For sale: Akai S900 – the legendary 12-bit sampler from 1986 that helped shape the sound of golden-era hip-hop and electronic music. Known for its punchy, gritty, and warm sound, especially thanks to its variable sampling rate and unique analog filters. A true classic studio workhorse that adds character to any drum or synth sound you put through it.

Condition and modifications:

This unit has been heavily upgraded and serviced for modern studio reliability and workflow, fixing all the common issues associated with these vintage samplers:

• Storage Upgrade (Gotek): The unreliable original floppy drive has been replaced with a Gotek USB emulator running the highly regarded FlashFloppy firmware.
• Included USB Drive & Sound Libraries: Comes with a 16GB MicroSD to USB adapter pre-loaded with classic Akai S900 sound libraries ready to load (including SL5000, PSL9xxx Proclub, UK Sound Library, and SL5xx in HFE/IMG formats). Plug and play!
• Display: Brand new custom Blue OLED display installed. It features adjustable brightness and is perfectly readable from any angle. No more faded screens or buzzing backlights/inverters!
• Power Supply Upgrade: The original, heavy, and notoriously buzzing transformer has been replaced with a brand new, high-quality Toroidal transformer (see photos). The sampler now runs completely silent, much cooler, and is significantly lighter.
• Serviced Power Board: A complete recap (all capacitors replaced) has been performed on the power board to guarantee long-term stability and clean power delivery.
• System Check: Fully functional. RAM diagnostic test passed without any issues (see photos).
• Power: EU 220V/230V version.
• Cosmetic condition: There is slight wear on the chassis consistent with the age of the instrument, but overall it is in very good cosmetic shape. Please review the photos carefully. 
• Rack Ears Included: The original rack ears are currently detached for desktop use, but they are included in the sale and will be safely packed in the box.

Tech info:

• Polyphony: 8 voices
• Sampling: 12-bit linear, variable sampling rate (7.5 kHz to 40 kHz)
• Memory: 750 kB (approx. 11.75 seconds of sampling time at max rate)
• Filter: Analog low-pass VCF (controlled by 6-stage envelope)
• Storage: Gotek USB Floppy Emulator (FlashFloppy firmware)
• Outputs: Stereo Main (L/R/Mix) + 8 individual voice outputs
• Control: MIDI IN/OUT/THRU
• Year of production: 1986