From MPC to MP3: Pete Rock

Many of the best producers are former djs and they create new music using the MPC. Take Pete Rock for example, his affinity for producing comes from having his ear to the streets and his love of music from various genres. He is considered one of the best hip hop producers of all time and he uses the MPC to make his beats. The MPC allows the user to mix records and sample beats from various tracks. This gives the producer the ability to use real music as music. Many producers also use keyboards, live instruments and live voices in conjunction with the MPC to create even more unique sounds. Originally designed as a drum machine and midi sequencer, the MPC- formerly known as the MIDI production center (now called the Music Production Center), features sampling and storage functions that can be combined with other instruments and sounds to create new music. Created by Roger Linn and produced by Akai since 1988, the MPC is a powerful tool used by many producers today. The MPC 2500 is a 32 voice-drum/phase sampler with up to 128 MB of RAM and extensive editing control. It has a functional user interface, responsive velocity- and pressure- sensitive pads, twin onboard effects processors, four Q link controllers (two sliders/two knobs) for extensive real-time control, plus 10 outputs and a S/PDIF digital output. This MPC also has a 100,000 note/64 track MIDI sequencer that can be assigned to four separate MIDI outputs for a total of 64 independently addressable MIDI channels. Watch Pete Rock using the MPC to create a new beat from a classic 80’s tune.........-dp http://www.collegedj.net/