AKAI Force

Run multiple plugins without trouble… Native instruments.
16gb ram as request? 8gb would poor design, and soon expect trouble with all new plugins they integrate from Ni.
Akai better design the units to easy replace /upgrade ram memory…

I’m mostly kidding but isn’t RAM a factor in how many instances of sample-heavy plugins like session strings you can run?

With faster harddisks and transfer speeds streaming of samples would negate the need for large amount of RAM.

Would be cool with a Force 2. I would be happy with minor upgrades like a bit faster cpu, more cv/gate outputs etc. Would love 16 knobs instead of 8.

It’s a factory but not the only one. The 61 g1 & the XSE has 4GB but are still limited to same amounts of plugins like the 2GB units, tho both can run more with the hacked OS.

If the new key37 can run 16 stereo audio tracks & 32 plug-ins, what do you need more RAM for? - genuinely asking. Like do you plan on using more than that? If so you can still sample the internal tracks. It also has C-USB with 24/24 in & outs.

Full specs:

Summary

MPC Key 37 G2 is a next-generation standalone MPC keyboard synthesizer built for producers and beatmakers who write on keys but rely on the speed and precision of the MPC workflow. Visually inspired by the iconic cream colorway of original MPCs from the late '80s, it combines a 37‑key synth‑action keybed with pitch and mod wheels, legendary MPC pads, and a powerful standalone production engine to bring melody, harmony, rhythm, and sampling into a single instrument.

Powered by MPC3 OS and a new G2 8‑core processor delivering four times the performance of the previous generation, MPC Key 37 G2 enables larger sessions, 16 audio tracks for recording vocals to external synths, and 32 plugin instances for deeper instrument capability. Increased RAM and internal storage allow projects to load faster and run smoothly, no matter how complex.

At the center of the workflow is a 7‑inch multitouch display running MPC3’s modern track‑based environment and Linear Arranger, designed to help producers move beyond loops and build complete songs entirely in hardware. Sampling from phones, tablets, and external gear via USB‑C makes it easy to capture ideas and instantly turn them into playable instruments.

With one‑cable USB‑C connectivity for audio, MIDI, and data, MPC Key 37 G2 integrates effortlessly into hybrid studios while remaining fully standalone for distraction‑free creation. Combining expressive playability, modern standalone power, and processing performance, MPC Key 37 G2 is the MPC made for keys players ready to take on full productions.

Key Features/Benefits

Standalone Production: Empowers users to create, arrange, and finish full tracks without a computer

Modern Workflow: Includes MPC3 OS with a modern, track‑based workflow and Linear Arranger for DAW‑style song building in standalone

Keys + Pads Integration: Combines a 37‑key synth‑action keybed with legendary MPC pads for complete musical input

G2 Processing Power: Four times the processing performance enables larger, more complex standalone sessions

Expanded Audio Tracks: Supports up to 16 stereo audio tracks for full song production on hardware

Advanced Plugin Capacity: Runs up to 32 plugin instruments for richer, more layered productions

One‑Cable Studio Connectivity: USB‑C provides 24×24 audio streaming and expanded MIDI, and host and support over a single connection

Hybrid DAW Integration: Includes Ableton Live Control Mode plus Ableton project import/export

Fast Sampling Workflows: Sample directly from phones, tablets, and external devices via USB‑C

Expanded Factory Content: Ships with an upgraded sound library and bundled instrument plugins for immediate creativity

Technical Specifications

Digital Audio System

ADCs: 24-bit

DACs: 24-bit

Digital Signal Processing: 32-bit floating point

Line Inputs (1–2)

(2) balanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS or unbalanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TS

Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)

Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 107 dB (1 kHz, +6 dBV, A-weighted)

THD+N: 0.004% (1 kHz, +6 dBV, 0 dBFS)

Max Input Level: +12 dBV

Sensitivity: −10 dBV

Gain Range: 27 dB

Line Outputs (1–2)

(2) impedance-balanced 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS

Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)

Dynamic Range: 112 dB (A-weighted)

THD+N: 0.004% (1 kHz, 0 dBFS)

Maximum Output Level: +6 dBV

Output Impedance: 100 Ω

Headphone Output

(1) 1/8” (3.5 mm) stereo headphone output

Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz (+0.2/−0.5 dB)

