AudioPilz vs. The Force: Groovebox or Glorified Doorstop?

AudioPilz wastes zero time: the Akai Force lands on Bad Gear as a bizarre hybrid, a mash-up of MPC muscle and Ableton grid logic. From the jump, it’s clear this isn’t your typical groovebox—more like a sci-fi kitbash that doesn’t know if it wants to headline Berghain or crash your Ableton session. The Force’s origin story is just as confused as its design, with AudioPilz pointing out the device’s constantly shifting purpose thanks to an endless parade of firmware updates.

Is it a next-gen MPC? A Launchpad on steroids? The machine’s 64-pad grid tries to channel Ableton Push, but don’t expect instant enlightenment. AudioPilz’s signature blend of dry humour and meme references sets the tone, making it obvious this is not a love letter to the Force’s design choices. It’s a head-scratcher from the start, and if you’re looking for clarity, you’re going to need to watch the video—because the Force’s own sense of direction is as foggy as a morning after a warehouse party.

Here’s where things get sticky: yes, you get 128 tracks, but only 8 plugins or audio tracks at once. AudioPilz calls this out as a dealbreaker for anyone hoping for DAW-in-a-box freedom. All that grid power and you’re still bumping into plugin walls—classic Akai.

The spec sheet reads like retro kit in disguise: 8×8 grid, Q-Link encoders, a CPU that wheezes under pressure, and just 2GB RAM. There’s disk streaming now, but don’t expect miracles. If you thought you’d escape computer limitations on hardware, the Force is here to remind you that the toaster-fight never ends.

If you like ports and options, the Force brings the buffet—SD slot, SSD bay, WiFi, Bluetooth, USB host, even computer keyboard support (but no mouse, which is a pain for editing). AudioPilz highlights the expanded connectivity, especially for MIDI and audio gadgets, and the modular crowd will love the CV/gate outs.

Despite some hardware quirks (broken main outs, anyone?), the build is properly rugged—no plastic toy vibes here. No speakers, no internal battery, but it’s got a crossfader and enough outputs to satisfy even the most jaded live rig builder. Just don’t expect an ergonomic dream machine.

AudioPilz closes with a big question mark: after all these updates and tweaks, is the Force still worth your time, or just a discontinued relic clinging to the MPC ecosystem? Akai’s support is solid so far, but how long does the love last for a machine with ageing specs?

In 2026, going DAWless might finally make sense—if you trust your music to a device that can’t decide what it wants to be. The Force is both a playground and a puzzle, and only you can decide if it’s a classic or a cautionary tale.