AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPC X Studio Drum Sampler User Guide

AKAI PROFESSIONAL MPC X Studio Drum Sampler

Product Information

Specifications

• Model: MPC X / MPC X Special Edition
• Model: MPC Live
• Model: MPC Live II
• Model: MPC One / MPC One+
• Model: MPC Key 61
• Model: MPC Key 37
• Model: MPC Studio mk2

Product Usage Instructions

Setup

1. Connection: Follow the provided user manual to connect the MPC unit to your audio interface or other devices.
2. Installation: Install any necessary software drivers on your computer as per the instructions provided.
3. Getting Started: Power on the MPC unit and familiarize yourself with the various controls and features.

Features

The MPC units come equipped with a variety of features including touchscreens, navigation controls, pad & Q-link controls, mode & view controls, transport & recording controls, and I/O & level controls.

Touchscreens

The touchscreens on the MPC units allow for intuitive and easy navigation through menus and settings.

MPC X / MPC X Special Edition

The top panel of the MPC X features various controls for easy access and operation.

FAQs

• Q: How do I update the firmware on my MPC unit?
  • A: To update the firmware, visit the official product website and download the latest firmware update file. Follow the instructions provided in the firmware update guide to complete the process.
• Q: Can I use the MPC unit without connecting it to a computer?
  • A: Yes, you can use the MPC unit as a standalone device without connecting it to a computer. Simply load your samples and start creating music directly on the unit.

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 X Special Edition, MPC Live, MPC Live II, MPC One, MPC One+, MPC Key 61, MPC Key 37, MPC Studio mk2 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. Note: The MPC Studio mk2 hardware acts primarily as a controller for the MPC software. Descriptions in this guide will assist MPC Studio mk2 users in using their hardware to access different features of the MPC software. To learn more about how to use these software features, consult the MPC software User Guide.
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 X Special Edition, MPC Live, MPC Live II, MPC One, MPC One+, MPC Key 61, MPC Key 37, MPC Studio mk2 or MPC Touch (from here on, “MPC hardware” unless otherwise noted). 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.
8

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

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)

Powered Monitors

Computer

SD Card
(to front-panel SD card slot)

Microphone

USB drive

Turntable

Power
9

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.

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 FilesAkai ProMPC (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/Live II/One/Key 61/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.
10

Features
This chapter explains the features and functions of each MPC model with a touchscreen: MPC X, MPC Live, MPC Live II, MPC One, MPC Key 61, MPC Key 37, and MPC Touch. Note: If you are using the MPC Studio mk2, the display does not function as a touchscreen but can be used in conjunction with the software to select tracks, programs, and files, as well as edit samples or change project parameters. To learn more about how to use the MPC software, consult the MPC software User Guide. This can be accessed by clicking the Help menu in the MPC software, selecting MPC Help, and selecting MPC User Manual.
Touchscreens
Here is some general information about how to use the touchscreen on your MPC:

Tap a button or option to select it. Use the data dial or ­/+ buttons to change its setting or value.

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.

Spread two fingers to zoom in (into a section of a waveform, for example). Pinch two fingers to zoom out.

The top of the screen shows the toolbar, which contains information about the current view (often the name of the current track, sequence, 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.

11

MPC X / MPC X Special Edition
Note: Mentions of the features and functions of MPC X hardware throughout this guide also apply to the MPC X Special Edition unless otherwise noted.
Top Panel

11 13 14 32 33 28 29 30 31
16 17 18 19 20
9

1

47 48

55 55 44 44

21 23 24 25 26 27

45 46 45

51 52 50

49

53 54

42 6 12

8

3

43

5

4

22

10

15

72

39 41 40 37 38 36 34 35

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 previous Touchscreens 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.
12

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 A­D.
Press and hold Shift while pressing these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. 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 / Pad Perform: 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.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to enter Pad Perform mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. See Operation > Modes > Pad Perform Mode to learn more.
13

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.
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.
14

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 and main outputs.
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 playhead’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 playhead left or right, one step at a time. Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the playhead to the previous/next event in the sequence grid. 40. <</>> (Start/End): Use these buttons to move the playhead left or right, one bar at a time. Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the playhead to the start or end of the sequence grid. 41. Locate: Press and hold this button to activate the secondary functions of the

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 (Main): 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 toggle the automation state for the program on the current track or for the current audio track between Read (green R) and 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). Press and hold Shift and press this button to turn off global automation. 53. Mute: Press this button to mute the program, audio track, or main 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 > Preferences to learn how to set what is shown in the level meters.
16

Front Panel
1 2 3456
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.
17

Rear Panel

9

14

2

6

7 8 11 10 13

12 5 4

13

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 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.) 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.
Note: When using the XLR connection, the mic pre-amp is automatically engaged. When using a 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cable, the mic pre-amp is bypassed.
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 use. If you are using the 1/4″ (6.35 mm) inputs, set this switch to Line. If you are using the RCA inputs, 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 main 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.

