Akai Professional Force

^# 37

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$977.24 to $1,499.00

4.5 (11)

3 Critic Reviews

3 Reviews

Find out who is using Akai Professional Force

4 community setups

6 wishlisted

44 saved

Page last updated Jun 21, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated June 21, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

4.0 (7)

$1,299.00

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$1,499.00

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5.0 (20)

$977.24 1 available New

$492.00 22 available Used

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Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Akai Professional Force". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Transform your music production experience with the Akai Professional Force—a standalone sampler and sequencer that redefines creative autonomy. Whether you're producing in the studio or performing live, the Akai Force empowers you with a comprehensive, DAW-like experience without the need for a laptop. At the heart of this powerhouse are four built-in synth engines from AIR Music Technology, offering deep editing capabilities for everything from bass to ambient soundscapes.

The Akai Force is more than just a production tool; it's a hub of innovation. With its 7" multi-touch display and 8 x 8 velocity-sensitive pad matrix, you can launch clips, manipulate effects, and navigate your projects seamlessly. The device offers powerful sampling capabilities with real-time time stretching and pitch shifting, making it ideal for DJs and live performers. Plus, its integration capabilities are top-notch, featuring CV/Gate and MIDI I/O for seamless connectivity with other hardware and modular synthesizers.

For those already immersed in the Ableton Live ecosystem, the Akai Force offers unparalleled integration. Save your standalone work as Ableton Live Sets and take advantage of wireless synchronization through Ableton Link, bridging the gap between standalone operation and DAW-based workflows.

Whether you're crafting beats, designing synth patches, or launching an electrifying live set, the Akai Professional Force is your all-in-one solution for music production innovation.

Key Features:

Standalone sampler/sequencer with Ableton Link compatibility
7" multi-touch display and 8 x 8 velocity-sensitive pad matrix
CV/Gate and MIDI I/O for integrating with other hardware
Real-time time stretching and pitch shifting
Four built-in synth engines from AIR Music Technology
Onboard arpeggiator and intelligent chord, progression, and scale options
Over 10GB of included sounds, with additional sample loading via USB, SD card, or SATA drive
Comprehensive sampling and looping capabilities
Deep integration with Ableton Live for seamless workflow transitions

Product specs

Brand	Akai
Model	Force
Finish	Black
Year	2019
Categories	All-in-One DJ Systems

FAQs

Is the Akai Professional Force suitable for standalone music production?: Yes, the Akai Professional Force is designed for standalone use, meaning it does not require a computer. It features an 8x8 clip-launch matrix, 7" touch display, and built-in synth engines, making it ideal for live performances and music production on the go.
What are the connectivity options available on the Akai Professional Force?: The Akai Professional Force offers a variety of connectivity options, including mic/instrument/line inputs, 4 audio outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and 4 CV/Gate outputs. It also features USB slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers and an SD card slot for additional storage.
Can the Akai Professional Force be used with Ableton Live?: Yes, the Akai Professional Force has deep wireless integration as a controller for Ableton Live, allowing seamless interaction with the software for enhanced music production and performance capabilities.
Does the Akai Professional Force support real-time time-stretching and pitch-shifting?: Yes, the Akai Professional Force features automatic BPM detection, real-time time-stretching, and pitch-shifting, enabling users to manipulate audio tracks and samples efficiently during live performances or studio sessions.
How much onboard storage does the Akai Professional Force have?: The Akai Professional Force comes with 16GB of onboard storage, including over 10GB of sound content. Additionally, it has a user-expandable 2.5" SATA drive connector for SSD or HDD, allowing for further storage expansion.

Videos

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In The Mix

Akai Force Review and Demo

In The Mix

Your First Hour With Akai Force - A Complete Beginner's Tutorial

Maxipok Music

AKAI FORCE I Live Performance I The Inevitable

Nick Trikakis

FORCE Features Update 3.1 Full Overview Video

AkaiProVideo

Akai Pro Force - Workstation - Test

Elevator DJ

FORCE In Session | Ansome

AkaiProVideo

Force Academy | Chopping Samples

AkaiProVideo

Akai Pro Force Sound & Performance Demo (no talking)

Bonedo Synthesizers

AKAI FORCE live set Techno Improvised 100%

Alex Fain

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional standalone Ableton-like experience, suitable for DAWless writing and performance
Comprehensive sound and sequencing capabilities surpass similar devices
Continuous updates enhance functionality and introduce new features
Hands-on control with knobs provides tactile production experience
High-quality sampling with up to 128 tracks of MPC sampling
Versatile connectivity options, including USB hub support for multiple devices
Integrates well with various music production workflows, especially for those familiar with MPC
Extensive on-board synth plugins, including VA and wavetable options

CONS

Lacks certain features like triple meter and full song mode
Some users find workflow initially challenging to adapt to
Touchpad can be unresponsive, requiring alternative controls
MIDI adapters necessary, which can be inconvenient
Limited to two audio inputs, which may be restrictive for some users
Additional charges for new synths may not appeal to everyone
Absence of a spectrum analyzer among available effects

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Professional Force.

