E4XT Ultra Rackmount Sampler

Introduced in the late '90s as E-mu's top-tier rackmount sampler, this beast set a new standard with its Ultra hardware architecture, powered by a blazing-fast 32-bit RISC processor that delivers pinpoint MIDI timing and seamless sampling workflows.

The E4XT Ultra packs 128 voices of polyphony standard, letting you stack massive layers without voice stealing, alongside stereo audio inputs/outputs, a headphone jack, versatile filters, dual envelopes and LFOs, and a deep mod matrix for sound sculpting. It ships with a 3.2GB internal IDE hard drive and 64MB RAM expandable to 128MB, plus options like the RFX-32 effects processor for over 40 dual 24-bit stereo algorithms, and up to 8 balanced analog outputs (expandable to 16) with AES/EBU and word clock I/O. Navigation is straightforward via a large backlit LCD and dedicated buttons for layers, splits, arpeggiator, and more, though it leans menu-heavy without real-time knobs—perfect for studio pros who dig into the mature EOS operating system.

Studio users and producers have long praised its transparent sampling quality, robust build, and pro connectivity that rivals the Akai S6000, with many highlighting the tight timing and expansive sound design potential in complex sessions. A few note the learning curve for effects routing and wish for onboard CD-ROM, but those who master it swear by its reliability for everything from intricate sequencing to vintage organ emulations.