18

MPC Live
Top Panel

6666 7 8 9 10
5

4

3

3

1

3

3
11 12 13 14 15 16
2
22 20 21 19 17 18 16

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 previous Touchscreens section to learn how to use some basic functions.
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 A­D.
Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. 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 have to hold the Note Repeat button for it to be activated. Press Note Repeat once more to unlatch it.
19

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 / Pad Perform: 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.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to enter Pad Perform mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. See Operation > Modes > Pad Perform Mode 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.
Press 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 playhead’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 global tempo (the button will be lit amber).
20

Rear Panel

17 12

6

13 13 13 10 9

8 14

7 11

16

15

54

3 2 1

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 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.) 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.
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 provide the additional amplification needed for phonolevel 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 main mix. Turn the Master Vol knob to set their volume. The signals sent from Outputs 3­6 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.
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.
21

MPC Live II
Top Panel

6 6 6 6 11 12 7 8 9 10 13 14
5
29

4

3

1

3

3

3
15 16 17 18 19 20 21

2

22

21

1. Touchscreen: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC Live II’s current operation. Touch the display (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the previous Touchscreens section to learn how to use some basic functions.
2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the selected field in the display. 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 column of parameters at a time. The lights above the Q-Link Knobs indicate the currently selected column. Press the Q-Link button above them to change which column of parameters they currently control.
4. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which column of parameters the Q-Link Knobs currently control (indicated by the lights above the Q-Link Knobs). Each press will select the next column.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to select the previous column 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: Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressuresensitive, 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 Buttons: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A­D. Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. 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 have to hold the Note Repeat button for it to be activated. Press Note Repeat once more to unlatch it.
22

8. Full Level / Half Level: Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of the amount of force you use.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at half- velocity (64).
9. 16 Level / Pad Perform: 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.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to activate/deactivate Pad Perform mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. Use the Pad Perform window to configure the settings for the pads.
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. When playback is stopped, press this button to open the Erase window where notes, automation and other sequence data can be erased from the sequence. See Operation > General Features > Erase to learn more.
11. Undo / Redo: Press this button to undo your last action. Hold down Shift and press this button to redo the last action you undid.
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 Cancel to return to the previous screen.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete.
13. Step Seq/Automation: Press this button to view Step Sequencer Mode 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 toggle the Global Automation state between Read and Write.
14. TC / On/Off: Press this button to open the Timing Correct window, which contains various settings to help quantize the events in your sequence.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to turn Timing Correct on and off.
15. 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.
16. Menu / Browse: Press this button to open the Mode Menu. You can tap an option on the Menu screen 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.
17. Main / Grid: Press this button to enter Main Mode.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter Grid View Mode.
18. Mix / Sampler: Press this button to view the last used Mixer Mode, either Track Mixer (default) or Pad Mixer. In Track Mixer Mode, you can set levels, stereo panning, and other settings for your tracks, programs, returns, submixes, and main outputs. In Pad Mixer Mode, you can set a program’s levels, stereo panning, routing, and effects. Pressing the button multiple times will toggle between the two Mixer Modes.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Sampler, where you can record audio samples to use in your projects.
19. Mute / Sample Edit: Press this button to view the last used Mute Mode, either Track Mute (default) or Pad Mute. In Track Mute Mode, you can mute tracks within a sequence or set mute groups for each track. In Pad Mute Mode, you can mute pads within a program or set mute groups for each pad within a program. Pressing the button multiple times will toggle between the two Mute Modes.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter Sample Edit Mode where you can edit your samples using various functions and processes.
23

20. Next Seq / XYFX: 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 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 touchscreen, 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.
21. ­/+: Press these buttons to decrease/increase the value of the selected field in the display. 22. Tap Tempo / 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 amber) or a global tempo (the button will be lit red). 23. 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. 24. 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. 25. 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. Press and hold Shift and press this button to stop playback and return the playhead to 1:1:0. 26. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the playhead’s current position. 27. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point. 28. Master Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the Master L/R outputs, phones output and speakers. 29. Speakers: When the Speaker switch on the rear panel is set to On, these speakers will play the current audio. Use the Master Volume knob to control the volume of the speakers.
24

Rear Panel

13

8

14 14 14 11 10

15 16

9 12

17

4 25
3 76 1

1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC Live II to a power outlet.
2. Power Adapter Restraint: Secure the power adapter cable to this restraint to prevent it from accidentally unplugging.
3. Power Switch: Turns MPC Live II’s power on/off.
4. Charging Indicator: This light (behind the vent) will turn on when MPC Live II’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.
5. Link: Connect a standard Ethernet cable to this port to use Ableton Link and other compatible devices with MPC Live II. See Operation > General Features > Menu > Sync for more information.
Note: You can also use Ableton Link wirelessly over a Wi-Fi connection.
6. USB-B 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 Live II to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on your computer.
7. USB-A Ports: Connect USB flash drives to these USB ports to access their files directly using MPC Live II. When connected to a computer in Controller Mode, you can access drives connected to this port from your computer. You can also connect standard MIDI controllers to these ports.
8. SD Card Slot: Insert a standard SD, SDHC or SDXC card into this slot to access its files directly using MPC Live II.
9. Rec Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the inputs.
10. Inputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to an audio source (mixer, synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). In Sample Record Mode, you can select whether you want to record either channel or both channels in stereo or in mono. To use these inputs, set the Line/Phono switch to Line.
11. Inputs (RCA): Use a standard RCA stereo cable to connect these inputs to a phono-level audio source like a turntable. In Sample Record Mode, you can select whether you want to record either channel or both channels in stereo or in mono. To use these inputs, set the Line/Phono switch to Phono.
12. 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 provide the additional amplification needed for phonolevel signals. If you are using the 1/4″ (6.35 mm) inputs, such as a CD player or sampler, set this switch to Line.
13. 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.
14. Outputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your monitors, mixer, etc.). The Master L/R outputs are the same as Outputs 1,2.
15. Phones (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Connect standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) stereo headphones to this output.
16. Speaker On/Off: Use this switch to turn the MPC Live II internal speakers on or off.
17. MIDI In: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect these inputs to the MIDI output of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.).
18. MIDI Out: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect these outputs to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.).
19. CV/Gate Out: MPC Live II will send control voltage (CV) and/or Gate signals over these outputs to optional external sequencers. Use standard 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TS cables to send a single CV/Gate signal per output, or use a stereo TRS-to-dual mono TSF breakout cable (such as a Hosa YMM-261) to send two CV/Gate signals per output.
20. Kensington® Lock Slot: You can use this slot to secure your MPC Live II to a table or other surface.

