DPM SP Sample Playback Synthesizer

Back in the early '90s, this rackmount gem stood out for packing CD-quality sample playback into a compact 1U chassis, expandable to a massive 32MB RAM via standard 30-pin SIMMs—letting you load longer loops and multisampled instruments without breaking the bank.

At its core, it delivers 16-voice polyphony with deep layering: build Tones from up to 200 samples, map them across non-overlapping Zones with transposition, pan, and volume tweaks, then stack two Maps per Preset for switching or crossfading via velocity, mod wheel, aftertouch, or any MIDI controller. A single LFO with unique waveforms adds modulation flair, while SCSI lets you stream samples from PC software or Akai S1000 libraries, and multi-timbral mode handles 16 MIDI channels with voice priority groups to keep critical parts sounding full. Controls are front-panel intuitive for editing, with 128 RAM patches plus disk/tape storage, all in a sturdy black metal case built for live rigs.

Owners loved its sound quality and expandability over pricier samplers like the Akai S950, calling it a "wicked little unit" for studio and stage, though editing stayed basic without advanced looping like crossfades.