Dynamic Range: 112 dB (A-weighted)

THD+N: 0.006% (1 kHz, 10 mW per channel into 32 Ω)

Maximum Output Level: 40 mW RMS (per channel into 32 Ω)

Mechanical

Keys: 37 synth-action keys with aftertouch

Wheels: Pitch bend and modulation wheel

Pads:

(16) velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB-backlit pads

(8) banks accessible via Pad Bank buttons

Knobs:

(4) 360° touch-sensitive Q-Link knobs

(4) Q-Link knob columns accessible via Q-Link button

(1) 360° data encoder with push function

Buttons: (38) dedicated function buttons, white/red/green backlit

Display:

7” (177 mm diagonal) full-color LED-backlit touchscreen

CPU

Processor: Eight-core ARM® processor

RAM: 4 GB

Internal Storage: 64 GB

File System Compatibility

File Systems:

exFAT (read/write, recommended)

FAT32 (read/write)

NTFS (read/write)

EXT4 (read/write)

HFS+ (read only)

Audio Formats: AIF/AIFF, FLAC, MP3, OGG, WAV

Wireless

Wi‑Fi Frequency: 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz

Wi‑Fi Standard: 802.11a/b/g/n/ac

Wi‑Fi Max Power:

2.4 GHz: +17 dBm

5 GHz: +17 dBm

Bluetooth Version: 5

Bluetooth Profile: HID

Bluetooth Max Power: +10 dBm

Connections

(2) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS inputs (1 stereo pair)

(1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS sustain pedal input (TS compatible)

(1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS footswitch pedal input (TS compatible)

(1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS expression pedal input (TS compatible)

(2) 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS outputs (1 stereo pair)

(1) 1/4” (6.35 mm) stereo headphone output

(4) 1/8” (3.5 mm) TRS CV/Gate jacks (8 outputs total)

(1) USB 3.0 Type‑A host port

(1) USB 3.0 Type‑C host/device port

(1) 5‑pin MIDI input

(1) 5‑pin MIDI output

(1) Power adapter input

Power

12 V, 3 A, center‑positive (via included power adapter)

Dimensions & Weight

Dimensions (W × D × H):

22.9” × 12.4” × 3.3”

58.2 × 31.5 × 8.5 cm

Weight:

9.61 lbs

4.36 kg

The requests for more ram is to make the unit more future-proof. :crossed_fingers: Force can stand next to XL 16gb as the top units :point_right: XL fine for the hiphop beats. :point_right: Force for alll EDM :+1: can 't be enough techno/trance in this world. :pray::musical_keyboard::notes::musical_keyboard::notes::pray:

Current Force runs out of RAM at the second instance of Studio Strings, MockbaMagic can’t help with that. I assume a 4GB machine will do better but I won’t be running 16 orchestras. Do I need to? No. All the same, if Akai wants $1200 more from me it’s just a bit easier to get into if it has enough RAM that the conversation about RAM is over. Also I do not wish to be associated with MPC Key 37 gen2 and One gen2 bottomdwellers with their pathetic 4gb – we are a different species. JK JK

Someone has certainly had their morning coffee! :wink:

:musical_keyboard::notes::musical_keyboard::notes:

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The g2 key37 also comes with 64GB internal SD where the plugins are stored. That with the faster process seems to make the 4GB of RAM less of an issue. Maybe they’re allowing it to stream from the SD.

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Maybe, curious what reports we get on that vs experiences of Live 3 and XL users. Beyond RAM, I’d like to see some ambition with Force 2, a bigger step forward. Key 37 folks are getting some nice things but it’s a smaller step than Live 2 to 3. That comes at a pri$e of course.

Ask on the MPC thread:

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This is the important thing, ideally you just don’t want to have to think about it.

However with the MPC/Force the problem is there will always be a limit.

As you say, you don’t need 16 orchestras :sweat_smile:

There is a certain point where the RAM available is right on the edge of not being enough to support something a reasonable user would want, like having a single project for a live set with some demanding things going on and the machine doesn’t break a sweat even without the user taking particular measures to facilitate that. If 4 gb plus the new CPU gets us there then cool, but I suspect Live III’s 8 gb and XL’s 16gb aren’t for nothing. I think we should also think about the next highest tier of sample based instruments this platform could comfortably support.