25

MPC One / MPC One+
Note: Mentions of the features and functions of MPC One hardware throughout this guide also apply to the MPC One+ unless otherwise noted.
Top Panel
12

13
1

6

7

8

15 16 17 18 19

9

14

2 30

10

5

4

3

31

20 21 22 23 24

11

25 26 27 28 29

Navigation & Data Entry Controls
1. Touchscreen: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC One’s current operation. Touch the display (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the previous Touchscreens section to learn how to use some basic functions.
2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the selected field in the display. Pressing the dial also functions as an Enter button.
3. ­/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field in the display. 4. 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. 5. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by red writing).
26

Pad & Q-Link Controls
6. Pads: Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressuresensitive, 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 Buttons: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A­D. Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. Alternatively, double-press one of these buttons.
8. Full Level / Half Level: Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of the amount of force you use. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
9. 16 Level / Pad Perform (Notes): 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. Press and hold Shift and press this button to enter Pad Perform (Notes) mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. See Operation > Modes > Pad Perform Mode to learn more.
10. 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 Cancel to return to the previous screen. Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete.
11. 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.
12. Q-Link Knobs: Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The knobs can control one column of parameters at a time. The lights above the Q-Link Knobs indicate the currently selected column. Press the Q-Link button to change which column of parameters they currently control.
13. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which column of parameters the Q-Link Knobs currently control (indicated by the lights above the Q-Link Knobs). Each press will select the next column. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to select the previous column instead.
Mode & View Controls
14. Menu / Prefs: Press this button to open the Mode Menu. You can tap an option on the Menu screen to enter that mode, view, etc. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to open the Preferences page in the Menu.
15. Main / Grid: Press this button to enter Main Mode. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter Grid View Mode.
16. Browse / Save: Press this button to view the Browser. You can use the Browser to locate and select programs, samples, sequences, etc. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to save the current project (including its samples, programs, sequences, and songs).
17. Track Mix / Pad Mix: Press this button to view the Track Mixer where you can set levels, stereo panning, and other settings for your tracks, programs, returns, submixes, and main outputs. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Pad Mixer where you can set a program’s levels, stereo panning, routing, and effects.
27

18. 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.
19. Next Seq / XYFX: 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 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 touchscreen, 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.
20. Step Seq / Automation: Press this button to view Step Sequencer Mode 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 toggle Global Automation between Read and Write.
21. TC / On/Off: Press this button to open the Timing Correct window, which contains various settings to help quantize the events in your sequence.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to turn Timing Correct on and off.
22. 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.
23. Sample Edit / Q-Link Edit: Press this button to view Sample Edit Mode where you can edit your samples using various functions and processes.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Q-Link Edit Mode where you can assign other parameters to the Q-Link knobs.
24. Program Edit / MIDI Control: Press this button to view Program Edit Mode, which contains all parameters for editing your programs.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view MIDI Control Mode where you can customize what MIDI messages are sent from certain controls on your hardware.
Transport & Recording Controls
25. 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.
26. 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.
27. 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. Press and hold Shift and press this button to return the playhead to 1:1:0.
28. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the playhead’s current position.
29. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point.
30. Tap Tempo / Master (Global): Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM).
Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo (the button will be lit amber) or a global tempo (the button will be lit red).
31. 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. When playback is stopped, press this button to open the Erase window where notes, automation and other sequence data can be erased from the sequence.
28

Front Panel

12

1. SD Card Slot: Insert a standard SD, SDHC or SDXC card into this slot to access its files directly using MPC One. 2. Phones (1/8″ / 3.5 mm): Connect standard 1/8″ (3.5 mm) stereo headphones to this output.

