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Average Price: $342

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$249

$700+

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Description

Discover the Akai S20, a versatile audio sampler designed specifically for DJs and music producers seeking a reliable tool for crafting dynamic soundscapes. This compact powerhouse combines the convenience of a standalone unit with the essential features needed for live performances and studio sessions. With its intuitive interface and robust sampling capabilities, the S20 allows musicians to capture and manipulate audio effortlessly, making it a staple in any DJ setup.

Equipped with a 16-bit linear sampling engine, the Akai S20 offers high-quality sound capture that is both clear and dynamic. This ensures that your samples, whether from external sources or the built-in microphone, maintain their original sonic integrity. Its memory capacity supports up to 16 samples, providing ample space for creativity without overwhelming complexity. The unit also features a user-friendly layout with straightforward controls, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned professionals.

The Akai S20 is equipped with MIDI compatibility, allowing seamless integration with other gear in your setup. Its compact design makes it perfect for on-the-go musicians, ensuring that you can take your creativity anywhere without sacrificing functionality. Whether you're looking to create intricate beat patterns or layer rich textures, the S20 delivers the flexibility and precision you need.

Key Features:

  • 16-bit linear sampling engine for high-quality audio capture
  • Supports up to 16 samples for extensive creative options
  • MIDI compatibility for seamless integration with other gear
  • User-friendly interface with straightforward controls
  • Built-in microphone for convenient sampling
  • Compact design ideal for both studio use and live performance

Product specs

Brand Akai
Model S20 Stereo Phrase Sampler
Finish White
Year 1997
Made In Japan
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Samplers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 8 Voices

FAQs

What is the sample rate range for the Akai S20?

The Akai S20 offers multiple sample rate options, including 4kHz, 8kHz, 16kHz, and 32kHz, allowing for varied sound quality and file size management.

Does the Akai S20 support MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the Akai S20 features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, enabling it to integrate seamlessly with other MIDI-compatible devices for enhanced performance and control.

How many voices of polyphony does the Akai S20 have?

The Akai S20 provides 8 voices of polyphony, allowing you to layer multiple samples or play complex sequences without voice dropouts.

Can the Akai S20 sample in both mono and stereo?

Yes, the Akai S20 is capable of sampling in both mono and stereo, giving you flexibility in how you capture and playback audio samples.

Is the Akai S20 suitable for live DJ performances?

The Akai S20 is well-suited for live DJ performances due to its compact size, ease of use, and ability to trigger samples quickly, making it a versatile tool for dynamic sets.

tblv9300

tblv9300

akai s20 sampler

Video thumbnail for akai s20 sampler by tblv9300

akai s20 sampler

tblv9300

tblv9300

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 Sampler • How To • Basic Functions (2023) by 100% BOOTLEG

Akai S20 Sampler • How To • Basic Functions (2023)

100% BOOTLEG

100% BOOTLEG

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 Sampler - Initial Thoughts By The Daydream Sound by The Daydream Sound

Akai S20 Sampler - Initial Thoughts By The Daydream Sound

The Daydream Sound

The Daydream Sound

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 Tutorial/Demonstration - How to use the S20 as a MIDI Sound Module by LUGO “beats by lugo”

Akai S20 Tutorial/Demonstration - How to use the S20 as a MIDI Sound Module

LUGO “beats by lugo”

LUGO “beats by lugo”

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 Stereo Sampler - Secret LoFi Weapon Resampling by vintagestereos

Akai S20 Stereo Sampler - Secret LoFi Weapon Resampling

vintagestereos

vintagestereos

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 Drums from vinyl - gritty - boombap - hiphop by Tommy Vamoz

Akai S20 Drums from vinyl - gritty - boombap - hiphop

Tommy Vamoz

Tommy Vamoz

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 as LoFi MIDI Sound Module by LUGO “beats by lugo”

Akai S20 as LoFi MIDI Sound Module

LUGO “beats by lugo”

LUGO “beats by lugo”

Video thumbnail for Akai S20 - Sound Comparison: Resampling down from 32kHz to 4kHz by LUGO “beats by lugo”

Akai S20 - Sound Comparison: Resampling down from 32kHz to 4kHz

LUGO “beats by lugo”

LUGO “beats by lugo”

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai S20.

Comparisons

  • The Akai S20 is noted for its thin, tinny sound, unlike other Akai models like the S2000 or S3000, which offer a more robust audio quality.

    Source
  • The SP-808, while cumbersome for chopping, offers a built-in VA synth and Roland effects, making it a potential alternative if priced right.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Akai S20 requires an external MIDI sequencer for effective use due to limited internal capabilities.

    Source
  • Holding a sample pad while adjusting start/end points can create a lo-fi time stretch effect as the S20 retriggers the sample.

    Source
  • Lowering the sample rate on the S20 can achieve a crunchy sound reminiscent of a 4-bit audio resolution.

    Source

User experience

  • RAM DIMMs in the Akai S20 are prone to corruption, impacting long-term reliability.

    Source
  • The S20's A/D converters are criticized for poor sound quality, affecting the sampler's overall audio performance.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The S20 is less recommended for modern use; more suitable options include the Roland SP 404A, Novation Circuit Rhythm, or MPC 500.

    Source
  • The S20's sequencer is often deemed ineffective; it's best utilized for MIDI or real-time triggering instead.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Akai S20

soundonsound.com

The Akai S20 is a well-rounded sampler that combines ease of use with an attractive price point, making it a great entry-level choice for musicians and DJs alike. With its expandable memory and solid sound quality at 32kHz, it offers both versatility and power. However, its basic 4-digit display and lack of certain features like ADSR envelope editing and panning might deter some advanced users. The lack of external storage options could also frustrate those working with large sample libraries. Despite these drawbacks, the S20 is an impressive tool for live use and quick idea generation, offering a good balance of quality and functionality for the price.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 7 Ratings

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nicccccccc

chop master

pretty OK machine! does what it's supposed to do. has a cool crunch function ("resample") sequencer sucks.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Diplo uses Akai S20

Diplo

Music Producer

Major Lazer

...
Verified via Photo

"My first 'real' set up was an Akai S20 that I stole from [a music store] in Orlando. I was so nervous I didn’t leave my house for a week because I thought the police were waiting outside!"

via uaudio

See how !llmind uses Akai S20

!llmind

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube
See how Mika Vainio uses Akai S20

Mika Vainio

Composer, Music Producer

Pan Sonic

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Mika Vainio is pictured with an Akai S20 sampler, a device used for drum sequencing.

See how Simeon Coxe uses Akai S20

Simeon Coxe

Singer, Keyboardist

Silver Apples

...
Verified via Villagevoice

Can be seen to the left of The Simeon, albeit very blurrily. Taken from a 2008 performance in New York.

See how Jimi Tenor uses Akai S20

Jimi Tenor

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Jimi's official site lists the S20 as one piece of gear he's either used in the past or is currently using.

See how Sachiko M uses Akai S20

Sachiko M

Singer, Music Producer

GROUND-ZERO

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live video of her in her band Cosmos you can see her with the S20 vary clearly at 5:11. She is well known for using an "Empty Sampler" where she uses the internal test tones of the sampler rather then any samples.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai S20, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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