E-Mu Emulator III

$5,400.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (11)

4 Reviews

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24 saved

Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 5, 2026.

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4.0 (4)

$5,400.00 4 available Used

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Average Price: $5,400

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, E-Mu Emulator III is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Step into the world of classic digital sampling with the E-Mu Emulator III, a synthesizer that stands as a beacon of innovation from the late '80s. This iconic instrument merges digital sampling with traditional synthesis, offering musicians an expansive playground of sound possibilities. The Emulator III features 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for lush, layered compositions, and its 16-bit sampling capability ensures high-quality audio reproduction. With a built-in sequencer and a vast library of sounds, this synth is perfect for artists looking to explore vintage tones with modern precision.

The Emulator III is celebrated for its comprehensive control panel, which provides intuitive access to its wide array of functions, from editing samples to creating complex soundscapes. Its compatibility with MIDI enables seamless integration into any modern studio setup, making it a versatile tool for both live performance and studio recording. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Emulator III offers a timeless sonic palette that continues to inspire creativity.

Key Features:

16 voices of polyphony for rich, layered sounds
16-bit digital sampling for high-quality audio
Built-in sequencer for complex compositions
User-friendly control panel for intuitive operation
Extensive sound library with vintage and modern tones
MIDI compatibility for easy integration into studio setups
Classic design with robust build quality suitable for live and studio use

Product specs

Brand	E-MU Systems
Model	Emulator III 61-Key 16-Voice Sampler Workstation
Finish	Grey
Year	1987
Categories	Samplers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	16 Voices

FAQs

Is the E-Mu Emulator III suitable for live performances?: Yes, the E-Mu Emulator III is well-suited for live performances due to its 61-key full-size keyboard and 16-voice polyphony, allowing for versatile sound creation and playback.
What type of connectivity does the E-Mu Emulator III support?: The E-Mu Emulator III supports MIDI connectivity with MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI-compatible equipment.
How does the polyphony of the E-Mu Emulator III impact its performance?: With 16-voice polyphony, the E-Mu Emulator III allows for complex layering of sounds and simultaneous playback of multiple samples, enhancing its capability for intricate music production.
What is the keyboard action type of the E-Mu Emulator III?: The E-Mu Emulator III features synth action keys, which provide a smooth and responsive playing experience suitable for various playing styles.
Can the E-Mu Emulator III be used as a standalone sampler?: Yes, the E-Mu Emulator III functions as a standalone sampler workstation, capable of sampling, editing, and playing back sounds without needing additional equipment.

Videos

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INHALTVIDEO

E-MU Emulator III Demo by INHALT

INHALTVIDEO

E-Mu Emulator series: Classic Synths that Defined the 80s

Fuzz City Records

Emu Emulator III

Monkey Marc

Reviews

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PROS

Unique 16-bit analog filters offer a distinct sound
Capable of producing deep, mysterious, and romanticized sounds
Warmer and denser sound compared to the Emulator II
Multitimbral capabilities across different MIDI channels
Features a built-in 16-track sequencer and LCD screen
Can be upgraded with modern components like LED backlit MOD and Pitch wheel
Regarded as a powerful tool in the Golden Age of Hip-Hop

CONS

High price point making it less accessible
Prone to internal issues like aging flat cables and cards dislodging
Internal fans cause noise and annoyance
Some users find it too digital sounding compared to the warmer Emulator II

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about E-Mu Emulator III.

Features and functionality

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The Emulator III offers 4MB memory compared to the Emulator II's 512k, significantly enhancing sample storage and feature set.
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The built-in 16-track sequencer in the Emulator III is reportedly very user-friendly, enhancing workflow for those familiar with hardware sequencing.
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Comparisons

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The Emulator II's 12-bit playback of 8-bit samples adds a distinctive grain and texture, particularly noticeable in lower-key samples.
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While the Emax is favored by some for its sound, the Emulator III is still a studio staple, offering superior sample-making capabilities compared to the cheaper Emulator IV E64.
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Use cases and applications

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Industrial bands favored Emulator II for its unique sound, as exemplified in Depeche Mode's "Fly on the Windscreen."
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Software and compatibility

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Arturia Emulator V software is highlighted as lacking the authentic sound of the Emulator II despite its modern capabilities.
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User experience

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Owners appreciate the unique sound of the Emulator III's analog filters, which are praised for their rich tonal quality.
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5.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 11 Ratings

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cthawzrd

135

over 8 years ago

Emulator Three was a one-of-kind incomparable producer's power tool -- when it works...

In 1987, the EIII, E3 or Emulator Three from E-Mu Systems was an ambitious and remarkable music construction tool. It was a pristine 16-bit 44.1khz stereo sampler, an analog synthesizer, a 16 track sequencer with a built-in keyboard, LCD screen, and internal hard drive. Built aesthetically with the same legendary DNA as found with the original Emulator, Emulator II, Drumulator, iconic SP-12 and later, SP-1200 products -- at $12,000+ new, the E3 was a heavy-weight without competition unless you could afford a Fairlight CMI or Synclavier. My E3 has been road tested (and failed often), but as perhaps one of the 1st true Digital Audio Workstations, it was an easy, fun and high-quality tool for making great music. With just 8mb of memory (yep, that was a lot back then), it doesn't get turned on much anymore -- still, it looks good and sounds great so I will never sell it. Thank you E-Mu, the Golden Age of Hip-Hop would not be the same without you.

oleg_pankov

about 5 years ago

SOUNDWISE - A MARVEL...

...otherwise - rather unstable, inside there is a lot of flat cables, which are ageing in a bad way, and the cards, that get out of their sockets every time I calmly walk in the room the EIII in question is standing in (at least that's my impression), so the Instrument behaves in a quirky way. And every time in a different one. Very funny indeed. So now I'm searching for a good tech with an endless patience. But again: the sound of the EIII is absolutely phenomenal. It's big and breathing.

Roles:

Singer Keyboardist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Pop Synthpop

atonalmeasure

257

over 9 years ago

The EIII

My favourite sampler, second only to the underrated Prophet 2002, resonant filters, super fat sampling. Not a lot to add other than to say i used this to death on my Wintersun releases on Automatic Records release (back in the day). PS: the mac editor i had using a Macintosh SE was incredibly handy and a real must have too.