Rear Panel

13

9

8

14

10 7 12 11

2 54
6 13

1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC One to a power outlet.
2. Power Adapter Restraint: Secure the power adapter cable to this restraint to prevent it from accidentally unplugging.
3. Power Switch: Turns MPC One’s power on/off.
4. Link: Connect a standard Ethernet cable to this port to use Ableton Link and other compatible devices with MPC One. See Operation > General Features > Menu > Sync for more information.
Note: You can also use Ableton Link wirelessly over a Wi-Fi connection.
Note: The Link port is not included on MPC One+.
5. USB-B Port: Use the included USB cable to connect this high-retention-MPC One USB port to an available USB port on your computer. This connection allows MPC One to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on your computer.
6. USB-A Port: Connect a USB flash drive to this USB port to access files directly using MPC One. You can also connect a standard MIDI controller to this port.
7. Rec Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the inputs.
8. Inputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to an audio source (mixer, synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). In Sample Record Mode, you can select whether you want to record either channel or both channels in stereo or in mono.
9. Master Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the outputs and phones output.
10. Outputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your monitors, mixer, etc.
11. MIDI In: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect this input to the MIDI output of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.).
12. MIDI Out: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect this output to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.).
13. CV/Gate Outs: MPC One will send control voltage (CV) and/or Gate signals over these outputs to optional external sequencers. Use standard 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TS cables to send a single CV/Gate signal per output, or use a stereo TRS-to- dual mono TSF breakout cable (such as a Hosa YMM-261) to send two CV/Gate signals per output.
14. Kensington® Lock Slot: You can use this slot to secure your MPC One to a table or other surface.

29

MPC Key 61
Top Panel

4 5 14 15 16 17 18

2 19 20 21 22 23

1

678

3

9 10 11 12 13

1. Display: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC Key 61’s current operation. Touch the display (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the previous Touchscreens section to learn how to use some basic functions.
2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the selected field on the display. Pressing the dial also functions as an Enter button.
3. ­/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field on the display.
4. Q-Link Knobs: Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The knobs can control one column of parameters at a time. The lights above the Q-Link button indicate the currently selected column. Press the Q-Link button to change which column of parameters they currently control.
5. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which column of parameters the Q-Link Knobs currently control (indicated by the lights above the button). Each press will select the next column.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Q-Link Configuration window. Press and hold Shift and then press this button again to return to the Main page.
6. </> (Event |</>|): Use these buttons to move the playhead left/right, one step at a time.
Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the playhead to the previous/next event in the sequence grid.
7. Locate: Press this button to open the Locate window, which allows you to quickly jump to specific points in your project.
Press and hold this button to activate the secondary functions of the </> and <</>> buttons (i.e., Event |</>| and Start/End, respectively).
8. <</>> (Start/End): Use these buttons to move the playhead left/right, one bar at a time.
Press and hold Locate and press one of these buttons to move the playhead to the start or end of the sequence grid.
9. Rec / Recall: Press this button to record-arm the sequence. Press Play or Play Start to start recording. Recording in this way (rather than using Overdub) erases the events of the current sequence. After the sequence plays through once while recording, Overdub will be enabled.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to recall recently played MIDI note events when recording was disabled and insert them into the current sequence.
10. Overdub: Press this button to enable Overdub, which allows you to record note events in a sequence without overwriting any previously recorded note events. You can enable Overdub either before or during recording.
11. Stop / Return: Press this button to stop playback. Double-press this button to immediately stop all sound.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to stop playback and return the playhead to the Loop Start value.
12. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the playhead’s current position.
13. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point.
14. Edit / XYFX: Press this button to view Program Edit Mode, which contains all parameters for editing your programs.
Press and hold Shift and 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 touch or move your finger on the touchscreen, 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.

30

15. Grid / Step Seq: Press this button to enter Grid View Mode, where you can view and edit the note events of each track of a sequence in a project and their velocities. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Step Sequencer Mode 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.
16. Mix / Pad: Press this button to view the Track Mixer where you can set levels, stereo panning, and other settings for your tracks, programs, returns, submixes, and main outputs. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Pad Mixer where you can set a program’s levels, stereo panning, routing, and effects.
17. Mute / Pad: 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.
18. Automation Read/Write / Off: Press this button to toggle the Global Automation state between Read and Write. Press and hold Shift and press this button to disable or enable Global Automation.
19. Keyboard Control / MIDI CTRL: Press this button to view the Keyboard Control menu, where you can customize the functions of the keyboard and wheels, including velocity response, routing, MIDI assignments, ranges and more. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view MIDI Control Mode, where you can use the device as a MIDI controller and customize what MIDI messages are sent from the hardware controls.
20. Sample Edit / Sampler: Press this button to view Sample Edit Mode where you can edit your samples using various functions and processes. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Sampler where you can record audio samples to use in your projects.
21. Timing Correct / On/Off: Press this button to open the Timing Correct window, which contains various settings to help quantize the events in your sequence. Press and hold Shift and press this button to turn Timing Correct on and off.
22. 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.
23. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by white writing).
31

