Emax II is a true 16-bit sampler with more polyphony, it also uses digital filters and components.

The Emax II which was released in 1989 brought the Emax series up to modern specs with 16-bit sampling, 16-voice polyphony, 16 MIDI channels, stereo samples, 1MB RAM expandable to 8MB, SCSI, 8 assignable outputs and the SE's synthesis functions.

The E-Mu Emax II is a 1MB mono 16-bit sampler. Its maximum sample rate is 39kHz but it can play back samples created at 44.1kHz. The filter is 24dB/oct and, while digital, sounds as good as analog. It is also controllable in real-time, which at the time was a major breakthrough. The Emax II also has very robust SCSI implementation that makes it compatible with many external drives (Syquest removable media, MO drives, CD drives, and hard drives with a maximum partition of 540MB). It can send and receive clock signals. When slaved, it accepts 24, 48, or 96 ppq with pulses at least 1ms wide and 1 to 5 volts. When sending clock, it sends 24 ppq at 5 volts and 6ms wide.

The sample time on the Emax II with 1MB is 26.1 seconds (20.000kHz), 23.7 seconds (22.050kHz), 18.9 seconds (27.778kHz), 16.8 seconds (31.250kHz), & 13.4 seconds (39.0625kHz).

There are also some undocumented, hidden features on this keyboard, available by selecting the master module. Select it and then choose option 9. Then choose 9 again even though only 1-8 are offered as selections. When prompted for a password, enter 3629 (EMAX on the touchpad). Here are the undocumented functions:

Features: Polyphony: 16 voices (or 16 mono voices with stereo chorus) Sampler: 16-bit Memory: 1MB (expandable to 8MB) LFO: Yes Arpeg/Seq - 16-track sequencer; arpeggiator Keyboard: 61 notes (with velocity and poly pressure messages) Effects: Chorus Control: 16 MIDI channels 5 Octave velocity sensitive keyboard 14 Velocity curves Velocity control over Volume, Amplitude Attack, Filter Cutoff, Filter Q, and Filter Attack 3.5" Floppy disk drive (double sided, double density disks) Internal and external SCSI connection (internal HD power supply) 32 Character Backlit LCD RS-422 Computer Interface port MIDI In MIDI Out/Thru Programmable Arpeggiator 16 Track Sequencer 1/4" Clock In 1/4" Clock Out 2 Programmable wheels (real-time pitch, cutoff, attack, level, and LFO modulation control) 2 1/4" Footswitch Ins 1 1/4" Foot pedal In 1 1/4" Audio In 1 Stereo 1/4" Headphone Out 1 1/4" Mono Mix Out 2 1/4" (1 stereo pair) Outs 6 1/4" (3 stereo pair) Sub Outs: L and R stereo or Tip-output and Ring-effect return Date Produced: 1989

Product specs

FAQs

What is the polyphony capability of the E-Mu Emax II?

The E-Mu Emax II offers 16-voice polyphony, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously, which is ideal for complex compositions and layered sounds.

Does the E-Mu Emax II support MIDI connectivity?

Yes, the E-Mu Emax II includes MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI-compatible devices and software.

What type of keyboard action does the E-Mu Emax II have?

The E-Mu Emax II features a synth action keyboard, which provides a smooth and responsive feel suitable for a variety of playing styles.

How many keys are on the E-Mu Emax II?

The E-Mu Emax II is equipped with a full-size 61-key keyboard, offering a wide range of notes for performance and recording.

Is the E-Mu Emax II a digital or analog instrument?

The E-Mu Emax II is a digital sampler workstation, designed to capture and manipulate sounds digitally for versatile music production.