15 23 31

19.16 LEVEL – Press this button to activate/deactivate 16 Level. When activated, the last pad that was hit will be temporarily copied to all 16 pads. The pads will now output the same note number as the initial pad, but a selectable parameter will be fixed at the values shown in the diagram on the right, regardless of how hard you hit them. The available parameters are velocity, tuning, filter, layer, attack or decay.

103 111 119 127

71 79 87 95

39 47 55 63

20. NOTE REPEAT / LATCH – Hold this button down and press a pad to 7 retrigger that pad's sample at a rate based on the current Tempo and

Time Correct settings (the available Time Correct settings will appear in the display, which you can select with the F-BUTTONS). Hold down SHIFT and press this button to latch the Note Repeat feature. When latched, the button does not need to be held down for Note Repeat to be activated. Press NOTE REPEAT once more to unlatch it.

MODE / VIEW CONTROLS

21.SHIFT – Hold this button down to access some buttons' secondary functions (indicated by orange writing).

22.MAIN / TRACK – Press this button to view the Main screen in the display and software. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to view the Track View screen in the display and software.

23.BROWSER / SAVE – Press this button to view the file browser in the display. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to save the current Project (including its samples, Programs, Sequences, and Songs).

24.PROG EDIT / Q-LINKPress this button to view the Program Edit screen in the display and software. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to assign a parameter to a Q-LINK KNOB: use the CURSOR BUTTONS to select the desired Q-LINK KNOB, then use the DATA DIAL or -/+ buttons to select the desired parameter.

25.PROG MIX / TRACK MIX – Press this button to view the Program Mixer screen in the display and software. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to view the Track Mixer screen in the display and software.

26.SEQ EDIT / EFFECTS – Press this button to enter Sequence Edit mode. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to enter Effects mode, where you can select and route effects as well as edit effects' parameters.

27.SAMPLE EDIT / SAMPLE REC – Press this button to view the Sample Edit screen in the display and software. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to view the Sample Record screen in the display and software.

28.SONG / OTHER – Press this button to view the Song screen in the display and software. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to enter Other mode, which allows you to set: the minimum number of taps for the TAP TEMPO button; pad threshold, sensitivity, and curve; the footswitches' messages; and the Program Change target.

29.STEP SEQ – Press this button to view the Step Sequence screen in the display and software.

30.NEXT SEQ – Press this button to view the Next Sequence screen in the display and software.

31.TRACK MUTE / PAD MUTE – Press this button to view the Track Mute screen in the display and software. Hold SHIFT and press this button to view the Pad Mute screen in the display and software.

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Akai MPC manual 103 111 119 71 79 87 39 47 55

MPC specifications

The Akai MPC, or Music Production Center, has become a legendary piece of equipment in the realms of music production and performance. Originally conceived in the late 1980s, the MPC has evolved through various models, maintaining a core philosophy of combining sampling, sequencing, and beat-making capabilities. Its versatility has made it a staple for musicians across genres, from hip-hop to electronic music.

One of the defining features of the Akai MPC is its drum pad interface. The pads are highly responsive and velocity-sensitive, allowing for expressive drum programming and live performance. The tactile feedback of the pads has earned the MPC a reputation for being intuitive and user-friendly. Artists can create intricate rhythms and beats simply by tapping the pads, making it a favorite for both studio work and live shows.

The MPC utilizes a powerful sampling engine that enables users to capture sounds and manipulate them in real-time. This includes features like time-stretching, pitch-shifting, and layering, which allow for creative sound design. The ability to import and export audio files enhances its utility, making the MPC a versatile tool for music production.

Another key technology in the MPC lineup is its sequencer. The sequencer is capable of handling complex arrangements, providing artists with a flexible platform to construct their compositions. The ability to record and sequence MIDI makes it easy to integrate external instruments, allowing musicians to expand their sonic palette.

Modern iterations of the MPC, such as the MPC Live and MPC X, incorporate advanced technologies including touchscreens, built-in effects, and standalone functionality. This means that users can create music without the need for a computer, making it a portable solution for on-the-go production. The inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity and MIDI over USB further enhances its compatibility with other devices and software.

The Akai MPC also features robust storage options, including SD card support, enabling artists to save and organize their projects with ease. This is essential for producers who work with large sample libraries or engage in extensive live performances.

In summary, the Akai MPC stands out due to its combination of intuitive drum pads, powerful sampling and sequencing capabilities, standalone functionality, and modern connectivity options. Its impact on music production is undeniable, shaping the way artists create and perform music in contemporary settings. As technology continues to advance, the MPC is likely to remain at the forefront of the music production landscape, inspiring new generations of musicians.