User Guide
English
Manual Version 2.2
Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................ 6
System Requirements & Product Support ..... 6
About This User Guide ..................................... 6
Important Notes ................................................ 7
Setup .................................................................. 7
1. Connection ................................................ 7
2. Installation .................................................. 8
3. Getting Started .......................................... 8
Features .................................................................. 9
MPC X ................................................................ 9
Top Panel ....................................................... 9
Navigation & Data Entry Controls ....................... 9
Pad & Q-Link Controls ..................................... 10
Mode & View Controls ..................................... 11
Transport & Recording Controls ...................... 12
I/O & Level Controls ........................................ 13
Touchscreen ................................................... 14
Front Panel .................................................. 15
Rear Panel ................................................... 16
MPC Live .......................................................... 17
Top Panel ..................................................... 17
Touchscreen ................................................... 19
Rear Panel ................................................... 20
MPC Touch ...................................................... 21
Top Panel ..................................................... 21
Touchscreen ................................................... 23
Rear Panel ................................................... 24
Basic Concepts ..................................................... 25
Tutorial ................................................................... 26
Starting Up ....................................................... 26
Creating a Drum Kit ......................................... 26
Creating a Drum Sequence ............................ 28
Saving & Renaming ......................................... 29
Editing Note Events ......................................... 31
Making Basic Sound Edits .............................. 33
Creating a Bass Track ..................................... 35
Recording an Audio Track .............................. 38
Creating a Song ............................................... 39
Exporting the Song .......................................... 40
Other Features Explained ............................... 41
Step Sequencer ............................................ 41
Drum Loops & Chop Mode .......................... 42
Pad Muting & Track Muting ......................... 44
Sampling (Recording) ................................... 46
Sample Editing ............................................. 48
Recording Automation with the XY Pad ...... 50
Using MPC X or MPC Live as a Controller .. 51
2
Operation .............................................................. 52
General Features ............................................. 53
Control Types .............................................. 53
Knobs ............................................................. 53
Parameter Values ............................................ 53
Drop-Down Menus / Lists ................................ 54
Selectors ......................................................... 54
Buttons ........................................................... 55
Checkboxes .................................................... 55
Tabs ............................................................... 55
Sliders ............................................................. 55
Envelopes ....................................................... 56
Grid View Tools ............................................... 57
Audio Edit Tools .............................................. 58
Programs ..................................................... 59
About Programs .............................................. 59
Drum Programs ............................................... 60
Keygroup Programs ........................................ 62
Clip Programs ................................................. 63
Plugin Programs .............................................. 65
MIDI Programs ................................................ 66
CV Programs .................................................. 67
Menu ............................................................ 68
Save ............................................................... 69
Preferences ..................................................... 70
Info ............................................................. 70
Sequencer .................................................. 70
Sync ........................................................... 71
Hardware .................................................... 71
Project Defaults ........................................... 72
Project Load/Save ...................................... 73
General/Other ............................................. 73
Bluetooth .................................................... 74
Wi-Fi ........................................................... 75
Legal ........................................................... 75
Sync ............................................................... 75
Mode .............................................................. 75
System Resources .......................................... 76
Time Counter/Locate ................................... 77
Timing Correct (TC) ...................................... 79
Metronome (Click/Metro) ............................. 81
Automation ................................................... 82
Global ............................................................. 82
Programs & Audio Tracks ................................ 82
16 Level ........................................................ 83
Erase ............................................................. 84
Effects .......................................................... 85
Overview ......................................................... 85
Insert Effects ................................................... 87
Pads ........................................................... 87
Keygroups .................................................. 89
Audio Tracks ............................................... 91
Programs .................................................... 92
Submixes .................................................... 94
Masters ...................................................... 95
Send/Return Effects ........................................ 96
Pads ........................................................... 97
Keygroups .................................................. 98
Audio Tracks ............................................... 99
Programs .................................................... 99
Submixes .................................................. 100
Audio Mixdown .......................................... 101
Battery Usage ............................................. 102
Standalone vs. Controller Mode ................ 103
3
Modes............................................................. 105
Main Mode ................................................. 106
Sequence Section ......................................... 111
Track Section ................................................ 119
Program Section ........................................... 128
Grid View ................................................... 133
Audio Edit Mode ........................................ 138
Track View ................................................. 146
MIDI Tracks ................................................... 148
Audio Tracks ................................................. 149
Step Sequencer ......................................... 150
XYFX Mode ................................................ 154
Sample Edit Mode ..................................... 157
Settings ......................................................... 159
Trim Mode .................................................... 160
Assigning Samples .................................... 164
Processing Slices & Samples .................... 166
Chop Mode ................................................... 171
Converting or Assigning Slices .................. 174
Processing Slices ...................................... 177
Program Mode .............................................. 180
Assigning Samples .................................... 183
Processing Slices ...................................... 184
Program Edit Mode ................................... 187
Drum Programs ............................................. 187
Master ...................................................... 190
Samples ................................................... 191
Pan Velocity .............................................. 198
Filter/Envelope .......................................... 199
LFO Modulation ........................................ 200
Effects ...................................................... 202
Keygroup Programs ...................................... 204
Master ...................................................... 205
Samples ................................................... 208
Pan Velocity .............................................. 214
Filter/Envelope .......................................... 215
LFO Modulation ........................................ 216
Effects ...................................................... 218
Clip Programs ............................................... 220
Program ................................................... 222
Pad ........................................................... 223
Plugin Programs ............................................ 226
MIDI Programs .............................................. 227
CV Programs ................................................ 228
Anatomy of an Envelope ................................ 229
List Edit Mode ............................................ 230
Browser ...................................................... 234
Browse ......................................................... 234
Sample Assign .............................................. 236
Sampler ...................................................... 237
Sample ......................................................... 240
Slice .............................................................. 242
Pad Tap ........................................................ 243
Pad Hold ....................................................... 244
Looper ........................................................ 245
Pad Mixer ................................................... 250
Levels ........................................................... 252
Panning ......................................................... 252
Mute ............................................................. 253
Send Effects .................................................. 253
Insert Effects ................................................. 254
Routing ......................................................... 254
Channel Mixer ............................................ 255
MIDI Tracks ................................................... 258
Audio Tracks ................................................. 259
Programs ...................................................... 261
Returns ......................................................... 263
Submixes ...................................................... 264
Masters ......................................................... 265
Pad Mute Mode .......................................... 266
Pad Mute ...................................................... 267
Pad Group .................................................... 268
Track Mute Mode ....................................... 269
Track Mute .................................................... 270
Track Group .................................................. 271
4
Next Sequence Mode ................................ 272
Song Mode ................................................ 274
Q-Link Edit Mode....................................... 277
Project .......................................................... 279
Program/Audio Track .................................... 281
Pad Scene .................................................... 283
Pad Parameter .............................................. 284
Screen .......................................................... 285
Pad Color Mode ........................................ 286
MIDI Control Mode .................................... 288
Pads ............................................................. 289
Buttons ......................................................... 290
Q-Link Knobs ................................................ 291
XY Pad .......................................................... 292
MIDI Learn .................................................... 292
Pad Perform Mode .................................... 293
Appendix ............................................................. 296
Effects & Parameters .................................... 296
Reverbs ...................................................... 296
Delays ........................................................ 298
Flangers ..................................................... 301
Chorus ....................................................... 302
Autopans .................................................... 302
Tremolos .................................................... 303
Phasers ...................................................... 303
HP (High-Pass) Filters ................................ 304
LP (Low-Pass) Filters ................................. 305
Parametric EQs .......................................... 306
Distortions .................................................. 307
Compressors ............................................. 308
Bit Reducers .............................................. 309
Other .......................................................... 310
Glossary ......................................................... 311
SATA Drive Installation ................................. 316
MIDI Machine Control (MMC) ...................... 317
Technical Specifications .............................. 318
MPC X ........................................................ 318
MPC Live ................................................... 321
MPC Touch ................................................ 323
Trademarks & Licenses ................................ 324
Addenda ............................................................... 325
Updates in MPC 2.1 ....................................... 325
New Features ............................................. 325
Exporting Expansions .................................... 325
Snap: Absolute & Relative ............................. 326
List Edit Settings: Auto-Advance ................... 326
Pitch Quantization ......................................... 327
Step Sequencer: Velocity Adjustment via
Q-Links ...................................................... 328
Pad Perform Mode: User Progressions .......... 328
Faster Attack for Amp Envelopes ................... 328
Updates in MPC 2.2 ....................................... 329
New Features ............................................. 329
MIDI Control Mode: MIDI Learn ..................... 329
Humanize ...................................................... 330
Generate Random Events ............................. 332
Project Template ........................................... 334
Corrections ................................................. 335
5
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing your MPC. At Akai Professional, we know how serious music is to you. That’s why we
design our equipment with only one thing in mind—to make your performance the best it can be.
This user guide explains how to create music using MPC X, MPC Live, and MPC Touch. There is similar documentation
available for MPC products that use an LCD and for the MPC software application. To view these user guides, click the
Help menu in the MPC software, select MPC Help, and select an option.
Welcome to the MPC family.
Akai Professional
System Requirements & Product Support
For the latest information about this product (system requirements, compatibility information, etc.) and product
registration, visit akaipro.com.
For additional support, visit akaipro.com/support.
About This User Guide
This manual should help you get familiar with using your MPC X, MPC Live, or MPC Touch. For consistency, the
terminology throughout is based on the MPC nomenclature. We also used specific formatting to indicate particular
topics of significance:
Important/Note/Tip: Important or helpful information on a given topic.
Names of buttons, controls, parameters, settings, and other options are written in bold characters throughout the manual.
Examples: Press the Play Start button.
Turn Q-Link Knob 4.
Tap the Mute button.
The Velocity ranges from 0 to 127.
Set the Sample Play selector to One Shot.
Tap BPM, and then use the numeric keypad to enter 120 as the tempo.
Some parts of this manual refer to other relevant chapters or sections, which are cited in bold, italic blue characters.
Click the text to skip immediately to that section.
Examples: Read the Important Notes section before proceeding.
For more information about installing the necessary drivers and software, see Setup > 2. Installation.
To learn more about using send effects, see General Features > Effects > Send/Return Effects.
6
Important Notes
Read the included safety & warranty manual before using your MPC hardware.
Before getting started and connecting devices to your MPC hardware or turning the hardware on/off, make sure all
devices are switched off.
To use your MPC hardware in Controller Mode (to control the MPC software):
Before installing the MPC software, make sure your computer meets the system requirements described at
akaipro.com. This applies whether you’ll use MPC software as your host software or as a plugin in another digital
audio workstation (DAW).
Before connecting your MPC hardware to your computer, install the drivers and software. Visit akaipro.com to
download the latest versions. Refer to the 2. Installation section for more information.
Setup
1. Connection
Here is just an example of how to use MPC X in your setup. Items not listed under Introduction > Box Contents of
your included quickstart guide are sold separately.
Headphones
(to front-panel headphone output)
Footswitch
(to front-panel FS1 input)
SD Card
(to front-panel SD card slot)
Powered Monitors
Computer
USB
drive
Microphone
Turntable
Power
7
Remember to remove the protective film from your MPC hardware touchscreen!
To use your MPC hardware in Standalone Mode, just connect it to a power outlet using the included power
adapter, and power it on!
Note: We highly recommend checking akaipro.com for any available updates to the MPC software/firmware and/or
drivers.
To use your MPC hardware in Controller Mode, continue to Step 2. Installation.
2. Installation
To use your MPC hardware in Controller Mode (to control the MPC software), follow these steps to download
and install the required drivers & software:
1. Go to akaipro.com and register your product. If you don’t have an Akai Professional account yet, you will be
prompted to create one.
2. In your Akai Professional account, download the MPC software package.
3. Open the file and double-click the installer application.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Note: By default, the MPC software will be installed in [your hard drive]\Program Files\Akai Pro\MPC (Windows®)
or Applications (macOS®). You can also create a shortcut on your Desktop.
3. Getting Started
1. Power on your MPC hardware.
2. On your computer, open the MPC software.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to authorize your version of MPC.
4. You will need an iLok account to complete this. You can create an account at ilok.com.
Make a note of the PACE code in your account, and enter it when asked for it during the authorization/unlock
process.
5. On your MPC hardware, check the upper-right corner of the touchscreen:
• If there is a monitor/cable icon, then your MPC hardware is already in Controller Mode.
Continue to Step 6.
• If there is a chip icon, then your MPC hardware is in Standalone Mode. Follow these steps:
i. Press Menu to enter the Menu.
ii. Tap the MPC chip icon in the upper-right corner.
iii. In the Enter Controller Mode window that appears, tap Controller Mode. Looking
for computer may appear briefly on the screen before your MPC hardware recognizes
the USB connection as a controller.
6. In the MPC software, click the Edit menu, and select Preferences. Click the Audio tab and select the sound
card you want to use. Click OK when you are done.
Important:
We highly recommend using your MPC hardware’s sound card (Akai Pro MPC X/Live/Touch ASIO). If you need
to use the internal sound card on a Windows computer, we recommend downloading the latest ASIO4ALL driver
at asio4all.com.
To view the MPC software user guide, click the Help menu in the MPC software, select MPC Help, and select
MPC User Manual.
8
Features
This chapter explains the features and functions of each MPC model with a touchscreen: MPC X, MPC Live, and
MPC Touch.
MPC X
Top Panel
11
9
16
13
28
17
32
14
29 30
19
18
20
33
31
21
23
24
10
1
25
26
27
55 55
51
53
42
8
43
22
15
39 40
6
52
54
5
7
41
45
50
12
47
44
46
3
4
2
48
44
45
49
34
36
38
37
Navigation & Data Entry Controls
1. Touchscreen: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC X’s current operation.
Touch the touchscreen (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the later Touchscreen
section to learn how to use some basic functions.
Tip: If you adjust the angle of the touchscreen, use the stand on its back panel to secure it in place.
2. Cursors: Press these buttons to navigate through the fields of menus and options shown on the screen. Press
and hold Shift and press these buttons to zoom in or out of the Grid View or Audio Edit Mode. Press and hold
Shift and press the up and down cursors simultaneously or the left and right cursors simultaneously to return
to the default zoom setting.
35
9
3. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the
selected field on the screen.
4. –/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field on the screen.
5. Numeric Keypad: If the selected field on the screen is a number, press these numbered buttons as you would
on a standard numeric keypad to enter a value. Press the keypad’s Enter to enter it. (A numeric keypad with
additional operations will appear on the screen, as well.)
6. Undo/Redo: Press this button to undo your last action.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to redo the last action you undid.
7. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by red writing).
Double-press this button to see which buttons have secondary functions—the buttons will flash for a few seconds.
8. F-Key: Press this button to activate or deactivate the F-Key feature. When active, the six buttons under the
touchscreen correspond to the options shown at the bottom edge of the screen. The F-Key button and those six
buttons will be lit red when active. When inactive, the six buttons under the touchscreen will access their normal
modes instead (Menu, Browser, Step Seq, Sampler, XYFX, and Looper).
Pad & Q-Link Controls
9. Q-Link Knobs: Turn these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The display strip
above each knob indicates the parameter it is controlling. If the display strip shows a meter to indicate its value,
you can touch or turn its Q-Link knob to temporarily show its precise numerical value.
10. Pads: Press 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). You can also customize their colors.
11. Pad Bank: Press these buttons to access Pad Banks A–D.
Press and hold Shift while pressing these buttons to access Pad Banks E–H. Alternatively, double-press one of
these buttons.
12. Copy/Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another. When the From Pad field is selected, press the
“source” pad (the pad you want to copy). When the To Pad graphic (of all pads) is selected, press the
“destination” pad. You can select multiple destination pads, and you can select pads in different pad banks. Tap
Do It to continue or Close to return to the previous screen.
Tip: To quickly copy a pad, press and hold Copy, press the source pad, press the destination pad, and then
release Copy.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete a pad’s sample assignment. When the Delete Pad window
is shown, press any pad/pads whose sample assignments you want to clear. Tap Delete to continue or Cancel
to return to the previous screen.
13. Full Level/Half Level: Press this button to activate or deactivate the Full Level feature. When activated, the pads
will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of how much force you use.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate or deactivate the Half Level feature. When activated,
the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
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 values that increase as the pad numbers increase (e.g., Pad 1 is the minimum,
Pad 16 is the maximum), regardless of how hard you press them. In the screen that appears, use the Type selector
to choose the parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer, Attack, or Decay. See Operation > General Features >
16 Level to learn more.
15. Note Repeat/Latch: Press and hold this button, and then press a pad to trigger that pad’s sample repeatedly.
The rate is based on the current tempo and Time Correct settings.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to “latch” the Note Repeat feature. When latched, you do not
have to hold the Note Repeat button for it to be activated. Press Note Repeat once more to unlatch it.
10
16. Project: Press this button to use the Q-Link knobs to adjust parameters related to the current project. Press and
hold Shift and then press this button to enter the Project Q-Link Edit Mode directly. See Operation > Modes >
Q-Link Edit Mode > Project to learn about this.
17. Program: Press this button to use the Q-Link knobs to adjust parameters of the currently selected program or
audio track. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter the Program Q-Link Edit Mode directly. See
Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit Mode > Program to learn about this.
18. Pad Scene: Press this button to use the Q-Link knobs to adjust parameters that you have assigned for the
currently selected pad. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter the Pad Scene Q-Link Edit Mode
directly. See Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit Mode > Pad Scene to learn about this.
19. Pad Param: Press this button to use the Q-Link knobs to adjust one parameter across all 16 pads. Each Q-Link
knob corresponds to the pad with the same number and position in the 4-by-4 layout. Press and hold Shift and
then press this button to enter the Pad Param Q-Link Edit Mode directly. See Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit
Mode > Pad Parameter to learn about this.
20. Screen Control/Edit: Press this button to use the Q-Link knobs to adjust parameters in the currently selected
mode as shown on the screen. See Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit Mode > Screen to learn about this.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter Q-Link Edit Mode where you can assign other parameters
to the Q-Link knobs.
Mode & View Controls
Note: See Operation > Modes to learn about the different modes you can access with these controls.
21. Menu: Press this button to open the Menu. You can tap an option in the Menu to enter that mode, view, etc.
22. Main/Track: Press this button to enter Main Mode.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter the Track View.
