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Description

Dive into the world of sonic versatility with the Ensoniq MR Rack, a powerhouse sound module that offers a robust palette of sounds for musicians and producers alike. Whether you're a seasoned synth enthusiast or a studio newcomer, this unit is designed to complement any setup with its powerful MR sound engine. The MR Rack is renowned for its diverse sound library, showcasing a blend of acoustic and electronic textures that are perfect for any genre.

This module boasts a comprehensive array of patches, featuring everything from lush orchestral strings to gritty synth leads. Its intuitive interface provides easy access to sound parameters, making on-the-fly adjustments a breeze during live performances or studio sessions. The Ensoniq MR Rack also supports a wide range of MIDI configurations, ensuring seamless integration with your existing gear.

With its advanced effects processing capabilities, the MR Rack empowers you to shape your sound with precision. From reverbs and delays to dynamic modulation effects, this sound module is an all-in-one solution for musicians looking to expand their sonic horizons. Its robust build ensures reliability, making it a trusted choice for live gigs and studio use alike.

Whether you're crafting ambient soundscapes or driving beats, the Ensoniq MR Rack is your gateway to a world of musical possibilities.

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive MR sound engine with diverse sound patches
  • Intuitive interface for quick sound manipulation
  • Wide range of MIDI compatibility
  • Advanced effects processing for sound shaping
  • Robust build for reliable performance in various settings

Product specs

Brand Ensoniq
Model MR Rack 64-Voice Expandable Rackmount Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1996
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 64 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Ensoniq MR Rack use?

The Ensoniq MR Rack is a digital synthesizer that uses sample-based synthesis, providing a wide range of sounds and textures suitable for various musical styles.

How many voices of polyphony does the Ensoniq MR Rack offer?

The Ensoniq MR Rack offers 64 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes without note dropouts during performance.

Can the Ensoniq MR Rack be expanded with additional sounds?

Yes, the Ensoniq MR Rack is expandable, allowing users to add more sound cards for additional patches and sonic variety.

What MIDI connectivity options are available on the Ensoniq MR Rack?

The Ensoniq MR Rack includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through ports, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-equipped devices and controllers.

Is the Ensoniq MR Rack suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Ensoniq MR Rack is well-suited for live performances, offering robust sound capabilities and reliable MIDI connectivity for versatile stage setups.

Sound Programming

Sound Programming

Ensoniq MR-Rack Synthesizer Demo Songs

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR-Rack Synthesizer Demo Songs by Sound Programming

Ensoniq MR-Rack Synthesizer Demo Songs

Sound Programming

Sound Programming

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR Rack - Exploring the Presets - MVM #83 by Midiverse - TV

Ensoniq MR Rack - Exploring the Presets - MVM #83

Midiverse - TV

Midiverse - TV

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR Rack Demo Songs All EXP Boards [HD Audio] by mystical sapling

Ensoniq MR Rack Demo Songs All EXP Boards [HD Audio]

mystical sapling

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR Rack 2017 EXP-1 The Real World Expansion Synthesizer Synth Rik Marston by Rik Marston Official

Ensoniq MR Rack 2017 EXP-1 The Real World Expansion Synthesizer Synth Rik Marston

Rik Marston Official

Rik Marston Official

Video thumbnail for Overview | Ensoniq MR Rack 64-Voice Expandable Synthesizer by Thoughtful Clips

Overview | Ensoniq MR Rack 64-Voice Expandable Synthesizer

Thoughtful Clips

Thoughtful Clips

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR-Rack 64 Voice Expandable Sound Module: Why I Use It - Part 1 by Powercoat Music

Ensoniq MR-Rack 64 Voice Expandable Sound Module: Why I Use It - Part 1

Powercoat Music

Powercoat Music

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq MR Rack - the ultimate Transwave Synth? by Franz Kreimer Keys

Ensoniq MR Rack - the ultimate Transwave Synth?

Franz Kreimer Keys

Franz Kreimer Keys

Video thumbnail for Franz Kreimer Keys is jammin´with the Ensoniq MR Rack by Franz Kreimer Keys

Franz Kreimer Keys is jammin´with the Ensoniq MR Rack

Franz Kreimer Keys

Franz Kreimer Keys

Video thumbnail for ENSONIQ MR RACK - ROM-SOUND PRESET DEMO by EMU Mania

ENSONIQ MR RACK - ROM-SOUND PRESET DEMO

EMU Mania

EMU Mania

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Setup and maintenance

  • Replacing the MR Rack's EPROMs can be challenging, but modern editors fix its limited synth engine interface access.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MR61's idea pad is a real-time MIDI recorder that logs keystrokes and can auto-detect tempo, enhancing workflow efficiency.

    Source
  • The MR61's drum machine allows real-time variation and fill recording, akin to Ableton's legato mode, enabling complex sequence creation.

    Source
  • The MR Rack with the EXP-3 add-on offers additional sound capabilities, providing unique sonic textures not available in the base version.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The Urban Dance card adds transwaves and waveforms, expanding the MR61's sound engine capabilities.

    Source
  • Replacing the LCD backlight on the Wavestation A/D is feasible, with replacements still available, enhancing its usability.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Halo, part of the Emu Proteus 2000 line, offers a deep sound engine with extensive arpeggio and beats modes, unlike the MR61's more traditional setup.

    Source
  • The Yamaha SPX90 was a studio standard for 80s pop and rock, providing effects that complement the MR Rack's vintage sounds.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Halo's ROM alone is valued at around $200, making it a worthwhile purchase at a total of $250.

    Source

User experience

  • Using MIDI Sysex transfer with the MR Rack allows for the easy customization and sharing of patches, expanding creative possibilities for users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Midiverb 4 can produce dense reverbs with tails up to 99 seconds, ideal for ambient settings when paired with the MR Rack.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Ensoniq MR

soundonsound.com

Ensoniq's MR Rack offers a robust sound selection and innovative features, but its reliance on software for in-depth sound editing may not appeal to hands-on sound designers. The unit excels with its user-friendly interface and impressive effects, featuring Ensoniq's ESP2 chip. However, its GM mode can be temperamental, and the absence of controller inputs is a notable drawback. While it competes with Roland's JV1080, the MR Rack's unique sounds and expandable options make it a solid choice, albeit with some limitations. Ideal for those who prioritize playing over programming, but may frustrate those seeking full on-board editing capabilities.

4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how DJ Jazzy Jeff uses Ensoniq MR Rack

DJ Jazzy Jeff

Music Producer, DJ

The Roots

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video at 3:31 he shows ensoniq mr.

See how Yoko Shimomura uses Ensoniq MR Rack

Yoko Shimomura

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture, Ensoniq MR Rack Sound Module can be seen back in the fly-case between the Roland JV-2080 and the E-Mu UltraProteus.

See how Yasunori Mitsuda uses Ensoniq MR Rack

Yasunori Mitsuda

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Archive

"I bought this rack just for the piano sound, but lately I've found an even better piano sound, so I don't use it too much anymore. Also, the bad point about this module is that it tends to pick up SMPTE noise. This is mainly due to weak power supply and it's usually fixed by changing outlets, but having to change outlets each time I use this for a recording is tiresome, to say the least."

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 Rack, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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