28 45

37

38 34 33

39 40 35

41

36

43 44 42

29 30

32 31

27

23 24

26 25

24. Menu / Browse: Press this button to open the Mode Menu. You can tap an option on the Menu screen 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.
25. Main / Track: Press this button to view Main Mode.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Track View Mode, an overview of the tracks of each sequence. You can also set key ranges in this mode.
26. Sounds / Favorites: Press this button to view Sounds Mode, where you can browse MPC Key 61’s built-in instruments and presets.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Favorites, where you can quickly select instruments and presets that you have defined as your favorites.
27. Pads: Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressuresensitive, which makes them very responsive and intuitive to play. The pads will light up different colors, depending on the current function. You can also customize their colors.
28. Pad Bank Buttons: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A­D. Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. Alternatively, double-press one of these buttons.
29. Full Level / Half Level: Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of the amount of force you use.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
30. 16 Level / Notes: 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 play the same sample as the original pad, but a selectable parameter will increase in value with each pad number, regardless of the amount of force you use. In the screen that appears, use the Type selector to choose another parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer, Attack or Decay. See Operation > General Features > 16 Level to learn more.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to activate/deactivate Notes mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. Use the Pad Perform window to configure the settings for the pads. See Operation > Modes > Pad Perform Mode to learn more.
31. Erase: As a Sequence is playing, press and hold this button and then press a pad or key to delete the note event for that pad or key at the current playback position. This is a quick way to delete note events from your sequence without having to stop playback. When playback is stopped, press this button to open the Erase window where notes, automation and other sequence data can be erased from the sequence.
32

32. Copy / Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another in Clip and Drum programs. 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 Cancel to return to the previous screen. Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete.
33. Touch Strip: The touch strip can be used as an expressive control for playing and can be configured to control Note Repeat, Pitch Bend, Modulation and more.
34. Touch Strip / Config: Press this button to cycle between control modes for the Touch Strip. Press and hold the button to quickly select one of the control modes. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Touch Strip Configuration window.
35. Touch FX / Config: Press this button to enable Touch FX control for the Touch Strip. This allows you to control parameters from the Touch FX plugin using the Touch Strip. Press and hold this button to quickly select a Touch FX preset. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Touch FX Configuration window.
36. 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 Timing Correct settings. Press and hold Shift and 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.
37. Tap Tempo / Global: Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM). Press and hold this button to adjust the tempo manually using the data dial. Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo (the button will be lit white) or a global tempo (the button will be lit red).
38. Metronome / Config: Press this button to enable or disable the metronome. Press and hold Shift and press this button, or press and hold this button, to open the Metronome Configuration window.
39. Arp / Config: Press this button to enable or disable the internal Arpeggiator, whose rate is based on the current Tempo and Time Division settings. Press and hold Shift and press this button, or press and hold this button, to configure the Arpeggiator’s settings.
40. Latch: Press this button to enable or disable latch for the Arpeggiator. When latched, you do not have to hold the keys for the arpeggiation to continue. Play a chord on the keyboard and then press and hold Shift and press this button to enable Chord Mode. Playing any note will now play the full chord transposed to the new note with a single key press.
41. Oct – / Oct +: Press these buttons to transpose the keyboard down or up one octave at a time. The lights below this button will indicate the current octave setting. Press and hold Shift and press these buttons to transpose the keyboard down or up one semitone at a time. Press and hold both buttons and press a key on the keybed to set the transposition to that value. Press and hold both buttons and release to reset the transposition.
42. Keybed: Use this 61-key semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keybed to input notes and aftertouch. 43. Pitch Wheel: The pitch bend wheel is primarily used to bend the notes played on the keyboard up or down. This
allows you to play phrases not normally associated with keyboard playing, such as guitar-style riffs. 44. Modulation Wheel: The modulation wheel is typically used to add variation for the sound you are playing. This
type of real-time controller was originally introduced on electronic keyboard instruments to give the performer options such as adding vibrato, just like the players of acoustic instruments do. 45. Main Volume: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the outputs and phones output.
33

Rear Panel

8 9 9 8 7 7 6 54 3 2

1

10 11 10
1. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC Key 61 to a power outlet.
2. Power Switch: Turns MPC Key 61’s power on/off.
3. Network: Connect a standard Ethernet cable to this port to use Ableton Link and other compatible devices with MPC Key 61. See Operation > General Features > Menu > Sync for more information.
Note: You can also use Ableton Link wirelessly over a Wi-Fi connection.
4. USB-B 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 Key 61 to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on your computer.
5. USB-A Ports: Connect a USB flash drive to these USB ports to access its files directly using MPC Key 61. You can also connect any class-compliant MIDI device to these ports.
6. Phones (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Connect standard stereo headphones to this output.
7. Outputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard TRS cables to connect these outputs to your monitors, mixer, etc.). The Main L/R outputs are the same as Outputs 1,2.
8. Gain: Use these knobs to adjust the gain of the incoming signal from Input 1/2 on the rear panel. Be careful when setting this knob at higher levels, as this can cause the signal to distort.
9. Inputs 1/2 (XLR or 1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard XLR or TRS cables to connect these inputs to audio sources (microphone, mixer, synthesizer, etc.). When using a 1/4″ cable, the Mic preamp is removed from the circuit, and the Line/Inst switch can be used to set the impedance.
Turn the Gain knobs to set the input level of each one.
10. Line/Inst: Use these switches to set Inputs 1/2 to accept either a Line- level or Instrument-level sound source when using a 1/4″ connection.
11. Phantom Power (+48V): This switch activates and deactivates phantom power for Inputs 1/2 when using an XLR connection. 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.