23. Browse/Save: Press this button to view the Browser. The Browser lets you navigate your computer’s internal
and external hard disks to load samples, sequences, songs, etc. Using filter buttons and user-definable folders,
you can easily adapt it to your workflow. You can also preview samples before loading them.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to save the current project (including its samples, programs, sequences,
and songs).
24. Step Seq/List Edit: Press this button to view the Step Sequencer where you can create or edit sequences by
using the pads as “step buttons,” simulating the experience of a traditional step-sequencer-style drum machine.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view your sequences using the List Edit View instead of the Grid View.
25. Sampler/Looper: Press this button to view the Sampler where you can record audio samples to use in your
projects.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Looper where you can record and overdub audio in real
time—a great tool for live performance as well as spontaneous moments in the studio. You can export the loop
as a sample to use in your project.
26. XYFX: Press this button to view XYFX Mode, which turns the touchscreen into an XY pad where each axis
represents the range of an effect parameter. As you move touch or move your finger on the screen, the current
position will determine the current value of the two parameters. You can use this mode to create interesting
effect automation on your tracks.
27. Pad Perform: Press this button to view Pad Perform Mode where you can assign musical scales/modes, chords,
or progressions to the pads for creative performance options.
28. Prog Edit: Press this button to view Program Edit Mode, which contains all parameters for editing your programs.
29. Sample Edit: Press this button to view Sample Edit Mode where you can edit your samples using various
functions and processes.
30. Pad Mixer: Press this button to view the Pad Mixer where you can set a program’s levels, stereo panning,
routing, and effects.
31. Ch. Mixer: Press this button to view the Channel Mixer where you can set levels, stereo panning, and other
settings for your tracks, programs, returns, submixes (in Controller Mode), and masters.
11
32. Track Mute/Pad Mute: Press this button to view Track Mute Mode where you can easily mute tracks within a
sequence or set mute groups for each track.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Pad Mute Mode where you can easily mute pads within a
program or set mute groups for each pad within a program.
33. Next Seq/Song: Press this button to view Next Sequence Mode where you can trigger different sequences simply
by playing the pads. This is useful for live performances, letting you change a song’s structure in real time.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Song Mode where you can arrange sequences in a specific
order and/or repetition to create songs. You can edit the structure of a song during playback for easy, on-the-fly
composing.
Transport & Recording Controls
34. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the audio pointer’s current position.
35. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point.
36. Stop: Press this button to stop playback. You can double-press this button to silence audio that is still sounding
once a note stops playing. Quickly pressing this button three times will act as a “MIDI panic” and shut off all
voices and stop all audio processing.
37. Rec: Press this button to record-arm the sequence. Press Play or Play Start to start recording. Recording in this
way (as opposed to using Overdub) erases the events of the current sequence. After the sequence plays through
once while recording, Overdub will be enabled.
38. Overdub: Press this button to enable Overdub. When enabled, you can record events in a sequence without
overwriting any previously recorded events. You can enable Overdub before or during recording.
39. </> (Event |</>|): Use these buttons to move the audio pointer left or right, one step at a time.
Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the audio pointer to the previous/next event in
the sequence grid.
40. <</>> (Start/End): Use these buttons to move the audio pointer left or right, one bar at a time.
Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the audio pointer to the start or end of the
sequence grid.
41. Locate: Press and hold this button to activate the secondary functions of the </> and <</>> buttons (i.e., Event
|</>| and Start/End, respectively).
42. Erase: A
s a sequence is playing, press and hold this button and then press a pad to delete the note event for
that pad at the current playback position. This is a quick way to delete note events from your sequence without
having to stop playback. See Operation > General Features > Erase to learn more.
43. Tap/Master: Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM). You can set how
many taps are required in the Preferences (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn
how to do this).
Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo
(the button will be lit red) or a master tempo (the button will be lit amber).
12
I/O & Level Controls
44. Gain 1/2: Use these knobs to adjust the gain of the incoming signal from Input 1/2 on the rear panel or Inst 1/2 on
the front panel. Use the Rear/Front switches below the knobs to determine the input. Use the level meter to
check the recording level. Be careful when setting this knob at higher levels, which can cause the signal to distort.
45. Rear/Front: Use each switch to set whether the Gain 1/2 knob above it will control the gain of the input signal on
the rear panel (Input 1/2) or on the front panel (Inst 1/2).
46. Phantom Power (+48V): This switch activates and deactivates phantom power for Input 1/2. When activated,
+48V of phantom power will be supplied to both inputs. Note that most dynamic microphones do not require
phantom power, while most condenser microphones do. Refer to your microphone’s documentation to check if it
needs phantom power.
47. 3/4 Rec Gain: Use this knob to adjust the gain of the incoming signal from Input 3/4 on the rear panel. Use the
level meter to check the recording level. Be careful when setting this knob at higher levels, which can cause the
signal to distort.
48. Master: Turn this knob to adjust the volume level of the Main L/R outputs.
49. Direct/Main: Turn this knob to adjust the balance between the input and output signals in the headphones.
Direct corresponds to the input signal—all devices connected to the inputs on the front and rear panels.
While recording, you can turn this knob all the way to Direct for zero-latency direct monitoring.
Main corresponds to the output signal—the signal sent from the Main L/R outputs on the rear panel. When
you are not recording, we recommend turning this knob all the way to the Main position to hear the fullvolume playback signal.
50. Stereo/Mono: Use
this switch to set whether the signal in the headphones is binaural (Stereo) or monaural
(Mono). When set to Stereo, the headphone signal will be split so that the input signal (Direct) is heard in the left
ear while the output signal (Main) is heard in the right ear. When set to Mono, the input and output signals are
blended into a single, summed mix, which is heard in both ears.
51. Rec Arm: Press this button to arm or disarm recording for the currently selected audio track, shown in the
display strip below the level meters (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn how to
set what is shown in the level meters).
52. Read/Write: Press this button to set the automation state for the program on the current track or for the current
audio track: Off, Read (green R), or Write (red W). The display strip below the level meters must show a program
or audio track (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn how to set what is shown in
the level meters).
53. Mute: Press this button to mute the program, audio track, or master output shown in the display strip below the
level meters (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn how to set what is shown in
the level meters).
54. Solo: Press this button to solo the currently selected program or audio track shown in the display strip below the
level meters (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn how to set what is shown in the
level meters).
55. Level Meters: These meters indicate the level of the audio signal shown in the display strip below them. See
Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferenc
es to learn how to set what is shown in the level meters.
13
x
2
f
Touchscreen
Here is some general information about how to use the MPC X touchscreen:
Tap a button or option to select it. Use the data dial or
–/+ buttons to change its setting or value
Spread two fingers to zoom in (into a section of a
waveform, for example). Pinch two fingers to zoom out.
Double-tap a button to access advanced editing options.
In some cases, this will show a numeric keypad that you
can use to enter a value (an alternative to the data dial
or –/+ buttons). Tap the upper-left part of the screen to
return to the previous view.
The top of the screen shows the toolbar, which contains
information about the current view (often the name o
the current track, sequence, audio pointer position,
etc.). Tap an item to select it.
The bottom of the screen shows various buttons that
you can use in the current view. Tap a button to press it.
To return to a previous view, either tap outside of the
window currently on the screen or tap the left arrow ()
in the upper-left part of the screen.
14
Front Panel
1
1. SD Card Slot: Insert a standard SD/SDHC card into this slot to access its files directly using MPC X.
2. Footswitch Inputs (FS 1/2) (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Connect optional 1/4” (6.35 mm) TS footswitches to these inputs.
3. Instrument Inputs (Inst 1/2) (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TS cables to connect these inputs to
audio sources (guitars, bass, etc.). To use each of these inputs, set the corresponding Rear/Front switch (below
the Gain 1/2 knob on the top panel) to Front.
4. Mix Knob: Turn this knob to adjust the balance between the Main and 3/4 signals in your headphones. Main is
the signal sent from the Main L/R outputs. 3/4 is the signal sent from the Outputs 3/4.
5. Headphone Outputs (1/8” or 1/4” / 3.5 mm or 6.35 mm): Connect your headphones (not included) to either or
both of these standard stereo outputs. Use the Mix Knob to determine what signal is heard in the headphones.
Turn the Headphone Volume knob to set the volume level.
6. Headphone Volume: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the headphone outputs.
2
3
4
5
6
15
Rear Panel
9
14
2
4
6
1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC X to a power outlet. This must be connected to a
power outlet in order for MPC X to power on.
2. Power Adapter Restraint: Secure the power adapter cable to this restraint to prevent it from accidentally unplugging.
3. Power Switch: Press this button to turn MPC X’s power on or off. While powered on, press and hold this button
for 5 seconds to force MPC X to power off (similar to a computer).
4. USB-B Port: Use the included USB cable to connect this USB 3.0 port to an available USB 3.0 port on your
computer. This connection allows MPC X to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on your
computer. It also allows any connected USB drives, SD cards, and drives connected to the internal SATA port to
mount on your computer if MPC X is in Controller Mode (i.e., your computer can access these storage devices
that are connected to your MPC X).
5. USB-A Ports: Connect USB flash drives to these USB ports to access their files directly using MPC X. MPC X
supports read and write capability for exFAT, FAT32, NTFS, and EXT4 file systems a well as read-only capability
for HFS+ file systems. (We recommend using an exFAT file system as it is the most robust one supported by
both Windows and macOS.) These USB ports supply power to connected USB devices and can also be used to
receive MIDI messages from external USB MIDI devices.
6. Inputs 1/2 (XLR or 1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard XLR or 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to
audio sources (microphone, mixer, synthesizer, etc.). To use each of these inputs, set the corresponding
Rear/Front switch (below the Gain 1/2 knob on the top panel) to Rear. Turn the Gain 1/2 knobs to set the input
level of each one.
7. Inputs 3/4 (1/4” / 6.35 mm or RCA): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables or stereo RCA cables to connect
these inputs to audio sources (mixer, turntable, synthesizer, etc.). To use the 1/4” (6.35 mm) inputs, set the
Phono/Line switch to Line. To use the RCA inputs, set the Phono/Line switch to Phono. Turn the 3/4 Rec Gain
knob to set their input levels.
8. Phono/Line Switch: Set this switch to the appropriate position, depending on which Input 3/4 connectors you
want to u
set this switch to Phono to provide the additional amplification needed for phono-level signals.
9. Grounding Terminal: If you are sending a phono-level turntable signal to the Input 3/4 RCA connectors and are
hearing a low hum or buzz, it could mean that the turntable is not grounded. If the turntable has a grounding
wire, connect it to this terminal.
Note: Some turntables have a grounding wire built into the RCA connection and, therefore, nothing needs to be
connected to the grounding terminal.
10. Main L/R Outputs (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your
speaker system. The signal sent out of these outputs is the master mix. Turn the Master knob to set their volume.
Tip: To route a program to these outputs, set its routing to Out 1,2 in the Channel Mixer when the Mixer field is
set to Programs. See Operation > Modes > Channel Mixer to learn more about this.
11. Outputs 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to an
external mixer. The signal sent from these outputs is full-volume (0 dB).
Tip: To route a program to these outputs, set its routing to Out 1,2, Out 5,6, or Out 7,8 (respectively) in the
Channel Mixer when the Mixer field is set to Programs. See Operation > Modes > Channel Mixer to learn
more about this.
12. MIDI In: Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables to connect these inputs to the MIDI outputs of optional external MIDI
devices.
13. MIDI Out: Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables to connect these outputs to the MIDI inputs of optional external MIDI
devices.
14. CV/Gate Out: Use standard 1/8” (3.5 mm) TS cables to connect these outputs to optional external sequencers.
MPC X will send control voltage (CV) and/or Gate data over this connection.
se. If you are using the 1/4” (6.35 mm) inputs, set this switch to Line. If you are using the RCA inputs,
7
8
11
10
13
12
5
1
3
16
MPC Live
Top Panel
6666
7
8
9
10
4
3
3
1
3
5
3
11 12
13
14
15
16
2
22
1. Touchscreen: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC Live’s current operation.
Touch the touchscreen (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the later Touchscreen
section to learn how to use some basic functions.
20
21
19
17
18
16
2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the
selected field on the screen. Pressing the dial also functions as an Enter button.
3. Q-Link Knobs: Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The knobs can control
one group of parameters at a time. The lights below the Q-Link button indicate the currently selected column of QLink knobs. Press the Q-Link button to change which parameter or group of parameters they currently control.
4. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which parameter or group of parameters the Q-Link knobs currently
control (indicated by the lights above the Q-Link knobs). Each press will select the next column of Q-Link knobs.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to select the previous column of Q-Link knobs instead.
Press and hold this button to show the QLink window over the touchscreen’s current contents. These are the same
parameters and settings as what is shown in Q-Link Edit Mode. You can tap Q-Link Edit at the bottom of the
window to enter Q-Link Edit Mode immediately (see Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit Mode to learn about this).
5. Pads: Press 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). You can also customize their colors.
6. Pad Bank: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A–D.
Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E–H. Alternatively, double-press
one of these buttons.
7. Note Repeat/Latch: Press and hold this button, and then press a pad to trigger that pad’s sample repeatedly.
The rate is based on the current tempo and Time Correct settings.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to “latch” the Note Repeat feature. When latched, you do not
e to hold the Note Repeat button for it to be activated. Press Note Repeat once more to unlatch it.
hav
17
8. Full Level/Half Level: Press this button to activate or deactivate the Full Level feature. When activated, the pads
will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of how much force you use.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate or deactivate the Half Level feature. When activated,
the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
9. 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 values that increase as the pad numbers increase (e.g., Pad 1 is the minimum,
Pad 16 is the maximum), regardless of how hard you press them. In the screen that appears, use the Type selector
to choose the parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer, Attack, or Decay. See Operation > General Features >
16 Level to learn more.
10. Erase: As a sequence is playing, press and hold this button and then press a pad to delete the note event for
that pad at the current playback position. This is a quick way to delete note events from your sequence without
having to stop playback. See Operation > General Features > Erase to learn more.
11. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by gray writing).
Double-press this button to see which buttons have secondary functions—the buttons will flash for a few seconds.
12. Menu/Browse: Press this button to open the Menu. You can tap an option in the Menu to enter that mode, view, etc.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Browser. You can use the Browser to locate and
select programs, samples, sequences, etc.
13. Main/Track: Press this button to enter Main Mode.
Pre
ss and hold Shift and then press this button to enter the Track View.
14. Undo/Redo: Press this button to undo your last action.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to redo the last action you undid.
15. Copy/Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another. When the From Pad field is selected, press the
“source” pad (the pad you want to copy). When the To Pad graphic (of all pads) is selected, press the
“destination” pad. You can select multiple destination pads, and you can select pads in different pad banks. Tap
Do It to continue or Close to return to the previous screen.
Tip: To quickly copy a pad, press and hold Copy, press the source pad, press the destination pad, and then
release Copy.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete a pad’s sample assignment. When the Delete Pad window
is shown, press any pad/pads whose sample assignments you want to clear. Tap Delete to continue or Cancel
to return to the previous screen.
16. –/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field on the screen.
17. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the audio pointer’s current position.
18. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point.
19. Stop: Press this button to stop playback. You can double-press this button to silence audio that is still sounding
once a note stops playing. Quickly pressing this button three times will act as a “MIDI panic” and shut off all
voices and stop all audio processing.
20. Rec: Press this button to record-arm the sequence. Press Play or Play Start to start recording. Recording in this
way (as opposed to using Overdub) erases the events of the current sequence. After the sequence plays through
once while recording, Overdub will be enabled.
21. Overdub: Press this button to enable Overdub. When enabled, you can record events in a sequence without
overwriting any previously recorded events. You can enable Overdub before or during recording.
22. Tap/Master: Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM). You can set how
many taps are required in the Preferences (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn
how to do this).
Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo
(the button will be lit red) or a master tempo (the button will be lit amber).
18
x
2
f
Touchscreen
Here is some general information about how to use the MPC Live touchscreen:
Tap a button or option to select it. Use the data dial or
–/+ buttons to change its setting or value
Spread two fingers to zoom in (into a section of a
waveform, for example). Pinch two fingers to zoom out.
Double-tap a button to access advanced editing options.
In some cases, this will show a numeric keypad that you
can use to enter a value (an alternative to the data dial
or –/+ buttons). Tap the upper-left part of the screen to
return to the previous view.
The top of the screen shows the toolbar, which contains
information about the current view (often the name o
the current track, sequence, audio playhead position,
etc.). Tap an item to select it.
The bottom of the screen shows various buttons that
you can use in the current view. Tap a button to press it.
To return to a previous view, either tap outside of the
window currently on the screen or tap the left arrow ()
in the upper-left part of the screen.
19
Rear Panel
17
12
6
3
13 13 13
8
14
1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC Live to a power outlet.
2. Power Switch: Turns MPC Live’s power on/off.
3. Charging Indicator: This light (behind the vent) will turn on when MPC Live’s internal battery is charging (when
the power input is connected to a power outlet). When the battery is fully charged or when it is disconnected
from a power outlet, then this light will turn off.
4. USB-B Port: Use the included USB cable to connect this USB 3.0 port to an available USB 3.0 port on your
computer. This connection allows MPC Live to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on
your computer. It also allows any connected USB drives, SD cards, and drives connected to the internal SATA
port to mount on your computer if MPC Live is in Controller Mode (i.e., your computer can access these storage
devices that are connected to your MPC Live).
5. USB-A Ports: Connect USB flash drives to these USB ports to access their files directly using MPC Live. MPC
Live supports read and write capability for exFAT, FAT32, NTFS, and EXT4 file systems a well as read-only
capability for HFS+ file systems. (We recommend using an exFAT file system as it is the most robust one
supported by both Windows and macOS.) These USB ports supply power to connected USB devices and can
also be used to receive MIDI messages from external USB MIDI devices.
6. SD Card Slot: Insert a standard SD/SDHC card into this slot to access its files directly using MPC Live.
7. Rec Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the gain of the incoming signal from the 1/4” (6.35 mm) and RCA inputs. Be
careful when setting this knob at higher levels, which can cause the signal to distort.
7
10
11
9
16
15
5
4
2
1
8. Master Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of Output 1/2 and the phones output.
9. Inputs (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to audio sources
(microphone, mixer, synthesizer, etc.). To use these inputs, set the Line/Phono switch to Line. Turn the Rec Vol
knob to set their input levels.
10. Inputs (RCA): Use a standard RCA stereo cable to connect these inputs to a phono-level audio source like a
turntable. To use these inputs, set the Line/Phono switch to Phono. Turn the Rec Vol knob to set their input levels.
