
( Brand: Ensoniq ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: S4016-VIVO-A ), ( Model: S4016 5 ), ( Part Type: Card ), ( Form Factor: Plug-in Card ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States ), ( Compatible Port: Isa )
The Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is a professional-grade ISA sound card designed by Ensoniq, a leading manufacturer in the field of audio technology. This particular model, with the catalog number 4001032201, is known as the S4016 Vivo, and was released in 1996.
The S4016 Vivo is a 16-bit stereo sound card, providing high-fidelity audio output for computer systems. This sound card is especially appealing to musicians, producers, and audiophiles, as it offers a rich, clear sound quality that enthusiasts have come to expect from Ensoniq.
With up to 1 MB of total RAM (256 KB on-board and an additional 768 KB expandable through an external memory module), the S4016 Vivo ensures low latency performance for sequencing and mixing applications. It supports multiple audio formats, including WAV, AIFF, and Ensoniq's proprietary AC3 format.
Spatial audio capabilities enable 3D positional audio, providing an immersive listening experience for games and multimedia content. The S4016 Vivo comes with a bundled software package, including CoolEdit 96 (now known as Adobe Audition), Cubase VST, and WaveLab 3.0. These applications are essential tools for recording, editing, and mastering digital audio.
This sound card features a versatile input/output configuration, allowing for up to 8 channels of digital and 8 channels of analog input and output. It supports various interfaces, such as MIDI, DIN Sync, and S/PDIF, making it a versatile solution for numerous audio applications.
The Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is housed in a compact yet durable steel case, ensuring stable and reliable operation in professional environments. Installation is simple, with a standard ISA interface for easy installation into your computer.
In summary, the Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is a valuable addition to any computer system or recording studio. Its high-performance capabilities, advanced features, and immersive sound quality make it a top choice for musicians, producers, and audio enthusiasts.
The Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A, model number 4001032201, is a popular choice for audio professionals and enthusiasts looking for a high-performance ISA sound card. Though it's an older model, it still offers excellent features and solid performance. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase:
Pros:1. Superior Sound Quality: The Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is renowned for its superior sound quality, making it an excellent choice for recording and producing music or gaming with high-fidelity audio.
2. Surround Sound Capabilities: This sound card supports 3D positional audio and multi-channel surround sound, providing a more realistic and immersive audio experience.
3. X-Fi Processing: This sound card utilizes Creative Labs' X-Fi technology, allowing users to take advantage of advanced processing effects like reverb, EQ, and spatialization to enhance their audio experience.
4. Low Latency: Its low latency design makes it suitable for real-time audio recording and interactivity, especially in MIDI sequencing and Virtual Instrument applications.
5. Versatile I/O: This sound card offers a variety of input and output jacks for various peripherals, including microphones, line-level inputs, MIDI ports, and speaker output jacks.
Cons:1. Aging Technology: As an older sound card, it may not be compatible with some newer systems and software, and may require external power adapters to function.
2. Lack of Digital Output: The absence of a digital output may be a drawback for users desiring S/PDIF or TOSLink connectivity for high-definition surround sound systems.
3. Limited Software Support: Some newer software and games may not be optimized for older sound cards like the S4016-Vivo A.
4. Expensive: Compared to modern sound cards, the S4016-Vivo A may offer a higher price point due to its age and specialty features.
5. Form Factor: This sound card adheres to the ISA form factor, which can be superseded by newer standards like PCI and PCIe, limiting potential upgrade paths and compatibility.
In conclusion, the Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is a high-performance ISA sound card with excellent sound quality and versatile I/O options. Its superiority lies in its support for surround sound, X-Fi processing, and low latency, making it a valuable investment for music production, multimedia, or gaming. However, its aging technology and potential incompatibility issues may be drawbacks for those seeking the latest features and wide software support.
Recommendation:The Ensoniq S4016-Vivo A is an excellent choice for users requiring a high-performance sound card with S/W surround support, X-Fi processing, and low latency for professional music production, multimedia applications, or serious gaming. Users with newer systems or those desiring digital audio output and wide software support may want to consider newer, modern sound cards to meet their needs.
May have cosmetic wear and/or scuffs. Standard signs of use. Removed from a working system. Includes CD audio cable.
See photos for more detail. Vintage 1996 Ensoniq S4016 Vivo Mark 5 ISA Sound Card S4016-VIVO-A, item. Includes only what is pictured.