34

12. CV/Gate Out (1/8″ / 3.5 mm, TS): MPC Key 61 will send control voltage (CV) and/or Gate signals over these outputs to optional external synths or sequencers. Use standard 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TS cables to send a single CV/Gate signal per output.
13. MIDI In: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect these inputs to the MIDI output of an external MIDI device (additional MIDI keyboard, pad controller, etc.).
14. MIDI Out: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect these outputs to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.).
15. MIDI Thru: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect this thru-port to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). MIDI from the MIDI In will be sent through this output.
16. Sustain (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): This input accepts an optional momentary- contact foot pedal. When pressed, the pedal will sustain the sound you are playing without having to keep your fingers pressed down on the keys.
17. FS2 (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): Connect an optional 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS footswitch or other foot pedal to this input. 18. Expression (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): Connect an optional expression pedal to this input for adding expressive
changes during performances.
35

MPC Key 37

Top Panel
1. Display: This full-color multi-touch display shows information relevant to MPC Key 37’s current operation. Touch the display (and use the hardware controls) to control the MPC interface. See the previous Touchscreens section to learn how to use some basic functions.
2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the selected field on the display. Pressing the dial also functions as an Enter button.
3. ­/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field on the display. 4. Q-Link Knobs: Use these touch-sensitive knobs to adjust various parameters and settings. The knobs can
control one column of parameters at a time. The lights above the Q-Link button indicate the currently selected column. Press the Q-Link button to change which column of parameters they currently control. 5. Q-Link Button: Press this button to change which column of parameters the Q-Link Knobs currently control (indicated by the lights above the button). Each press will select the next column. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Q-Link Configuration window. Press and hold Shift and then press this button again to return to the Main page. 6. Rec: Press this button to record-arm the sequence. Press Play or Play Start to start recording. Recording in this way (rather than using Overdub) erases the events of the current sequence. After the sequence plays through once while recording, Overdub will be enabled. Press and hold Shift and press this button to recall recently played MIDI note events when recording was disabled and insert them into the current sequence. 7. Overdub: Press this button to enable Overdub, which allows you to record note events in a sequence without overwriting any previously recorded note events. You can enable Overdub either before or during recording. 8. Stop: Press this button to stop playback. Double-press this button to immediately stop all sound. Press and hold Shift and press this button to stop playback and return the playhead to the Loop Start value. 9. Play: Press this button to play the sequence from the playhead’s current position. 10. Play Start: Press this button to play the sequence from its start point. 11. Sounds / Favorites: Press this button to view Sounds Mode, where you can browse MPC Key 37’s built-in instruments and presets. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Favorites, where you can quickly select instruments and presets that you have defined as your favorites. 12. Menu / Prefs: Press this button to open the Mode Menu. You can tap an option on the Menu screen to enter that mode, view, etc. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to open the Preferences page in the Menu. 13. Main / Track: Press this button to view Main Mode. Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Track View Mode, an overview of the tracks of each sequence. You can also set key ranges in this mode.
36

14. Edit / XYFX: Press this button to view Program Edit Mode, which contains all parameters for editing your programs.
Press and hold Shift and 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 touch or move your finger on the touchscreen, 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.
15. Grid / Step Seq: Press this button to enter Grid View Mode, where you can view and edit the note events of each track of a sequence in a project and their velocities.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view Step Sequencer Mode 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.
16. Mix / Pad: Press this button to view the Track Mixer where you can set levels, stereo panning, and other settings for your tracks, programs, returns, submixes, and main outputs.
Press and hold Shift and then press this button to view the Pad Mixer where you can set a program’s levels, stereo panning, routing, and effects.
17. 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.
18. Automation / On/Off: Press this button to toggle the Global Automation state between Read and Write.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to disable or enable Global Automation.
19. TC / On/Off: Press this button to open the Timing Correct window, which contains various settings to help quantize the events in your sequence.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to turn Timing Correct on and off.
20. Load / Looper: Press this button to view the Browser. You can use the Browser to locate and select programs, samples, sequences, etc.
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.
21. Save / Save As: Press this button to save the current project.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to open the Save window.
22. Sample Edit / Sampler: Press this button to view Sample Edit Mode where you can edit your samples using various functions and processes.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Sampler where you can record audio samples to use in your projects.
23. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by white writing).
24. Arp / Config: Press this button to enable or disable the internal Arpeggiator, whose rate is based on the current Tempo and Time Division settings.
Press and hold Shift and press this button, or press and hold this button, to configure the Arpeggiator’s settings.
25. Latch / Chord: Press this button to enable or disable latch for the Arpeggiator. When latched, you do not have to hold the keys for the arpeggiation to continue.
Play a chord on the keyboard and then press and hold Shift and press this button to enable Chord Mode. Playing any note will now play the full chord transposed to the new note with a single key press.
26. Metronome / Config: Press this button to enable or disable the metronome.
Press and hold Shift and press this button, or press and hold this button, to open the Metronome Configuration window.
27. Keyboard Control / MIDI CTRL: Press this button to view the Keyboard Control menu, where you can customize the functions of the keyboard and wheels, including velocity response, routing, MIDI assignments, ranges and more.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view MIDI Control Mode, where you can use the device as a MIDI controller and customize what MIDI messages are sent from the hardware controls.
28. Tap Tempo / Global: Press this button in time with the desired tempo to enter a new tempo (in BPM). Press and hold this button to adjust the tempo manually using the data dial.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to set whether the currently selected sequence follows its own tempo (the button will be lit white) or a global tempo (the button will be lit red).
37