11. Line/Phono Switch: Set this switch to the appropriate position, depending on which inputs you want to use. If
you are using the RCA inputs, set this switch to Phono to provi
level signals. If you are using the 1/4” (6.35 mm) inputs, such as a keyboard or a sampler, set this switch to Line.
12. Grounding Terminal: If using phono-level turntables with a grounding wire, connect the grounding wire to these
terminals. If you experience a low “hum” or “buzz”, this could mean that your turntables are not grounded.
Note: Some turntables have a grounding wire built into the RCA connection and, therefore, nothing needs to be
connected to the grounding terminal.
13. Outputs (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your speaker
system, external mixer, etc. The signal sent out of the Master L/R outputs is the master mix. Turn the Master
Vol knob to set their volume. The signals sent from Outputs 3–6 are full-volume (0 dB).
Tip: To route a program to these outputs, set its routing to Out 1,2, Out 3,4, or Out 5,6 (respectively) in the
Channel Mixer when the Mixer field is set to Programs. See Operation > Modes > Channel Mixer to learn
more about this.
14. Phones (1/8” / 3.5 mm): Connect standard 1/8” (3.5 mm) stereo headphones to this output. Turn the Master Vol
knob to set the volume level.
de the additional amplification needed for phono-
15. MIDI In: Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables to connect these inputs to the MIDI outputs of optional external MIDI
devices.
16. MIDI Out: Use standard 5-pin MIDI cables to connect these outputs to the MIDI inputs of optional external MIDI
devices.
17. Kensington
®
Lock Slot: You can use this slot to secure your MPC Live to a table or other surface.
20
MPC Touch
Top Panel
7777
5
8
9
1110
4
4
1
2
4
6
4
12 13 14 15 16 17
3
21 2223
1. Touchscreen: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC Touch’s current operation.
Touch the touchscreen (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the later Touchscreen
section to learn how to use some basic functions.
17191820
2. Display Brightness +/–: Use these buttons to increase/decrease the brightness of the touchscreen.
3. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the
selected field in the screen.
4. Q-Link Knobs: Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The knobs can control
one group of parameters at a time. The lights below the Q-Link button indicate the currently selected column of QLink knobs. Press the Q-Link button to change which parameter or group of parameters they currently control.
5. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which parameter or group of parameters the Q-Link knobs currently
control (indicated by the lights above the Q-Link knobs). Each press will select the next column of Q-Link knobs.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to select the previous column of Q-Link knobs instead.
Press and hold this button to show the QLink window over the touchscreen’s current contents. These are the same
parameters and settings as what is shown in Q-Link Edit Mode. You can tap Q-Link Edit at the bottom of the
window to enter Q-Link Edit Mode immediately (see Operation > Modes > Q-Link Edit Mode to learn about this).
6. Pads: Press 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). You can also customize their colors.
7. Pad Bank: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A–D.
Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E–H. Alternatively, double-press
one of these buttons.
8. Note Repeat/Latch: Press and hold this button, and then press
The rate is based on the current tempo and Time Correct settings.
a pad to trigger that pad’s sample repeatedly.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to “latch” the Note Repeat feature. When latched, you do not
have to hold the Note Repeat button for it to be activated. Press Note Repeat once more to unlatch it.
21
9. Full Level/Half Level: Press this button to activate or deactivate the Full Level feature. When activated, the pads
will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of how much force you use.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate or deactivate the Half Level feature. When activated,
the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
10. 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 values that increase as the pad numbers increase (e.g., Pad 1 is the minimum,
Pad 16 is the maximum), regardless of how hard you press them. In the screen that appears, use the Type selector
to choose the parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer, Attack, or Decay. See Operation > General Features >
16 Level to learn more.
11. Erase: As a sequence is playing, press and hold this button and then press a pad to delete the note event for
that pad at the current playback position. This is a quick way to delete note events from your sequence without
having to stop playback. See Operation > General Features > Erase to learn more.
12. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by gray writing).
Double-press this button to see which buttons have secondary functions—the buttons will flash for a few seconds.
13. Menu/Browse: Press this button to open the Menu. You can tap an option in the Menu to enter that mode, view, etc.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Browser. You can use the Browser to locate and
select programs, samples, sequences, etc.
14. Main/Track: Press this button to enter Main Mode.
Press and hold Shift and
then press this button to enter the Track View.
15. Undo/Redo: Press this button to undo your last action.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to redo the last action you undid.
16. Copy/Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another. When the From Pad field is selected, press the
“source” pad (the pad you want to copy). When the To Pad graphic (of all pads) is selected, press the
“destination” pad. You can select multiple destination pads, and you can select pads in different pad banks. Tap
Do It to continue or Close to return to the previous screen.
Tip: To quickly copy a pad, press and hold Copy, press the source pad, press the destination pad, and then
release Copy.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete a pad’s sample assignment. When the Delete Pad window
is shown, press any pad/pads whose sample assignments you want to clear. Tap Delete to continue or Cancel
to return to the previous screen.
17. –/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field in the screen.
18. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the audio pointer’s current position.
19. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point.
20. Stop: Press this button to stop playback. You can double-press this button to silence audio that is still sounding
once a note stops playing. Quickly pressing this button three times will act as a “MIDI panic” and shut off all
voices and stop all audio processing.
21. Rec: Press this button to record-arm the sequence. Press Play or Play Start to start recording. Recording in this
way (as opposed to using Overdub) erases the events of the current sequence. After the sequence plays through
once while recording, Overdub will be enabled.
22. Overdub: Press this button to enable Overdub. When enabled, you can record events in a sequence without
overwriting any previously recorded events. You can enable Overdub before or during recording.
23. Tap/Master: Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM). You can set how
many taps are required in the Preferences (see Operation > General Features > Menu > Preferences to learn
how to do this).
Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo
(the button will be lit red) or a master tempo (the button will be lit amber).
22
x
2
f
Touchscreen
Here is some general information about how to use the MPC Touch touchscreen:
Tap a button or option to select it. Use the data dial or
–/+ buttons to change its setting or value
Spread two fingers to zoom in (into a section of a
waveform, for example). Pinch two fingers to zoom out.
Double-tap a button to access advanced editing options.
In some cases, this will show a numeric keypad that you
can use to enter a value (an alternative to the data dial
or –/+ buttons). Tap the upper-left part of the screen to
return to the previous view.
The top of the screen shows the toolbar, which contains
information about the current view (often the name o
the current track, sequence, audio playhead position,
etc.). Tap an item to select it.
The bottom of the screen shows various buttons that
you can use in the current view. Tap a button to press it.
To return to a previous view, either tap outside of the
window currently in the screen or tap the left arrow ()
in the upper-left part of the screen.
23
Rear Panel
89
2
1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC Touch to a power outlet. Alternatively, you can
power MPC Touch via the USB port only, but the touchscreen will be disabled.
2. Power Switch: Turns MPC Touch’s power on/off.
3. USB Port: Use the included USB cable to connect this high-retention-force USB port to an available USB port on
your computer. This connection allows MPC Touch to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software.
You can power MPC Touch via the USB port only, but the touchscreen will be disabled.
4. Rec Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the gain of the incoming signal from the inputs. Be careful when setting this
knob at higher levels, which can cause the signal to distort.
5. Master Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the outputs and phones output.
6. Inputs (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to audio sources
(microphone, mixer, synthesizer, etc.). Turn the Rec Vol knob to set their input levels.
7. Outputs (1/4” / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4” (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your speaker
system, external mixer, etc. The signal sent out of these outputs is the master mix. Turn the Master Vol knob to
set the volume level.
34 56
1
7
10 11
Tip: To route a program to these outputs, set its routing to Out 1,2 in the Channel Mixer when the Mixer field is
set to Programs. See Operation > Modes > Channel Mixer to learn more about this.
8. Phones (1/8” / 3.5 mm): Connect standard 1/8” (3.5 mm) stereo headphones to this output. Turn the Master Vol
knob to set the volume level.
9. MIDI Out (1/8” / 3.5 mm): Use the included 1/8”-to-5-pin adapter and a five-pin MIDI cable to connect this
output to the MIDI input of an optional external MIDI device.
Important: Do not connect audio devices (e.g., headphones, monitors, etc.) to the MIDI Out. Use the included
1/8”-to-5-pin adapters to connect MIDI devices only.
10. MIDI In (1/8” / 3.5 mm): Use the included 1/8”-to-5-pin adapter and a five-pin MIDI cable to connect this input to
the MIDI output of an optional external MIDI device.
Important: Do not connect audio devices (e.g., headphones, monitors, etc.) to the MIDI In. Use the included
1/8”-to-5-pin adapters to connect MIDI devices only.
11. Kensington
®
Lock Slot: You can use this slot to secure your MPC Touch to a table or other surface.
24
Basic Concepts
This chapter should help explain some fundamental aspects of the MPC universe.
The MPC workflow is quite different from traditional digital audio workstations (DAWs). In most typical DAWs, each track
uses an instance of each instrument, and all tracks are always playing even if they don’t contain any audio or MIDI
information. Furthermore, your entire project needs to be arranged just as the resulting song would be. This isn’t the case
with MPC, which offers much more flexibility within your project. It’s important to understand some basic terms, though:
A sequence is a “building block” of a song. It contains multiple tracks that play at the same time like a normal
DAW. In a project, you might create one sequence for your verse and another sequence for your chorus, alternating
and/or repeating each one in a specific order to create the song. (A project can contain 128 sequences.)
A track is a layer in a sequence. There are two types of tracks:
MIDI tracks consist of MIDI data only, no audio data. These tracks produce sound by using programs,
described below. Unlike a normal DAW, each MIDI track exists only in its sequence. The advantage of this is
not having to manage empty or unwanted tracks across all of your sequences—each sequence contains only
the tracks you want to use in it. If you want to use the same track across multiple sequences, you can copy
the track from one sequence into another. (A sequence can contain 128 MIDI tracks.)
Audio tracks consist of a recorded audio signal, like a traditional DAW. These tracks do not use programs
because the audio is already contained in the track. Also, unlike MIDI tracks, audio tracks are present in
every sequence in the project, even if the tracks themselves are empty. (A sequence on your MPC hardware
can contain 8 audio tracks. A sequence in the MPC software can contain 128 audio tracks.)
A program is a preset through which MIDI tracks are routed. Programs may contain audio samples that are
triggered when tracks play through them, producing the sound you want on that track. Programs are
independent of tracks and sequences, so you can set multiple tracks to use the same program (unlike normal
DAWs where each track requires its own set of samples). Furthermore, you can use the same program/programs
across multiple sequences. (A project can contain 128 programs.)
Each program can be played using the 16 pads (across eight pad banks, which gives you access to 128 pads in
each program). Each pad plays a MIDI note when you press it, but that MIDI note will trigger something different
for each program. For instance, in drum programs, the pads are assigned to samples—one pad could trigger a
kick drum sound and another could trigger a snare drum sound—whereas in keygroup programs, each pad
triggers a MIDI note that plays the corresponding pitch of the sample assigned to its keygroup.
Here’s a diagram to illustrate an example of how these pieces could work together:
Sequence
Drum Program
(Drums)
Track (MIDI: Drums)
Track (MIDI: Bass)
Keygroup Program
(Bass)
Track (MIDI: Keys 1)
Track (MIDI: Keys 2)
Track (MIDI: Synth)
Keygroup Program
(Keys)
Keygroup Program
(Synth Lead)
Track (Audio: Vocals)
Track (Audio: Vocals)
Mixing
Track (Audio: Guitar)
Please take a look at the following Tutorial chapter, as well. It will walk you through the creation of a short song to
show you some of your MPC hardware’s most important features.
25
Tutorial
This chapter should familiarize you with some basic MPC features. We’ll create a short song to illustrate some of the
most important features. To get the most out of this chapter, we recommend reproducing each of the described steps.
Starting Up
Make sure you have completed all of the steps described in Introduction > Setup. This includes:
• Installing the most current drivers and software.
• Connecting your MPC hardware to a power source using the included power adapter (if required) and
powering it on.
• Opening and authorizing your MPC software (if you are using your MPC hardware as a controller).
Creating a Drum Kit
Let’s start by making a simple drum kit.
Press Browse (MPC X) or Shift+Menu/Browse (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to show the Browser. Then, use the
touchscreen to navigate to where your drum sounds are located:
To browse your files by location, tap Places on the left side of the screen.
Internal is the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
MPC Documents is a shortcut to the MPC Documents folder on the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
If you have storage devices connected to USB ports or SD card slot of MPC X, MPC Live, or your computer
(with MPC Touch), they will appear in this column, as well.
Important: MPC X and MPC Live support read and write capability for exFAT, FAT32, NTFS, and EXT4 file
systems as well as read-only capability for HFS+ file systems. (We recommend using an exFAT file system as it
is the most robust one supported by both Windows and macOS.)
To browse your files by type, tap Content and then tap the type of file: Drums, Instruments, Clips, Samples,
Demos, or My Files.
To browse your MPC Expansions (MPC X or MPC Live only), tap Expansions (see Addenda > Updates for
MPC 2.1 > New Features > Exporting Expansions to learn how to export MPC Expansions from your computer
to your MPC X or MPC Live).
To move up one folder level, tap the folder/ icon in the upper-left corner.
To move through a list, swipe up or down, turn the data dial or use the –/+ buttons.
To select a file or folder, tap it once.
To enter a folder, double-tap it or tap Open in the lower-right corner. Alternatively, press the center cursor or
Enter (MPC X) or the data dial (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to enter a selected folder.
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To load a selected file, double-tap it, tap Load, or press the center cursor or Enter (MPC X) or the data dial
(MPC Live, MPC Touch). If the file is a sample, it will be loaded to the project’s sample pool. If the file is a
project, it will be loaded in its entirety (you will be asked if you want to close your current project).
To load all files in a folder, select the folder (so it is highlighted in the list), press and hold Shift, and then tap
Load All in the lower-right corner.
Important: Although you can load multiple files at once, any samples you load into a project will be automatically
converted to full-quality uncompressed audio files, so they may use more storage space than they do on your
external storage device. If you are unable to load multiple files at once due to this, select fewer files and try again.
To delete a selected file or folder, press and hold Shift and then tap Delete File at the bottom of the screen.
To preview a selected sound, tap and hold Play () at the bottom of the screen.
To enable or disable the audition function and set its volume level, tap Audition at the bottom of the screen.
In the screen that appears, tap Auto to enable or disable it, and tap and drag the level slider up or down to set
the volume level. Tap Audition once more to hide the window.
To show the information for the current drive (MPC X, MPC Live), press and hold Shift and then tap Drive
Info at the bottom of the screen. The drive’s information will appear in a new window. Tap OK to return to the
previous screen.
After loading samples for a drum kit into the sample pool,
use the Sample Assign tab to assign a kick drum sound to
a pad:
1. Tap Sample Assign at the bottom of the screen. This
lets you view the pads and project’s sample pool.
2. Press Pad 1 or tap Pad 1 on the screen to select it. The
pad will be lit green.
3. Swipe the Sample Pool list up or down or use the data
dial or –/+ buttons to move through it.
4. To load a sample to the selected pad (Pad 1, in this
case) tap it in the Sample Pool list, or press the center
cursor or Enter (MPC X) or the data dial (MPC Live,
MPC Touch). Now, you can press Pad 1 to play the kick
drum sample.
To create a simple drum kit, repeat the above steps for
other pads. We recommend loading a snare drum, a closed
hi-hat, and an open hi-hat.
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Creating a Drum Sequence
Now that your drum kit is set up, let’s record a drum sequence.
1. Press Menu to enter the Menu, and then tap Grid View.
2. Press Tap repeatedly at the speed you want to record your sequence. Your MPC hardware will detect the rate
and adjust itself automatically.
3. Press the Rec button to record-arm the sequence.
4. Press the Play button to start the actual recording. You will hear the count-in for one measure before the
recording starts. We recommend recording only one sound (pad) at a time, especially if you’re not familiar with
playing drums on the pads.
5. Play a simple kick drum pattern. The note events you just recorded will automatically be placed in the grid (in this
case, on 16th notes). The initial measure length is two bars. After the two bars, the recording will automatically
activate Overdub; the sequence will play again from the beginning and keeps looping, allowing you to record
further notes. Don’t stop the recording!
6. Play the snare drum part, then a hi-hat part.
7. When you’re done recording, press the Stop button.
If you start recording again on this sequence, keep in mind that the pads you play in your new recording will replace
existing notes played with the same pads. To prevent this, press the Overdub button before recording instead of the
Rec button. Overdub lets you record additional note events over the existing sequence.
The Undo button functions differently while recording. Normally, pressing Undo will undo just the last event. When
there is an event to undo, the Undo button will be lit solid. While recording, the Undo button will flash. In this case,
pressing Undo will erase all events from that recording (i.e., since Play or Play Start was pressed).
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Saving & Renaming
We recommend doing some renaming of your programs and samples before going further.
The collection of drum samples you loaded earlier (and their respective pad assignments) are arranged into a
program. When you load this program in the future, you will be able to use all of the samples that belong to it.
Let’s rename the exisiting program as we’ll want to create more programs later on.
To rename a program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. In the Program section in the lower part of the screen, tap the cursor icon on the right edge.
3. Use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name (e.g., Drums), and then tap Do It.
To rename your samples:
1. Press Menu to enter the Menu, and then tap Sample Edit to enter Sample Edit Mode.
2. The Sample field at the top of the screen will show the name of a sample. Select a sample in one of the following
ways:
• When the Sample field is selected, use the data dial or –/+ buttons to change it.
• Double-tap the Sample field and tap one in the list that appears.
3. Tap the keyboard icon next to it to rename the current sample.
4. Use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name (e.g., Kick, Snare, etc.), and then tap Do It.
Repeat Steps 2–4 to rename other samples.
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Now would be a good time to save your project.
To save your project, press Menu to show the Menu, and tap the disk icon at the top of the screen to open the
Save window. Alternatively, press Shift+Browse/Save (MPC X). In the Save window, do any of the following:
To select the storage device you want to view, tap it in the Storage column on the left.
Internal is the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
MPC Documents is a shortcut to the MPC Documents folder on the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
If you have storage devices connected to USB ports or SD card slot of MPC X, MPC Live, or your computer
(with MPC Touch), they will appear in this column, as well.
