Akai

Akai truly made its mark in the 1980s by delivering innovative, reliable samplers that quickly became staples for keyboard players and producers. Their S-series samplers, like the S900 and S1000, were groundbreaking, offering high-quality sampling at a more accessible price point than competitors, with easy-to-use interfaces and powerful editing features. This dominance made Akai synonymous with sampling, particularly in genres like hip-hop and electronic music, where the Akai MPC series became legendary for its combination of sampling and sequencing capabilities.

In 1988, Akai expanded its focus, introducing digital effects processors to complement their sampler lineup. Notable among these were the Akai PEQ6, a programmable equaliser that allowed keyboard players to tailor their sound with precision, and the Akai AR900, a digital reverb unit known for its versatility and depth. These units, while not as widely celebrated as Akai’s samplers, showcased the brand’s commitment to providing comprehensive audio solutions. Still, it was Akai’s samplers that left the biggest legacy, defining the sound of entire music genres and maintaining their status as a go-to choice in studios worldwide for years.