Complete Guide to Akai Professional MPC Work…

This course will teach beginners who are new to the Akai MPC hardware workflow how to get started with their device, to become an expert user of MPC devices. At the end of the course, you will be able to pick up any Akai MPC device and make beats with an enhanced workflow end-to-end. This course is tailored towards the users of the following Akai MPC series; MPC One, MPC One+

Hence, for better retention, it is important that you have at least one of the above-mentioned devices in your possession to practice along with the teachings in this course. The course project materials and sound kits used in the course will be attached to the resource section where you can download and practice along.

We will walk you through the process of how to set up your device, how to make your first beat, how to bring in your own sound, how to sample, how to edit on grids, Timing-correct, how to initiate automation, how to use effects, mixing and mastering, routing, sample editing, MPC workflow structure, sample layering, track mutes, arranging sequence into songs, QLink, note repeats, lots of workflow enhancement button shortcuts, and lots more.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Getting started with mpc: setting up, basic structure, mpc sequence
Your first project: drum programming, working with sounds, interface walkthrough
Recording: real time recording, metronone, swings, events, note repeat, grid equation
Editing: sequencer grid, q-links, sequence editing and resolutions
Mixing: drum layering, sample layers, stereo width, mute groups, effects

Mixing options: track view mode, channel mixer, pad mixer
Routing: sub mixes, the returns, the mains
Sampling: getting audio in, sampling, sample editing, edit points, pad shortcuts
Tips for faster workflow

Getting started with mpc: setting up, basic structure, mpc sequence
Your first project: drum programming, working with sounds, interface walkthrough
Recording: real time recording, metronone, swings, events, note repeat, grid equation
Editing: sequencer grid, q-links, sequence editing and resolutions
Mixing: drum layering, sample layers, stereo width, mute groups, effects
Mixing options: track view mode, channel mixer, pad mixer
Routing: sub mixes, the returns, the mains
Sampling: getting audio in, sampling, sample editing, edit points, pad shortcuts
Tips for faster workflow

Syllabus

Students will be able to set up MPC devices, understand MPC basic structure, the buttons and menu definitions, and what a sequence is

This module introduced the instructor, Tosin, and the course content to the students, summarizing what will be covered.

This module introduced the co-instructor, Amos, as he walk us through the simple steps to set up your MPC device to get things started.

This module explains the basic structure of the mpc, understanding of the connection between sequence, track, and programs

this module covers the definition and explanation of the functions of all the physical buttons on the MPC, including their second functions.

This module covers the explanation of the MPC screen menu and its respective uses.

This module covers a detailed explanation of the settings preference interface

Download the resource material to be used for the training here.

This module explains how to load samples and sounds to the project and pads

This module covers how to make your first beat using the loaded sounds

This module covers how timing correct works

This module covers how to use metronome for real-time recording

This module covers how to record the drums in our first main project and sequence

This module covers how to use the swing feature of the MPC

This module covers how to load and record plugin instrument to our main project

This module covers how to move recorded events within the grid view

This module covers how to use the Note Repeat feature

This module covers how to work around the grid view, covering all top menu features

This module covers how to to work around the grid view in further detail, covering all the bottom menu features

This module covers how to use the Q-Link knobs

This module covers the step sequencer interface in detail, and how to use it

This module covers how to use sample layer in program edit

This module covers how to layer multiple kicks in our main project

This module covers how to achieve stereo width for a more realistic sound output

This module covers how to use the mute groups to experiment with output variant

This module covers how to apply internal drum effects to the drum kits

This module covers how to use the pad mixer and program edit for initial sound mixing

This module covers how to use the pad mute and channel mixer for a more refined mixing process

This module covers how to route tracks using Submixes for a better mixing experience

This module covers what is needed to get started with sampling on the Akai MPC

This module covers how to get audio into the MPC using the sampler, and the important parameters to note

This module covers how to use the sample edit feature to work on the recorded sample

This module covers how to use enhance sample edit with pad shortcut features

This module covers how to use track mute and track group to build your song

This module covers how to use track automation within the project.