To enter a folder, double-tap it. Alternatively, turn the data dial or use the –/+ buttons to move through the list,
and press the center cursor or Enter (MPC X) or the data dial (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to enter a folder. You
can also tap one of the five folder buttons in the upper-right to jump immediately to those pre-assigned file
paths (see Operation > Modes > Browser to learn how to do this).
To create a new folder, tap New Folder, use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a name, and then tap
Do It. You will immediately enter the new folder.
To move up one folder level, tap the folder/ icon in the upper-left corner.
To name the file, tap the File Name field at the bottom of the screen, and use the virtual keyboard that appears.
To save the file, tap Save.
To cancel and return to the Menu, tap Cancel. Alternatively, tap the icon in the upper-left corner.
30
Editing Note Events
In the grid, you can see your recorded notes (or note events) as a sequence.
To enter the Grid View, press Menu, and then tap Grid View.
In the Grid View, you can do any of the following:
To zoom in or out, tap the magnifying-glass icon in the upper-right corner. Then, in the grid, spread two
fingers apart or pinch two fingers together. You can do this for each axis, horizontal or vertical.
To automatically set the grid to view one pad bank and two bars, tap the grid-and-magnifying-glass icon in
the lower-left corner.
To undo your last action, press Undo.
To redo the last action you undid, press Shift+Undo/Redo.
To enter a note, tap the pencil icon in the upper-right corner. Then, in the grid, tap a square.
To delete a note, tap the eraser icon in the upper-right corner. Then, in the grid, tap a note.
To select a single note, tap the select box in the upper-right corner. Then, in the grid, tap the note.
To select all notes for a pad, press the desired pad.
To move the selected notes, tap Nudge at the bottom of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons
to shift the notes left or right. By default, you can position notes only by quantization values defined by the Time
Correct value (learn about this feature in Operation > General Features > Timing Correct (TC)).
To move the selected notes without restricting (“snapping”) them to the quantization grid, tap and hold
Don’t Snap in the lower-left corner of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to shift the notes. In
this case, each nudge is equivalent to four ticks.
To adjust the start point or end point of the selected notes (without changing their position), tap Edit Start or
Edit End at the bottom of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons.
To transpose the selected notes up or down, tap Transpose at the bottom of the screen, and then use the
data dial or –/+ buttons.
To switch to the previous or next track, tap the Track field in the upper-left corner, and then use the data dial
or –/+ buttons.
To mute or solo the track, press and hold Shift, and then tap Mute or Solo (respectively) at the bottom of the
screen.
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To open the Timing Correct window, press and hold Shift, and then tap TC at the bottom of the screen. See
Operation > General Features > Timing Correct (TC) to learn about this.
To adjust the velocity of the selected notes, tap Velocity at the bottom of the screen, and then use the data
dial or –/+ buttons. The numeric value will appear on the screen.
To show or hide the velocity lane, tap the up arrow (∧) button in the lower-right corner of the screen to show
the velocity lane below the grid. Each note’s velocity is represented by a vertical bar. The higher and more red
the bar is, the higher the velocity is.
Tap the up arrow (∧) button once more to show a taller version of the velocity lane after which it will turn into a
down arrow (∨) button, which you can then tap to hide the velocity lane.
32
Making Basic Sound Edits
Let’s make sure the samples are properly tuned and have good levels.
Press Menu, and then tap Program Edit to enter Program Edit Mode. Alternatively, press Prog Edit (MPC X).
Press a pad to show its parameters on the screen.
To adjust its volume, tap and drag the Volume knob up or down. Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons.
To make finer adjustments, double-tap the knob and adjust the larger version that appears. Tap anywhere else
to return to the previous screen.
To adjust its stereo panning, tap and drag the Pan knob up or down. Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+
buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the knob and adjust the larger version that appears. Tap
anywhere else to return to the previous screen.
Adjust the level of each pad to suit your taste. We recommend spreading the panning of the bright sounds (e.g.,
cymbals, snare drum) a little. Additionally, you can tune the kick drum sound—tap the Samples tab so the first
square under it is lit, and then adjust the Semi and Fine knobs next to the sample name.
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The snare drum may need some reverb to give it a more spatial sound.
Tap Effects at bottom of the screen to view the Insert Effects tab. Press the pad with your snare drum sound to
select it.
To add an effect:
1. Double-tap the desired slot. A list of effects will appear.
2. Swipe up or down to move through the list.
3. To load an effect, double-tap it. Alternatively, tap it once and then tap Select or push the data dial. Let’s try
Reverb Medium.
4. To close the list, tap Close.
To adjust the effect’s parameters, tap the pencil icon.
To empty the effect slot, tap the trash can icon. Switch the effect on or off by tapping the On/Off button for the slot.
34
Creating a Bass Track
Let’s try recording a bass line. Unlike a drum kit, it’s important to be able to play and record a bass sound
chromatically, so this will be slightly different than setting up the drum kit.
Adding a bass line over the drum part means we need to work on a new track. A track is simply a layer of a sequence.
Each track uses a program within your project. You can work with multiple tracks in a single sequence (e.g., a drum
track, a bass track, a piano track, etc.). When you play the sequence, all of them will play simultaneously.
First, let’s make an empty track.
To select a new track:
1. Press Main to go back to Main Mode.
2. Double-tap the Track field in the center-left part of the screen, and then tap Track 2 (unused) in the list of tracks
that appears.
Alternatively, tap the Track + button at the bottom of the screen until (unused) appears in the Track field.
Let’s create a new program for this track to use.
To create a new program:
1. In the Track section in the middle of the screen, tap the piano-keys icon. This icon indicates a keygroup
program, which is necessary to play the bass sound chromatically with the pads.
A name for the new keygroup program will appear in the Program field in the lower part of the screen.
2. In the Program section in the lower part of the screen, tap the cursor icon on the right edge.
3. Use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name, and then tap Do It.
35
To load and edit a bass sound:
1. Press Browse (MPC X) or Shift+Menu/Browse (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to show the Browser. Then, use the
touchscreen to navigate to where your bass sounds are located, and load one to the project’s sample pool. (You
can look at this earlier section if you forgot how to do this!)
2. After loading a bass sample to the sample pool, don’t use the Sample Assign tab like you did when creating a
drum program; keygroup programs are different.
Instead, press Menu, and then tap Program Edit to enter Program Edit Mode. Alternatively, press Prog Edit (MPC X).
3. In Program Edit Mode, tap the Samples tab at the bottom of the screen to show the four layers of samples in the
program.
4. Double-tap the first Layer field and then tap your bass sample in the list on the left. Because you’re working with
a keygroup program instead of a drum program, this sample is now playable across all pads.
Tip: On your MPC hardware, press the Pad Bank D button to switch to Pad Bank D and press Pad 13. You
should hear the bass sample played back with its original pitch. You can use the other pads to play your sample
chromatically.
Let’s add a second layer and set the layers’ velocity ranges so the bass will sound different when played at a higher
velocity (as a real bass would):
1. Press Browse (MPC X) or Shift+Menu/Browse (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to show the Browser, select a different
bass sample that sounds similar but a little bit brighter, and load it to the project’s sample pool.
2. Return to Program Edit Mode, and in the Layer tab, double-tap the second Layer field, and select the new bass
sample. Press a pad to hear both samples will sound at once. Maybe this new sound is interesting as it is, but
let’s make some quick edits to get as close as we can to a real-life bass sound.
3. Tap the Pan Velocity tab to show its parameters.
4. Tap Layer 1’s Vel End knob and turn the data dial to set it to 80. Do the same to set Layer 2’s Vel Start slider to 81.
Now when you press a pad, the lower velocities (0–80) will trigger the Layer 1 sample only, while higher velocities
(81–127) will trigger the Layer 2 sample only.
36
Let’s record that bass line now. Prepare your recording as described earlier, and record some bass notes. You can
edit your recording just like we’ve done earlier.
Once you’ve recorded it, let’s tweak the sound a bit in the Filter section:
1. In Program Edit Mode, tap the Filter/Env tab to show its parameters.
2. Double-tap the Type drop-down menu, and select a filter. Let’s try working with Lowpass 4 Pole.
3. Tap the Cutoff or Reso (resonance) knob, and turn the data dial to adjust their settings until your bass sample
sounds good to you.
4. In the Amp Envelope section, tap the Attack or Release knob, and turn the data dial to adjust their settings.
These control the overall level characteristics of the sound.
Do you want to add an effect? Do this in the Effects tab:
1. Tap the Effects tab to show the insert effects.
2. Double-tap one of the Inserts slots to show a list of available effects.
3. Double-tap the effect you want to add to your bass line, or click Close to cancel.
To adjust the settings of the effect, click the pencil icon next to its slot to open a window that shows its
parameters.
To activate or deactivate all insert effects for that program, click the All On/All Off button in the upper-right
corner.
So far, we’ve created a simple drum sequence and a bass line to go with it. Repeat this process to create a second
sequence.
37
Recording an Audio Track
We’ve already created some MIDI tracks, so let’s record some actual audio for our next track:
1. Press Main to go back to Main Mode.
2. Tap the Audio tab at the bottom of the screen. Audio 001 will appear in the Track field.
3. If the channel strip is not already shown on the left side of the screen, tap Input Config (in the lower part of the
screen) or the small eye icon (in the upper-left part of the screen) to show it.
4. Connect a synthesizer or other line-level audio source to the 1/4” (6.35 mm) input/inputs on your MPC
hardware’s rear panel, and set the Line/Phono selector to Line (MPC X, MPC Live).
5. Double-tap the first field (Input __) and select Input 1 or Input 1,2 (depending on your audio source) as the input
source.
6. If the second field is not set to Out 1,2, double-tap it and select that option as the output.
7. Tap the Monitor button to cycle through its three states until it reads Auto (you will hear incoming audio while
the track is record-enabled only).
8. Turn the 3/4 Rec Gain (MPC X) or Rec Vol (MPC Live, MPC Touch) knob to set the input level while playing your
audio source. You should now see the level in the meter. Make sure it does not exceed the maximum level (the
meter should not be “peaking” constantly).
9. If Solo and Mute are on, tap or press them so they are off. Also, tap the automation button so it is off/gray (not
green/Read [R] or red/Write [W]). Alter
natively, press Read/Write (MPC X).
10. Tap the Record Arm button to record-enable the track. Alternatively, press Rec Arm (MPC X).
11. Press Rec to record-arm the sequence.
12. To start recording, press Play or Play Start—then play your audio source! You should hear your existing
sequence playing in the background.
To stop recording, press Stop.
Record another audio track for your other sequence: Select the other sequence in Main Mode, and create another
audio track (Audio 002) to go with that sequence.
38
Creating a Song
This section explains how to make a song out of your sequences. Before starting, make sure that you have recorded
some sequences (which we described earlier).
To enter Song Mode, make sure playback is stopped, and then press Menu, and then tap Song to enter Song Mode.
Alternatively, press Song (MPC X).
In Song Mode, each of the sequences you’ve created in this project assigned to a pad. The sequence playlist is to
the left of the pads, showing the song’s structure.
As a song plays, it moves through each step of the sequence playlist. Each step contains a sequence you assigned.
Each step can be repeated, determined by the value in the Repeat column (the repeat icon; a value of 1 means the
sequence will play through only once). The Bars column on the right indicates the length of that sequence.
Each step can be set to play its sequence at an independent tempo, determined by the value in the BPM column.
Important: Each sequence has its own tempo, while the project itself may use a different master tempo. The BPM value
for each sequence may be different from the master tempo. As long as playback is set to follow the master tempo, each
sequence’s individual tempo will be ignored. By default, each project is set to use the sequence tempo, which you set
back in the Creating a Drum Sequence chapter. We recommend tapping the Seq/Mst button at the top of the screen
(so the button displays Mst) and entering a master tempo to ensure all sequences use the same tempo.
To insert a step at the current position, tap Insert.
To delete the currently selected step, tap Delete.
To set which sequence plays for a step, tap the step’s Sequence field, and then turn the data dial to select a
sequence.
To set how many times a sequence repeats, tap the step’s Repeat field (next to the sequence name), and then
turn the data dial to select a number.
39
Exporting the Song
Want to share your new song? Just export it first.
To export a song:
1. While in Song Mode, tap Export at the bottom of the screen.
2. In the Audio Mixdown screen that appears, do the following:
• Make sure the Start field is set to 1, and set the End field to the last bar of your song.
• Tap the Audio Tail field and turn the data dial to set it to 2 seconds.
• As you’ll likely share the song online, tap the mp3 file format option in the lower-left corner.
3. Tap Export. Choose where you want to save the song.
To name the song, tap the File Name field, and use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name, and
then tap Save to start exporting.
40
Other Features Explained
This chapter describes various advanced features. For a fuller explanation of these features, please refer to their
corresponding sections in the Operation chapter.
Step Sequencer
You’ve already learned how to record note events on a track, but you can quickly enter note events in the Step
Sequencer by using the pads as “step buttons,” simulating the experience of a traditional step-sequencer-style drum
machine.
To enter the Step Sequencer, press Menu, and then tap Step Sequencer. Alternatively, in some modes, you can
tap the steps icon on the left edge of the screen. You can also press Step Seq (MPC X).
1. Let’s create a sequence on a new track. Tap the Track field in the upper-left corner, and then use the data dial or
–/+ buttons to select an (unused) track. Alternatively, double-tap the Track field, and then tap a track to select it.
2. Tap the Track Length field at the top of the screen to set a length for the track, and then use the data dial or the
–/+ buttons to select a length. If you select the minimum value, Sequence, the track will be however long your
sequence is.
Tip: This lets you maintain tracks of different lengths. For instance, you could play a 1-bar drum sequence
repeatedly under a 4-bar bass line.
3. Tap the Bar –/+ buttons at the bottom of the screen to select the bar whose steps you want to create or edit.
The bar number will appear in the Bar field in the upper-left corner.
4. Tap the Pad –/+ buttons at the bottom of the screen to select the pad whose steps want to create or edit. The
pad number will appear in the Pad field in the upper-left corner.
5. Press Play to start your sequence.
6. Each pad represents a step in the bar. If the pad already has note events on the selected track, the corresponding
pads (steps) will be lit with colors corresponding to their velocities.
To enter a note at a step, press an unlit pad. The pad will light up with a color corresponding to its velocity.
To delete the note from a step, press a lit pad. The pad will become unlit.
To delete all notes from the entire bar, press and hold Shift, and then tap Clear Bar in the lower-right corner.
See Operation > Modes > Step Sequencer to learn more about this feature.
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Drum Loops & Chop Mode
Modern music producers often use drum loops to add grit and nuance to programmed beats. This section explains
how to use Sample Edit Mode to work with drum loops.
Use the Browser to locate a drum loop, and then double-tap it to add it to the current program. The loop does not
have to match the tempo of anything in the project.
To enter Sample Edit Mode, press Menu, and then tap Sample Edit to enter Sample Edit Mode. Alternatively,
press Sample Edit (MPC X).
1. Tap the Sample field at the top of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select the loaded
drum loop. You can scroll through all loaded samples in the project. Alternatively, double-tap the Sample field,
and then tap a sample to select it.
2. Tap the Trim/Chop tab in the lower-left corner to switch between Trim Mode and Chop Mode. Select Chop
Mode, which will let us cut the drum loop into slices.
3. Tap Threshold, and then tap the Threshold field to the right of it. Use the data dial, –/+ buttons, or numeric
keypad (MPC X) to select a value. Alternatively, double-tap the Threshold field and use the numeric keypad on
the screen. The lower the threshold, the more slices will be created. Be sure to select a value so that every
transient peak of the drum loop has a corresponding a slice marker.
Tip: Each slice will be automatically assigned to a pad: Pad A01 plays Slice 1, Pad A02 plays Slice 2, etc. Press
each pad to play the slice with the same number.
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Let’s use this chopped sample to create a new program in which each of these slices is an individual sample. We
can also automatically create corresponding note events to play back these slices sequentially.
1. Press and hold Shift and then tap Convert at the bottom of the screen to enter the Convert or Assign Slices
window.
2. Tap the Convert To field, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select New Program with New Samples.
3. Make sure Crop Samples is checked. If it is not, tap it.
4. Make sure Create New Program is checked. If it is not, tap it.
5. Make sure Create Events is checked. If it is not, tap it.
6. Tap the Bars field, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select how many bars the entire sample should
use in your program.
7. Tap Do It to proceed. Each slice will be assigned to a pad, and each pad will have a recorded note event in the
track. When you play that track, it will play each pad (each slice) in the original order. Press Menu and then tap
Grid View to see how the sample appears in your sequence.
8. Press Play and listen to how the drum loop matches your song tempo now.
You can also edit the note events of the drum loop slices—enter Main Mode to do this. A new track with the note
events playing their corresponding slices has been automatically created. Tap the TC/clock icon at the top of the
screen to use the Timing Correct window to quantize the note events so they fall on exact, even time intervals.
You can also rearrange the note events, thus creating a new playback order for the slices. You can also edit each
slice or sample in Program Edit Mode. You can add effects for slices or use the filter function to change the
frequency range of a selected slice. There are almost no limits to what you can do.
See Operation > Modes > Sample Edit Mode > Chop Mode to learn more about this feature.
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Pad Muting & Track Muting
Pad Mute Mode and Track Mute Mode let you silence different pads and tracks to see what the sequence sounds
like without those samples or parts.
To enter Pad Mute Mode, press Menu, and then tap Pad Mute to enter Pad Mute Mode. Alternatively, press
Shift+Track Mute/Pad Mute (MPC X).
1. Press Play to play the sequence.
2. Tap the Program field at the top of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select your drum
program. Alternatively, double-tap the Program field, and then tap a program to select it.
3. Mute a pad by pressing it once or tapping it on the screen. The muted pad will be lit red. You can mute multiple
pads at the same time.
See Operation > Modes > Pad Mute Mode to learn more about track mutes.
44
You can also mute entire tracks by using the similar Track Mute function.
To enter Track Mute Mode, press Menu, and then tap Track Mute to enter Track Mute Mode. Alternatively, press
Track Mute (MPC X).
1. Press Play to play the sequence.
2. Tap the Sequence field at the top of the screen, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select the desired
sequence. Alternatively, double-tap the Sequence field, and then tap a sequence to select it.
3. Each pad is assigned to a track. Mute a track by pressing the corresponding pad or tapping it on the screen. The
pad will be lit red. You can mute multiple tracks at the same time.