Software and compatibility

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Recent software updates have significantly improved the Force, adding features like flex beat, native instrument plugins, and stem separation.
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External audio interface support is inconsistent, with some devices losing functionality after firmware updates, requiring users to consult forums for compatibility information.
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The Force does not support USB MIDI out without additional hardware, requiring a USB MIDI interface or using MIDI over Ethernet with a network switch.
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Some users experience MIDI clock drift when syncing external gear, suggesting the Force's internal clock for better synchronization.
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Features and functionality

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The 'Live control' mode for Ableton is limited compared to Push, reportedly due to Ableton not wanting to compete with their own hardware, per an Akai employee.
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The sample pool concept is poorly documented, but users found that loading directly into the sample pool without track assignment is possible by holding shift during browsing.
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Users report that the Akai Force lacks a 'controller mode' for DAW control, unlike Maschine or MPC, affecting integration with software like Ableton Live.
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The Akai Force is praised for its powerful clip-based sequencer with 64 pads, built-in synths, and extensive effects, though some users wish for a tilt screen.
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The Force's 8 assignable knobs include dedicated screens that display parameter assignments and values, enhancing ease of use and workflow efficiency.
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Limited to 8 audio tracks simultaneously, which can be restrictive for users wanting extensive live performance capabilities.
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There's a demand for more accessible shortcuts for grid changes and sample editing, as current menu navigation can disrupt workflow.
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Mods and upgrades

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Custom progressions and arpeggios can be added, though users caution about potential performance issues when using arpeggios extensively.
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Installing a 2TB SSD significantly boosts the Force's performance, offering faster operation and expanded storage capacity for samples and plugins.
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Users suggest using a Behringer UM1820 with an ADA8200 to expand input capabilities to 16, allowing for more complex setups.
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User experience

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Owners appreciate the Force's ability to quickly incorporate live instruments like driven bass guitar into compositions, facilitating a more organic creation process.
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Owners highlight frequent discoveries of new features even after months of use, indicating a steep learning curve and deep functionality.
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Comparisons

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While similar to the MPC in some respects, the Force excels in EDM production with pad-based step sequencing and live DJ setups, differentiating itself from the MPC line.
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Use cases and applications

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Users highlight the Force's capability to seamlessly integrate with eurorack systems, allowing for intuitive loop recording and soundscape building.
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Setup and maintenance

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Stereo connections require two 1/4" mono cables for left and right signals, crucial for full stereo sound on monitor speakers.
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Critic Reviews

Akai Force

soundonsound.com

The Akai Professional Force is a compelling standalone workstation that cleverly merges the workflows of MPCs and Ableton Live, offering a robust clip-based production experience. Its connectivity options are impressive, allowing seamless integration with various audio sources and devices. However, the lack of an internal battery and some cumbersome operational quirks hinder its portability and ease of use. While it excels in live performance capabilities and has a solid build, the learning curve could be steep for users unfamiliar with its unique workflow. Overall, the Force presents a strong option for serious producers, but it may not be for everyone.

neutral

Full Review

Akai Professional Force review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

While the Akai Professional Force shines as a robust standalone music production system with impressive features like automatic multisampling and an extensive suite of onboard instruments, it comes with a hefty price tag and a steep learning curve. The build quality feels luxurious, but its weight and size might deter portability. The touchscreen, though visually stunning, lacks responsiveness compared to modern tablets, which can hinder workflow. Ultimately, for those willing to invest the time and money, Force offers a powerful alternative to traditional DAW setups, but it may not be a necessary upgrade for everyone already equipped with a laptop and controller.

positive

Full Review

Akai Professional Force Review

musictech.com

The Akai Professional Force presents a compelling blend of hardware and software capabilities, making it versatile for both live performance and studio work. Its sleek design and responsive pads enhance user experience, while the extensive connectivity options are a major plus. However, the device falls short with limited audio input options and the absence of a full arrangement mode. While it excels in sampling and jamming, the hefty price tag and some operational limitations may deter potential buyers. Ultimately, it’s a solid choice for those looking to integrate hardware into their workflow, but not without notable caveats.

neutral

Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 11 Ratings

5 star

4 star

3 star

2 star

1 star

bludwave

186

3 months ago

Great box for DAWless work.

We use this for our live showd so we don't have to bring our whole computer setup. Works great in the studio or on the road.

Roles:

Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Synthpunk Synthwave

From Gear Setup

raiderhandsome

about 3 years ago

It’s pro level, stand-alone goodness

While there was, and still is clearly room for improvement, it’s a great piece of kit that’s had many improvements and refinements to the operating system, new synths and fx, more more more. Absolutely the center of my music creation. If it’s not enough you can get an alternative operating system made by some super clever dude for it called Mockba that takes it waaaay beyond what the Akai software does. 9/10 would buy it again, and again, and again.

nachtaktiv

over 5 years ago

Good ideas, bad implemented

Akai is just not my workflow and some important, small features are still missing. Selling it soon for a Maschine+.

Roles:

Music Producer Audio Engineer

Genres:

Electronic Techno Electronica

Artist usage

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Alan Walker

Music Producer, DJ

Verified via YouTube

Plays on the Akai Force on 07:45 in the video

Richie Hawtin

Music Producer

Sven Väth & Richie Hawtin

Verified via YouTube

In this Youtube link, the Akai Force can be seen at 2:23 in the studio of Richie Hawtin

Richard Devine

Keyboardist, Composer

Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 0:08 in the video

Just Blaze

Music Producer

Roc-A-Fella Family

Verified via YouTube

Vidéo description where Dj Just Blaze discussing how Akai Force revolutionizes live performance workflow: Redefine your expectations. Force blurs the lines between contemporary music production solutions and next-generation live performance technology, setting the precedence for a new industry standard. In this video we hook up with American hip hop producer and DJ Just Blaze in NYC, discussing his thoughts on how Force revolutionizes his live performance workflow.