The new MPCs don’t just let you either sequence MIDI or sample short pieces of audio. They’re full blown sequencers, samplers and audio recorders with a continually evolving software DAW for those who still want to edit more deeply in the computer. The integration is pretty seamless and Akai have been nailing bugs and adding features faster than previously. One huge bonus with the MPC Live (and X) is that they both feature eight tracks of stereo audio recording direct to the internal or user-added SSD/USB thumb drive/ SD card. Here’s an example of how to record violins straight into the MPC Live…
Start a new project and save it into its own folder. Then go to your main window and select the audio tab at the bottom of the screen. You’ll find options for inputs and outputs here. Round the back you’ll find two inputs – make sure these are set to...
Plug in your external stereo or mono audio source. If it’s a synth you can plug straight in as the synth is already at line level, however if recording a vocal, you’ll need a mic preamp or a mixing desk to boost the signal coming into the MPC.
Back off the input gain dial on the MPC’s back or pull down the level of your audio source if you can hear clipping. (Driving the inputs can sound good, so don’t worry too much)! Switch on the metronome for time-keeping, hit play-start/record and...
Set your input in the input pane to match whether your audio source is stereo or mono. If mono, select input 1, if stereo, select input 1/2, then record arm/monitor the track and play a little to set a good level as it comes in. Listen for any clipping...