It DOES have a sampler, or at least, a sample playback capability.

Just like DAW's, few actually do the sampling in the keyboard, nowadays. It's easier to do the recordings for the sampling session with a DAW, and edit the samples in software, and THEN transfer to the sample player, IMO.

But the T3 supports up to at least 512MB RAM, possibly 1GB. Just don't expect it to load up that fast...

The MAJOR disadvantage of the Tyros' sampler is that Yamaha only support .wav file import or their own proprietary format, so you can forget about nice easy Akai multisample import. It really is a HUGE step backwards for ease of use and availability of good content.

However, Yamaha promise to step up the availability of sampled voice sets in their own format, so at least a trickle more content (compared to the flood of Akai titles) should be forthcoming...