I was about to but now that you suggested it, it’d be too beta of me.

We’re all a bunch of beta testers to Akai. That side is way more active & should’ve been merged with it a few when the Sample came out & they merged both threads & renamed it All Things MPC. All Things Akai would’ve made more sense, since the Force & MPC are both on 3.0, but whatever.

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I don’t wanna be bèta tester anymore, certainly not for the Mk2. Been there done that with Mk1.

Mk2 is what we were beta testing mk1 for. Don’t let it all be in vain! :grin:

Force 2 need something to replace the octatrack. Morphing, mangling samples. I do not need another mpc live 3 or XL. A unit with lot’s of performer live tools for midi…

The L3 & XL is another Force, but I feel you. More morphing & mangling samples feature would be nice. Send your request to Akai:

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Did that 2 years ago, :crossed_fingers: the more users request this kind of tools, bigger the hope…

If they develop this unit well, it true can be a replacement of the old octatrack.

This where my requests for Mk2

Feature Request List for Next-Generation Akai Force

1. Deep Step Parameter Locks

  • Full per-step automation of pitch, filter, effects, and sample start within the sequencer.
  • Inspired by the Octatrack’s precision control for highly expressive sequences.

2. Performance Crossfader

  • True hands-on crossfader for blending and transitioning between states live.
  • Includes morphing and mangling tools for samples and effects.

3. Fast Resampling Workflow

  • One-button resampling of any combination of tracks, effects, and master output into a new clip.
  • Streamlines live performance and creative sound design.

4. Conditional Sequencer Triggers

  • Probability-based, fill, or alternative step playback for dynamic and evolving sequences.
  • Enables more musical spontaneity without manual intervention.

5. Advanced Sequencing Modes

  • Dedicated sequencing modes: Chord, Stochastic, Matrix, and Generative Sequencing.
  • Each track can operate with its own creative logic and workflow, inspired by OXI One Mk2.

6. Deep Polyphonic Sequencing

  • Clip-level polyphonic capabilities: per-note probability, velocity, gate length, ratcheting, and modulation.
  • Supports rich, multi-layered compositions within a single sequence.

7. Probability & Stochastic Engine

  • Per-step probability, conditional playback, and controlled randomization.
  • Patterns evolve organically while maintaining musical coherence.

8. Native Euclidean & Polymetric Sequencing

  • Built-in Euclidean pattern generators.
  • Independent track lengths for effortless creation of complex rhythms and polyrhythms.

9. Advanced MIDI Processing Layer

  • MIDI effects include chord generators, harmonizers, arpeggiators, scale quantizers, randomizers, and note transformers.
  • Supports real-time manipulation and deep integration into the sequencing workflow.

10. Real-Time Arpeggiator Manipulation

  • Perform and modify arpeggiator patterns live.
  • Adjustable parameters in real time for dynamic performance control.

11. Poly Harmonizer

  • Integrated polyphonic harmonizer, similar to Iridium Mk2.
  • Allows harmonization of multiple voices simultaneously for richer textures.

12. Generative Composition Tools

  • Intelligent pattern generation, evolving chord progressions, melodic variation engines, and algorithmic performance tools.
  • Designed to continuously inspire new musical ideas.

13. Enhanced Performance Sequencing

  • Instant pattern mutations, live transposition, track variations, performance fills, and real-time sequence transformations without interrupting playback.

14. Modular-Level Routing & Control

  • Expanded MIDI and CV routing flexibility.
  • Position the Force as a central command hub for complex hardware or hybrid studio setups.

15. Track-Level Modulation System

  • Assignable modulation lanes controlling any sequencer parameter.
  • Enables dynamic movement and variation beyond traditional automation.

Vision Statement:
By combining the Akai Force’s powerful clip-based production environment with OXI One’s generative sequencing philosophy, and the elektron octatrack sampling mangling/morphing, the next-generation Force could evolve from a production workstation into a fully intelligent performance instrument—capable of creating evolving, dynamic, and highly expressive musical systems in real time.*