Paixwool,
Assuming the only thing wrong with the VFX-SD you purchased is the calibration error problem, it is the unit that you want - based on your comments on what you do want. Disregarding the on-board sequencer and programming capabilities, it allows you to simply select what instrument (patch) you want to play and you play it. Here is my first and foremost suggestion:
First - Go to the Ensoniq Group home page. Click on File located in the Menu on the left-hand side of the page. When the new page loads, click on the Tools folder about the fifth one down. When the new page loads download the documents in this section relating to the calibration error fix.
Second - Contact a local music store that does repairs on keyboards and guitars in general, take the documents relating to the fix in to them and see what they would charge you to accomplish the fix. It is simply a jumper wires and soldering fix. I have a friend who got his fixed here locally for $30. Just be sure it is a reputable electronic repair shop. You would be shocked to know how many technicians dont know how to solder properly.
Now, you asked about samplers. Here are three links to a good three-part article that will tell you all you ever wanted to know about sampling and more.
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/1996_articles/jan96/samplebasics1.html
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/1996_articles/jan96/samplebasics1.html
http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/1996_articles/mar96/samplingbasics3.html
Again however, based on your comments I believe you are in possession of the keyboard that you are desiring. And you are correct about the Ensoniq sounds (patches). That is one of the main things that made Ensoniq keyboards so desirable. You also need to get yourself a manual for your VFX if you dont have one. You can purchase one of those at the following link:
http://www.hometown.aol.com/mishon66/manualsE.html
Maybe some others here have suggestions as well. Hopefully this will help to some degree.
Alan
----- Original Message -----From: paixwoolSent: Saturday, March 05, 2005 8:11 AMSubject: [Ensoniq-VFX-SD] Need some advice!
Hello. About a year ago, I asked you all about the VFX SD I own and
the problem of "calibration error". You gave me good advice about
repairing it, but---it is now a year later, and it still hasn't been
fixed because I haven't the nerve or know-how to do this.
I explained at the time that I simply play it; I have no knowledge,
or use, for the other capabilities of this instrument. I know, go
get another, simpler keyboard! Problem is, I LOVE the sound of this
thing (when it used to work!) and cannot make myself even consider
another brand. But---the more I read online about all the Ensoniq
models, the more I need a glossary to explain what I am reading about!
Or, at least, a website that will explain, in layman's terms, what a
particular model will provide. For instance, I see on
Ebay, "sampler" keyboards----what are they, what can they do, and how
do they differ from "sound stations"? All I want is an Ensoniq, with
that MARVELLOUS sound that will put out a variety of instruments, not
just piano, but without all the composing/arranging capabilities.
Can anyone here give me a clue?