KEYGROUP PLAY MODES (Keygroup Programs only)

Here you can set the behavior for keygroup samples for each pad.

XTo edit the KEYGROUP PLAY MODES parameters, press the F1 button (Master) on your MPC hardware. Use Q-Link knobs Q9 – Q11 for direct access of all 3 parameters. Keep in mind that these parameters are available only in KEYGROUP programs.

You can assign the selected pad to one of the 32 available MUTE GROUPs. When pads assigned to the same mute group receive MIDI notes, the last note played will mute any other sounding instrument of that mute group.

With LAYER PLAY, you can determine how multiple samples assigned to the same pad are played. Activate the Cycle (CYC) function to play the next layer’s sample each time that pad is played. In other words, the samples

will cycle through the layers as follows: 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2, 3, 4… etc. Use Velocity (VEL) to switch between samples depending on how hard you hit a pad. Finally, the Random (RAN) function will allow all the samples assigned to the pad to be selected randomly. This way, every time you hit a pad, one of the assigned samples will be randomly chosen to play.

With the SAMPLE PLAY function, you can determine whether the pad is played as ONE-SHOT(from start to end) or defined by NOTE-ON(only as long as the note is held). Select ONE-SHOTwhen you want to play short sounds. However, if you are using a long sample, it is sometimes better to set it to NOTE-ONso you can control a sound’s duration by pressing and holding its corresponding pad.

KEY GROUP (Keygroup Program only)

Here you can set additional parameters for KEYGROUP programs.

XTo edit the KEY GROUP parameters, press the F1 button (Master) on your MPC hardware. Use Q-Link knobs Q1 – Q8 for direct access of all parameters. Keep in mind that these parameters are available only in KEYGROUP programs.

In a KEYGROUP program, you can also use the pads on your MPC hardware to play samples assigned to keygroups. The 128 pads (A01 to H16) correspond to MIDI notes from from note number 0 to 127, allowing you to easily play a melody with a single sample over a wide range. How to setup a KEYGROUP program is described in Chapter 5.0 on Page 31.

ÂKeep in mind that the root key of a loaded sample will determine where the original pitch is located. If the root key, for example, is C3, the original sample is located at pad D13.

With KG SELECT (Keygroup Select), you can select a particular Keygroup for editing. This parameter works in conjunction with the NO. KG (Numbers of Keygroups) parameter in the EDIT LAYERS section, that lets you create up to 128 keygroups within one Keygroup program. A default Keygroup program contains only one single Keygroup. When you have created more than one Keygroup with NO. KG, you can use KG SELECT to select any Keygroup for editing. ALL selects all available Keygroups of a Keygroup program for simultaneous editing.

KEYTRACK allows you to switch the automatic transposition of a sample on or off. If inactive, you will always hear the same pitch of the sample, no matter which note is triggered by pads or a connected MIDI keyboard.

LEVEL controls the overall volume level of the loaded sample(s).

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Akai MPC manual Keygroup Play Modes Keygroup Programs only, KEY Group Keygroup Program only
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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.
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