plus allows users to add depth and complexity to their samples with ease. Whether you're manipulating beats or crafting intricate loops, this sampler offers a seamless workflow that caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals.

The EPS 16 Plus is equipped with an innovative polyphonic aftertouch keyboard, providing expressive control over performances. Its robust sampling engine supports up to 16-bit resolution, ensuring high-quality audio capture and playback. With a user-friendly interface, musicians can navigate through the various functions and effects with minimal hassle, making it a favorite among live performers and studio creators alike.

Whether you are looking to expand your sound palette or need a reliable sampler for your next gig, the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus delivers a blend of reliability and sonic excellence that stands out in the world of DJ gear.

Key Features:

  • Advanced digital signal processing (DSP) for real-time effects
  • Polyphonic aftertouch keyboard for enhanced expressiveness
  • 16-bit sampling resolution for high-quality audio
  • User-friendly interface for easy navigation and control
  • Extensive library of built-in effects and modulation options
  • Ideal for both live performances and studio production
  • Expandable memory to accommodate extensive sample libraries

Product specs

Brand Ensoniq
Model EPS 16 Plus Digital Sampling Workstation
Finish Black
Year 1990
Made In United States
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Semi-Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 20 Voices

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus?

The Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus is known for its integrated DSP effects and stereo audio routing, which enhance its sampling capabilities. It offers a 13-bit A/D input and 16-bit D/A stereo output, providing excellent sample quality and versatile sound manipulation.

How does the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus differ from the original EPS?

The main difference between the EPS and the EPS 16 Plus is the addition of integrated DSP effects and stereo audio routing in the EPS 16 Plus, which expands its sound design possibilities and enhances its overall functionality.

What is the polyphony of the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus?

The Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus features 20-voice polyphony, allowing for complex, layered compositions and the ability to play multiple samples simultaneously.

Does the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus have MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible devices and equipment.

Is the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus suitable for live performances?

With its semi-weighted 61-key keyboard and robust sampling capabilities, the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus is well-suited for live performances, offering a versatile platform for both sound creation and live playback.

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Ensoniq EPS16+ | A Superb Classic Workstation

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq EPS16+ | A Superb Classic Workstation by Espen Kraft

Ensoniq EPS16+ | A Superb Classic Workstation

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Video thumbnail for ENSONIQ EPS 16+ | Overview by Synth Cloud

ENSONIQ EPS 16+ | Overview

Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus in Action! by Soultron

Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus in Action!

Soultron

Soultron

Video thumbnail for Initial Preview of the Ensoniq EPS 16+ by The Daydream Sound

Initial Preview of the Ensoniq EPS 16+

The Daydream Sound

The Daydream Sound

Video thumbnail for 2022 Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus Cook Up by MGtheProducer

2022 Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus Cook Up

MGtheProducer

MGtheProducer

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus.

Features and functionality

  • Turning off the anti-aliasing filter allows unique sound design possibilities and distinct tones.

    Source
  • The EPS 16+ lacks polyphonic aftertouch but retains a high-quality keybed.

    Source
  • The EPS 16 Plus is noted for its unique modulations and Waveboy effects, delivering a rich sound profile that stands out without needing resonant filters.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Considered better than the ASR10 by some for its vintage charm and cost-effectiveness.

    Source
  • Samples at 16-bit with effects, unlike the original EPS which samples at 13-bit without effects.

    Source
  • Among Ensoniq samplers, the EPS 16 Plus is preferred for writing, while the EPS classic is favored for its gritty sound, and the ASR10 for more complex tasks.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for its use in Wu-Tang beats, highlighting its capability in hip-hop production.

    Source
  • Ideal for generating song ideas due to its intuitive sequencer and programming layout.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Replacing the floppy drive with a USB drive is recommended to streamline sample loading.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Installing a SCSI2SD drive via the RAM upgrade with SCSI port eliminates the need for floppy disks.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the EPS 16 Plus for its distinctive sound qualities and reliability, expressing hope for its longevity with proper care.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ensoniq EPS16 Plus (MT Feb 91)

muzines.co.uk

The Ensoniq EPS16 Plus is a 16-bit sampler that impresses with its sophisticated sample looping, robust synthesis capabilities, and flexible sequencer. Its standout feature is the onboard 24-bit effects processing, which, combined with the resample-with-effect function, sets it apart from its predecessor and competitors alike. While its price sees a slight bump to £1795, the value is justified by the enhanced features. However, the lack of resonance control on its filters and the unchanged sequencer track limitations are minor drawbacks in an otherwise impressive package. Overall, it's a solid choice for those seeking a versatile multitimbral sampler under £2000.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 20 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
buddycephalus

Lovely machine

This is a true classic. This sampler gives so warm and interesting sound and is a keeper for a long time.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Peanut Butter Wolf uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Peanut Butter Wolf

Music Producer

Charizma & Peanut Butter Wolf

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, PBW can be seen using the EPS 16 in the studio with Charizma in 1992, while also talking about using it at that time.

