Pricing and availability

Average Price: $700

High-end/Boutique

$249

$700+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Ensoniq EPS M is a cornerstone for DJs and producers seeking a versatile and powerful audio sampler. Renowned for its innovative use of digital sampling technology, the EPS M offers a rich palette of sound possibilities that cater to both live performances and studio environments. This rack-mounted unit stands out with its ability to handle complex sound manipulation, making it a favorite among those who demand precision and creativity in their music productions.

With a robust architecture, the EPS M is equipped to deliver high-quality audio sampling and playback. It features a flexible sampling rate, allowing users to balance between memory efficiency and audio fidelity. This makes it ideal for capturing everything from the subtlest nuances of an acoustic instrument to the raw energy of an electronic beat. The EPS M's intuitive interface ensures that both seasoned professionals and newcomers can navigate its features with ease, unleashing their creative potential.

For those who value connectivity, the EPS M integrates seamlessly into any setup with its MIDI capabilities and multiple audio outputs. This connectivity ensures that it can be the heart of any music production environment, syncing effortlessly with other gear.

Key Features:

  • Rack-mounted design for easy integration into studio setups
  • Flexible sampling rate for tailored audio quality
  • Comprehensive MIDI implementation for seamless integration
  • Multiple audio outputs for versatile connectivity
  • Robust sound manipulation capabilities for creative exploration
  • Intuitive user interface for efficient operation

Product specs

Brand Ensoniq
Model EPS-M Rackmount Digital Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1988
Made In United States
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 20 Voices

FAQs

What are the main features of the Ensoniq EPS M?

The Ensoniq EPS M is a digital rackmount synthesizer featuring 20-voice polyphony, MIDI I/O, and digital sampling capabilities. It offers versatile modulation options, dual multi-mode digital filters, and an 8-track sequencer for comprehensive sound design and performance flexibility.

Can the Ensoniq EPS M be integrated with modern MIDI setups?

Yes, the Ensoniq EPS M includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, allowing it to be integrated into modern MIDI setups for expanded control and sequencing capabilities.

Is the Ensoniq EPS M suitable for live performances?

The Ensoniq EPS M's rackmount design, 20-voice polyphony, and robust MIDI capabilities make it suitable for live performances, particularly for musicians who prefer a versatile, digital sampling synthesizer in their rig.

JENDOR

JENDOR

Ensoniq EPS-M / JESTHEBEATS

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq EPS-M  / JESTHEBEATS by JENDOR

Ensoniq EPS-M / JESTHEBEATS

JENDOR

JENDOR

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The EPSm lacks the Keyboard Range button found on the EPS keyboard version, but shares most load, command, and edit menus.

    Source
  • The EPS does not have internal sounds, requiring users to sample and load sounds, but its unique analog VCF offers distinct creative opportunities.

    Source
  • The EPS's 13-bit DACs provide a unique "crunch" to samples, appealing to those seeking a distinctive sound character.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Old Transoniq Hacker zines provide tips for maximizing Ensoniq gear performance; scans are available online for enthusiasts.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Syntaur offers manuals for the EPSm, useful for those without a physical copy.

    Source
  • The EPS requires a floppy drive to boot its operating system each time, making a USB to floppy disk drive essential for initial setup.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners have noted the difficulty in obtaining timely responses from certain Ensoniq parts suppliers.

    Source
  • Owners often find the EPS's operating system straightforward after reading the manual, despite initial confusion due to its pre-standardized interface design.

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  • Owners find the EPS prone to instability and crashes, often requiring repairs like resoldering common trouble areas.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners find value in joining Ensoniq enthusiast communities for access to shared resources and experience-based advice.

    Source
  • The EPS's sampling capabilities have inspired creative projects, including unique musical compositions from resampled voice messages.

    Source
  • The EPS is praised for its ability to mutate sounds in unexpected ways, making it suitable for creating glitch or experimental audio.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Unlike the MPC 1000, the EPS has a different layout and promotes creativity without confining users, despite its limited sample memory.

    Source
  • The EPS 16+ offers more powerful features and dual-bit sampling, favored for its modulation and effects over the EPS's sound character.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • A purchase price between $50 to $100 is deemed reasonable, considering potential maintenance issues and sound capabilities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ensoniq EPSm (SOS Jun 89)

muzines.co.uk

The Ensoniq EPSm impresses as a professional-grade rack-mount sampler with notable enhancements over its keyboard counterpart, including quadrupled memory and built-in SCSI capabilities. It offers competitive pricing against similar models like the Akai S1000, yet undercuts them in cost while providing equivalent memory capacity. The EPSm's polyphonic outputs and SCSI connectivity enable seamless integration into high-end studio setups, with rapid sample loading that rivals synthesizers. However, the absence of the poly pressure keyboard might deter live performers accustomed to the EPS keyboard's layout. While the EPSm's internal sequencer isn't as flexible as top-tier hardware options, it still offers a convenient built-in solution. Overall, the EPSm delivers exceptional value and functionality for serious studio use, offering a significant upgrade path for existing EPS users.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Stephin Merritt uses Ensoniq EPS M

Stephin Merritt

Singer, Guitarist

The Magnetic Fields

...
Verified via Discogs

Stephin is credited using this equipment in the liner notes for 69 Love Songs.

See how DJ Hard Rich uses Ensoniq EPS M

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+.

Album Usage

The Ensoniq EPS M has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

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

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