Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .

Average Price: $240

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

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Description

"The Ensoniq SQ-1 is a digital synthesizer based on ROM waveforms (a ROMpler). It is patch-compatible with the Ensoniq SQ-2 (the 76-key version with the same engine) and the Ensoniq KS-32. It is also available in rackmount form as the SQ-R.

21-note and 32-note-polyphonic versions of the SQ-1 exist. The models are SQ-1, SQ-1 Plus, and SQ-1 Plus 32-voice. The plus versions have improved piano sounds.

It contains a set of 9 transwaves that can be used for wave sequencing." (soundprogramming.net)

Craig Friebolin

Craig Friebolin

Ensoniq SQ-1 - Sound Demo - Allentown, PA

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq SQ-1 - Sound Demo - Allentown, PA by Craig Friebolin

Ensoniq SQ-1 - Sound Demo - Allentown, PA

Craig Friebolin

Craig Friebolin

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq SQ-1 - "Mirage" Soundset 80 Presets by LFOstore

Ensoniq SQ-1 - "Mirage" Soundset 80 Presets

LFOstore

LFOstore

Video thumbnail for Ensoniq SQ1 ambient demo by MIDERA

Ensoniq SQ1 ambient demo

MIDERA

MIDERA

Video thumbnail for ENSONIQ SQ1 - ANO 1990 - FACTORY SOUNDS by TIAGO MALLEN #tecladismo #teclas #keyboard by Tiago Mallen

ENSONIQ SQ1 - ANO 1990 - FACTORY SOUNDS by TIAGO MALLEN #tecladismo #teclas #keyboard

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ensoniq SQ-1.

Features and functionality

  • The SQ-1 lacks real-time control and involves significant menu diving, which is not ideal for users seeking hands-on patch programming.

    Source
  • The 8-track MIDI sequencer is praised for its capability to drive a DAW-less setup effectively, especially given current alternatives at similar price points.

    Source
  • The built-in 8-track MIDI sequencer is praised as a standout feature, offering value typically found in more expensive equipment.

    Source
  • Users appreciate the preset bank for its variety of sounds, enhancing the synthesizer's versatility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Unlike the Proteus, the SQ-1 mostly uses single wave cycles and transwaves, offering a different sound character.

    Source
  • The SQ-1, DW-8000, and ESQ-1 differ from the Proteus in orchestral realism due to the latter's reliance on samples.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for those interested in darker, unique sounds rather than traditional orchestral tones.

    Source
  • The SQ-1 is used successfully as a primary MIDI controller due to its distinct pitch wheel effect, despite lacking polyphonic aftertouch.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners have found SQ-1 units at significantly lower prices, such as $49, suggesting varied market value.

    Source
  • SQ-1 units have been found for as low as £100 in mint condition, indicating the potential for affordable acquisition.

    Source
  • Owners report the SQ-1 Plus often sells for around $200, highlighting $100 as a particularly good deal.

    Source

Build quality

  • The pitch wheel is noted for its unique feel and sound, enhancing the internal sounds when used as a MIDI controller.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners describe the sequencer workflow as intuitive and a great introduction to sequencing, despite the 7000 event limit.

    Source
  • Described as a "VERY nice synthesizer," the SQ-1 Plus is noted for its unique and desirable sound palette.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Joel Ford uses Ensoniq SQ-1

Joel Ford

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Ford & Lopatin

...
Verified via Villagevoice

From an interview with The Village Voice about Ford and Lopatin. "Dan [Lopatin] played Juno 60 and I played manual / unsequenced drums on an Ensoniq SQ1 that we borrowed from the high school music department."

Genre Usage

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

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