Emu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1: A Versatile Dance Sound Module

The E-mu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1 is a powerful dance-oriented sound module housed in the same 1U rack design as Emu's flagship Proteus 2000. Sporting a distinctive satsuma-colored faceplate, this 64-voice, 16-part multitimbral module packs 32MB of onboard sampled ROM sounds and combines retro-inspired synthesis with modern production features.

The XL1 represents E-mu's venture into dedicated dance music territory, offering a wealth of authentic early '80s analog punch alongside futuristic soundscapes. It maintains the slim, compact dimensions of its Proteus predecessors but adds significant enhancements like an elongated display and four real-time control knobs for hands-on sound manipulation.

At its core, the XL1 delivers an impressive collection of 512 preset sounds spanning multiple categories. While basses, pads, keyboards, and drum sounds form the backbone of the library, the module surprisingly excels with brass stabs, grainy Rhodes phrases, and guitar riffs that rival dedicated sample collections. Some sounds are borrowed from Emu's older Orbit module, which might disappoint existing Orbit owners looking for completely fresh content.

The XL1's sound architecture is impressively deep, with each preset comprising up to four independent "layers," each with its own sampled instrument, Z-plane filter (with 50 different types available), and extensive modulation options. The module features over 64 modulation sources and destinations, connected via 24 virtual patch cords, allowing for incredible sound design flexibility.

Real-time control is a significant focus, with four multi-function knobs typically controlling filter cutoff, resonance, envelope attack, and effects parameters. These knobs operate in three banks (effectively giving 12 controls) and can be assigned to numerous parameters, encouraging experimentation and live tweaking.

One of the XL1's standout features is its Super Beats mode, an evolution of the Beats mode from the Orbit module. This 16-track play-only sequencer allows for on-the-fly song creation, with individual tracks assigned to specific keys on the keyboard. Users can trigger kick drums, snares, percussion, and instrument sections independently or in groups, making it particularly appealing for live performance and DJ applications.

The module also boasts 16 independent arpeggiators with extensive customization options. Beyond the standard up, down, and random patterns, the XL1 includes 200 factory patterns and 100 user-definable styles, all of which can be synchronized to MIDI clock or tapped in manually.

Effects processing is handled by two stereo processors, with 44 reverb types in processor A and 32 flange, distortion, delay, and chorus effects in processor B. In multitimbral mode, these processors function like external studio effects units, receiving varying amounts of signal from each of the 16 parts.

The XL1 does have some limitations, notably the single stereo output on the basic model. For additional connectivity, users need to purchase the Turbo Board upgrade, which adds four more outputs (as two stereo submixes), an extra set of MIDI In/Out sockets, and S/PDIF digital out. The module also features a single SIMM socket for sound expansion, with the Turbo Board increasing this to four slots.

Operation is relatively straightforward thanks to the larger display and intuitive category-based sound selection. The Audition key is particularly useful, playing appropriate musical phrases for each preset, which can even be transmitted via MIDI for integration into compositions.

Overall, the Emu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1 delivers high-quality, dance-oriented sounds with exceptional programmability and live performance features. While it may not satisfy traditional GM sound requirements, it excels at creating authentic analog-style sounds and contemporary dance music textures, making it an enticing option for both studio producers and performing DJs.

Emu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1 Technical Specifications

General

• Type: Dance-oriented sound module
• Form Factor: 1U rack mount
• Faceplate Color: Satsuma orange
• Display: Compact LCD screen

Sound Engine

• Polyphony: 128 (expanded with 64-Voice Turbo Board)
• Multitimbrality: 16-part
• ROM: 32MB of sampled sounds
• Presets: 512 factory presets, 384 user memory locations
• Sound Categories: Bass, Pad, Key, Hit, Drum, Lead, Arpeggio, Super Beats, etc.

Sound Architecture

• Layers: Up to 4 per preset
• Filters: 50 different resonant and modeling filter types
• Modulation: 64+ modulation sources and destinations
• Routing: 24 virtual patch cords per preset

Controls

• Real-time Controls: 4 physical knobs with 3 banks (12 assignable parameters)
• Default Knob Functions: Filter Frequency Cutoff, Filter Resonance, Shape (volume/filter envelope attack), Image (pitch/glide/chorus)
• Data Entry: Large data-entry wheel
• Navigation: Directional cursor buttons

Features

• Super Beats Mode: 16-track play-only sequencer for on-the-fly song creation
• Arpeggiators: 16 independent arpeggiators with 200 factory patterns and 100 user-definable styles
• Audition Key: Plays appropriate musical phrases for each preset, transmittable via MIDI

Effects

• Effects Processors: 2 stereo effects processors
• Effects Types: 44 reverbs (Processor A), 32 flange/distortion/delay/chorus effects (Processor B)
• Effects Routing: 4 effects busses (2 per processor)

Connectivity (Basic Model)

• Audio Outputs: 1 stereo pair (¼" jacks)
• Headphone Output: 1 (¼" jack)
• MIDI: In, Out, Thru

Expansion Options

• Internal Expansion: 1 socket for sound-set upgrades
• Turbo Board Upgrade: Adds 4 more outputs (2 stereo submixes), extra MIDI In/Out, S/PDIF digital out, increases expansion slots to 4

The Emu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1 represents a significant evolution in Emu's sound module lineup, building on their legacy while adding features specifically tailored to dance music production. While it maintains the compact form factor of its predecessors, the bright orange faceplate signals its focus on contemporary electronic music styles.

What sets the XL1 apart is its blend of retro authenticity and modern flexibility. The sound library spans from faithful TB303, Moog, and ARP recreations to cutting-edge textures, all enhanced by the extensive modulation and filtering options. The impressive Z-plane filters, with exotic names like "Meaty Gizmo" and "Angel Hairz," offer creative sound-shaping possibilities far beyond typical analog emulations.

The module's four real-time control knobs transform it from a preset player into a genuine performance instrument. Whether tweaking filter cutoffs during a live set or programming complex modulation routings in the studio, the XL1 provides accessible hands-on control that encourages experimentation.

For electronic music producers, the Super Beats mode is particularly valuable, allowing for intuitive creation and manipulation of rhythm patterns directly from a MIDI keyboard. Combined with the sophisticated arpeggiator system, it enables producers to rapidly generate complex musical patterns that would traditionally require extensive sequencing.

Despite its strengths, the XL1 does have shortcomings. The basic model's single stereo output is a significant limitation for a 16-part multitimbral instrument, requiring the Turbo Board upgrade for more flexible audio routing. Additionally, the PDF-only manual format may frustrate users without consistent computer access, especially in live performance contexts.

Nevertheless, the Emu XL1 Xtreme Lead 1 delivers exceptional value for dance music producers and performers, offering a comprehensive toolkit for creating authentic retro sounds and contemporary electronic textures in a compact, performance-ready package.