E-MU PROTEUS 2000

($995)

When E-mu released the Proteus/1 in 1989, its innovative design helped define the synth module category. On subsequent models, E-mu tinkered with and fine-tuned the original concept, but with the release of the Proteus 2000, the company has taken the line to an entirely new level. This single-rackspace unit is loaded with 32 MB of internal sounds (eight times as much as the Proteus/1), and three expansion slots for adding an additional 96 MB of samples. What's more, it offers 128-note polyphony (four times the amount on the original Proteus), and features two sets of MIDI ports, allowing it to respond on up to 32 different MIDI channels at a time. Add two 24-bit effects processors, a powerful set of editing tools, six analog outputs (four of which can be used as effects sends and returns), and an S/PDIF out, and you have yourself one powerful piece of gear.

While some manufacturers might have rested on their laurels with such a hefty feature set, E-mu went the extra nine yards and designed a friendly and clever user interface. Sound Navigator and Riff are innovative features that make it easy to find and audition sounds among the unit's 1,024 factory presets. Four Real-Time Control knobs make it simple to quickly tweak a patch without having to delve too deeply into the editing functions.

Of course, the bottom line for any synth is sonic quality, and the Proteus 2000 does not disappoint. Its synth engine offers depth and complexity, and its presets are, for the most part, extremely impressive. When you consider what this module has to offer and then look at its modest list price, it's clear why E-mu has given us yet another award winner.