Akai S2800
A professional rackmount MIDI stereo digital sampler with 32-voice polyphony and high-resolution audio conversion.
Overview
The Akai S2800 is a rackmount digital sampler designed for professional music production. It was engineered to deliver high-fidelity sound using advanced conversion technology shared with the MPC3000, making it a cost-effective alternative for studio use. The unit supports sampling rates of 44.1kHz and 22.05kHz, with stereo 16-bit linear sampling and 64x oversampling for improved audio clarity.
Specifications
| Product type | rackmount sampler |
| Sampling resolution | stereo 16-bit linear with 64x oversampling |
| Sampling rates | 44.1kHz, 22.05kHz |
| Internal processing | 28-bit |
| D/A conversion | 20-bit with 8x oversampling (L/R) |
| Polyphony | 32 voice |
| Default sample RAM | 2Mb (2 slots, 1+1Mb) |
| Max sample time | 44.56s (using unexpanded memory) |
| Storage | 3.5-inch 2HD/2DD floppy disk; SCSI (optional via IB-301S SCSI board standard on the S2800i) |
| Keys | 0 |
Design
The S2800 uses the same converters as the MPC3000, contributing to its high-quality audio output. It is part of a series of 3U rackmounting samplers from Akai, designed for integration into professional studio setups.
Context
The S2800 was noted for delivering sound characteristics similar to the MPC3000 at a lower cost, making it accessible to more studios. It was used by professional musicians and producers, including those working with Janet Jackson. Its sound quality was considered transformative for digital equipment of the era.
Market
The original price was C$1,433.83. Current market values range from $240.00 to $400.00 USD, with some listings at C$478.23 and $349.23.
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