Tip: To mute a track only at precise note intervals (“quantizing” your mutes, essentially), tap Time Division to set
a musical timing value. Tap the desired musical value (e.g., 1 Bar). Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. Tap
Close to close the page. Now, when you press a pad in Track Mute Mode, the mute will occur precisely at the
beginning of the following time division (in this example, one bar). This lets you test musical combinations of
patterns—the preliminary stage to building a song structure.
See Operation > Modes > Track Mute Mode to learn more about track mutes.
45
Sampling (Recording)
This section describes recording new samples of your own, which you can use in your projects.
Important: To record any audio, you need to connect an audio source to your MPC hardware or to your computer’s
audio interface.
To open the Sampler, press Menu, and then tap Sampler to enter Sampler Mode. Alternatively, press Sampler (MPC X).
1. Connect an audio source to the input/inputs of your MPC hardware.
2. The Input ___ menu in the upper-left corner should be set to Input 1,2 (the inputs of your MPC hardware). If it is
not, then select Input 1,2.
3. Turn the 3/4 Rec Gain (MPC X) or Rec Vol (MPC Live, MPC Touch) knob to set the input level while playing your
audio source. You should now see the level in the meter. Make sure it does not exceed the maximum level (the
meter should not be “peaking” constantly).
4. Tap and drag threshold slider to set the threshold. Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. Set it to a
fairly low level (e.g., -50 dB).
5. Tap Arm to record-arm the Sampler.
6. Play your audio source. The Sampler will start recording immediately when the input level reaches the threshold
value. Alternatively, tap the round Record button to manually start recording.
7. To stop recording, tap the round Stop button. The Keep or Discard Sample window will appear.
46
In the Keep or Discard Sample window:
To name the new sample, tap the Edit Name field and use the virtual keyboard to enter a name.
To assign the new sample to a program, tap the Program field, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to
select the desired program. Alternatively, double-tap the Program field, and then tap a program to select it.
To assign the sample to a pad in the program, tap the Assign to Pad field, and then press the desired pad.
Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select the desired pad number, or double-tap the Pad field, and
then tap a pad number.
To confirm your selections, tap Keep at the bottom of the screen.
To discard the recording and return to the previous screen, tap the Discard button.
To play the recording, tap the Play button at the bottom of the screen.
See Operation > Modes > Sampler to learn more about this feature.
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Sample Editing
You may need to edit your newly recorded samples using Sample Edit Mode.
To enter Sample Edit Mode, press Menu, and then tap Sample Edit to enter Sample Edit Mode. Alternatively,
press Sample Edit (MPC X).
In Sample Edit Mode:
To switch between Trim Mode and Chop Mode, tap the Trim/Chop tab at the bottom of the screen. In this
example, use Trim Mode.
To set the sample’s start point, use the first column of Q-Link knobs (when in the Screen Q-Link Edit Mode)
to adjust the start point with varying degrees of resolution. Alternatively, tap and drag the S marker in the
waveform. You can also double-tap the Start field and use the numeric keypad on the screen to enter a value (or
tap the Start field and use the numeric keypad).
To set the sample’s end point, use the second column of Q-Link knobs (when in the Screen Q-Link Edit
Mode) to adjust the end point with varying degrees of resolution. Alternatively, tap and drag the E marker in the
waveform. You can also double-tap the Start field and use the numeric keypad on the screen to enter a value (or
tap the Start field and use the numeric keypad).
To hear your edits, press Pad 10 to play the sample from the start point to the end point.
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Let’s apply some processing to the sample.
To open the Process Sample window, tap Process at the bottom of the screen.
1. Use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select the desired process in the Function field. Alternatively, tap Function
or double-tap the Function field, and then tap the desired process. Let’s select Pitch Shift to change the overall
pitch of your sample. This will transpose the sample without affecting its length.
2. To set the pitch shift amount, tap and drag the knob in the center of the window up or down. Alternatively, use
the data dial or –/+ buttons.
To make finer adjustments, double-tap the knob and adjust the larger version that appears. Tap anywhere else
to return to the previous screen.
3. To confirm your selections, tap Do It.
To cancel the process, tap Cancel.
See Operation > Modes > Sample Edit Mode to learn more.
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Recording Automation with the XY Pad
Automating various parameters is a good way to add some motion and dynamism to your sequences.
1. Press Menu, and then tap XYFX to enter XYFX Mode. Alternatively, press XYFX (MPC X).
2. Double-tap the XYFX Location field, and select Program.
3. When you first enter this mode in a project, you will be prompted to “load” XYFX to the program. Tap Insert
XYFX to do this.
4. Tap Setup to show the Setup panel, which controls how the XY pad behaves.
5. Double-tap the Preset field, and tap an effect to select it. (These are just the effects available in XYFX Mode, not
all MPC effects.) Swipe up or down to view the entire list.
6. Tap and drag any of the knobs (Attack, Release, or Wet/Dry) up or down to set their values as desired. Below
them, you can see what parameter the X axis and Y axis control.
Note: XYFX uses an envelope to control how quickly the effect crossfades between the dry signal and wet signal.
The Attack knob determines how long it takes the completely dry signal to reach the wet signal (determined by
the Wet/Dry knob) after you touch the XY pad. The Release knob determines how long it takes the wet signal
(determined by the Wet/Dry knob) to return to the completely dry signal after you touch the XY pad.
7. Tap the automation button or press Read/Write (MPC X) to cycle through the available automation modes.
Make sure the button is red (the Write (W) option).
8. Press Play Start to start recording.
9. As you record, move your finger over the XY pad on the screen. The changes in the sound are being recorded as
automation of both the X axis and Y axis parameters.
Tip: While touching the XY pad, tap Latch in the lower-left corner to keep the marker on the XY pad even after
you release it. The marker will remain there until you touch another part of the XY pad or until you tap Latch again.
10. When you are done recording, press Stop.
11. Tap the automation button or press Read/Write (MPC X) to select the green Read (R) option. This ensures
your track uses the automation you just recorded when you play it back.
See Operation > Modes > XYFX Mode to learn more about using this feature.
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Using MPC X or MPC Live as a Controller
If you are using the MPC software on your computer, you can switch MPC X or MPC Live into Controller Mode,
allowing you to use it to control the software. MPC Touch already operates as a controller only.
The MPC software offers the same features and functionality as the MPC hardware in Standalone Mode but with some
notable differences, which are discussed in Operation > General Features > Standalone vs. Controller Mode.
51
Operation
This chapter explains the complete features and functions of your MPC hardware.
Important:
• When accessing the secondary functions of buttons on your MPC hardware, you can do this one of
two ways: (1) pressing and holding Shift and then pressing the desired button or (2) double-pressing
the desired button. This manual describes these operations using only the first option, but both are
acceptable.
• When the left-most button at the bottom of the screen shows an upward arrow (), it means there are
additional buttons you can use when you press and hold Shift. Press and hold Shift to show the
secondary buttons, and any of them, if desired. Release Shift to return to the previous buttons.
• Almost every mode shown on the screen has 1–6 buttons at the bottom. Each of these buttons select
a different tab in that mode or perform a specific function in that mode.
• MPC X: You can press the F-Key button to activate or deactivate the F-Key feature. When active, the
six buttons under the touchscreen correspond to the options shown at its bottom edge. The F-Key
button and those six buttons will be lit red when active. When inactive, the six buttons under the
touchscreen will access their normal modes instead (Menu, Browser, Step Seq, Sampler, XYFX,
and Looper).
• MPC X: As an alternative to tapping a control on the screen to select it, you can use the cursors to
navigate through the controls on the screen. The center cursor acts as an Enter key.
• MPC Live, MPC Touch: As an alternative to double-tapping an item on the screen to “enter” it, you
can press the data dial.
• When a parameter is highlighted and has a red outline, this means that it is selected. You can then
change it by turning the hardware’s data dial or using the –/+ buttons. If the parameter is a number,
double-tap it to show a numeric keypad on the screen to enter a specific value, or use the numeric
keypad (MPC X).
• MPC Live, MPC Touch: When the touchscreen shows a parameter or group of parameters with a
gold outline (and sometimes a Q in the corner), this means that the current bank of Q-Link knobs
will control those parameters or settings. Turn a Q-Link knob to adjust its corresponding parameter
value or setting in that group. When the value has decimal places, you can sometimes press and hold
Shift and then turn the Q-Link knob to adjust the value by smaller increments. You can also press
the Q-Link button to select another group of four parameters.
• Press and hold the any of the Q-Link buttons (Project, Program, Pad Scene, Pad Param, or Screen
Control/Edit: MPC X) or the Q-Link button (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to see an overview of all 16 Q-Link
knobs and their parameters in the QLinks window that appears. You can then tap a column or row of
knobs to select those four Q-Link knobs, and then release the Q-Link button. See Modes > Q-Link
Edit Mode to learn more about using the Q-Link knobs throughout your project.
52
General Features
Control Types
The MPC touchscreen uses the following types of control elements:
Knobs
To set the value for a knob, do any of the following:
• Tap and drag the knob up or down.
• Tap the knob to select it, and then use the data dial or –/+
buttons to adjust the value.
• Double-tap the knob to show it in a larger screen. Alternatively,
press the center cursor or Enter (MPC X) or the data dial
(MPC Live, MPC Touch) when the knob is selected.
Tap and drag the larger version that appears, or use the data dial
or –/+ buttons to adjust the value.
If the knob is bipolar (has positive and negative values with the
center as the default position), double-tap the larger version to
reset it to the center/0 position.
Tap anywhere else to return to the previous screen.
• Press and hold Shift while turning the data dial to adjust a value
by smaller increments.
Parameter Values
To set the value for a parameter, do either of the following:
• Tap the field to select it, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons
to adjust the value.
When the value has decimal places, you can sometimes press and
hold Shift and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to adjust the
value by smaller increments.
• Double-tap the field or hold your finger on it for a second. In the
screen that appears, use the numeric keypad, the data dial, or
the –/+ buttons to adjust the value. Alternatively, tap and drag
the value up or down.
You can also tap /2 to halve the value or x2 to double it.
To confirm the value and remain on this screen, tap Apply.
To confirm the value and return to the previous screen, tap Do It.
To return to the previous screen without changing anything,
tap the gray area in the upper-left corner of the screen.
53
Drop-Down Menus / Lists
To select an option for a drop-down menu, do any of the following:
• Tap the field to select it, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an option.
• Double-tap the field. In the list that appears (examples below), tap the desired option. Alternatively, use the
data dial or the –/+ buttons to select an option.
In some windows, tap the relevant button at the bottom of the screen to confirm your selection or to cancel
without changing anything.
Selectors
Selectors show all available options. One of them is always selected. The
selected option is highlighted while the others are dark.
To select an option, tap it.
54
Buttons
Buttons usually have two states: selected and deselected (active or inactive, respectively).
Some may have more than two states.
To switch between or cycle through a button’s states, do either of the following:
• Tap it.
• If it is outlined in red (and is not a mute button), use the data dial or –/+ buttons.
Checkboxes
Checkboxes have two states: checked and unchecked (enabled or disabled, respectively).
To check or uncheck a checkbox, tap it.
Tabs
Some modes have buttons at the bottom of the screen that let you cycle through several
similar tabs. For instance, you could view the send level that is routed to each of four
returns—each level is shown on a separate tab. With each tap, you will move to the next
tab, indicated by the squares below it.
To select a tab, tap it. Each time you tap it, it will select the next tab.
Sliders
To adjust the position of a slider, do any of the following:
• Tap and drag the slider to the desired position.
• Tap the desired position (this works only on some sliders).
• Tap the slider to select it, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to adjust the position (this works only on
some sliders).
• Double-tap the slider, and then tap and drag the larger version that appears, or use the data dial or –/+ buttons
to adjust the value. If the slider controls a volume level, double-tap the larger version to reset it to 0 dB. Tap
anywhere else to return to the previous screen.
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Envelopes
To set the stages of an envelope, do either of the following:
Tip: Tap the expand-rectangle icon above the envelope to show a closeup view.
• Tap and drag a “handle” of an envelope stage in the desired direction.
• Set the numeric value of an envelope stage by adjusting or entering it as a parameter value
(described earlier).
The Filter/Envelope tab in Program Edit Mode.
Closeup of an AD-type filter envelope. Closeup of an AHDS-type amp envelope.
56
Grid View Tools
In the Grid View, these four icons enable you to use different functions in the grid.
Tap one to select its mode:
Pencil: Draw Mode:
To enter a note in an empty grid square, tap the grid square.
To select a note, tap it.
To move a note, tap and drag it to another grid square.
To erase a note, double-tap it.
Eraser: Erase Mode:
To erase a note, tap it.
Select Box: Select Mode:
Note: Notes will remain selected if you switch to another mode. The selection will change, however, if you
press a pad while Hitting Pad Selects All Events is set to On.
To select a note, tap it.
To select multiple notes, tap and drag across the grid to create a box around them.
To move a note, tap and drag it to another grid square.
To move multiple notes, select them as described above, and tap and drag them.
To erase multiple notes, select them as described above, and then select the eraser tool and tap any
of the selected notes.
Magnifying Glass: Navigation Mode:
To move to another part of the grid, tap and drag it.
To zoom in or out, spread or pinch your fingers (respectively) on the grid. You can do this vertically,
horizontally, or both at the same time.
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Audio Edit Tools
In Audio Edit Mode, these six tool icons enable you to use different functions in the waveform.
Tap one to select its mode:
Marquee: Marquee Mode:
To select a track region, tap the upper third of it.
To move a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap and drag the upper third of it left or right.
To split the track at two specific points (creating a track region on either side and between them), tap and
drag across the middle third of it to create a translucent white box, and then tap the upper third of that box.
To shorten or lengthen a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap and drag the lower third
of it left or right.
Arrow: Selection Mode:
To select a track region, tap it.
To select multiple track regions, tap and drag across the grid to create a box that highlights them.
Double-tap the selected track regions to deselect them.
To move a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap and drag the upper third of it left or right.
To shorten or lengthen a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap its edge and drag it.
Eraser: Erase Mode:
To select multiple track regions, tap and drag across the grid to create a box that highlights them.
To erase a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap it.
Scissors: Split Mode:
To split the track at a specific point (creating a track region on either side), tap that point in the track.
To select a track region, tap its left-most edge.
To select multiple track regions, tap and drag across the grid to create a box that highlights them.
Double-tap the selected track regions to deselect them.
Mute: Mute Mode:
To select multiple track regions, tap and drag across the grid to create a box that highlights them.
Double-tap the selected track regions to deselect them.
To mute or unmute a track region (or multiple selected track regions), tap it.
Magnifying Glass: Navigation Mode:
To move to another part of the track, tap and drag it.
To zoom in or out, spread or pinch your fingers (respectively) on the grid. You can do this vertically,
horizontally, or both at the same time.
58
Programs
About Programs
Each track you create within a sequence is routed through a program. There are six
types of programs, each of which determines how the track sounds or what it is used
for. A single project can hold up to 128 programs.
This chapter covers how to create each program type.
To learn about editing your programs to your preference, see the Modes > Program
Edit Mode chapter.
A drum program uses one or more samples as its sound source. It contains (1) a list of samples and (2)
the settings for each sample (i.e., pad assignments, loop points, pitch tuning, effects, etc.). Drum
programs are used mostly for creating drum parts and quickly and easily assigning samples to pads. See
Drum Programs for more information.
A keygroup program uses one or more samples as its sound source. It contains (1) a list of samples and
(2) the settings for each sample (i.e., pitch tuning, effects, etc.). Keygroup programs are used to play
samples chromatically with a MIDI keyboard or the MPC pads. See Keygroup Programs for more
information.
A clip program uses several samples that can be looped (clips). Each clip can be assigned to a pad,
which you can press to trigger the clip according to a quantization setting. This lets you create intriguing,
layered performances by launching different combinations of clips together. See Clip Programs for more
information.
A plugin program contains an instance of a plugin through which you can send your track’s MIDI data.
See Plugin Programs for more information.
Important: For MPC X and MPC Live, plugin programs are available only in Controller Mode with the
desktop version of the MPC software. They are not available in Standalone Mode.
A MIDI program lets you send your track’s MIDI data to an external MIDI device like a synth or drum
machine. See MIDI Programs for more information.
A CV program lets you send your track’s MIDI data to an external MIDI device that uses control voltage
(CV), like a synth. See CV Programs for more information.
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Drum Programs
A drum program uses one or more samples as its sound source. It contains (1) a list of samples and (2) the settings
for each sample (i.e., pad assignments, loop points, pitch tuning, effects, etc.). Drum programs are used mostly for
creating drum parts and quickly and easily assigning samples to pads.
To create a drum program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the four-squares icon, which indicates a drum
program.
3. If the project does not contain a drum program yet, a new drum program
(named Program, appended with a number) will be added automatically to
the project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a drum program, the first one will be selected
automatically and appear in the Program field below.
To create another drum program, tap the + icon above the Program field.
A new drum program will be created and appended with a number (e.g.,
Program 002).
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program
section. Use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name, and then
tap Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the screen to cancel.
To load a sample into a drum program:
1. Press Browse (MPC X) or Shift+Menu/Browse (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to show the Browser. Find and select a
sample, and then tap Load to load it to the program. Repeat this for any other samples you want to load into the
project. (See Modes > Browser to learn more about using the Browser specifically.)
2. Tap Sample Assign to view the pads and project’s sample pool.
3. Press or tap a pad to select it. The pad will be lit green.
4. In the Sample Pool list, tap a sample to assign it to the pad. Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ button
s to
assign a sample and/or change the assigned sample.
To clear the assigned sample from a selected pad, tap Clear Pad.
To assign samples to additional pads, repeat Steps 3–4.
Tip: Remember that a drum program has 128 pads total—16 pads across eight banks.
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Alternatively, assign samples in a drum program in Program Edit Mode in one of these two ways:
1. Press Menu, and then tap Program Edit to enter Program Edit Mode. Alternatively, press Prog Edit (MPC X).
2. Tap the Samples tab. This lets you view the samples assigned to all four layers of the current pad as well as
tuning and level parameters for each layer.
3. Tap a pad to select it (and play its assigned samples, if any). The pad will be lit green.
4. Tap one of the Layer fields under the sample waveform to select a layer. Tap the Sample field, and then use the
data dial or –/+ buttons to select a sample. Alternatively, double-tap the field for a layer, and then tap a sample
to select it.
