Retrosound
The machine, explored from within.
A developer’s approach to the instrument: understand its data and playing rules, then make them available to musicians.
The instrument
DANA explores the E-mu Emax I and II through native bank data, parameter tables and selected original system material. Targeted reverse engineering informs the reconstruction; this is not a claim that every physical component or every original function has been reproduced.
Banks and presets
Explore 363 native bank resources in DANA. Choose a bank, then one of its presets: each bank has its own selection of sounds. The original native files are preserved.
Your own recordings
A verified starting point is mono 16-bit PCM WAV at 44.1 kHz in Chrome. Work on copies and keep original banks and recordings. A format name alone is not a guarantee that every variant is supported.
Projects and local storage
Use DANA’s project export to preserve your work outside the browser. Local storage depends on site origin and browser profile. Keep an exported copy before changing browser profiles or clearing browser data.
A fixed instrument in an adaptable frame
DANA retains its original 1280-pixel-wide layout. The surrounding page adapts to the screen, with zoom and movement controls. Opening an instrument panel increases the page height rather than rearranging the instrument.
Delivery formats
The browser demonstration is available. VST3 and Audio Units are planned downloadable formats; an iOS application is a later project. These are not announced as files currently available to buy or download. For the browser demonstration, use Chrome on a computer. Compatibility with Safari and iOS is not confirmed.
Why DANA?
DANA honours Dana Massie, co-designer of the E-chip with Dave Rossum. The name connects musical experience with the engineering behind the original instrument. E-mu and Emax identify the historical references; no affiliation or endorsement is claimed.