The Akai CD3000XL is a dedicated CD-ROM sampler that builds upon the capabilities of the S3000XL, featuring a built-in quad-speed CD-ROM drive as standard. Released as a follow-up to Akai's first CD-ROM sampler (the CD3000 from 1993), this new model combines sampling capabilities with convenient CD-ROM access for utilizing Akai's extensive sample library.

Design and Physical Layout

The CD3000XL occupies three rack spaces and follows Akai's familiar aesthetic. The front panel features a CD-ROM drive and 3.5-inch HD floppy drive on the left side, with an LCD display and soft keys in the center. Unlike previous models, Akai has removed the numeric keypad, resulting in a less cluttered control surface that generally allows for quicker operation. The data wheel, cursor navigation keys, record gain control, and main volume knob are positioned on the right side. Additional controls include Mark/Jump keys, a Name key, and an Enter/Play key for triggering samples during editing.

The rear panel includes eight separate polyphonic audio outputs plus master left/right outputs on standard quarter-inch jacks. Unlike previous Akai samplers, the left audio output when used alone does not carry a summed stereo signal. Two audio inputs on balanced quarter-inch jacks are provided (requiring an adapter for standard microphone connections), along with digital in/out connectors for audio transfer or DAT backup. A single SCSI socket allows connection of external storage devices, and standard MIDI In/Out/Thru ports are available.

Memory and Compatibility

The CD3000XL ships with 8MB of sample RAM (expandable to 32MB via standard 72-pin SIMMs) and can house up to 16MB of Flash ROM that retains data between power cycles. This Flash ROM capability makes the sampler more like a rackmount tone generator with customizable waveforms.

The unit is compatible with library material for the S900, S950, S1000, S1100, S2000, and S3000 series samplers. CD-ROMs from other manufacturers can be accessed with some necessary tweaking. However, there's no support for non-Akai floppy disk formats, which can make sample transfer via computer challenging.

Sampling Features

Sampling with the CD3000XL is straightforward, with recording that can start automatically via threshold detection, MIDI note message, or manual triggering. Both mono and stereo recording are supported from analog inputs, digital inputs, or directly from an audio CD in the drive. The sampling from the internal CD drive occurs in analog form rather than digital, requiring an external CD player with digital output for true digital sampling from audio CDs.

Sample editing includes trimming, looping with zero crossing point searches, and crossfade looping. The Akai's approach to loop points (using position and length rather than independent start/end points) may seem not optimal for some of you. Sectional editing allows extracting, cutting, or chopping portions of samples. Additional editing features include splicing, joining, fading, volume normalizing, and DSP functions like time-stretching, resampling, and equalization.

Program Modes

The CD3000XL retains both Single program mode (for backward compatibility) and Multi mode with enhanced features. Each program can utilize the sampler's synthesis features, including a resonant 12dB/octave low-pass filter. An optional IB304F filter board can provide 24dB/octave filtering if needed.

Global mode handles tuning, MIDI channel selection, DAT backup, SMF playback, and direct-to-disk recording. The unit can play Standard MIDI Files (formats 0 or 1) from DOS-compatible disks, with memory for up to 50 songs (subject to limitations).

Direct-to-Disk Recording

The CD3000XL offers direct-to-disk recording at the cost of six voices (reducing polyphony to 26 notes). Though only one "take" can be played back at once (preventing crossfades), normal sampler functions remain available during recording. Takes can be edited, processed through optional effects units, and compiled into "Songs" for sequential playback or MIDI triggering.

Storage Features

The CD3000XL features a clever "Setup" system that addresses a key limitation of CD-ROM storage. Since CD-ROMs can't be edited directly, the Setup feature allows users to save editing changes to floppy disk as small files that detail the modifications (rather than the sample data itself). When reloaded, these Setup files apply the changes to the relevant CD-ROM data, even allowing activation via MIDI program changes.

The tagging system helps manage disk data by categorizing objects with labels like "Bass" or "Favorite" for easier retrieval, with the sampler automatically ensuring that associated samples are loaded with tagged programs.

Bundled Content and Software

The CD3000XL comes with four CD-ROMs containing the S1000/S1100 sound library, S3000/S3000XL sound library, rhythm loops, and a high-quality collection of drum sounds. Akai's MESA editing software for Macintosh is included, though PC and Atari users are left without comparable tools.

The comprehensive manual covers everything from basic sampling theory to upgrade installation in a friendly, conversational manner, though it lacks an index and contains a few minor errors.

Options and Upgrades

Optional upgrades include Flash ROM expansion, the IB304F filter board, and the EB16 multi-effects board, which is an essential addition for production work due to its quality and integration with the sampler.

Technical Specifications:

• 32-note polyphony
• 8MB of sample RAM (expandable to 32MB with regular SIMMs)
• Built-in quad-speed CD-ROM drive
• Stereo outputs plus eight assignable individual outputs
• Stereo sampling from audio CD, analog inputs, or S/PDIF digital inputs
• DSP functions including time-stretching, resampling, and digital EQ
• 12dB/octave resonant low-pass filter
• Standard MIDI File (SMF) playback capability
• S/PDIF DAT backup and real-time output
• Optional upgrades include up to 16MB of Flash ROM, 4-channel multi-effects processor (EB16), and additional filter card (IB304F)
• Four bundled CD-ROMs with extensive sound libraries

Conclusion

You will not be disappointed by an Akai sampler and the CD3000XL will be no exception. The Setup approach removes the traditional inflexibility of CD-ROM-based sampling, while the inclusion of sampling inputs (unlike the previous CD3000) allows beginners to start with CD-ROM libraries and move into true sampling without changing equipment. This machine is praised as a superb sampler with all the expected Akai editing and synthesis facilities, with optional upgrades allowing customization to personal requirements and budget.