The Ensoniq Mirage is a vintage 8-bit sampler and synthesizer released in 1984.It's known for its unique, lo-fi character and affordability, making it a popular choice for creating textures and interesting sounds, particularly in electronic music genres like house.
Here's a more detailed look at the Ensoniq Mirage:
Key Features:
8-bit sampler:
It features an 8-bit sampler, which contributes to its distinctive, somewhat "grainy" sound.
Analog filters:
It incorporates analog resonant Curtis CEM3328 4-pole 24-dB/octave filters, adding to its sonic character.
Velocity-sensitive keyboard:
The 61-key keyboard is velocity-sensitive, allowing for dynamic expression.
Multi-sampling:
It supports multi-sampling, allowing users to load and combine multiple samples across the keyboard.
Floppy disk drive:
It uses a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive for loading samples and the operating system.
Sequencer:
A built-in 333-event sequencer allows for basic sequencing.
MIDI:
It has extensive MIDI implementation for integration with other equipment.
Operating System:
The Mirage uses a bootable OS stored on floppy disks, including the MASOS (Mirage Advanced Sampler Operating System).
Sound and Usage:
Lo-fi character:
The 8-bit sampling and other limitations of the era contribute to a distinct, lo-fi sound that can be difficult to emulate with modern software.
Short sample times:
The limited memory (128 KB) and sample rate (10-33 kHz) result in relatively short sample times (2-6.5 seconds), which can be used to create percussive sounds.
Sample manipulation:
The Mirage allows for various sample manipulations, including truncation, looping, tuning, and layering.
Split keyboard:
The keyboard is divided into two halves, allowing for independent instruments on each side with a movable split point.
Why it's still relevant:
Unique sound:
The Mirage's 8-bit character and limitations contribute to a distinctive sound that is sought after by many.
Inspiration:
Its limited capabilities can inspire creative sample manipulation and loop creation.
The Ensoniq Mirage is a vintage 8-bit sampler and synthesizer released in 1984.It's known for its unique, lo-fi character and affordability, making it a popular choice for creating textures and interesting sounds, particularly in electronic music genres like house.
Here's a more detailed look at the Ensoniq Mirage:
Key Features:
8-bit sampler:
It features an 8-bit sampler, which contributes to its distinctive, somewhat "grainy" sound.
Analog filters:
It incorporates analog resonant Curtis CEM3328 4-pole 24-dB/octave filters, adding to its sonic character.
Velocity-sensitive keyboard:
The 61-key keyboard is velocity-sensitive, allowing for dynamic expression.
Multi-sampling:
It supports multi-sampling, allowing users to load and combine multiple samples across the keyboard.
Floppy disk drive:
It uses a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive for loading samples and the operating system.
Sequencer:
A built-in 333-event sequencer allows for basic sequencing.
MIDI:
It has extensive MIDI implementation for integration with other equipment.
Operating System:
The Mirage uses a bootable OS stored on floppy disks, including the MASOS (Mirage Advanced Sampler Operating System).
Sound and Usage:
Lo-fi character:
The 8-bit sampling and other limitations of the era contribute to a distinct, lo-fi sound that can be difficult to emulate with modern software.
Short sample times:
The limited memory (128 KB) and sample rate (10-33 kHz) result in relatively short sample times (2-6.5 seconds), which can be used to create percussive sounds.
Sample manipulation:
The Mirage allows for various sample manipulations, including truncation, looping, tuning, and layering.
Split keyboard:
The keyboard is divided into two halves, allowing for independent instruments on each side with a movable split point.
Why it's still relevant:
Unique sound:
The Mirage's 8-bit character and limitations contribute to a distinctive sound that is sought after by many.
Inspiration:
Its limited capabilities can inspire creative sample manipulation and loop creation.