AKAI Force - using a external audio interface with USB input

 What works?

Most online videos use the TASCAM Model 12 Multitrack Recorder Mixer.

But there are lots of other Audio interfaces that you may have already that could work.

I have installed AKAI force OS 3.1.2

I have an old Zoom R16 mixer/interface & a Cymatic live recorder interface

that was worth a try.

Tick 32inputs/outputs

You have an option for 32 Input/output channels routing in the FORCE.

Shutdown & Restart the force.

Choose new project --> preferences ---> audio device

You should now see the interface in the drop down box.

Pick the interface.

If you use a external audio interface the Forces' own mixer outputs will be disabled.

The Zoom & cymatic live recorder interface seem to work well.

When you wish to use this setting, you will need to open the saved project file 

associated with your interface.

I like to save a template with my basic settings and use this each time I turn on the FORCE.

Pick a audio track and set monitor to merge (auto also seems to work),

thus any incoming signals will be merged with any internal audio clips.

I have a few issues  with using both the external interfaces.

(Maybe its the interfaces, & maybe this will be fixed with later updates)

1. Your  FORCE headphone and audio outputs will now be disabled.

    So you will need to use the interface outputs.

2. The input volume is really low & I couldn't boost it without pushing up

    the vol on the synth itself. My Zoom mixer's faders also didn't work.

    This added unwanted background noise into my mix.

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So to get this working 

1. OS needs to be 3.1.2 or higher.

2. Interface needs to be class compliant.

    Class compliant means there is no proprietary driver, not all USB mixers will work,

    and not all USB mixers will do individual channels.

3. And make sure you are using a good quality USB cable.

A quick read of the internet came up with these possible interface options.

So if you have one of these lying around unused, give it a whirl.

(ps I haven't tested them myself)

TASCAM US-16x08 USB Audio Interface

TASCAM Model 12 Multitrack Recorder Mixer

Tascam model 24

Focusrite scarlet 18i8  --- 16 channels into the Force

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 

zoom r16

zoom l20

behringer umc1820

M-Audio 192 | 14 

Volt 476 & 276

Apogee Duet

Yamaha Steinberg UR22mkII 

Roland MX-1 (aria)