Akai S5000 (1998)
Professional 16-bit digital sampler with 320x240 LCD and expandable memory, released in October 1998.
Overview
The Akai S5000 is a MIDI stereo digital sampler manufactured by Akai Professional and released in October 1998. It succeeded the S3000 series and shares a product line with the S6000, using a different architecture from its predecessors. The unit features a 320 x 240 pixel backlit LCD with eight dedicated function keys on both sides and individual control keys around the screen, supporting parameter editing with on-screen graphics. It runs from upgradable flash ROM and includes a 'QUICKLOAD' function for loading programs directly into parts. The S5000 supports multis, programs, and samples in its workflow and allows stereo WAV files to be treated as single samples. It can load up to 128 multi programs into RAM simultaneously and supports direct sample recording to RAM or hard disk, with transparent playback from either.
Specifications
| Form Factor | 3-space rack unit |
| Dimensions | 483 mm x 410 mm x 133 mm |
| Weight | 8.9 kg |
| Standard Sample Memory | 8 MB |
| Max Sample Memory | 256 MB (via 4x 72-pin SIMM slots, 64 MB each) |
| Bit Depth | 16-bit |
| Sample Rate | 44.1 kHz to 48 kHz |
| Maximum Polyphony | 64 (expandable to 128 with VOX64 Voice Expansion Board) |
| Multitimbral Parts | 32 |
| Screen | 320 x 240 pixel backlit LCD |
| Power Consumption | 28 watts |
| Converters | 18-bit A-D with 64x oversampling (5th Order Delta Sigma), 20-bit D-A with 128x oversampling (Delta Sigma), 8x digital filter on all outputs |
| Filters | Resonant, 26 types |
| LFOs | 2, with 9 different waveforms |
| Connectors | 8x Audio Out, 2x Audio In, 2x MIDI In, 2x MIDI Out, 2x 50-pin SCSI, Wordclock I/O, Stereo digital I/O |
| Analog Outputs | Eight individual analog outputs (upgradable to 16), stereo master analog output |
| Storage | Standard 3.5" floppy drive, replaceable with optional internal Zip(TM) drive; supports DOS (FAT32) disk format |
| Native Sample Format | .WAV |
| Sample Storage Capacity | Up to 8GB |
| Effects | SampleVerbII (EB20) 20-bit 4-channel multi-effects processor (upgrade) |
| Compatibility | Reads Akai S1000 and S3000 series sound libraries |
| Control | MIDI, including MIDI clock, MIDI sync, and MIDI control |
| Keyboard | None |
| Editing Tools | Waveform editor, loop editor, pitch editor |
| Features | Built-in sequencer, APM (Assignable Program Modulation) with flexible envelope generators, LFOs, and filters |
Design
The S5000 uses a front-panel layout with a large 320 x 240 LCD graphic display and eight dedicated function keys on each side, along with individual keys around the screen for fast navigation. Its interface supports graphical parameter editing in the center of the display. The unit’s architecture differs from the S3000 series and is considered more sophisticated than earlier Akai samplers. It features Akai’s APM system for deep modulation routing and includes a flash ROM-based operating system for easy updates. Samples can be recorded directly to disk or RAM, with seamless playback from either source.
Context
The Akai S5000 followed the S3000 series, which was introduced in 1993 and offered optional CD-ROM support. It is part of a series that includes the S6000, with both models covered under a shared operator’s manual. The S5000 represents a later evolution in Akai’s professional sampler line, designed for studio use with expanded memory, improved file handling, and modern connectivity.
Market
Used units were available for about $300 as of January 2019, though listing prices vary widely. Common issues include power supply failures, such as popped capacitors near the PSU, and backlight or encoder failures. Replacement parts include the PSU and transformer interface board, backlight LEDs, encoder, main board, LCD inverter PCB, and rack ears. Upgrades include USB floppy emulators, ZuluSCSI drives, and OS update disks. Damaged units may still have salvageable components like the VOX64 board, USB board, or internal effects modules.
eBay Listings
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