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The mR-76 is an exceptional performance/composition synthesizer. I have been a fan of ENSONIQ synthesizers since the introduction of the SQ1. I was also impressed with the TS series, however, until the introduction of the mR series, I have only toyed with these synthesizers at the local music stores. I have spent the last 5 years composing with a Korg O1W. This synthesizer served its purpose well, but it was now time to abandon it for something more. I looked at Kurzweil, Roland, and Korg, but I knew that this time it was going to be an ENSONIQ. I was originally considering the TS12(I've had my eye on this one for 2 years), until I discovered the mR-76. It took only a little bit of research and experimentation with it in the store before I was sold. Now that I have had one at home for a few weeks to really learn how to put it to use, this is what I think: It sucks! Just kidding. Among the most noteworthy features include: WEIGHTED ACTION. In my opinion it certainly beats Roland, whose weighted action is rather sluggish. However, I do prefer the feel of the Kurzeil 2500 series only slightly more. IDEA PAD. A very clever and useful innovation for composers. DRUM/RHYTHM SAMPLES. A major factor in my purchasing decision. These are the best I've ever heard on a synthesizer! Absolutely amazing stuff! In fact, ENSONIQ overdid these. Buy one and you'll know what I mean. ACOUSTIC PIANO SAMPLES. The hardest sound to duplicate is that of an acoutic piano. Time and time again I've been disappointed with what synthesizers have had to offer in the past. But not anymore. The Concert Grand and Stereo Grand are worth a listen, but listen carefully. You'll even hear the sound of the original keys being released as you lift your fingers! Again, the only other synthesizer to surpass this is the Kurzweil(the mR is a very close second), however, that does not qualify, as it is in a class of synthesizers priced between $4,500 - $12,000. I like the sound of an acoustic piano, but not that much. For the cost of the mR, you won't find any other synthesizer in the same category that will surpass it. QUANTIZING. It not only quantizes, but offers a vast selection of quantizing styles that make your sequences lifelike. EXPANDABILITY. Enough said. GOOD SAMPLES: The noteworthy samples are: bass, string section, organ.
Among the less than remarkable features include: SCREEN DISPLAY. This is a rather unsophisticated looking display. The fact that it offers only two lines of information at a time is terribly annoying. POOR SAMPLES. The unremarkable samples include: brass solo/section, string solo. RANGE. Although 76 keys constitutes about 99% of anyones performing range, I would love to have a full 88 keys. I suppose this is being rather trivial, especially when you consider the 76 doesn't even fit in an 88 key gigbag!
All in all the mR is a well thought out synthesizer. In comparison to all synthesizers that I have come in contact with, I'd give it a weak B+. However, in comparison to other synthesizers within its class, it definately deserves an A. Final note. The best part of owning an mR-76 is that I'd like to think ENSONIQ had me in mind when naming it. : )
Mark Rosenmeier
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