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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
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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 Seo Taiji uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Seo Taiji

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video 서태지 데뷔전 작업영상 (Behind-the-Scenes Footage from Seo Taiji's Pre-Debut Work), uploaded on Seo Taiji's channel, an Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus is visible, on the right, in his home studio setup at 1:10, during footage described as showing work on his first album with Seo Taiji and Boys circa 1991.

See how Primitive World uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Primitive World

Music Producer

...
Verified via Attack Magazine

In an interview with Attack Magazine, Primitive World discusses his long-term use of the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus, highlighting its role in his music production setup.

See how Matt Uelmen uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Matt Uelmen

Composer

...
Verified via Gamasutra

"The core of my production arsenal was three tools which I still use today, for better or worse. An Ensoniq ASR-10 keyboard/sampler with 16 megs of RAM was by far the most important tool, and its default library of 3 CDs of samples provided the backbone of my musical pieces as well as a surprising amount of sound effects. I was familiar with the earlier generation of this keyboard, the EPS 16+, which I had spent a great deal of time with in my college days."

See how Jackal & Hyde uses Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus

Jackal & Hyde

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video "Jackal & Hyde - Sound of Underground," the duo Jackal & Hyde are seen using the Ensoniq EPS 16 Plus as part of their live rig.

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

Show yours
hxs28

hxs28

Gear IQ 359

chase_h_xealot

chase_h_xealot

Gear IQ 145

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

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    elias81

    Gear IQ 109