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Average Price: $500

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$500

$1501+

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High-end

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Description

The Ensoniq MR-61 is a classic synthesizer that blends vintage charm with modern performance, making it a favorite among musicians who crave versatility in their sound creation. With 61 velocity-sensitive keys, this synthesizer offers a responsive playing experience that captures every nuance of your performance. The MR-61 is renowned for its rich sound palette, featuring a robust selection of patches that span a variety of genres, from lush pads to punchy leads.

Its architecture is powered by Ensoniq's advanced digital synthesis engine, allowing for deep sound sculpting. Musicians appreciate the intuitive interface, which includes a large backlit display that simplifies navigation through its extensive features. The MR-61 also incorporates a built-in sequencer, making it perfect for composing and arranging music directly on the device.

Connectivity is seamless with MIDI compatibility, allowing you to integrate the MR-61 into any studio setup effortlessly. The inclusion of onboard effects such as reverb, chorus, and delay provides additional creative options to enhance your sound. Whether you are performing live or producing in the studio, the Ensoniq MR-61 stands out as a reliable and versatile tool for any musician's arsenal.

Key Features:

  • 61 velocity-sensitive keys for dynamic expression
  • Advanced digital synthesis engine
  • Built-in sequencer for on-board composition
  • Large backlit display for easy navigation
  • MIDI compatibility for seamless integration
  • Onboard effects including reverb, chorus, and delay
  • Extensive library of patches covering a wide range of sounds

Product specs

Brand Ensoniq
Model MR-61 64-Voice Expandable Keyboard
Finish Black
Year 1996
Made In United States
Categories Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 61 Keys
Polyphony 64 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Ensoniq MR-61 use?

The Ensoniq MR-61 utilizes digital synthesis with a 64-voice polyphony, making it versatile for complex sound layering and rich texture creation.

Is the Ensoniq MR-61 suitable for live performances?

Yes, with its 61 full-size keys and synth action, the Ensoniq MR-61 is well-suited for live performances, offering a range of expressive control for dynamic playing.

Can the Ensoniq MR-61 be expanded with additional sounds?

Yes, the Ensoniq MR-61 is an expandable workstation, allowing you to incorporate additional sound cards to enhance its sonic palette.

How does the MIDI connectivity on the Ensoniq MR-61 work?

The Ensoniq MR-61 features MIDI input, output, and through ports, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible devices for enhanced control and sequencing.

What are the standout features of the Ensoniq MR-61's sound engine?

The MR-61's sound engine is notable for its rich, high-quality digital sounds and the ability to layer and split voices, providing a wide range of creative possibilities for musicians.

Steve Sisson

Steve Sisson

ENSONIQ MR-61

Video thumbnail for ENSONIQ MR-61 by Steve Sisson

ENSONIQ MR-61

Steve Sisson

Steve Sisson

Video thumbnail for Reflection - Ensoniq MR 61 only by Daniel Pierzecki (atarens)

Reflection - Ensoniq MR 61 only

Daniel Pierzecki (atarens)

Daniel Pierzecki (atarens)

Video thumbnail for Exploring Ensoniq MR-61 (No Talking) by Todd Smith Music

Exploring Ensoniq MR-61 (No Talking)

Todd Smith Music

Todd Smith Music

Video thumbnail for ENSONIQ MR-61 by Livermore Film Productions

ENSONIQ MR-61

Livermore Film Productions

Livermore Film Productions

Video thumbnail for I Love Ensoniq, Ensoniq Synth Showcase (MR-61,SD-1,ESQ-1) by Todd Smith Music

I Love Ensoniq, Ensoniq Synth Showcase (MR-61,SD-1,ESQ-1)

Todd Smith Music

Todd Smith Music

Reviews

Critic Reviews

Ensoniq MR

soundonsound.com

The Ensoniq MR-61 shines with its intuitive user interface and rich, expansive sound library, rivaling the likes of Roland's JV1080. Its standout feature is the SoundFinder, which simplifies sound selection, making it a user-friendly option for musicians. The inclusion of Ensoniq's ESP2 chip ensures impressive effects, adding depth to its audio capabilities. However, the lack of full front-panel sound editing may deter hardcore sound designers. The need for a software editor to access extensive sound customization is a downside, though mitigated by the unit's exceptional factory sounds. Overall, the MR-61 is a strong contender in its class, offering versatility and high-quality audio performance.

positive
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 7 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
G

Great but underrated synth

Great, fat sounding, easy to use synthesizer. Got it after TS-10 and like it more

max_mars

Great vintage workstation

The Ensoniq MR-61 was my first piece of professional grade equipment. I would rate it higher, except that there is no longer support for it. That being said, it is a fairly easy to use workstation, has rich sounding patches, and some excellent bass sounds. I now have two of these, and am looking forward to syncing them with my Electribes.

ronaldcaramit

Versatile 90's workstation

I like in this keyboard: Idea Pad, Rhythm machine. The sequencer is not so intuitive like TS-10.But is a excellent workstation.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Linsi_ana uses Ensoniq MR-61

Linsi_ana

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video titled "Linsi_Ana - Love," Lindsay Rhoades, known as Linsi_ana, is seen using the Ensoniq MR-61 synthesizer for songwriting.

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 MR-61, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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teodor_pop

teodor_pop

Gear IQ 135

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