Isla SP-2400 reimagines iconic E-mu SP-1200 sampler

Isla SP-2400 reimagines iconic E-mu SP-1200  sampler

Isla SP-2400 is designed to be the next-generation E-mu SP-1200 which is one of the most legendary samplers of all-time.

One of the key aspects of the new Isla SP-2400 is that it features two separate audio engines, one that captures the essence of the original E-mu SP-1200 by using 12-Bit/26.04khz Lo-Fi converters, and the other with a cleaner modern sound.

They’ve also added live-sampling and looping capabilities all designed around similar workflow and functionality of the classic E-mu SP-1200.

Another great aspect is that there’s no limit to sample time, the original was made before portable memory like flash drives and SD cards, so they dated VERY quickly – although that’s part of the characteristic of the sound, having the option to expand the memory in a sampler is quite essential in this day-and-age.

Pitching of samples on the classic E-mu SP-1200 wasn’t very intuitive, you could either choose a fifth or full octave up and down, however on the new Isla SP-2400 they’ve introduced various modes – to capture the classic effect or allow more much finer control.

The original also had terrible plastic trigger pads, while the remake introduces silicone MPC style pads.

The sound of The Prodigy and Daft Punk…

The sound of the E-mu SP-1200 is classic, it can be heard in almost all genres of early electronic music. Acts such as The Prodigy and Daft Punk are known for their use of the E-mu SP-1200.

The fact that there is modern hardware that appeals to that classic sound, with modern capabilities and quality is great. It might not be everyone’s cup-of-tea, however I know a few people who would kill for this.

The Isla SP-2400 has traditional 5-pin DIN MIDI and USB to hook directly up to a computer, there’s also a USB host port to plug in a flash drive to transfer samples to the device. It’s also got individual outputs or a main output for options.

It’s retailing for USD $949 (Around R13 600 Excl. duties) and it’s only available on pre-order as it’s currently still under development, however for more information check out the Isla Instruments website here.