29. Mute / Pad: 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.
30. Pads: Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressuresensitive, which makes them very responsive and intuitive to play. The pads will light up different colors, depending on the current function. You can also customize their colors.
31. Pad Bank Buttons: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A­D. Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. Alternatively, double-press one of these buttons.
32. Full Level / Half Level: Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of the amount of force you use.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
33. 16 Level / Notes: 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 play the same sample as the original pad, but a selectable parameter will increase in value with each pad number, regardless of the amount of force you use. In the screen that appears, use the Type selector to choose another parameter: Velocity, Tune, Filter, Layer, Attack or Decay. See Operation > General Features > 16 Level to learn more.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to activate/deactivate Notes mode for the pads. When activated, you can play musical scales/modes, chords or progressions using the pads while in any mode. Use the Pad Perform window to configure the settings for the pads. See Operation > Modes > Pad Perform Mode to learn more.
34. 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 Timing Correct settings.
Press and hold Shift and 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.
38

35. Copy / Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another in Clip and Drum programs. 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 Cancel to return to the previous screen. Press and hold Shift and press this button to delete.
36. Erase: As a Sequence is playing, press and hold this button and then press a pad or key to delete the note event for that pad or key at the current playback position. This is a quick way to delete note events from your sequence without having to stop playback. When playback is stopped, press this button to open the Erase window where notes, automation and other sequence data can be erased from the sequence.
37. Oct – / Oct +: Press these buttons to transpose the keyboard down or up one octave at a time. Press and hold Shift and press these buttons to transpose the keyboard down or up one semitone at a time. Press and hold both buttons and press a key on the keybed to set the transposition to that value. Press and hold both buttons and release to reset the transposition.
38. Pitch Wheel: The pitch bend wheel is primarily used to bend the notes played on the keyboard up or down. This allows you to play phrases not normally associated with keyboard playing, such as guitar-style riffs.
39. Modulation Wheel: The modulation wheel is typically used to add variation for the sound you are playing. This type of real-time controller was originally introduced on electronic keyboard instruments to give the performer options such as adding vibrato, just like the players of acoustic instruments do.
40. Keybed: Use this 37-key semi-weighted, velocity-sensitive keybed to input notes and aftertouch. 41. Main Volume: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the outputs and phones output.
39

Rear Panel
1. Power Switch: Turns MPC Key 37’s power on/off. 2. Power Input: Use the included power adapter to connect MPC Key 37 to a power outlet. 3. Power Adapter Restraint: Secure the power adapter cable to this restraint to prevent it from accidentally unplugging. 4. USB-B 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 Key 37 to send/receive MIDI and audio data to/from the MPC software on your computer. 5. USB-A Port: Connect a USB flash drive to this USB port to access files directly using MPC Key 37. You can also connect a standard MIDI controller to this port. 6. SD Card Slot: Insert a standard SD, SDHC or SDXC card into this slot to access its files directly using MPC Key 37. 7. Kensington® Lock Slot: You can use this slot to secure your MPC Key 37 to a table or other surface. 8. Inputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these inputs to an audio source (mixer, synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). In Sample Record Mode, you can select whether you want to record either channel or both channels in stereo or in mono. 9. Rec Vol: Turn this knob to adjust the volume of the inputs. 10. Main Outputs (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Use standard 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS cables to connect these outputs to your monitors, mixer, etc. 11. Phones (1/4″ / 6.35 mm): Connect standard stereo headphones to this output. 12. CV/Gate Outs (1/8″ / 3.5 mm, TRS): MPC Key 37 will send control voltage (CV) and/or Gate signals over these outputs to optional external sequencers. Use standard 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TS cables to send a single CV/Gate signal per output, or use a stereo TRS-to-dual mono TSF breakout cable (such as a Hosa YMM-261) to send two CV/Gate signals per output. 13. MIDI In: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect this input to the MIDI output of an external MIDI device (additional MIDI keyboard, pad controller, etc.). 14. MIDI Out: Use a standard 5-pin MIDI cable to connect this output to the MIDI input of an external MIDI device (synthesizer, drum machine, etc.). 15. Sustain (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): This input accepts an optional momentary-contact foot pedal. When pressed, the pedal will sustain the sound you are playing without having to keep your fingers pressed down on the keys. 16. FS2 (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): Connect an optional 1/4″ (6.35 mm) TRS footswitch or other foot pedal to this input. 17. Expression (1/4″ / 6.35 mm, TRS): Connect an optional expression pedal to this input for adding expressive changes during performances.
40

MPC Studio mk2

Note: This hardware differs from other MPC hardware in this manual in that it acts primarily as a controller for the MPC software. To learn more about how to use the MPC software, consult the MPC software User Guide. This can be accessed by opening the MPC software, and then navigating in the menu to Help