J

Joakim

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via CROWDSPACER STUDIO NYC

According to a list of equipment which is used in his studio, Crowdspacer, Joakim is also a user of Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus.

See how Edgar Winter uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Edgar Winter

Singer, Keyboardist

The Edgar Winter Group

...
Verified via YouTube

At 12:02 Edgar explains how he uses the Ensoniq ASR-10 along with the Ensoniq TS-10 and the Ensoniq EPS-16

See how Robert Rich uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Robert Rich

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Robertrich

"Here is my main studio setup these days: Macintosh computer, Otari 8-track and Soundcraft mixer, Yamaha DX7II and TX81Z, Ensoniq EPS16+, Korg Wavestation, Sequential Prophet 5 and SixTrack, Casio CZ101, Lexicon reverbs, Eventide H3000, delays and other procesors, steel guitar, bamboo and clay flutes, percussion, etc. etc."

See how Mick Harris uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Mick Harris

Drummer, Composer

Napalm Death

...
Verified via Gearslutz

Some gear that Mick Harris has used:

Ensoniq ASR10 workstation/sampler. Emu E64 sampler. Novation Bass Station synth. Alesis D4 drum module. Ensoniq EPS 16+ workstation/sampler.

See how kid606 uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

kid606

Music Producer

Onibaba

...
Verified via Facebook

In a Facebook post, Kid606 is shown using the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus audio sampler.

See how Assemblage 23 uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Assemblage 23

Music Producer

...
Verified via Assemblage23

Mentioned in the "Gear List for Contempt (1999)".

See how Sascha Dikiciyan uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Sascha Dikiciyan

Composer

...
Verified via Twitter

Tweet from Sascha Dikiciyan about the Ensoniq ESP 16.

See how E‐A‐Ski uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

E‐A‐Ski

Rapper, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube clip it shows producer E-A Ski using a Ensoniq EPS-16 plus to make a beat.

See how Fat Jon uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Fat Jon

Music Producer, DJ

3582

...
Verified via Native Instruments Blog

Used ca. 1990 (a terminus a quo from the release of the EPS 16 Plus) at local studios, as mentioned in this March 31, 2021 Native Instruments blog interview.

What year did you start making beats? What was your gear and process like in the beginning?

I started making beats in 1986 with old Yamaha and Casio keyboards with drum sections. I didn’t do anything too complicated or good but it was my introduction to beats. One of my neighbors had an SK-1 (keyboard) they let me play with. After playing around with that, I started to make pause tapes using cassette recorders to create loops. I was able to make some decent sounding songs with some breaks and choruses. I got serious about making beats and began to go to studios in 1989. I didn’t have any of my own equipment yet so I used what was at the studio. There were some turntables and different little drum machines, a huge mixing console, an MPC60 and I think an Ensoniq EPS-16. This was all along with tape machines, effects, compressors and other outboard gear. I instantly gravitated toward the MPC and fell in love with what could be done with it. I eventually created a decent little pre-production studio in my bedroom. That’s where I taught myself how to scratch and DJ and I would eventually use these skills in my production as well.

Does the approach that you started off with still influence the way you compose now?

Yes, 100%. I come from an era where you would pre-produce things before going to the studio to do the actual recording. I didn’t know it at the time but my pause tapes were pre-productions that saved me time when working on my final productions in the studio. The joy of finding loops and imagining what to do with them is still very fun for me.

See how DJ Hard Rich uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

DJ Hard Rich

DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, DJ Hard Rich shows off his collection of vintage rackmount Ensoniq samplers including the Ensoniq Mirage, Ensoniq EPS M, and Ensoniq EPS 16+.

See how Sweet Valley uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Sweet Valley

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

Evidence from a Facebook post containing an image of a musical device with a distinctive blue screen and a checkerboard pattern above two rows of LEDs confirms that Sweet Valley utilizes the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus. The visual details such as the "File Loaded" message displayed on the screen correspond to the unique design features of the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus, a notable piece of equipment in the category of Audio Samplers. This identification was further validated using Google Lens technology.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Ensoniq ASR-10
Ensoniq ASR-10 Audio Samplers
6
E-mu SP-1200
E-mu SP-1200 Production & Groove
3
Akai MPC60
Akai MPC60 Production & Groove
2
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb
Lexicon PCM-70 Reverb Effects Processors
2
Roland SH-2
Roland SH-2 Synthesizers
2
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
2
Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase Music Software
2

Community setups

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Gear Guides

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    Gear IQ 109