Akai MPC3 OS Quickstart Guide

Akai has released MPC3 firmware, which is a game changer, as it has built-in Native Instruments functionality and has completely overhauled the UI. This truly unlocks creativity anywhere you go, so in this guide, we will show you the ins and outs of using it on your Akai MPC device. This article only scratches the surface, so check out the MPC3 manual for more information!

1. Navigation
2. Create a Project
3. Create a Track
4. Recording Tracks
5. Edit and Save Projects

Before We Begin

We will be using an Akai MPC One in this guide, but functionality and navigation are the same across the entire MPC line.

Navigation

You can break down the MPC3 display into six sections: Toolbar, Shortcuts, Function, Track/Arrangement View, Sequence, and Mixer Strips.

Sections of MPC

Toolbar

The Toolbar shows the project name and general project information, such as the metronome, timing correction, bar and beat, and MIDI monitoring.

Shortcuts

Shortcuts are self-explanatory: they let you navigate up to five of your most used or favorite menus. You can even customize them to suit your needs. To do so, press the MENU button or the PREFERENCES icon at the top-left corner of the screen, and then drag the icon to the sidebar.

Function

This area houses specific actions associated with the screen you’re currently on. For example, the Main screen has the record, track selection, mute, and solo actions, and the Mixer screen includes volume, sends effects, and I/O actions.

Track/Arrangement View

This section is where you will change and manage your tracks and arrange your project.

Sequence

This section shows the information on the currently loaded sequence. You can change the length, the tempo, the location, and the transpositions here.

• Use the main knob or double-tap the respective function to change its value.

Mixer Strips

The Mixer Strips section, also called the XL Channel Strip, is where you will see the sample and main outputs. You can also add channel effects and adjust the Sends and the I/O from here.

Create a Project

Though the GUI has been overhauled in the MPC3 update, creating a project couldn’t be easier. Like previous versions, when you turn on your MPC, you will be greeted by the Project screen. You can load demos, open recently saved projects, or create something new. This guide will show you how to make a basic project.

• From the Demo screen, press NEW PROJECT. You will then enter the Main screen.
• You can also create a new project by pressing the PREFERENCES icon (located in the upper-left corner of the display) or the MENU button. The NEW PROJECT button is located at the bottom of the page.
• The Preferences menu is where you will also save and open projects.

Create a Track

Now that you’ve created the project, it’s time to add some tracks. MPC3 uses the same track types as previous versions: audio, drum, plugin, keygroup, MIDI, and CV.

To add a track, tap + NEW TRACK and choose the track type. If you want to add multiple tracks of the same type (e.g., audio tracks), tap + NEW TRACK andtap ADVANCED. You can then use the encoder to highlight your desired track type. Tap DO IT to create the tracks.

• You can add up to eight layers on an audio or drum track. Press LAYER, and then use the main knob to change between layers.

Drum Tracks

When you create a drum track, all 16 slots will be empty. You can either load a preset sound or kit or record live samples from a connected audio source.

When you select BROWSE, you can load anything from the Drums or Samples folders. If you choose RECORD, you will be taken to a recording screen where you can configure various recording settings.

Plugin Tracks

When you create a plugin track, it will default to a factory preset. To change it, double-tap or hold the plug-in name. To open the plug-in, tap the image located next to the plug-in name.

• Press the diamond-shaped Soundsicon to view factory preset instruments and any instruments you downloaded and activated during the firmware-update process. Press the PREFERENCES or MENU button if you don’t see the Sounds icon in the shortcuts.

Recording Tracks

Now that we’ve created a project, let’s focus on how to work with tracks on the MPC3 firmware.

1. Select the track you wish to record.
2. Adjust the sample’s level using the top touch-sensitive knob.
   • Alternatively, expand the XL Channel Strip and drag the fader line up and down.
3. Tap BARS. Use the main knob to change the pattern length. You can manually enter it by double-tapping or holding BARS.
4. Press RECORD, then press PLAY. You will then get a four-bar count-in before it starts recording. After it has reached the length of the pattern set, the pattern will loop automatically and enter RECORD OVERDUBmode. To stop recording, press the RECORD button.

Editing Audio Tracks

You can edit the start and end points by dragging the green S and red E tabs. You can also double-tap the waveform to edit it in further detail. This includes cutting, looping, reversing, adding effects, etc.

Edit and Save Projects

After you’ve recorded some tracks, you can edit and arrange everything to your liking through the Arrangement page.

1. Tap the Arrangement tab on the Main screen, then double-tap its window. This will pull up the Arrangement window. By default, it will show the current project’s MIDI grid (Grid view).
2. From here, you can add and delete notes and adjust note length and placement.
3. Pinch in and out on the display to zoom in and out. This is perfect for when you need to adjust fine details on a specific track.
4. Press the Arrange icon at the top of the Arrangement window to work on the project’s arrangement.
5. Once you’re finished with your project, press the PREFERENCES icon or the MENU button, press SAVE, and choose Project or Project As.

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