Akai's S20 Stereo Phrase Sampler starts out looking like a table-top version of the lackluster S01. Major improvements include STEREO input and outputs and far greater memory expansion (up to 17 MB) and of course, the sequencer. The standard 1 MB can sample between 7 to 56 seconds. Upgrading to 17 MB lets you sample from 131 seconds (Stereo 32kHz) to 1048 seconds (Mono 8kHz)! The S20 is a budget desktop phrase sampler targeted towards DJs and home project studios; and the S20 offers excellent value for the price.

An onboard 3.5 inch high density floppy disk drive allows for samples to be interchanged with higher-end Akai samplers or loaded onto a computer for further editing. There are some caveats, however, and these include absolutely no onboard effects whatsoever and a rather poor built-in sequencer. It is also worth noting that the unit uses RCA jacks instead of 1/4 inch stereo plugs, which may be useful to some and irritating to others. Nonetheless, pair the S20 up with a decent sequencer and an outboard effects box or filter (if desired) and you've got a nice, cheap, and functional little sampler.

michaelphibes

July 24, 2012 @ 1:03 am

wow i got this for bout $100 and i love it. i figured out how to use it quickly everything is is at your fingertips just use sum sense.the sampling quality is phenomenal. i dont think ill get rid of this ever.u can tune all your samples with quite a nice range up or down.the sequencer is better than mentioned by vse. all samples made sound better than most samplers ive owned.for the price u pay its too good to be true. i would pay 250 its worth it.

b2d327

January 1, 2012 @ 9:18 pm

I've owned one of these since 98 and wouldn't part with it for anything. Love the "crunchiness" and ease of use. I even check ebay now and then to pick up a spare (just in case; maybe try switching out the floppy drive for a card reader) but they're getting harder to find. I'm guessing most owners like it as much as I do.

MooseHead

December 12, 2011 @ 1:42 pm

I'm looking to buy one of these sexy machines, but I can't find any on eBay that are working or aren't over-priced.
If any of you are interested in selling me one, please, send me a mail @ mooseheadmoosic [at] gmail [dot] com

AkaiS20

October 7, 2011 @ 6:36 am

What mixing outboard effects box/filter i should use with this??

olvus

February 17, 2011 @ 11:55 am

Thanks
http://mpcakai.blogspot.com/

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