FILTER & ENVELOPES SECTION

Select the pad you wish to filter by hitting it on your MPC hardware or by selecting it in Main Mode of the MPC software.

XTo edit the FILTER, FILTER ENVELOPE & AMP ENVELOPE parameters press the F4 button (Flt Env) on your MPC hardware. Use the MPC hardware Q-Link knobs for direct access of all 16 parameters.

The Filter Type pop-up menu lets you choose a filter type. A complete list of all filter types can be found in the Appendix of this manual.

CUTOFF controls the cutoff frequency for the chosen filter types, the center frequency for the band-pass and band-stop filter types.

RESO controls the resonance/emphasis of the frequencies around the cutoff point. Use lower values in the range of 0-80to give more brilliance to the sound. At higher values than 80, the sound will result

in a strong audible boost around the cutoff frequency.

ENV determines the amount of influence the filter envelope has on the cutoff frequency. Higher settings will increase the modulation of the Filter by the envelope; lower settings will result in only subtle changes of the Filter Cutoff over time. To give a sound a more distinctive attack, you may try to increase the envelope amount value and set low ATK and DECAY values as well as a medium-to-low SUST value of the Filter Envelope. This setting will start a sound with the Filter opened and close it shortly afterward, giving it a bright start followed by a darker sustain. String sounds, on the other hand, can sound much more "alive" with low ENV settings and a high ATK value of the Filter Envelope, resulting in a slight fade-in of the higher frequencies.

The MODULATION SOURCES set the amount for different modulation. The following modulation sources are available:

V>START (for Drum Programs only) sets the amount of a pad or key velocity to modulate the sample startpoint. KBD>FLT (for Keygroup Programs only) sets the amount of aftertouch data from a pad or a MIDI-keyboard to modulate the cutoff frequency.

V>ATK (Velocity>Attack) sets the amount of pad or key velocity to modulate the Attack phase for the Amp envelope.

V>ENV (Velocity>Envelope) enables velocity information to control the the amount of the filter envelope’s effect on the cutoff frequency.

V>FLT (Velocity>Filter) finally uses the velocity of a pad or key to modulate the cutoff frequency directly.

FILTER ENVELOPE Section

This Envelope is used to control the filter frequency. The four knobs control the Envelope shape or time-variant modulation output. The influence of the Envelope on the filter frequency can be adjusted with the ENV parameter.

AMP ENVELOPE Section

This Envelope is used to control level change over time. The four knobs control the Envelope shape or time-variant modulation of a sound’s level.

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Akai MPC manual Filter & Envelopes Section, Filter Envelope Section, AMP Envelope Section

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.