How to Make Beats With an Akai MPC 2000xl

Akai MPC 2000XL is a great piece of equipment that allows you to mix together different beats to come up with a single piece of music using a layering technique. This machine does require some skill and practice, not to mention a good ear, to use well.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Understand the purpose of a hi-hat beat. The hi-hat is similar to a cymbal and is used in a drum kick for two reasons. The first reason is to move the drum kick along while the second reason is to help keep the timing of the entire beat.

2. Add the hi-hat to the drum and snares you have already added. You should notice how it adds to the entire beat and keeps the timing of the beat. Keeping the beat is extremely important as it makes the entire piece flow correctly.

3. Play with some of the drum beats while adding and removing the hi-hat. This will help you get to know the hi-hat beat a little better. Then you can customize how the hi-hat is included and what beats it mixes well with.

4. Consider purchasing an MPC book or working with another disc jockey who is familiar with the machine while you are getting to know your Akai MPC2000XL. Another disc jockey can often point out things that are not even mentioned in the user's manual.

Tips & Warnings

• For more in-depth information on this machine, visit MPC Samplers and buy their e-book, "Beat Making on the MPC2000XL".

Resources

• MPC Samples

[Bucks]

on 4/23/2008 Where is the best place to buy one of these machines? Are there any machines like this that come with a DVD or the like tutorial to help a beginner get started?

[Bucks]

on 4/23/2008 Where is the best place to buy one of these machines? Are there any machines like this that come with a DVD or the like tutorial to help a beginner get started?