MPC Help > MPC Software Manual.
Top Panel
Navigation & Data Entry Controls 1. Display: This RGB LCD display shows information relevant to MPC Studio’s current operation. Much of this
information is also shown in the software. Use the Mode and Select buttons to change what is shown on the display, and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to adjust the currently selected setting/parameter. 2. Data Dial: Use this dial to scroll through the available menu options or adjust the parameter values of the selected field in the display. Pressing the dial also functions as an Enter button. 3. ­/+: Press these buttons to increase or decrease the value of the selected field in the display. 4. 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. 5. Shift: Press and hold this button to access some buttons’ secondary functions (indicated by white writing). Pad & Touch Strip Controls 6. Pads: Use these pads to trigger drum hits or other samples. The pads are velocity-sensitive and pressuresensitive, 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. Press and hold the Mode button and press each pad to quickly jump to the mode printed below the pad in orange. 7. Pad Bank Buttons: Press any of these buttons to access Pad Banks A­D. Press and hold Shift while pressing any of these buttons to access Pad Banks E­H. Alternatively, double-press one of these buttons. 8. Full Level / Half Level: Press this button to activate/deactivate Full Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at the maximum velocity (127), regardless of the amount of force you use. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to activate/deactivate Half Level. When activated, the pads will always trigger their samples at half-velocity (64).
41

9. Copy / Delete: Press this button to copy one pad to another. Use the Copy from pad field to select the “source” pad (the pad you want to copy) and use the Copy to pad field to select the “destination” pad. You can select multiple destination pads, and you can select pads in different pad banks. Tap Do It to continue or Cancel to return to the previous screen.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Delete Pad window, where you can delete the contents of a selected pad.
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 play the same sample as the original pad, but a selectable parameter will increase in value with each pad number, regardless of the amount of force you use. Use the data dial or -/+ buttons to select the 16 Level parameter.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to cycle through editing the Pad Perform Notes Type, Root Note, and starting Octave. Use the data dial or -/+ buttons to adjust the parameter shown on the display.
11. 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.
You can also change the note repeat rate using the Touch Strip.
12. Touch Strip: The touch strip can be used as an expressive control for playing and can be configured to control Note Repeat, Pitch Bend, Modulation, Touch FX and more. See Appendix > Updates in MPC 2.10.1 > New Features > Touch Strip and Touch FX for more information.
13. Touch Strip / Config: Press this button to enable Touch Strip mode selection. Press the button repeatedly or use the data dial or -/+ buttons to cycle between the available modes. Press and hold this button to enter Q-Link mode for the Touch Strip.
Press and hold Shift and press this button to view the Touch Strip Configuration window.

Mode & View Controls

14. Mode: Press and hold this button and then press a pad to quickly jump to the mode printed below the pad in orange:

Pad 13: Sampler

Pad 14: Looper

Pad 15: Step Sequencer

Pad 16: Save

Pad 9: Next Sequence

Pad 10: Song Mode

Pad 11:

Pad 12:

MIDI Control Mode Media/Browser Mode

Pad 5: Sample Edit Mode

Pad 6: Program Edit Mode

Pad 7: Pad Mixer

Pad 8: Channel Mixer

Pad 1: Track View

Pad 2: Grid Editor

Pad 3: Wave Editor

Pad 4: List Editor

15. Main / Track View: Press this button to enter Main Mode. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to enter Track View Mode.
16. Track Select / Seq Select: Press this button to toggle between viewing MIDI Tracks and Audio Tracks, and then use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the selected track. Press and hold Shift, press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the selected Sequence.

42

17. Program Select / Track Type: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the Program for the selected track. Press and hold Shift, press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the track type for the selected track: Drum, Keygroup, Plugin, MIDI, Clip or CV.
18. Browse / Up: Press this button once to open the File Browser, and press it again to open the Media Browser. You can use the Browsers to locate and select programs, samples, sequences, etc. Press and hold Shift and then press this button to move up to the previous folder while using the Browser.
19. Sample Select: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the selected sample for the current pad. Press the button again to cycle between Layers 1­4 of the pad.
20. Sample Start / Loop Start: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the sample start point for the sample on the selected pad. Press the button again to cycle through Layers 1­4 of the pad. Press and hold Shift, press this button, and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the Loop Start point for the sample on the selected pad. Press and hold Shift and press the button again to cycle through Layers 1­4 of the pad.
21. Sample End: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the sample end point for the sample on the selected pad. Press the button again to cycle through Layers 1­4 of the pad.
22. Tune / Fine: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the Tuning for the sample on the selected pad. Press the button again to cycle through Layers 1­4 of the pad. Press and hold Shift, press this button, and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the Fine Tuning for the sample on the selected pad. Press and hold Shift and press the button again to cycle through Layers 1­4 of the pad.
23. Quantize: Press this button to quantize all note events so they fall on exact, even time intervals as determined by the Timing Correct settings. Press and hold Shift and press this button to quantize only the currently selected note events.
24. TC On/Off / Config: Press this button to turn Timing Correct on and off. Press and hold Shift and press this button to toggle between viewing the Time Division and Swing settings for Timing Correct in the display. Use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the selected value.
25. Zoom / Vert Zoom: Press this button and use the data dial or -/+ buttons to change the horizontal zoom level. Press and hold Shift, press this

References

• Music Production Hardware & Software | Akai Pro
• Legal | Akai Pro
• MPC Plugin Instruments
• ASIO4ALL Official Home – Universal Windows ASIO Driver
• ilok.com
• MPC

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>