At first i felt a bit awkwaed with it because i was used to the sampler in reason. this sampler has a good number of featues, envelopes, etc for a sampler that is 10+ years old. the only things that i miss at times are the ability to really go crazy with cc's- the filters work well, but feel different (esp the resonance) than software based apps. other than that, good looping, extensive expandability, and scsi...

Price paid: $200 USD

UTILIZATION

It takes a little while to get used to- but depending on the task, it can be a breeze. I use mine mostly for sample chopping, breaks, drums... mapping things to the keys is a breeze once you get the hang of it

SOUNDS

I really enjoy the sounds that come out of this- although samplers dont have sounds, it always seems like the akai comes out stronger than my soft samplers- the coloration is slight, but definately present.

OVERALL OPINION

I've never had to get it repaired and it is 10 + years old... the backlights on these things go after a while, but they can be replaced for ~$50.00. Its build very ruggedly

this thing is amazing for coming up with ideas...it integrates beautifully with the pc via mesa software. If you have a midi controller, particularly an mpd or mpc, this will certainly feel like home. I use mine mostly as a drum/phrase sampler and for mixing, and dont think i'd part with mine...

Originally posted on FutureProducers.com
Posted by: Lodger ( 3-, 2006)