Classic Recording Studio Gear

Vintage Digital

Sampler

Released in 1984
France’s contribution to recording studio effects, the Publison Infernal Machine 90, Stereo Audio Computer. The Publison Infernal Machine 90 is a computer-based audio processor released around 1984, from a company based in France.
Released in 1984
The Ensoniq Mirage Rackmount Sampler, released in 1984, was one of the first affordable digital samplers, known for its distinctive 8-bit sound and simplicity. Its built-in 8-track sequencer and MIDI capabilities made it a popular choice, shaping the sound of 1980s electronic music.
Released in 1986
The Akai S900 is an 8-voice digital sampler with up to 32 sampling points and a frequency range of 7.5 kHz to 40 kHz. It offers up to 63.3 seconds of sampling time, advanced editing features, and supports MIDI mono mode multitracking. With a 20 kHz frequency response and extensive MIDI connectivity, it’s ideal for both studio and live use.
Released in 1988
With its unique Dynamic Digital Filtering system, 32-point stereo sampling at rates of up to 50 kHz, voice layering capability, and a robust 1.5 MB internal memory (expandable to 3, 4.5, or 6 MB), the Yamaha TX16W stands out among other samplers in its class. It offers all these features in a sleek rack-mountable unit with a built-in 3.5″ floppy disk drive.
Released in 1988
The Akai S1000 is a legendary sampler known for its CD-quality sound, advanced editing features, and full MIDI integration. Its flexibility and compatibility with AKAI S900 disks made it a studio favourite, solidifying its status as an industry-standard tool for producers and musicians.
Released in 1988
The Ensoniq EPS-M is a MIDI system offering 13 built-in sounds, 20-note polyphony, and advanced looping and editing. With up to 16 tracks and MIDI auto-mix, it’s ideal for creating and editing music. It features ten line outputs and supports external storage up to 5 GB, making it a powerful, flexible tool for musicians seeking high-quality sounds and sequencing capabilities.
Released in 1990
The Ensoniq EPS-16+ is a powerful digital sampling workstation featuring 16-bit sampling, 24-bit dynamic effects processing, and a built-in 16-track sequencer. With sampling rates up to 44.6 kHz, 20-voice polyphony, and advanced sound design capabilities, it offers exceptional control for music production and live performances.
Released in 1992
The Ensoniq ASR-10R Advanced Sampling Recorder is a groundbreaking digital sampling rack unit that sets a new standard in workstation integration. With its revolutionary 24-bit dynamic effects processing and the ability to monitor, sample, and resample through onboard effects, the ASR-10R transforms sampling into an expressive and musical experience.
Released in 1997
The Yamaha A3000 Professional Sampler is a powerful tool for break-beat and phrase sampling, featuring a triple-block effects system, user-friendly interface, and expandable options such as digital I/O and up to 128 MB of additional RAM. Ideal for both studio and live performance, it offers extensive sound-shaping capabilities and intuitive control.
Released in 2000
The Yamaha A4000 Professional Sampler is a powerful tool for sound creation, featuring 16 filters, 96 effects, Loop Divide/Remix functions, and real-time controls. With expandable RAM, broad sample format compatibility, and Direct-to-CD burning, it’s ideal for advanced music production and live performance.
Released in 2000
The Yamaha A5000 goes beyond traditional sampling with 16 filters, 96 effects, and advanced resampling. It offers real-time control, a user-friendly interface, and compatibility with formats like AIFF and WAV. Expandable up to 128 MB RAM and featuring Loop Divide/Remix and direct-to-CD burning, it’s perfect for music production and live use.