6.NUMERIC KEYPAD – If the selected field in the DISPLAY is a number, use these numbered buttons as a standard numeric keypad to enter a value. Press the keypad's ENTER to enter it.

7.UNDO / REDO – Press this button to undo your last action. You can undo up to 200 actions. Hold down SHIFT and press this button to redo the last action you undid.

PAD / Q-LINK KNOB CONTROLS

8.Q-LINK KNOBS – Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The LEDs surrounding each knob indicate the knob's current position.

9.Q-LINK TRIGGER – Hold this button down, then touch one of the Q-LINK KNOBS to make that knob's parameter's value jump to its minimum or maximum (depending on the Trig parameter in the MPC software).

10.PADS – Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples in your software. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive, which makes them very responsive and intuitive to play. The pads will light up different colors, depending on how hard you play them (ranging from yellow at a low velocity to red at the highest velocity). To disable (or re-enable) these lights, press PAD ASSIGN then F6 (Velo Col).

11.PAD BANK BUTTONS – These 4 buttons switch among Pad Banks A – H. Between these 8 banks with 16 pads per bank, you can access up to 128 MIDI events using the pads.

12.PAD ASSIGN / PAD COPY – Press this button to assign a sample to a pad. In the display, the 4x4 grid that appears represents the 16 pads. Use the CURSOR BUTTONS to navigate through the grid, and use the DATA DIAL or -/+ buttons to select a Program (when the Program field is highlighted) or a sample (when a pad is highlighted). Hold down SHIFT and press this button to copy the samples and parameters from one pad to another. Use the CURSOR BUTTONS to select the From Pad ("source") or To Pads ("destination") field and hit a pad to select it (you can copy to multiple pads). Use the F-BUTTONS to confirm or cancel the operation.

13.FULL LEVEL / HALF LEVEL – Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads always play back at a maximum velocity (127), no matter how hard or soft you hit them. Hold down SHIFT and press this button activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads always play back at a half velocity (63).

14.16 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.

15.NOTE REPEAT / LATCH – Hold this button down and press a pad to 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

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

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Akai MPC manual PAD / Q-LINK Knob Controls, Mode / View Controls
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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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