1. Press Menu, and then tap Program Edit to enter Program Edit Mode. Alternatively, press Prog Edit (MPC X).
2. Tap the Pan Velocity tab. This lets you view the samples assigned to all four layers of the current pad as well as
panning and velocity ranges of each layer.
3. Tap a pad to select it (and play its assigned samples, if any). The pad will be lit green.
4. Tap one of the Layer fields to select a layer, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select a sample.
Alternatively, double-tap the field for a layer, and then tap a sample to select it.
61
Keygroup Programs
A keygroup program uses one or more samples as its sound source. It contains (1) a list of samples and (2) the
settings for each sample (i.e., pitch tuning, effects, etc.). Keygroup programs are used to play samples chromatically
with a MIDI keyboard or the MPC pads.
To create a keygroup program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the piano-keys icon, which indicates a keygroup
program.
3. If the project does not contain a keygroup program yet, a new keygroup program
(named Program, appended with a number) will be added automatically to the
project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a keygroup program, the first one will be selected
automatically and appear in the Program field below.
To create another keygroup program, tap the + icon above the Program
field. A new keygroup program will be created and appended with a number
(e.g., Program 002).
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program
section. Use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a new name, and then tap
Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the screen to cancel.
To assign samples in a keygroup program:
1. Press Menu, and then tap Program Edit to enter Program
Edit Mode. Alternatively, press Prog Edit (MPC X).
2. Tap Samples. This lets you view the samples assigned
to all four layers of the current keygroup as well as
tuning and level parameters for each layer.
3. Tap the Number of KG field, and then use the data dial
or –/+ buttons to set the number of keygroups in the
program (1–128). Alternatively, tap the Number of KG
field, and then use the numeric keypad to enter a value (or
double
-tap the Number of KG field, and then use the
numeric keypad on the screen).
4. Tap the Keygroup field, and then use the data dial or –/+
buttons to select a keygroup. Alternatively, double-tap the
Keygroup field, and then tap a keygroup to select it.
5. Tap a pad to play the sample in the keygroup. The pad
will be lit green.
Tip: On your MPC hardware, press the Pad Bank D
button to and press Pad 13. You should hear the
sample played back with its original pitch. You can use
the other pads to play your sample chromatically.
6. Tap the field for a layer, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select a sample. Alternatively, double-tap
the field for a layer, and then tap a sample to select it.
To create complex keygroup programs, you can add more keygroups (up to 128). This is useful when working with
multi-samples (e.g., when programming a real piano).
Tip: Remember that a keygroup program offers up to 128 keygroups, and each keygroup can hold up to four
samples (Layers 1–4). This is a total of 512 samples.
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Clip Programs
A clip program uses several samples that can be looped
(clips). Each clip can be assigned to a pad, which you can
press to trigger the clip according to a quantization setting.
This lets you create intriguing, layered performances by
launching different combinations of clips together.
By default, the 16 pads are divided into four columns of four
pads. Each column represents a mute group; when a pad is
playing a clip, all other pads in that same mute group are
turned off. This enables you to launch a clip without having
to manually stop other clips that are similar. For instance,
pressing Pad 2 may launch a bass clip. You could then
press Pad 6, which launches another bass clip and stops
the clip on Pad 2. This way, you’ll never be playing two bass
clips simultaneously.
The four-columns pad configuration described above is just
a default to make things easy (e.g., you could use the first
column for drum clips, the second for bass clips, the third
for keyboard clips, and the fourth for vocal clips). You can
use Program Edit Mode to assign pads to any combination
of mute groups you want.
To create a clip program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the play-button icon, which indicates a clip program.
3. If the project does not contain a clip program yet, a new clip program (named Clip, appended with a number) will
be added automatically to the project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a clip program, it will be selected automatically and appear in the Program field
below.
To create another clip program, tap the + icon above the Program field. A new clip program will be created
and appended with a number (e.g., Clip 002).
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program section. Use the virtual keyboard that
appears to enter a new name, and then tap Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the screen to cancel.
63
To load a clip into a clip program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Tap Edit Clips to view the pads and clip settings.
3. Press or tap a pad to select it (and play its assigned samples, if any). The pad on the screen will be lit red, and its
number will appear in the Pad field.
4. Tap the Sample field, and then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select a clip. Alternatively, double-tap the
Sample field, and then tap a clip to select it.
To clear the assigned clip from a selected pad, repeat Step 4, but select None.
To assign clips to additional pads, repeat Steps 3–4.
Alternatively, assign clips in a clip program this way:
1. Press Browse (MPC X) or Shift+Menu/Browse (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to show the Browser. Find and select a
clip, and then tap Load to load it to the program. Repeat this for any other clips you want to load into the project.
(See Modes > Browser to learn more about using the Browser specifically.)
2. Tap Sample Assign to view the pads and project’s sample pool.
3. Tap Assign Mode so it is selected (tapping an item in the sample pool will now assign it automatically to the
current pad).
4. In the Sample Pool list, tap a clip to assign it to the pad. Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons to assign
a clip and/or change the assigned clip.
To clear the assigned clip from a selected pad, tap Clear Pad.
To assign clips to additional pads, repeat Steps 4–5.
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Plugin Programs
A plugin program contains an instance of a plugin through which
you can send your track’s MIDI data. This lets you use the same
instance of a plugin with multiple tracks (rather than load an
instance of a plugin on every track, which can be cumbersome and
CPU-intensive).
Important: For MPC X and MPC Live, plugin programs are available
only in Controller Mode with the desktop version of the MPC software.
To create a plugin program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the plug icon, which indicates a plugin program.
3. If the project does not contain a plugin program yet, a new plugin program (named Plugin, appended with a
number) will be added automatically to the project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a plugin program, the first one will be selected automatically and appear in the
Program field below.
To create another plugin program, tap the + icon above the Program field. A new plugin program will be
created and appended with a number (e.g., Plugin 002).
4. Double-tap the Plugin field. In the list that appears, tap the desired plugin. Alternatively, use the data dial or the
–/+ buttons to select a plugin.
To sort your plugins by type or maker, tap Type or Manufacturer.
5. Tap Select to select the plugin, or tap Close to cancel.
Note: You have to specify the disk directory where your plugins are located. This can be done in the software’s
Preferences (in the Edit Menu). See the user guide in the MPC software to learn more: click the Help menu,
select MPC Help, and select MPC User Manual.
To select the MIDI channel the program will use, double-tap the MIDI Ch field. In the list that appears, tap the
desired channel. Alternatively, use the data dial or the –/+ buttons to select a channel. Use this setting when you
are working with a virtual instrument plugin that supports multi-mode.
To select a preset in your plugin (if any), double-tap the Preset field. In the list that appears, tap the desired
preset. Alternatively, use the data dial or the –/+ buttons to select a preset.
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program section. Use the virtual keyboard that
appears to enter a new name, and then tap Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the screen to cancel.
To adjust the volume and panning of a track using the plugin program:
1. Press Menu, and then tap Channel Mixer to enter the Channel Mixer. Alternatively, press Ch. Mixer (MPC X).
2. Double-tap the Mixer field in the upper-left corner, and then tap Midi Tracks.
3. Tap the square that represents the track with the plugin program to select it.
4. Tap and drag the volume slider or pan knob up or down to adjust it. After you do this once, you can adjust the
volume and panning of the plugin program normally.
Important:
If you copy a sequence, the volume and pan values will be copied with that sequence. This is also true if you move to
a new sequence and put the same plugin program on a new track.
By default, some plugins do not support MIDI volume and pan. In this case, adjust volume levels and panning on the
plugin program.
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MIDI Programs
A MIDI program lets you send your track’s MIDI data to an
external MIDI device like a synth or drum machine.
To create a MIDI program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the MIDI-jack icon, which indicates a MIDI program.
3. If the project does not contain a MIDI program yet, a new MIDI program (named Midi, appended with a number)
will be added automatically to the project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a MIDI program, it will be selected automatically and appear in the Program field
below.
To create another MIDI program, tap the + icon above the Program field. A new MIDI program will be created
and appended with a number (e.g., Midi 002).
4. There are five additional settings to configure for a MIDI program: the MIDI Port, program change message
(Program Ch), MIDI channel (MIDI Ch), Most Significant Byte (Bank MSB), and Least Significant Byte (Bank
LSB). See this section to learn more.
To configure each setting, double-tap its field. In the list that appears, tap the desired option. Alternatively, use
the data dial or the –/+ buttons to select an option.
Note: You also have to configure the MIDI ports in the software’s Preferences (in the Edit Menu). See the user
guide in the MPC software to learn more: click the Help menu, select MPC Help, and select MPC User Manual.
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program section. Use the virtual keyboard that
appears to enter a new name, and then tap Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the screen to cancel.
To adjust the volume and panning of a track using the MIDI program:
1. Press Menu, and then tap Channel Mixer to enter the Channel Mixer. Alternatively, press Ch. Mixer (MPC X).
2. Double-tap the Mixer field in the upper-left corner, and then tap Midi Tracks.
3. Tap the square that represents the track with the MIDI program to select it.
4. Tap and drag the volume slider or pan knob up or down to adjust it. After you do this once, you can adjust the
volume and panning of the MIDI program normally.
Important: If you copy a sequence, the volume and pan values will be copied with that sequence. This is also true if
you move to a new sequence and put the same MIDI program on a new track.
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CV Programs
A CV program lets you send your control voltage (CV) signals
to an external MIDI device like a synth or drum machine that
uses CV.
To create a CV program:
1. Press Main to enter Main Mode.
2. Next to the Track field, tap the CV icon, which indicates a CV program.
3. If the project does not contain a CV program yet, a new CV program (named CV, appended with a number) will
be added automatically to the project and appear in the Program field below.
If the project already contains a CV program, it will be selected automatically and appear in the Program field
below.
To create another CV program, tap the + icon above the Program field. A new CV program will be created and
appended with a number (e.g., CV 002).
4. There are five additional settings to configure for a CV program: the note tracking (Note), the CV Port, the Gate
Port, the modulation wheel (Mod Wheel), and Velocity Port.
To rename the program, tap the cursor icon on the right edge of the Program section. Use the virtual
keyboard that appears to enter a new name, and then tap Do It to confirm or the gray bar at the top of the
screen to cancel.
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Menu
The Menu lets you select any of the 21 modes or save your project. On MPC X or MPC Live, you can also use it to
set your preferences, switch between Standalone Mode and Controller Mode, or view your system resources.
To open the Menu, press Menu, or tap the icon in the upper-left corner of the screen while on the normal page of
your current mode.
When viewing the Menu, do any of the following:
To enter a mode, tap it.
Important: If a sequence is currently playing, you will not be able to enter Song Mode. Stop playback before
entering Song Mode.
To return to the previous mode, tap the gray area in the upper-left corner, or press Menu again.
Note: The Menu above is available when the currently selected track is a MIDI track. When an
audio track is selected, it will show an icon for Audio Edit Mode instead of Grid View.
Click a part of the screen above to skip directly to that part of this user guide.
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Save
To save the project, tap the disk icon at the top of the screen. Alternatively, press Shift+Browse/Save (MPC X). If
you have already saved the project, your changes will be saved. If you have not saved the project yet, use the Save
window to save the project:
To select the storage device you want to view, tap it in the Storage column on the left.
Internal is the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
MPC Documents is a shortcut to the MPC Documents folder on the internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
If you have storage devices connected to USB ports or SD card slot of MPC X, MPC Live, or your computer (with
MPC Touch), they will appear in this column, as well.
To enter a folder, double-tap it. Alternatively, turn the data dial or use the –/+ buttons to move through the list, and
press the center cursor or Enter (MPC X) or the data dial (MPC Live, MPC Touch) to enter a folder. You can also
tap one of the five folder buttons in the upper-right to jump immediately to those pre-assigned file paths (see
Modes > Browser to learn how to do this).
To create a new folder, tap New Folder, use the virtual keyboard that appears to enter a name, and then tap Do It.
You will immediately enter the new folder.
To move up one folder level, tap the folder/ icon in the upper-left corner.
To name the file, tap the File Name field at the bottom of the screen, and use the virtual keyboard that appears.
To save the file, tap Save.
To save the file as a project template file, tap the Save as Template checkbox to check it before tapping Save.
(This file will be shown in the Template File field in the Preferences’ Project Load/Save tab.)
To cancel and return to the Menu, tap Cancel. Alternatively, tap the icon in the upper-left corner.
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Preferences
To open the Preferences, tap the gear icon at
the top of the screen.
To return to the Menu, tap the icon in the
upper-left corner. Changes to the Preferences are
saved automatically except for Vintage Mode (in
the General tab) and Start Time (in the Sync tab).
To restore your MPC hardware’s default
settings, tap Reset. In the screen that appears,
tap OK to continue or Cancel to return to the
Preferences. In the next window, tap Save to save
your current project before restoring the default
settings; tap Cancel to return to the Preferences;
or tap Don’t Save to restore the default settings
without saving your current project.
Important: For MPC X and MPC Live, the
Preferences will appear differently in Controller
Mode than in Standalone Mode. Some of the
options described in this section may be available in
only one of these modes or in a different order.
Info
This screen shows current information about your MPC hardware: its current firmware version, which includes its
standalone operating system (MPC Firmware); its hardware Serial Number; and its current firmware for the Control
Surface.
To enter Update Mode, press and hold Shift and tap Update. In the screen that appears, tap Save to save your
current project before entering Update Mode; tap Cancel to return to the Preferences; or tap Don’t Save to enter
Update Mode without saving your current project.
Sequencer
The settings on this screen determine how sequencing works in the Grid View and in the Step Sequencer.
Display Resolution: This is the display resolution (in PPQN—pulses per quarter note) of pulse values in certain
areas of the operating system. Please note that this setting affects the display resolution, not the timing.
Instant Track Mute: When disabled, if you mute a track, its Note On messages will be ignored, and samples and
notes that are playing will finish playing their entire length (this is how legacy MPCs’ track-muting worked). This is
useful if you are using loops and want a loop to play to the end of a bar but not play the next time the sequence
loops. When enabled, if you mute a track, the MIDI track volume (0) will be sent. The loop will continue to play
but at zero volume, allowing the loop to continue playing when the track is unmuted. This is useful when you
want to have the track muted immediately.
Play Track Mute and Solo Events: When enabled, track mute and solo events are played back when you are in
Track Mute Mode. When disabled, track mute and solo events will not be played back while in Track Mute Mode.
Record Track Mute and Solo Events: When enabled, track mute and solo events are recorded when you are in
Track Mute Mode (timing correct settings will affect the recorded position events). When disabled, track mute
and solo events will not be recorded while in Track Mute Mode. This feature is useful if you want to use Track
Mute Mode to record track mutes or solos into your sequences as opposed to using Track Mute Mode for
performance or listening purposes only.
Record Pad Aftertouch Events: When enabled, pad aftertouch data (from the MPC hardware’s pressuresensitive pads) will be recorded. When disabled, pad aftertouch data will be ignored.
Place Events Recorded During Count-In at Start Point: When enabled, pressing a pad during the recording’s
pre-count will record that note event at the start of the recording (this is how the MPC3000 worked). When
disabled, no notes will be recorded until the pre-count is finished and recording has begun.
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A
Truncate Duration: This determines if/how events are cropped if they exceed the length of the current Sequence:
To Sequence Length: If the length of an event exceeds the length of the sequence, it will be truncated. This
ensures that the event will not overlap itself when the sequence loops.
To Sequence End: If an event exceeds the length of the sequence, it will be truncated to the end of the
current sequence. In other words, the event will stop playing when the sequence ends or loops.
As Played: Events will play back exactly as they were recorded, even if they overlap themselves when the
sequence loops.
Q-Link Swing Control Applies TC Settings on Release: When enabled, turning the Q-Link knob assigned to
Swing and then releasing it will immediately apply that Swing setting. When disabled, you must use the Timing
Correct window to apply the Swing setting.
Sync
The settings on this screen determine how your MPC hardware synchronizes with connected USB and MIDI devices.
Receive: This determines whether your MPC hardware receives MIDI Clock information (MIDI Clock), MIDI Time
Code information (MIDI Time Code (MTC)), communication from Ableton Link (Ableton Link), or none of these (Off).
Receive MMC: When enabled, your MPC hardware will be able to receive MIDI Machine Control (MMC)
information. When disabled, your MPC hardware will not receive this information. See Appendix > MIDI Machine
Control (MMC) to learn about this.
Send: This determines whether your MPC hardware sends MIDI Clock information (MIDI Clock), MIDI Time
Code information (MIDI Time Code (MTC)), or neither (Off).
Send MMC: When enabled, your MPC hardware will be able to send MIDI Machine Control (MMC) information.
When disabled, your MPC hardware will not send this information. See Appendix > MIDI Machine Control (MMC)
to learn about this.
MTC Frame Rate: This determines the frame rate used by MIDI Time Code (MTC), which is important for correct
timing, especially when working on film scoring projects. In most cases, you should select 25.
Start Time: This is the starting time that will be sent when Send MIDI is set to anything other than Off. The time
is formatted in hours:minutes:seco
nds:frames.
Send Port 1–4: These are the MIDI ports over which MIDI Clock or MTC information will be sent.
Hardware
The settings on this screen determine the behavior of your MPC hardware’s pads and touchscreen.
Pad Threshold: This determines how much force is required to strike the pads for them to trigger.
Pad Sensitivity: This determines how the pads respond to touch. At lower values, you need to use more force to
generate a high-velocity note. At higher values, it is easier to generate high-velocity notes, even if you do not use
much force while pressing a pad.
Pad Curve: This determines how striking the pads translates into velocity values. The A
curve is essentially linear, while the B, C, and D curves are exponential (see graphic here).
MIDI
Velocity
Velocity & Aftertouch: View these meters when striking and pressing the pads to help
gauge the force and pressure you are applying to them. These meters are useful when
adjusting the Pad Threshold and Pad Sensitivity parameters (above).
Footswitch 1 & Footswitch 2: These determine how connected footswitches will work.
These options are available for MPC X only, not for MPC Live or MPC Touch, which do
not have footswitch inputs.
pplied
Force
MIDI Control Mode Output: This determines which MIDI port the MPC hardware is
using to send MIDI messages to external MIDI devices.
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Screen Dimming: This determines how much time must pass before your MPC hardware automatically dims its
touchscreen (if if it uses a battery, this can help preserve battery life).
Screen Brightness: This determines the brightness of the screen during normal operation: normal brightness
(Day) or dimmed (Night).
