Vintage Synth Explorer

Akai • S-5000 / S-6000

The Akai S5000 and S6000 feature DOS (FAT32) disk format and .WAV files as the native sample format. Stereo WAV files are treated as a single sample (instead of two mono L/R samples) allowing easier sample editing and program creation. Any standard PC WAV file can be loaded directly for instant playback from any PC formatted hard drive attached to the S5000 or S6000 - including downloaded samples available on the Internet.

Both models feature a 64-voice system, and both are upgradable to 128-voices (U.S. Version). Improved programming options allow for up to 128 multi programs to be loaded into RAM at any one time, a 'QUICKLOAD' function to load programs directly into parts, and Akai's APM (Assignable Program Modulation) which offers a comprehensive range of new filters, flexible envelope generators, LFOs and more. The S6000 also offers programmable "user keys" which can be assigned to any page for rapid access to commonly used functions.

The S5000 features eight individual analog outputs (upgradable to 16) and a stereo master analog output, while the S6000 comes equipped with 16 + 2 analog outputs. The S6000 also includes balanced stereo input jacks which are accessible by either the rear panel connectors or via the convenient jacks located on the S6000's front panel.

The front panel of the S6000 features a removable, full-function remote control panel allowing operation from a convenient location within a 30 meter range.

Samples can be recorded into RAM or directly to hard disk. Playback from either is transparent, allowing playback of long samples directly from disk without having to load them into memory.

RAM is expandable to 256 MBytes and the operating system runs from easily upgradable flash ROM. Stereo digital I/0 is standard and both models are capable of handling up to 16 individual analog outputs which can be configured as stereo pairs. The S5000 and S6000 also include two SCSI ports. The Wordclock connector insures easy integration into an all-digital studio and an optional ADAT interface provides sixteen digital outputs.

Both models feature a large 320 x 240 LCD graphic display, with eight dedicated function keys running down both sides of the screen -- placing 16 of the most commonly used programming functions at the user's fingertips.

The Akai S5000 and S6000 offer a wide variety of storage options, including the ability to replace the standard 3.5" floppy drive with an optional, internal Zip(TM) drive. The S6000 also offers an expansion slot on the front panel for an additional 3.5" drive. The S5000 has been used by Underworld, Max Graham and ATB.

VISITOR COMMENTS

Comments page 1 of 1

Click here to add a comment

Your Name:

Email Address:

Image verification:

Message:

Posting Rules: Please keep your comments relevant! Do not post requests for help, do not use for sales, do not post unless you have something interesting to say about this instrument, or we may delete your post.

 

robbie/ ireland

Posted 5 days ago

i have 1 of these for sale s6000 v2 196 up,,ed ram

any1??

Daniel A. McCullough

Posted 51 days ago

The S5000 is the best Hardware Sampler ever made. I have two of them, fully loaded with all options. The key to success with these is having the USB card installed. This allows you to drag and drop sounds from your computer to the S5K. The free Akaisys software allows you to edit sounds with a graphic interface that is really well done. I use it to sample vintage synths with great success. Try going to www.hollowsun.com for the absolute best sounds available for it. Remember that bad samples sound bad no matter how good the machine is.

Dr Bobby Love

Posted 156 days ago

Yeah, My S5000 (long gone now) had a V2 on the screen when you booted it, If I remember correctly it was pay for upgrade. I think, if that is the case your prob stuck with what you've got I'm afraid.

Johan

Posted 212 days ago

I just changed my old S2000 for an S5000 with 256Mb RAM, CD-ROM and a 4Gb hard drive. The difference is huge! The large display with the function buttons works like a charm and editing has become a breeze. The system is extremely user-friendly and I immediately found my way around it without even having read the manual. The use of DOS formatted disks and the WAV format also is a great improvement. Just burn your WAV samples on a standard CD-ROM and the S5000 (when a SCSI CD drive is attached) will read it without any problem.

To me the S5000/S6000 is easily the best hardware sampler you can buy.

david broad

Posted 271 days ago

can you tell me if there is a version of the OS that boots with S50001/2
instead of the usual S5000?
There is a user on you tube (vendetta1414) that is able to spread a sample across the keyboard without changing the length of the sample.
an you help me ?
Dave

<1>