Ramblings on the Ensoniq esq-1

[~Quixote Chapter]

I've had this beast for about 3 days and I love it. Are there any other electrogardeners using this synth? What makes this board sound great are the true analog filters, curtis chips to be specific. This board sounds much darker then any vitual analog I've used. It can also sound very digital, if that's your bag. The Osc's are 8bit samples, and the sound they produce through those anaolog filtersis down right sleazy! The sequencer is the most user friendy I've ever used. Mine has the sequencer upgrade installed which adds a lot more storage to the beast. Musically inspiring and easy to use.

Just wanted to share my excitement over this synth!

-Kevin

[~David Vesel]

I have an Ensoniq ESQ-M, and yes I have to agree, it has a unique sound. Those lo-fi digital waves and the Curtis filters are nice.

You're fortunate, because the menu system on the ESQ-1 is very nicely laid out. The ESQ-M is a little cramped, and besides I have to sit on the floor to program it. :)

If you come up with any patches you'd like to share, I'd love to get in contact with you. I'm just starting to get into really programming it. I don't suppose anyone published ESQ-1 Programming for Dummies yet, have they?

[~nwdve]

I still remember my first encounter with the ESQ-1 at a local music store. I was amazed that someone could produce a multi-timbrel instrument and on top of that, include a sequencer! The popularity of this synth drove the industry towards the workstation market. Ensoniq made some great products, this is one of their greatest!

[~pop]

It is a nice synth. I bought my first esq-1 in '87 and SQ-80 in '88.
I still have SQ-80. It runs like a champ. I still use it many of my songs.