Power On Screen (MPC Live only): This determines if/when a special screen will appear when you power on
your MPC Live. On this screen, you must tap and hold a button for a moment to begin using MPC Live or it will
automatically power off. This feature prevents it from powering on accidentally and wasting battery life. You can
set it to the following options:
Never: The screen will never appear.
When On Battery: The screen will appear only if you power on MPC Live while using battery power.
Always: The screen will always appear.
VU Meter Source (MPC X only): This determines what audio signal level is shown in the level meters (on the right side
of the screen). When set to Master, the level meters show the audio signal sent out of Outputs 1/2 (the Main L/R
outputs on the rear panel). When set to Current Program, the level meters show the audio signal of the currently
selected program (i.e., the program used by the currently selected track and any other tracks that also use it).
Date (MPC X & MPC Live only): This is the current date, formatted as Month / Day / Year. When saving files on
MPC X or MPC Live in Standalone Mode, the file will include the current date in its metadata. If you use MPC X
or MPC Live in Controller Mode, this setting will be overwritten with the current date of the host computer.
Time (MPC X & MPC Live only): This is the current time, formatted as Hour : Minute. When saving files on MPC
X or MPC Live in Standalone Mode, the file will include the current time in its metadata. If you use MPC X or
MPC Live in Controller Mode, this setting will be overwritten with the current time of the host computer.
Time Zone (MPC X & MPC Live only): This is the current time zone, formatted as Continent / City, which you can
change here.
Project Defaults
The settings on this screen determine various default values for any new project that you create.
New Project Dialog: This determines what options you see when you start a new project. When set to Off, a
new project will be empty with no preconfigured settings except for the project defaults shown here. When set to
Demo, you can choose to load a demo project (from several different genres) as a starting point or an empty
project. When set to Demo/Template/Recent, you can choose to load a demo project, a project template file, or
an empty project. You must have a project in the T
emplate File field of the Project Load/Save tab to select a
template in this window.
Default Tempo: This is the default tempo in BPM.
Default Master Tempo: When enabled, the default tempo value will be used for the master tempo. When
disabled, the default tempo will be used for sequences.
Default Sequence Bars: This determines the default number of bars of a new sequence.
Default Time Signature Numerator: This determines the number of beats per bar of a new sequence (the top
number of a time signature).
Default Time Signature Denominator: This determines the value of each beat of a new sequence (the bottom
number of a time signature).
Default Pad Slice: This determines how new samples will play when you load them or record them into a
project. When set to Pad, the Slice menu in Program Edit Mode will be set to Pad, which lets you set the start
point, end point, etc. for the layer. When set to All, the Slice menu in Program Edit Mode will be set to All, in
which the entire sample plays.
Default Drum/Keygroup Filter: This determines the default type of filter that drum and keygroup programs will
use. See Appendix > Glossary > Filter to learn about this.
Default Plugin Synth: This determines the default instrument plugin that a new plugin program will use. Use the
window that appears to select it. (For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using your MPC
hardware in Controller Mode.)
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Project Load/Save
The settings on this screen determine if (and how) projects are automatically saved. If you are using MPC hardware
as a controller, you can also define files to load automatically.
Auto Load File: Use this field to select a project (.xpj) or program (.xpm) to load automatically anytime you open
the MPC software. (For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using your MPC hardware in
Controller Mode.)
Enabled: When enabled, your project will automatically save after each Timeout interval. When disabled, your
project will not be automatically saved; you may save only manually.
Timeout: Use this field to select how often your project will automatically save.
Template File: Use this field to select a project template that will load automatically when you select User
Template in the New Project Dialog window. (If you select the Save as Template box when saving a file, it will
be shown in this field.) In order for the User Template option to be available, New Project Dialog (in the Project
Defaults tab) must be set to Demo or Demo/Template/Recent.
General/Other
The settings on this screen determine how other features work in the hardware and operating system.
Tap Tempo: This determines how many times you have to press the Tap button before the new tempo is
recognized.
Flash Tap Tempo Light: When enabled, the Tap button’s light will flash in time with the tempo. When disabled,
the Tap button’s light will be off.
Filter ‘All Notes Off’ CC: When enabled, “All Notes Off” (“MIDI panic”) messages will be ignored. This is useful if
you are using an external MIDI device that can send these types of messages but you want to filter them out.
When disabled, “All Notes Off” messages will be received normally.
Program Change: This determines what an incoming MIDI program change message will change: a Program,
Sequence, or Track.
Sampling Bit Depth: This determines bit depth of the audio recorded from a sample.
Vintage Mode: This determines the type of emulation applied to the audio output. You can apply the particular
sonic qualities of, for example, the MPC
Audition Auto Play: This determines how long a sample will sound when auto-previewing it.
Audition Outputs: This determines which pair of outputs will play any auditioned sounds (Out 1,2–7,8 in
Standalone Mode, Out 1,2–31,32 in Controller Mode; MPC Live does not use Out 7,8 in Standalone Mode but
displays them to maintain compatibility with MPC X, which does use them). These sounds include: samples,
programs, and projects in the Browser; sample playback, Cue Preview, and Slice Preview in Sample Edit
Mode; and sample playback in the Keep or Discard Sample window in the Sampler.
Cue Preview: This determines if/how audio is played as you move the cue playhead. As you move the cue
playhead through a sample waveform, you can set it to play the small part of the sample before the cue playhead
(Before), play the small part of the sample after the cue playhead (After), or not play at all (Off). You can also set
this in Sample Edit Mode (see Modes > Sample Edit Mode > Settings).
Slice Preview: This determines if/how audio is played as you move a slice marker. As you move the slice marker
through a sample waveform, you can set it to play the small part of the sample before the slice marker (Before),
play the small part of the sample after the slice marker (After), or not play at all (Off). You can also set this in
Sample Edit Mode (see Modes > Sample Edit Mode > Settings).
Threads: This determines how many cores of your computer’s processor will be used to render audio. The
available range depends on your processor. (For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using
your MPC hardware in Controller Mode.)
Audio Warp Algorithm: This determines how a sample is “warped” when you adjust the length of a sample
without changing its pitch (e.g., the Warp function in Audio Edit Mode for audio tracks or in Program Edit Mode
for clip programs). (For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using your MPC hardware in
Controller Mode.)
Note: The Warp algorithms are very CPU-intensive and can result in audio drop-outs during playback if used too
freely. Be mindful of how (and how often) you use the warp function. You can reduce the CPU resources required
by using a Warp algorithm other than Elastique Pro, which is very CPU-intensive.
3000 or MPC60, or of course no emulation (None).
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Audio Track Auto Warp: This determines how recorded audio track regions are warped. When set to On, any
audio track region that you record will be warped automatically to match the current sequence tempo. You can
then adjust the sequence tempo while the audio track region remains in time.
Note: When you record an audio file, the current sequence tempo will be embedded with it. This information is
stored within the sample file when you save the project. When you warp an audio track region, the warping
algorithm uses this sequence tempo and the current value in the BPM field to generate the “stretch factor.”
BPM Detection Range: This defines the range of detectable BPM values when you use any automatic BPM
detection function in the software or when you press the Tap button to enter a new tempo.
Bank Button Press: This determines how the Pad Bank buttons work.
Select A-D: Pressing a Pad Bank button once will select the corresponding bank from Pad Banks A–D.
Pressing and holding Shift while pressing a Pad Bank button will select the corresponding bank from Pad
Banks E–H.
Select/toggle bank: Pressing a Pad Bank button will alternate between the corresponding bank from Pad
Bank A–D and Pad Bank E–H. In other words, you do not need to hold Shift to select one of Pad Banks E–H.
Desktop Screensaver Disable: This determines if/when your computer’s screensaver is disabled while using
the MPC software (i.e., using your MPC hardware in Controller Mode):
Never: Your computer’s screensaver will function normally.
When hardware used: As long as your MPC hardware is connected to your computer and being used, your
computer’s screensaver will be disabled.
When hardware attached: As long as your MPC hardware is connected to your computer and powered on,
your computer’s screensaver will be disabled. It will function normally again if you power off or disconnect
your MPC hardware from your computer.
Always: Your computer’s screensaver will be disabled as long as the MPC software is open (whether or not
your MPC hardware is connected or powered on).
(For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using your MPC hardware in Controller Mode.)
Collect Usage Statistics: This determines whether or not your usage statistics will be sent occasionally to us,
enabling us to improve the MPC experience. (For MPC X and MPC Live, this option is available only when using
your MPC hardware in Controller Mode.)
Bluetooth
The settings on this screen will determine how your MPC hardware’s Bluetooth connection works, so you can use
Bluetooth MIDI controllers (e.g., LPD8 Wireless or LPK25 Wireless) or a Bluetooth computer keyboard with it. These
settings are available only for MPC X and MPC Live when used in Standalone Mode.
To activate or deactivate Bluetooth connectivity on your MPC hardware, tap the On/Off selector. The
available Bluetooth devices will appear in the panel below it under Available Devices. The Bluetooth devices
that have already paired to your MPC hardware will appear under Paired Devices.
To select a Bluetooth device, tap it.
To pair a selected Bluetooth device (in the Available Devices section), tap Pair.
To connect to a selected
Bluetooth device (in the Paired Devices section), tap Connect.
To disconnect from a connected Bluetooth device (in the Paired Devices section), tap Disconnect.
To return an available Bluetooth device to its original state, tap Remove.
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Wi-Fi
The settings on this screen will determine how your MPC hardware’s wireless connection works, so you can use
Ableton Link, a new technology that synchronizes beat, phase and tempo of Ableton Live and Ableton Link-enabled
applications over a wireless or wired network. These settings are available only for MPC X and MPC Live when used
in Standalone Mode.
To activate or deactivate wireless connectivity on your MPC hardware, tap the On/Off selector. The
available wireless networks will appear in the panel below it.
To select a wireless network, tap it.
To connect to a selected wireless network, tap Connect. If the Wi-Fi network is password-protected, use the
virtual keyboard that appears to enter the correct password to connect to it.
To view the information of a selected wireless network, press and hold Shift and tap Info. The Network
Information window that appears will show the network name, IPv4/IPv6 address (including the subnet mask
and gateway), type of security, and signal strength (as a percentage).
To disconnect from a connected wireless network, tap Disconnect.
To clear the connection information (e.g., the password) from a selected wireless network, tap Forget.
Legal
This screen shows legal information relevant to MPC. For complete legal information, visit akaipro.com/product-legal
Sync
Tap the Sync field (in the center of the top of the screen) and then turn the data dial or use the –/+
buttons to set whether your MPC hardware receives MIDI Clock information (MIDI Clock), MIDI
Time Code information (MTC), communication from Ableton Link, or none of these (Off).
Alternatively, double-tap Sync and tap the desired option to select it.
This is the same setting as the Receive menu in Sync tab of your Preferences. See Preferences
> Sync for more information.
Important: Your MPC hardware must be connected to a wireless network in order to receive these
types of timing information. See Preferences > Wi-Fi to learn how to connect to a wireless network.
Note: Ableton Link is a new technology that synchronizes beat, phase and tempo of Ableton Live
and Ableton Link-enabled applications over a wireless or wired network.
Mode
Tap this icon to switch MPC X or MPC Live between
Standalone Mode and Controller Mode (MPC Touch already
operates as a controller only). In the screen that appears,
select whether you want to save your current project before
switching (Save), switch without saving your project (Don’t
Save), or stay in the current mode and project (Cancel). You
cannot freely switch between Standalone and Controller
Modes without also closing your current project.
See Standalone vs. Controller Mode to learn more.
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System Resources
Tap one of these icons to show the System Resources window for MPC X or MPC Live.
The indicators in this window show current usage statistics:
Battery: If you are using MPC Live powered by its internal battery, the first indicator shows the current battery
life as a percentage. (See Battery Usage to learn more about MPC Live’s internal battery.)
CPU: The CPU indicator shows the current CPU as a percentage.
RAM Usage: The Mem indicator shows your MPC hardware’s current RAM usage.
Important: If you encounter a warning that there is not enough memory to complete an action while using your
MPC hardware, do the following to make more memory available:
Make sure all audio tracks in your project are not record-armed.
Delete samples from your project’s sample pool that were there before the warning appeared.
If you are still seeing the warning, do the following:
1. Manually undo the last action you performed before seeing the warning (you may not be able to use the
Undo button for this due to how the undo history is stored in RAM).
2. Save your project.
3. Do one of the following, and then load your saved project again.
• In Main Mode, tap the folder icon at the top of the screen, and then tap New at the bottom of the screen.
• Power your MPC hardware off and then on again.
• Press Menu and then tap the gear icon to open the Preferences. In the Preferences, tap Reset at the
bottom of the screen, tap OK, and then tap Restart to reset the Preferences.
• Enter Controller Mode and then reenter Standalone Mode.
Important: Although you can load multiple files at once, any samples you load into a project will be automatically
converted to full-quality uncompressed audio files, so they may use more storage space than they do on your
external storage device. If you are unable to load multiple files at once due to this, select fewer files and try again.
Drives: The Drives indicator shows the available storage space on any detected external storage devices or the
internal drive of MPC X or MPC Live.
To delete samples from the project (to create more free RAM space for sampling time, audio recording, etc.), tap
Purge. In the screen that appears, tap Unused Samples to delete all unused samples from the project, tap All
Samples to delete all samples from the project (from all programs, sequences, and audio or MIDI tracks), or tap
Cancel to return to the previous screen.
To close the System Resources window, tap OK, the X in the upper-right corner, or anywhere outside the window.
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Time Counter/Locate
In most of the available modes, there is a time counter at the top of the screen. This indicates
the current playhead position.
To adjust the position, tap it, and then use the use the data dial or the –/+ buttons.
To open the Locate screen and adjust its settings, double-tap the time counter.
To close the Locate screen, tap the X in the upper-right corner or anywhere outside the
window.
To move forward or backward a step, tap the Step < or Step > button, respectively.
To move forward or backward a bar, tap the Bar << or Bar >> button, respectively.
To configure your auto record settings, use the Auto Record selector and adjacent fields:
Auto Record selector: Tap the desired option to select it:
Off: Auto recording is disabled.
Punch In: You can auto record using punch-in and punch-out markers, enabling you to record over a
specified length of time in the track. While recording, the entire sequence will play, but you will record over
only the area between the Punch In and Punch Out markers. Any part of the sequence before the Punch In
marker or after the Punch Out marker will remain untouched, even if you perform over it during recording.
Record Start: After you record-arm the track and start playback, you will start recording once the sequence
loops back to its start. This is essentially a punch-in feature for the entire track, enabling you to start playing a
record-armed track while allowing more time than the usual count-in to prepare for the actual recording to start.
Punch In: Use these fields to set the location of the Punch In marker, which is where recording will start (when
the Auto Record selector is set to Punch In).
Punch Out: Use these fields to set the location of the Punch Out marker, which is where recording will stop
(when the Auto Record selector is set to Punch In).
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You can use this screen to set time markers, allowing you to jump automatically to precise locations in a sequence.
You can set up to six time markers.
To set a time marker, tap the time counter at the top of the screen, find the desired time, and then tap Set next to
the desired time marker. The time will appear next to that marker.
To jump to a time marker, tap the number next to it (1–6).
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Timing Correct (TC)
The Timing Correct window contains various settings to help quantize the events in your sequence. You can
quantize note events on MIDI tracks or track regions on audio tracks (though you cannot apply all types of
quantization to audio tracks).
To open the Timing Correct settings:
In Main Mode or List Edit Mode: Tap the TC/clock icon at the top of the screen.
In the Grid View: Press and hold Shift and tap TC at the bottom of the screen.
In the Track View or the Step Sequencer: Tap TC at the bottom of the screen.
Note: The TC button in Pad Mute Mode and Track Mute Mode contain Timing Correct settings, but they do
not open this window. See Modes > Pad Mute Mode and Track Mute Mode to learn about those settings.
To apply the settings you selected, tap Do It.
To cancel and return to the previous screen, tap Close.
Use the Type selector to set how timing corrections are applied.
Start: The start points of note events or audio track regions will be extended or shortened to align with the
closest time division marker in the grid. The start points will remain untouched. You can apply this to MIDI tracks
or audio tracks.
End: The end points of note events will be extended or shortened to align with the closest time division marker in
the grid. The start points will remain untouched. You can apply this to MIDI tracks only.
Length: The end points of note events will be extended or shortened so that each event’s length is a multiple of
the time division, regardless of where it is in the grid. The start points will remain untouched. You can apply this
to MIDI tracks only.
Legato: The end points of note events will be extended or shortened to create a long, unbroken phrase from the
first note event’s start point to the last note event’s end point. Each note event will sustain until another note event
starts. If multiple note events start at the same time (and are not the last note events), their lengths will become
identical. Selecting Legato disables all other options in this window. You can apply this to MIDI tracks only.
Without legato applied. With legato applied.
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Use the Time Division selector to set the quantization value. Events will “snap” to these time divisions on the grid.
The T indicates a triplet-based value.
Alternatively, press and hold Note Repeat while in Main Mode, and then use the six buttons at the bottom of the screen.
Use the Swing field to set the amount of swing from 50% to 75%. Swing lets you “shuffle” your beats—from subtle
to extreme.
Use the Shift Timing field to shift all events by clock ticks.
Use the Window field to set how many events around a quantize value will be quantized. Any events outside this
range will not be quantized; events inside will.
Use the Strength field to set how strictly events will be quantized (i.e., shifted toward the quantize value). Lower
values move events a little bit towards the closest quantize value, resulting in a less mechanical feel than a strict
quantization (a higher value).
Use the Events selector to set the target range for the
time correction. You can apply the time correction to All
note events or to just the Selected ones.
To select note events to which to apply time correction,
either use the various tools in Grid View or press the
pad with the desired events (while Hitting Pad Selects
All Events is set to On). You must do this before
opening the Timing Correct window.
When Range is selected, you can define the locations
(From and To) as well as the pads or keys that will be
quantized.
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Metronome (Click/Metro)
The Click/Metro window contains all settings regarding the metronome (click track).
To open the metronome settings:
In Main Mode or List Edit Mode: Tap the Metro/metronome icon at the top of the screen.
In the Grid View: Press and hold Shift and tap Click at the bottom of the screen.
In the Track View: Tap Click at the bottom of the screen.
Tap the Metro/metronome icon at the top of the screen.
Use the Count-In field to set if/when the metronome counts before recording.
