On Thursday, GameSpot News reported that Creative Technologies and E-mu Systems had moved to sue ESS Technology and Diamond Multimedia Systems for an apparent breach of US Patent entitled: "Digital Sampling Instrument Employing Cache Memory."

　　On Friday, both companies named in the suit responded to the allegations:

　　Fred Chan, chief executive officer at ESS Technology, commented, "The lawsuit is related to the wavetable incorporated in ESS's Maestro-2 audio chip and Diamond Multimedia's Sonic Impact S70 sound card. We have reviewed the patent and believe we do not infringe. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves in the lawsuit and we are exploring all available legal options."

　　James M. Walker, senior vice president and chief financial officer at Diamond Multimedia said, "Diamond Multimedia is confident of ESS Technology's claim of non-infringement. The Sonic Impact S70 is an exciting new audio product incorporating cutting-edge PCI technology with a competitive price point. This suit in no way effects our launch of the Sonic Impact S70 and shipments will continue as planned."