Ableton has released Sampler ($199), a sampling instrument available as an upgrade within Live 6. Sampler offers processing and modulation capabilities, disk preloading technology, and access to Ableton's Essential Instrument Collection.

It also imports common sample formats, including Akai S1000, S3000, GigaStudio, EXS, SoundFont, and (non-encrypted) Kontakt.

You can take a tour of Sampler here.