Akai Force

[Fade]

Just saw this posted up, it looks like Akai has something new for the masses. It's interesting that it's a standalone, which is a good thing.

Features:

• Standalone - no computer required
• 8x8 clip launch matrix with RGB LEDs
• 7" color capacitive multitouch display
• Mic/Instrument/Line Inputs, 4 outputs
• MIDI In/Out/Thru via 1/8" TRS inputs (5-pin DIN adapters included)
• (4) configurable CV/Gate Outputs to integrate your modular setup
• (8) touch-sensitive knobs with graphical OLED displays
• Time stretch/pitch shift in real time
• Comprehensive set of AIR effects and Hype, TubeSynth, Bassline and Electric synth engines
• Ability to record 8 stereo tracks
• 16GB of on-board storage (over 10 gigs of sound content included)
• 2 GB of RAM
• Full-Size SD card Slot
• User-expandable 2.5" SATA drive connector (SATA or HDD)
• (2) USB 3.0 slots for thumb drives or MIDI controllers

 

[OGBama]

@Fade are they trying to compete w/Ableton, etc.?

 

[Fade]

Looks like they took a lot of inspiration from Ableton for sure.