Off disables the metronome pre-count.
Record enables the pre-count during recording only.
Record + Play enables pre-count in both Record and Playback Modes.
Use the Enable field to set if/when the metronome is enabled.
Off disables the metronome.
Play enables the metronome sound during playback only.
Record enables the metronome sound during recording only.
Record + Play enables the metronome to happen in both Record and Playback Modes.
Use the Rate field to select the metronome click’s time division: 1/4, 1/4T, 1/8, 1/8T, 1/16, 1/16T, 1/32 or 1/32T.
T indicates a triplet-based time division.
Use the Sound field to select the sound that you want to hear for the metronome: Sidestick 1, Sidestick 2, Clap,
Metroclick, Shake, Tambourine, or MPC Click.
Use the Volume knob to set the volume of your metronome click.
Tap the On/Off button to enable or disable the metronome.
Use the Output field to set which pair of outputs will play the metronome click: Out 1,2–7,8 in Standalone Mode, Out
1,2–31
,32 in Controller Mode (MPC Live does not use Out 7,8 in Standalone Mode but displays them to maintain
compatibility with MPC X, which does use them).
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Automation
You can set the automation for programs and audio tracks to be “written,” “read,” or disabled entirely. You can do
this globally or for individual programs and audio tracks.
Global
In several modes, there is a button in the upper-right corner that controls the global automation. When you tap this
button to change its state, it will change the automation state for all programs in the project.
This is available in Main Mode, XYFX Mode, Pad Mute Mode, the Pad Mixer, the Channel Mixer, and Q-Link Edit Mode.
Tap the global automation button to cycle through its three states:
When off, automation data will be ignored. If you have already recorded or entered automation,
tapping this will switch between Read (R) and Write (W) only, but you can override this and turn it off
by pressing and holding Shift while tapping the button.
Important: If you have already recorded automation and turn it off, the track will still use the effect
and its parameter values at the point where you turned it off.
When set to Read (R), automation data will be read but not recorded. (Think of this as a protective
feature to prevent accidental changes to your automation while recording.)
When set to Write (W), automation can be recorded and will overwrite any existing automation. (Make
sure not to touch the XY pad accidentally while you are recording.)
Programs & Audio Tracks
You can also set the automation for each program or audio track by using the program automation button in the
channel strip on the left side of the screen in Main Mode and the Channel Mixer. Program automation is available for
all program types except MIDI programs.
Note: Remember that tapping the global automation button will change the automation state for all programs in the
project; if they were originally different, all of them will then match the global automation state.
In Main Mode, if the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
In the Channel Mixer, if you do not see a program automation button in the channel strip, make sure the Mixer field
is set to Audio Tracks or Programs.
Tap the program automation button or press Read/Write (MPC X) to cycle through its three states:
When off, the program will ignore automation data. If you have already recorded or entered
automation, tapping this will switch between Read (R) and Write (W) only, but you can override
this and turn it off by pressing and holding Shift while pressing or tapping the button.
Important: If you have already recorded automation and turn it off, the track will still use the effect
and its parameter values at the point where you turned it off.
When set to Read (R), the program will read automation data but will not record any additional
automation over it. (Think of this as a protective feature to prevent accidental changes to your
automation while recording.)
When set to Write (W), the program can record automation. (If you have any Q-Link knobs assigned
to automatable parameters, make sure not to touch any accidentally while you are recording.)
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16 Level
Press the 16 Level button on your MPC hardware to activate or deactivate 16 Level.
When first activated, the selected pad (Pad A01 by default) 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 values that increase as the
pad numbers increase (e.g., Pad 1 is the minimum, Pad 16 is the maximum), regardless of how hard you press them.
In the 16 Levels screen that appears, use the Type selector to choose the parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer,
Attack, or Decay.
To select a pad, do any of the following (while the 16 Levels window is open):
• Press and hold 16 Level, and then press the desired pad.
• Tap the 16 Levels checkbox to uncheck it (temporarily disabling the feature), press the desired pad, and
then tap the 16 Levels checkbox again to check it.
• Tap the Pad field, and use the data dial or –/+ buttons.
• Double-tap the Pad field, and tap the desired pad in the list that appears.
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Erase
The Erase function erases all or part of a track in a specific sequence.
To open the Erase window, press the Erase button. Alternatively, while in Main Mode, tap the pencil icon on the
right edge of the section, and then tap Erase in the screen that appears.
To select the sequence you want to erase, use the Sequence field.
To select the track you want to erase within the sequence, use the Track field.
To set the time range of the sequence you want to erase, use the Bar, Beat, and Tick fields. The left fields set
the start of the time range, and the right fields set the end of the time range.
To select what types of events you erase, select one of the Erase options:
All erases all pad events from the designated time range and reset all of its settings.
Automation erases only automation from the designated time range.
Note erases only specific pad events from the designated time range. In the diagram of the eight pad banks that
appears, press each pad in each bank to select or deselect its notes.
Except Note erases everything except pad events from the designated time range.
To confirm your choice, tap Do It.
To cancel and return to the previous screen, tap the X, Cancel, or anywhere outside the window.
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Effects
You can apply various effects to the pads, keygroups, audio tracks, programs, submixes, and master outputs, using
insert and send/return effects. This chapter can help you get a good overall understanding of how the effects work.
See Appendix > Effects & Parameters for a list of all available effects (with a brief description of each) and their
editable parameters.
Overview
In a program, each pad or keygroup can have up to four insert effects applied to it. See Insert Effects > Pads or
Keygroups to learn more about this.
An entire program or audio track can also have up to four insert effects applied to it, as well. See Insert Effects >
Programs or Audio Tracks to learn more about this.
For even further flexibility, each submix can have up to four insert effects applied to it. You can route pads,
keygroups, audio tracks, or programs to a submix, which is then routed to a master output. See Insert Effects >
Submixes to learn more about this.
Important: Submixes are available only while using your MPC hardware in Controller Mode with the desktop version
of the MPC software.
Additionally, each pad, keygroup, audio track, program, and submix can each be sent to (up to) four return
channels, each of which can have up to four insert effects of their own. Their audio will be routed through the insert
effects on those returns, and the processed audio will be sent to a master output. See Send/Return Effects to learn
more about this.
Finally, you can apply up to four insert effects to each master output (a stereo pair of channels: Outputs 1/2,
Outputs 3/4, etc.). See Insert Effects > Masters to learn more about this.
When you create an audio mixdown of a sequence or song, you can choose whether or not master insert effects are
included or send/return effects are included, depending on what you are mixing down:
If you are creating an audio mixdown of a pair of master outputs, you can choose whether or not master insert
effects will be included in the mixdown.
If you are creating an audio mixdown of separate programs or exploded tracks, you can choose whether or
not send/return effects will be included in the mixdown.
See Audio Mixdown to learn about these options.
There are three other modes that handle effects differently:
• The Sampler can use up to four insert effects, which are applied to the audio as you record it. This means
that the effects cannot be “removed” from the sound later. Learn more about the Sampler in the Modes >
Sampler chapter.
• Similarly, the Looper can use up to four insert effects, which are applied to the audio as you record it. This
means that the effects cannot be “removed” from the sound later. Learn more about the Looper in the
Modes > Looper chapter.
• In XYFX Mode, the effects act like a single insert effect on that program. In fact, XYFX is the name of the
inser
t effect you have to load to the program before you can use this mode. Learn more about XYFX Mode in
the Modes > XYFX Mode chapter.
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To view, load, edit, or clear effects, tap the area under
the Inserts field. This usually appears in a channel strip
(next to a level slider and pan knob).
When viewing loaded effects, you will see this window:
To select an effect, use the field for each insert slot. A
window (described below) will appear.
To edit the parameters of a loaded effect, tap the
pencil icon next to the insert slot.
To clear the insert slot, tap the trash can icon next to it.
To enable or disable an effect slot, tap the On/Off
button next to it.
To disable all four effect slots, tap the All On/All Off
button in the upper-right corner. Tap it again to
reactivate the previously active effects.
When selecting an effect, you will see this window:
To move through the list, swipe up or down. Alternatively,
use the data dial or –/+ buttons.
To sort or unsort the effects by type or manufacturer,
tap Type or Manufacturer in the lower-left corner.
To load an effect, double-tap it. Alternatively, tap
Select, or press the center cursor or Enter (MPC X) or
the data dial (MPC Live, MPC Touch).
To cancel, tap Close or anywhere outside the list.
When you edit an effect, you will see this window:
To adjust a parameter, tap and drag its slider.
Alternatively, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To
make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad and
adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
Tip: Turn the Q-Link knobs to quickly adjust the
corresponding four parameters.
To select another page of parameters, tap the
Parameters –/+ buttons at the top of the screen.
To enable or disable the effect, tap the On/Off
button in the upper-right corner.
To edit parameters for another insert effect on the
same pad, program, etc., tap a different Insert tab at
the bottom of the screen to select it.
To close the window, tap Close or the upper part of
the screen.
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Insert Effects
Pads
You can load up to four insert effects to each pad. You can do this in Main Mode, the Pad Mixer, or Program Edit Mode.
Tip: When using pad insert effects, they will be applied to the selected pad only. This means that you could apply
unique combinations of effects to each pad within a program. If you want to apply the same effect to all pads, do this
with a program insert effect (see Insert Effects > Programs).
To load a pad insert effect in Main Mode:
1. When the MIDI tab is selected (in the lower-left corner), use the Track field to select the track that uses the
program with the desired pad—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. If the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
3. Tap the single-pad icon at the top of the channel strip. The channel strip will now show settings for the current pad.
4. Press the desired pad to select it. Alternatively, use the Pad field at the top of the channel strip.
5. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects.
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To load a pad insert effect in the Pad Mixer:
1. Use the Program field at the top of the screen to select the desired program. Alternatively, use the Track field at
the top of the screen to select the desired track—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. Press the desired pad to select it, or tap it on the screen. Alternatively, double-tap the Pad field below the
Program field.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
To load a pad insert effect in Program Edit Mode:
1. While using the desired program, press the desired pad to select it.
2. Tap the Effects tab in the lower-right corner, and use it to load or edit effects.
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Keygroups
You can load up to four insert effects to each keygroup. You can do this in Main Mode, the Pad Mixer, or Program
Edit Mode.
Important: When using keygroup insert effects, they will be applied to that keygroup only. Keep this in mind if you
load insert effects to multiple keygroups with overlapping note ranges—the effects will overlap in that range as well.
To load a keygroup insert effect in Main Mode:
1. When the MIDI tab is selected (in the lower-left corner), use the Track field to select the track that uses the
program with the desired pad—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. If the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
3. Tap the single-pad icon at the top of the channel strip. The channel strip will now show settings for the current
keygroup.
4. Press a pad to select its corresponding keygroup, or tap it on the screen. Alternatively, use the Keygroup field at
the top of the channel strip.
Important: Remember that the effect will be applied to that keygroup only.
5. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects.
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To load a keygroup insert effect in the Pad Mixer:
1. Use the Program field at the top of the screen to select the desired program. Alternatively, use the Track field at
the top of the screen to select the desired track—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. Press a pad to select its corresponding keygroup, or tap it on the screen. Alternatively, use the Keygroup field
below the Program field.
Important: Remember that the effect will be applied to that keygroup only.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, double-tap
the desired pad on the screen. You could also select one of the four Insert tabs at the bottom of the screen, and
then use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
To load a keygroup insert effect in Program Edit Mode:
1. While using the desired program, press the desired pad to select its keygroup. Alternatively, use the Keygroup
field at the top of the screen.
2. Tap the Effects tab in the lower-right corner, and use it to load or edit effects.
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Audio Tracks
You can load up to four insert effects to each audio track. You can do this in Main Mode and the Channel Mixer.
To load an audio track insert effect in Main Mode:
1. When the Audio tab is selected (in the lower-left corner), use the Track field to select the audio track.
2. If the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
3. Tap the waveform icon at the top of the channel strip. The channel strip will now show settings for the current
audio track.
4. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects.
To load an audio track insert effect in the Channel Mixer:
1. Use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Audio Tracks.
2. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired audio track.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
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Programs
You can load up to four insert effects to each program. You can do this in Main Mode, XYFX Mode, and the Channel
Mixer.
Note: In XYFX Mode, the effects act like a single insert effect on that program. In fact, XYFX is the name of the insert
effect that is loaded when use this mode.
To load a program insert effect in Main Mode:
1. When the MIDI tab is selected (in the lower-left corner), use the Track field to select the track that uses the
program with the desired pad—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. If the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
3. Tap the four-pads icon at the top of the channel strip. The channel strip will now show settings for the current
program.
4. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects.
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To load XYFX for a program in XYFX Mode:
1. Select the desired program in another mode, and then enter XYFX Mode.
2. If you have not yet used XYFX Mode for this program, tap Insert XYFX on the screen to load it and show the XY
pad.
Note: If you already have four insert effects loaded, you will need to clear one of the insert effect slots before
doing this.
If you have already used XYFX Mode for this program, the XY pad will appear.
3. Tap XYFX Location in the upper-left corner, and select Program.
4. If the Setup panel is not shown, tap Setup in the lower-right corner to show it.
5. Use the Preset field to load an effect. Use the controls below the Preset field to edit the effect.
To load a program insert effect in the Channel Mixer:
1. Use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Programs.
2. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired program. Alternatively, double-tap the Program
field below the Mixer field and tap the desired program.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
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Submixes
You can load up to four insert effects to each submix. You can do this in the Channel Mixer only.
Important: Submixes are available only while using your MPC hardware in Controller Mode with the desktop version
of the MPC software.
To load a submix insert effect:
1. Use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Submixes.
2. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired program. Alternatively, double-tap the Submix
field below the Mixer field and tap the desired program.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
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Masters
You can load up to four insert effects to each master output (a stereo pair of channels: Outputs 1/2, Outputs 3/4,
etc.). You can do this in Main Mode or the Channel Mixer.
To load a master insert effect in Main Mode:
1. If the channel strip is not already shown, tap the small eye icon below the Project field to show it.
2. Tap the crown icon at the top of the channel strip. The channel strip will now show settings for the current
master output.
3. Use the Outputs field at the top of the channel strip to select the desired master output (Outputs 1/2, Outputs
3/4, etc.).
4. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects.
To load a master insert effect in the Channel Mixer:
1. Use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Masters.
2. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired master output (Outputs 1/2, Outputs 3/4, etc.).
Alternatively, double-tap the Outputs field below the Mixer field.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
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Send/Return Effects
Send/return effects work in the following way:
1. A pad, keygroup, audio track, program, or submix sends its audio to a return at a designated send level.
2. That audio is processed by the effects on the return. Each return can have up to four insert effects loaded and
activated.
3. The processed audio is sent to a pair of master outputs (stereo) or a single master output (mono).
You can load send/return effects and set return levels only in the Channel Mixer, described below. The rest of this
section describes the different ways to set the desired send levels for pads, keygroups, programs, or submixes.
To load a send/return effect to a return:
1. In the Channel Mixer, use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Returns.
2. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired return. Alternatively, double-tap the Return field
below the Mixer field.
3. Tap the area under Inserts, and then use the screen that appears to load or edit effects. Alternatively, tap the Insert
tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different insert slot), and then double-tap the desired
pad on the screen. You could also use the data dial or –/+ buttons to select an effect immediately.
To set the return level:
1. In the Channel Mixer, use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Returns.
2. Tap the Level tab in the lower-left corner.
3. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired return. Alternatively, double-tap the Return field
below the Mixer field.
4. To adjust the level of the currently selected return, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. Alternatively, use the
level slider in the channel strip, or turn the corresponding Q-Link knob. To make finer adjustments, doubletap the pad on the screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
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Pads
You can set the send levels for pads in Program Edit Mode or the Pad Mixer.
To set the send levels for a pad in Program Edit Mode:
1. While editing the desired program in Program Edit Mode, press the desired pad to select it.
2. Tap the Effects tab in the lower-right corner.
3. Use the Send knobs to set the send level for each return.
To set the send levels for a pad in the Pad Mixer:
1. Use the Program field at the top of the screen to select the desired program. Alternatively, use the Track field at
the top of the screen to select the desired track—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. Tap the Send tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different send level).
3. Press the desired pad to select it, or tap it on the screen. Alternatively, double-tap the Pad field below the
Program field.
4. To set the send level, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad on the
screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
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Keygroups
You can set the send levels for keygroups in Program Edit Mode or the Pad Mixer.
To set the send levels for a keygroup in Program Edit Mode:
1. While using the desired program, press the desired pad to select its keygroup. Alternatively, use the Keygroup
field at the top of the screen.
2. Tap the Effects tab in the lower-right corner.
3. Use the Send knobs to set the send level for each return.
To set the send levels for a keygroup in the Pad Mixer:
1. Use the Program field at the top of the screen to select the desired program. Alternatively, use the Track field at
the top of the screen to select the desired track—the program it uses will be selected automatically.
2. Tap the Send tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different send level).
3. Press the desired pad to select its corresponding keygroup, or tap it on the screen. Alternatively, double-tap the
Keygroup field below the Program field.
4. To set the send level, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad on the
screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
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Audio Tracks
You can set the send levels for audio tracks in the Channel Mixer only.
To set the send levels for an audio track:
1. In the Channel Mixer, use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Audio Tracks.
2. Tap the Send tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different send level).
3. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired audio track. Alternatively, double-tap the Audio
Track field below the Mixer field.
4. To set the send level, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad on the
screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
Programs
You can set the send levels for programs in the Channel Mixer only.
To set the send levels for a program:
1. In the Channel Mixer, use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Programs.
2. Tap the Send tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different send level).
3. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired program. Alternatively, double-tap the Program
field below the Mixer field.
4. To set the send level, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad on the
screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
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Submixes
You can set the send levels for submixes in the Channel Mixer only.
Important: Submixes are available only while using your MPC hardware in Controller Mode with the desktop version
of the MPC software.
To set the send levels for a submix:
1. In the Channel Mixer, use the Mixer field in the upper-left corner to select Submixes.
2. Tap the Send tab at the bottom of the screen (tap it multiple times to select a different send level).
3. In the touchscreen, tap the pad that corresponds to the desired submix. Alternatively, double-tap the Submix
field below the Mixer field.
4. To set the send level, use the data dial or –/+ buttons. To make finer adjustments, double-tap the pad on the
screen and adjust the larger version of the slider that appears.
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