This module covers how to add multiple sequences to our main project using track automation

This module covers how to use the XYFX automation in its read and write state

This module covers how to eventually arrange and export the song for distribution

This module covers what is the next step to take after completing the course

This module covers some shortcuts that can be effective for a faster workflow on the Akai MPC device

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Designed for beginners who are new to the Akai MPC hardware workflow

Develops expertise in using MPC devices and enhances workflow end-to-end

Teaches essential music production techniques such as sampling, editing, and mixing using MPC hardware

Includes hands-on practice through project materials and sound kits

Taught by experienced MPC instructors, Tosin Awodogan and Amos Kantiok

Course explicitly requires students to have an Akai MPC One, MPC One+, or similar device for practice

Reviews summary

Mastering akai mpc workflow for beat production

According to students, this is a comprehensive guide to the Akai Professional MPC workflow, designed to take learners from beginner to expert in beat production. The course provides a structured and practical approach, covering everything from initial device setup and basic beat creation to advanced techniques like sampling, mixing, mastering, and song arrangement. Learners appreciate the inclusion of project materials and sound kits, enabling them to follow along and practice hands-on. The instruction is noted for its clarity and detail, making complex MPC functionalities, such as Q-Links and workflow shortcuts, accessible. It's particularly praised for its end-to-end coverage of the production process.

Designed for Akai MPC One and One+ users, requiring ownership.

"You absolutely need an Akai MPC One or One+ to get the most out of this course, as it's built around that specific hardware."

"It's important to have the mentioned MPC model, as the course heavily relies on hands-on application with that device."

"The instruction is tailored precisely to the MPC One, so users of other MPC models might find some workflow differences."

Thorough explanations of specific MPC functions and shortcuts.

"The modules on sampling and using Q-Links were particularly insightful, detailing features I struggled with before."

"I learned so many useful shortcuts and tricks for a faster workflow that weren't obvious to me initially."

"The course dives deep into functions like timing correct, note repeat, and various mixing options, which is great for precision."

Excellent starting point for new Akai MPC hardware users.

"As someone completely new to the Akai MPC, the setup and basic structure modules were incredibly clear and easy to follow."

"I finally understood how to get started with my MPC One, thanks to the very patient explanations for beginners."

"The course breaks down initial hurdles for new users, making the learning curve much smoother and less intimidating."

Emphasizes active practice with provided project materials.

"Having the project materials and sound kits made it so easy to follow along and practice directly on my MPC."

"The course is very practical; I felt like I was actually making music from day one with the step-by-step demos."

"I found the hands-on approach and the ability to practice with the exact sounds incredibly helpful for retention."

A detailed guide covering the entire beat production process on MPC.

"It really walks me through the entire beat-making process, from setting up my MPC to arranging and exporting my finished song."

"I appreciate how this course covers everything from drum programming to mixing and mastering on my MPC One+."

"This guide truly feels complete, detailing every step needed for an end-to-end workflow on the Akai MPC."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Complete Guide to Akai Professional MPC Workflow with these activities:

Review basic music theory

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Basic music theory concepts are the foundational building blocks for creating beats and songs

Browse courses on Music Theory

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Review the basics of music notation, including notes, scales, and chords
Practice identifying intervals and recognizing basic chord progressions

Create a comprehensive MPC resource library

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Having quick access to resources can make learning easier and less stressful

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Gather manuals, tutorials, and other resources related to the MPC
Organize the resources in a logical and accessible manner
Make regular updates to the library as new resources become available

Follow MPC tutorials on YouTube

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Following tutorials allows you to observe external experts using the MPC firsthand

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Search for MPC tutorials on YouTube that cover specific topics you want to learn
Watch the tutorials and take notes on the techniques demonstrated
Practice the techniques you learned from the tutorials on your own MPC

Five other activities

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Join an MPC online forum or community

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Connecting with other MPC users can broaden your perspectives and approaches

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Search for MPC forums or communities online
Join the forum or community and introduce yourself
Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your own knowledge and experiences

MPC Button Command Drills

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Familiarizing your hands and brain to perform common sequences of inputs is a great way to optimize your workflow

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Identify the most common buttons used for various tasks
Practice executing sequences of button commands without looking at the interface
Set a timer and challenge yourself to perform certain tasks, then try to beat your best time

Create a beat using the MPC

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Putting your understanding of the MPC workflow to the test is one of the best ways to solidify your knowledge

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Review the MPC workflow and basic functions
Load samples into the MPC
Create a drum pattern using the loaded samples
Add additional instruments and effects to your beat
Export your beat to your preferred audio format

Produce a complete song using the MPC

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Putting together a complete song requires the combination of many skills taught in this course

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Conceptualize the song, including the overall structure, mood, and instrumentation
Create the individual sections of the song, such as the intro, verse, chorus, and bridge
Mix and master the individual sections to create a cohesive and polished song
Export the final song and share it with others for feedback

Participate in MPC beatmaking competitions

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Testing your skills against your peers is an excellent way to push your learning and creativity

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Find MPC beatmaking competitions online or in your local area
Prepare your best beats and submit them to the competition
Review the feedback from the competition judges and use it to improve your skills

Career center

Learners who complete Complete Guide to Akai Professional MPC Workflow will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers: