Chapter 1: Introduction...................................................................................................................... 1 Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 1 Top Panel...........................................................................................................................................................
Count In..................................................................................................................................................................................................19 In Play ....................................................................................................................................................................................................19 In Record ...............................................................................
12 Level Function ([12 Levels] Button).................................................................................................................................... 53 Setting the Track Mute with Pads............................................................................................................................................ 54 Track Mute Page ...............................................................................................................................................
Additional Program Editing ..................................................................................................................................................... 80 Changing the Program Name.................................................................................................................................................................80 Copying a Program ..............................................................................................................
Version .................................................................................................................................................................................................106 How to Upgrade the MPC500..............................................................................................................................................................106 Specifications ...................................................................................................
1 Chapter 1: Introduction Thank you for purchasing the MPC500. The MPC500 is a powerful musical production tool and this manual describes how to use the MPC to its fullest potential. We know you want to dive in and start making music immediately, but please take the time to read through this manual so that you can get the most out of your new purchase. Overview In this chapter, we’ll go over the basics of the MPC500 including: the name and function of each button, slider, knob, and jack.
2 Chapter 1: Introduction 6. [Pad1] Through [Pad12]: These drum pads let you trigger the samples in your MPC. These pads also let you enter various modes, choose sequences, mute tracks, and to select letters and numbers for naming your work. 7. [Data] Wheel: This wheel lets you change the value of the currently selected field. Turning the wheel clockwise increases values (or moves you forward in a list) whereas turning the wheel counterclockwise decreases values or moves you backwards in a list. 8.
3 20. [Sequence] Button: This is the Main Sequence page of the MPC500 and is displayed when the unit is powered on. Pressing the [SEQUENCE] button at any time will return you to this page (in Sequence Mode). See "Chapter 3: Sequence feature" on page 13 for more about this button. 21. [Track] Button: This button takes you to the MPC500’s Main Track page where track-related information can be found. Pressing the [TRACK] button at any time will take you to the Main Track page.
4 Chapter 1: Introduction 29. [Stop] Button: This button stops playback and recording. Quickly pressing this button three times sends an "all notes off" MIDI command stops all sounds from playing back. Note: If your MPC500 has a "stuck note" or if a sample is ringing due to improper programming, you can always stop all sounds by quickly tapping the [STOP] button three times. 30. [Play] Button: This button starts playback of a sequence from its current position.
5 8. [Dc In] Jack: Connect the power adapter to this jack. If AC power is not available, the MPC500 can also be powered with batteries. If both AC and battery power is available, the MPC500 will use AC power to preserve battery life. 9. [MIDI] Jacks: The MPC500 can send and receive MIDI data through these jacks. Connect the MPC’s output to the MIDI input of an external device and the MPC’s input to an external device’s output. Bottom Panel 1. Battery Compartment: The MPC500 takes 6 AA batteries.
6 Chapter 1: Introduction Hooking Up Your MPC500 The following diagram demonstrates how the MPC500 can be integrated into your recording setup. Note that the diagram below uses every connector on the MPC and that your setup may vary from the one shown. For analog connections, use ¼" audio cables. For MIDI connections, use 5-pin MIDI cables. For USB connections, use a standard USB cable. The MPC500 is a pseudo balanced audio device.
7 MPC500 Basic Concepts and Terminology Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the following terms and concepts since you’ll encounter them throughout this manual. Sequence A sequence is the most basic "building block" of music you can compose on the MPC. MIDI information from the MPC’s pads, buttons, and Q-Link slider (or an external keyboard) are recorded to tracks within a sequence. Each sequence has 48 tracks and the MPC500 can hold up to 99 separate sequences at one time.
8 Chapter 1: Introduction Note Number, Velocity, and Length When you are recording a sequence, every time you tap a pad, three key pieces of data are recorded on a track: The note number (i.e., which pad you struck) The note velocity (i.e., how hard you struck the pad) The note length (i.e., how long you held the pad down) Once this information is recorded, the MPC can playback your performance exactly as it was recorded.
9 Trim Mode ([Mode] + [Pad5]) This is where you can edit individual samples, deleting silence, adjusting overall volume of recorded samples and so forth. Program Mode ([Mode] + [Pad6]) Where individual samples are assembled into a group for playback on the individual pads. This can be thought of as a drum kit, assembling different individual drums to form one kit. MIDI/Sync Mode ([Mode] + [Pad7]) Here, you can sync up your MPC500 with other devices, and control different aspects of MIDI.
11 Chapter 2: Basic Operation In this chapter, we will describe the basic operation of the MPC500. Main Sequence Page This is the main screen of the MPC500, where you record and play back sequences. You can go back to this page at any time by pressing the [SEQUENCE] button. If at any time you get lost while operating the MPC500 and want to go back to this page, simply press the [SEQUENCE] button. You cannot go back to the SEQUENCE page by pressing [SEQUENCE] button while processing (e.g.
12 Chapter 2: Basic Operation Entering Letters with [Data] Wheel You can change letters selected with a cursor by turning the [DATA] wheel in the 'Sequence name' window. Move the cursor with thr RIGHT/LEFT cursor button and enter letters. You can enter letters using both the [DATA] wheel and pads. Entering Letters with a Pad Three letters are assigned to each pad. Each pad hit cycles through the three letters.
13 Chapter 3: Sequence feature The MPC500 has a sequencer feature that allows you to record/playback your performance. With the sequencer feature, you can record the performance you created with the pads, and by playing back the recorded data, you can reproduce your performance. The actual performance will be recorded on a track within a sequence. For more information on sequences and tracks, see the section entitled "MPC500 Basic Concepts and Terminology" on page 7.
14 Chapter 3: Sequence feature A Sequence is the most basic unit when you create data with the MPC500. Performance data from the MIDI keyboard or pad can be recorded on each track within a sequence. You can select a sequence in this field by turning the [DATA] wheel, or typing in a number with the pads while holding the [NUMERIC] button. The MPC500 can have up to 99 sequences in memory at any one time. Empty sequences are indicated as (unused).
15 6. Hit pads to check the sounds that are assigned to the pads. You can play back the program selected in the Program assign page. 7. Press the [PLAY START] button while holding the [REC] button. The recording will start after 4 counts. 8. Play the pads to record your performance. By default, the sequence is set to 2 bars. After recording for 2 bars, the MPC500 will start playing back the recorded performance.
16 Chapter 3: Sequence feature Tip: In SONG mode, you can also set a specific order for sequences playback. For more information, see "Chapter 6: SONG mode" on page 49. Other Useful Features for Recording Sequences Undo and Redo Feature When overdubbing sequences, you can cancel the current recording and restore the previous recording. During overdubbing, press the [STOP] button to stop the overdub and press the [ERASE/UNDO] button. The following screen will be displayed.
17 The 'Value' field for 'Notes' consists of two parts, Low note and High note. Low note (left) sets lower range of MIDI note and High note (right) sets high range of MIDI note. In this page, you can set note range with an external MIDI keyboard. The range is updated whenever a MIDI note is received. For example, when the MPC500 receives only one note, such as C 3, the range is set as C 3-C 3. When MPC500 receive multiple notes, for example C 3, D 3 and E 3, then the range is set to C 3-E 3. 4.
18 Chapter 3: Sequence feature You can select a start point for erasing in the 'Time' field. This field will default to the start of the current sequence, but you can change this field with the [DATA] wheel. 4. Next, select the 'Parameter' field again. Turn the [DATA] wheel to change this to OUT. This selects the endpoint for erasing. This will default to the end of the current sequence, but you can change this field with the [DATA] wheel. 5.
19 Timing Correct Feature When recording a pad performance, it takes practices playing the pads exactly in time. By using the timing correct feature, you can correct the timing of the events you recorded. There are two ways to use this feature: by correcting the timing in real time during the recording, and by correcting the events after recording.
20 Chapter 3: Sequence feature In Record You can select this if you want the metronome sound during recording/overdub. If you select NO, you will not hear the metronome sound during the recording/overdub. Rate You can select the rhythm for the metronome sound. You can choose 1/4, 1/4(3), 1/8, 1/8(3), 1/16, 1/16(3), 1/32 or 1/32(3). Sound Here, you can specify how the metronome sounds. CLICK is the standard MPC click used on previous models, like the MPC 2000xl.
21 Setting the Length of a Sequence By default, a sequence is set to a 2-bar length, but you can set this length between 1 to 999 bars. 1. Press the [SEQUENCE] button to make sure you are in Sequence mode. 2. Press the [PARAMS] button, and scroll with the [DATA] wheel in the top 'Parameter' field to choose Sequence Length. The 'Now' field displays the current value. 3. Select the 'New' field and turn the [DATA] wheel to select the new number of bars. 4. Press the [DO IT] button.
22 Chapter 3: Sequence feature Setting the Loop for a Sequence By default, the MPC500 has the sequence loop feature on. It is useful when you create a short sequence. With the sequence loop feature, you can overdub a new performance while playing back a sequence repeatedly. However, when you are working on a long song, created as a single sequence, it may be better to loop only the part of the song that needs to be changed.
23 Changing the Sequence Name This parameter lets you name your sequence. 1. Press the [SEQUENCE] button to make sure you are in Sequence mode. 2. Press the [PARAMS] button, and scroll with the [DATA] wheel in the top 'Parameter' field to choose Sequence name. 3. In the 'Name' field, enter a new name. Sequence names can be up to 10 characters long and can be either alphabetical or numeric. For more information on setting the name, see the "Setting Names" section on Page 11. 4.
24 Chapter 3: Sequence feature 3. In the 'Sequence' field, Select 00 by turning the [DATA] wheel clockwise until you pass the 99th sequence. The LCD will display the following: 4. Press the [DO IT] button. The following confirmation prompt will appear to ensure you do not accidentally delete all of your sequences: 5. Press the [DO IT] button again to delete all sequences or the CANCEL button to stop.
25 Track Mode Parameters When you press the [PARAMS] button in Track mode, you will see the following page: The upper line lists the various track parameters whereas the lower line lets you see how each track is configured. Use the [DATA] wheel to cycle through the available options in the 'Parameter' field. Once you find a parameter you’d like to edit, select the individual track you’d like to edit using the 'Track' field on the lower left.
26 Chapter 3: Sequence feature You can set the mute for each track independently. For example, let’s assume you have recorded a Piano solo on track 1 and another piano solo on track 2. By setting either track to mute, you can compare these two piano solos and choose the better one. If you set the mute ON for a track, the MPC500 won’t play back that track. Tip: With the [TRACK MUTE] button, you can set the track mute with a pad.
27 2. Select the 'To/from' field and change the value to Fr (from) using the [DATA] wheel. 3. In the 'Track' field, choose the Track you wish to copy. 4. Next, select the 'To/from' field and change the value to 'To' using the [DATA] wheel. 5. In the 'Track' field, choose the track you wish to have the selected track copied to. 6. Press the [DO IT] button. This will make a copy of the track to the newly selected location. Deleting a Track This parameter lets you delete a track 1.
28 Chapter 3: Sequence feature Pressing the [DO IT] button will clear all changed default track names to the factory default. The MIDI Sequencer Feature When you are playing the internal sound module with the pads, you can start recording just by selecting the desired program in the 'Program assign' field in the MAIN TRACK page. However, the MPC500 can also be used as a MIDI sequencer.
29 Connecting your midi devices 1. Connect the [MIDI OUT] of the keyboard to the MPC500’s [MIDI IN] and the MPC500’s [MIDI OUT] to [MIDI IN] of the external sound module as per the following diagram. Note: You may still want to connect the MPC500’s stereo out to a mixer so that you can hear a metronome sound even when you use the MPC500 as a MIDI sequencer. 2. Press the [TRACK] button to select the Main Track screen, the press [PARAMS] to enter Track params. 3.
30 Chapter 3: Sequence feature Tip: If you select another sequence in the 'Sq' field, you can record a new performance separately. By playing back those sequences, you can create one whole song. Tip: You can use other useful features for sequence recording (see page 13) like when you record the performance data from pads. Tip: For more information on how to connect a MIDI keyboard with sound module to the MPC500, see the "connecting MPC500 to a MIDI keyboard with sound module" section on page 59.
31 Chapter 4: Editing sequences There are two ways to edit sequences. You can select a region and edit all events at one time, or you can edit each event in detail. In this section, you will learn about the SEQ EDIT mode, where you can select a region to edit your event(s) Seq Edit Mode You can edit the events within a region of the the track. This is done in the SEQ EDIT mode, which can be accessed by pressing the [MODE] button and then [PAD 10]. 'Edit Select' Field You can select edit type here.
32 Chapter 4: Editing sequences Notes The display changes to show the selected region by note number. Here, you will set the upper limit and the lower limit of the note in this field, The MPC500 will edit only the events within the note numbers set here. The 'Notes' field consists of two fields, 'Low' and 'High'. 'Low' field (left) sets lower range of MIDI note and 'High' field (right) sets higher range of MIDI note. In this page, you can set note range with external MIDI keyboard.
33 Choose S: 1, T: A1 to select Sequence 1, track 1 Tip: Next to the track number will be a display of what kind of track it is, either a MIDI (M) track, or a Drum (D) type track. 4. In the 'Parameter' field, choose 'To' S and T will be displayed, representing Sequence and Track. Choose S: 2, T: A1 to select Sequence 2, track 1 5. In the 'Parameter' field, choose' In'. 6. For ‘In’, choose the time 001.01.00 7. In the 'Parameter' field, choose 'Out' For ‘Out’, choose the time 002.01.00 8.
34 Chapter 4: Editing sequences Move Events You can move events within the selected region to another location. Unlike the copy function, this function will remove the source data from the original location. All parameters are same as Copy event. Example: Here is an example of how to perform a move operation. Let's say you want to move the first bar of the first track from the first sequence into the second sequence. Do the following: 1. Press the [MODE] button, and then [PAD 10] to select SEQ EDIT.
35 For ‘Copies’, choose 1. 10. In the 'Parameter' field, choose Mode For ‘Mode’, choose REPLACE. 11. In the 'Parameter' field, choose Do it. 12. Press [DO IT] while on this page to execute the copy function. You will notice that like Copy, most of these selections are default. As parameters are changed, they are remembered, in order to speed up moving operations.
36 Chapter 4: Editing sequences Shift Timing You can Shift the timing of recorded events. Edit S, T Field The edit selection consists of two fields, 'S' and 'T'. The 'S' field represents the Sequence, and the 'T' field is the track. The default setting will be the current sequence and track. There is also a selection on the right to display whether the selected track is a Drum or MIDI type track.
37 ADD VALUE SUB VALUE MULTI V% SET TO V - Add value of 'Amount' field to velocity of selected events Subtract value of 'Amount' field from velocity of selected events Multiply value by 'Amount' field Set velocity to value of 'Amount' field 'Amount' Field This is the amount that the velocity will be changed by. You can set the Value between 0 and 127. When you select "MULTI VAL%" in the 'Mode' field, you can set the Value between 0 and 200. Pressing the [DO IT] button will execute the selected operation.
38 Chapter 4: Editing sequences Edit S, T Field The edit selection consists of two fields, 'S' and 'T'. The 'S' field represents the Sequence, and the 'T' field is the track. The default setting will be the current sequence and track. There is also a selection on the right to display whether the selected track is a Drum or MIDI type track. 'Pads/Notes' Field This selection will display its value as either Pad data or Note data, depending on the track type set in the Track params section.
39 'To S' Field Sets the destination sequence. 'First' Field Sets which bar will be the first to be copied. 'Last' Field Sets the last bar of the source sequence. 'After' Field The selected bars will be copied to the end of the bar set here. 'Copies' Field To copy the same phrase repeatedly, enter the number of copies in the 'Copies' field. You can copy it repeatedly with one operation. Pressing the [DO IT] button will execute the selected operation.
40 Chapter 4: Editing sequences Fix Tempo Each sequence has its own tempo. When you are creating a song in the Song mode, it is useful to change all the sequences to have the same tempo at once. With this feature, you can change all the sequences in memory to the same tempo at once. 'Tempo' Field This field is the tempo that all sequences will be set to. Pressing the [DO IT] button will execute the selected operation. After [DO IT] is pressed, MPC500 will go back to Main sequence page.
41 Chapter 5: STEP EDIT mode There are two ways to edit sequences. You can select a region and edit several events at one time, or you can edit each event in detail. In this section, you will learn about the STEP EDIT mode, where you can edit each event in detail. A note about playing events You can play a selected event by pressing PLAY button when Step or Move is selected in the 'Parameter' field. The MPC500 does not play sequences in STEP EDIT mode.
42 Chapter 5: STEP EDIT mode Indicates the end of list. 'Event' Field This is a list of the events within the active track. Events are displayed by type. When the 'Now' field is changed, the 'Event' field shows the event that is in the selected now time. The following is a list of abbreviations used for each event type: A1...D12 C-2...
43 The 'Parameter' field is where different properties of the selected note events can be viewed. This field can be selected and changed with the [DATA] wheel. The following chart details each selection's meaning: V Velocity D Duration This is the setting of the selected pad event's velocity. In the MIDI standard, the speed used to trigger a note is called velocity. The velocity is shown in 127 steps, with 127 the maximum. This is the selected note's duration.
44 Chapter 5: STEP EDIT mode The Poly pressure event is used for aftertouch much like the channel pressure event. The Poly pressure event can be set to a different value for each individual note, however. Both the 'Note' Field and the 'Value' field can be edited. The full range of MIDI notes and values of 0 to 127 can be selected. ♪C (Tempo Change) Tempo change event is used to change the tempo within the sequence. 'Change' and 'Tempo' Field Here, you can set the amount of the tempo change.
45 QT (Q-Link - Tune) This represents Note Tune Variation data recorded with the Q-link slider. The 'Note' field will display either Pad or Note information, depending on the track type. This field is editable with the [DATA] wheel. The 'Value' field selects the amount of tune variation. QL (Q-Link - Level) This represents Note Level Variation data recorded with the Q-link slider. The 'Note' field will display either Pad or Note information, depending on the track type.
46 Chapter 5: STEP EDIT mode Delt (Delete Event) Events can be deleted directly from the event list by doing the following: 1. Select an event that you want to delete. 2. Select "Delt" on 'Parameter' field. When you select "Delt" at 'Parameter' field, the [DO IT] button will start to blink. 3. Press the [DO IT] button to delete the selected event.
47 Pad events (on DRUM track) Note events (on MIDI track) Pitch Bend (PB) Control Change (CC) Program Change (PC) Channel Pressure (CP) Poly Pressure (PP) Tempo Change (♪C) Q-Link event - Filter (QF) Q-Link event - Tune (QT) Q-Link event - Level (QL) Effects Set (ES) Exclusive (EX) Example: 1. Set 'Now' field to where you would like to insert event. 2. Select "Inst" on 'Parameter' field. 3. The [DO IT] button will start to blink. 4. Select event type that you want to insert from the list above. 5.
48 Chapter 5: STEP EDIT mode 2. Press the REC button Note that the red led above the REC button is lit. This idicates that Step Recording is enabled. 3. Locate the sequence time that you want to record to in the Now field. You can locate sequence by rotating the [DATA] wheel while selecting the 'Now' field. 4. Press a pad or play a note on a MIDI keyboard. If Incr (Auto step increment function) is set to Auto, the sequence will advance by the value set in Timing correct automatically.
49 Chapter 6: SONG mode In SONG mode, you can set the order of multiple sequences and play them in a series. The SONG mode is useful when you are creating a song by combining short sequences. You can check the structure of an entire song while working, so you can finish the song easily. You cannot record the performance in the SONG mode; you can however convert the song that you created in the SONG mode to one long sequence so that you can record/edit it like you would a normal sequence.
50 Chapter 6: SONG mode Creating a Song This section will give a step by step example on how to create a song. 1. Select an unused song on 'Song' field (lower line). 2. Select "Assign seq" on 'Edit select' field (upper line). The 'Sequence' field shows "End of song" instead of a sequence. "End of song" means that there is no sequence assigned after this step. 3.
51 Insert Before Allows for steps to be inserted in the middle of a song. When Insert before is selected on the 'Edit select' field (upper line), the [DO IT] button will blink. Pressing the [DO IT] button will insert a new step with the same contents as the selected step right before it. Delete Step Deletes the selected step. When Delete step is selected in the 'Edit select' field (upper line), the [DO IT] button will blink. Pressing the [DO IT] button will delete selected step.
52 Chapter 6: SONG mode Copy Song This procedure allows the copying of a song to a different location. 'To/from' field This is a selectable field. 'Fr' is the source sequence to be copied. The 'To' field is the destination song. 'To' and 'Fr' will default to the same song. Press the [DO IT] button to copy the selected song to the selected destination. This will return to the Song select page with the newly copied song selected.
53 Chapter 7: Functions of a pad The MPC500 has 12 drum pads. The pads perform various function besides making sounds when hit. In this section, you will learn about various functions of the pad. Playing With Pads By assigning the sounds in memory to a pad, you can play those sounds. Below are some useful functions when playing with pads. Switching Pad Banks The MPC500 has 12 pads, but you can play up to 48 samples by switching between the four pad banks.
54 Chapter 7: Functions of a pad Tip: When you select VELOCITY in the 'Type' field, the velocity of the pad event can be played in 12 Levels, but if you select an option other than VELOCITY, the note variation value will be played in 12 Levels. The note variation data can change the value of a specific parameter when you play the pad’s sample.
55 Track Status "." means Track mute is OFF, so the track will play. "M" means Track mute is ON, so the track will not play. For example, This shows: Track mute: OFF for tracks A1, A2, A3, A8, A9 Track mute: ON for tracks A4, A5, A6, A7, A10, A11, A12 Track Solo Mode Solo function switches the track mute setting temporarily off. Turning off the solo function resets the track mute settings for each track to the same status as before the solo function was activated. Track status "S" means solo.
57 Chapter 8: Q-Link slider By using the Q-Link sliders, you can control certain pad parameters (filter, tune, etc…) with a slider. This is done in the SLIDER mode, which can be accessed by pressing the [MODE] button and then the [PAD 1] (SLIDER) button. 'Pad' Field In the 'Pad' field, select the pad to which you wish to assign Q-Link by hitting it. You can select the pad by hitting a pad directly, even when the cursor is not in the 'Pad' field.
58 Chapter 8: Q-Link slider While Recording A Sequence When the [AFTER] button is OFF If you move the Q-Link slider, the new Q-Link Event will be recorded and added to the existing Q-Link Events. When the [AFTER] button is ON If you move the Q-Link slider, the new Q-Link event will be recorded and will erase any previous Q-Link Events. Reset Q-Link Events In SLIDER mode, pressing ERASE button will reset all changes by Q-Link events.
59 Chapter 9: Using the MPC500 with external devices In this section, you will learn how to sync the MPC500 to other MIDI devices using MIDI clock. MIDI clock is a function of the MIDI standard and allows several MIDI devices to synchronize. If your MIDI device supports MIDI clock, you can use the device and the MPC500 in sync. If you are not sure if your MIDI device supports MIDI clock or not, refer to the device’s operation manual.
60Chapter 9: Using the MPC500 with external devices Connecting the MPC500 to a MIDI Keyboard In this section, you can learn how to connect the MPC500 to a MIDI keyboard which has internal sounds to use the MPC500’s sequencer feature. Normally, the MIDI keyboard with internal sounds is set to generate the sound when you play the keyboard. However, when you are using a MIDI keyboard with the MPC500, the MPC500 sends out any incoming MIDI signals to the MIDI keyboard at the MIDI output.
61 3. Press the [SEQUENCE] button to return to the Main Sequence screen. The MPC500 will now only receive MIDI on channel 1. Setting Local Control You can cut off the internal sound from a Pad. When the 'Pad to sampler' field is set to OFF, the pad information does not play samples, but is sent out via the MIDI OUT port. The internal sound can be played by an incoming MIDI IN signal from the external MIDI device. 1.
63 Chapter 10: Recording Recording a Sample In this chapter, you will learn how to record from an analog external device (CD player’s analog output, microphone, etc…) so that you can play the sound by hitting the pads. Preparing the recording 1. Connect the external device to the RECORD IN, which is located on the MPC500’s rear panel. The format of the analog input of the MPC500 is a standard 1/4 inch phone jack. If your device’s format is different, you will need an adapter. 2.
64 Chapter 10: Recording Tip: While it is not necessary to name each sample, it is recommended, as it will make future organization much easier. Tip: When you record a sample the first time after the MPC500 is powered on, the default sample name is "Sample01". If you change the sample name, the new name is used as the default name for the next recording. For example, if you record a new sample and change the name to "Snare", the next recording shows as the default name "Snare01".
65 Recording Options In this section, you will learn about additional options regarding the recording process which were not described in the "Recording the sample" section. Each of these options is accessible by scrolling with the [DATA] wheel in the upper 'Parameter' field of the Record screen. Mode This selection determines whether the incoming analog signal will be recorded in stereo or in mono through the left input only.
67 Chapter 11: Editing a sample Setting the Start / End Points for the Sample The start/end points set the part of the sample data which will actually be played back. The recorded sample may have an unnecessary part at the beginning, which may make it more difficult to place the sound in the correct timing when hitting the pad. You can fix this problem by adjusting the start point. You can also adjust both the start and end points to play only a part of the phrase.
68 Chapter 11: Editing a sample 1. Scroll through the 'Parameter' field to select the Loop parameter. Set the Loop parameter to On. 2. Next, scroll through the 'Parameter' field to select 'Loop st'. When the loop feature is on, the MPC500 first plays the part from the start point to the loop start point, which is set here, then to the end of the sample, and then plays the part from the loop point set in the LOOP page to the end point repeatedly.
69 Advanced Editing In this section, you will learn various parameters used to apply more advanced editing procedures to samples. These features are accessed by selecting the Edit parameter within Trim mode as shown: When Edit is chosen, Select is shown by default at the 'Value' field. This is the initial page of the sample edit function. Once you change this 'Value' field, the [DO IT] button will start to blink.
70 Chapter 11: Editing a sample You can select parameters at the left field on the lower line, and set the value at the right field on the lower line. Origin This is where you set the original tempo of the sample manually. If you don't know the tempo of the sample, set this value to 100. New ♪ This is where the new tempo is entered. Time Stretch amount is automatically calculated based on original tempo and new tempo.
71 About Patched Phrase The MPC1000V2.0 and MPC2500 can make Patched Phrases, which is a special sample file that includes chopped points. MPC500 cannot create Patched Phrases, but it can load and play Patched Phrase files created with an MPC1000V2.0 and MPC2500. In TRIM mode, you can select Patched Phrase in the 'Sample' field, just like a normal sample. However, only Tune, Name, Copy and Delete are available options in the 'Parameter' field. MPC500 Operator's Manual rev 1.
73 Chapter 12: Program Mode In this section, you will learn how to edit a program. This is done in the PROGRAM mode, which can be accessed by pressing the [MODE] button and then [PAD 6] (PROGRAM). Creating a Program To create a new program, proceed as follows. Note: the MPC500 is set to load the preset program automatically when turned on. You can set the MPC500 to start without loading preset program. For more information, see the "Setting the Autoload Function" on page 100. 1.
74 Chapter 12: Program Mode Playing the Sample While the Pad Is Being Hit When you play a sample by hitting the pad, the sample will be played until the end regardless of the length you hit the pad for. This is useful when you play short drum sounds. However, when you play a long sample such as a phrase sample, it is better to set the MPC500 to play the sample only when you hold the pad. In this section, you will learn how to play the sample when you hit the pad. 1.
75 Setting the Volume, Pan and the Tuning For a Sample You can set the volume, stereo positioning (Pan) and tuning for samples that are assigned to the pads. 1. In PROGRAM mode, hit the pad you wish to change. The pad number displayed in the 'Pad number' field will change according to the pad that you hit. 2. In the 'Edit select' field, choose Sample level. Here, you can adjust the volume ('Level' field) and pan ('Pan' field) of each level in the selected Pad.
76 Chapter 12: Program Mode Editing the Sound of a Sample Each pad has a parameter to change the sound, which is called "Filter". You can edit the sound of the sample by editing this parameter. This is done by selecting Filter in the 'Edit select' field of PROGRAM mode. Setting the Filter 1. In PROGRAM mode, choose Filter in the 'Edit select' field. The screen will look as follows. 2. Select the pad you wish to edit the sound for by hitting it.
77 Modifications Using Velocity The following section will show modifications possible using velocity. Changing the Sample Volume with Velocity You can control the sample volume by velocity (how hard you hit the pad). With this feature, you can play the pads like real drums; when you hit the pad strongly, the sound will be loud and vice versa. 1. While in PROGRAM mode, hit the pad you wish to edit. The pad number display in the 'Pad' field will change according to the pad you hit. 2.
78 Chapter 12: Program Mode Changing the Sample Pitch with Velocity You can control the sample pitch using velocity (how hard you hit the pad). 1. In PROGRAM mode, hit the pad you wish to change. The pad number displayed in the 'Pad number' field will change according to the pad that you hit. 2. In the 'Edit select' field, select the Velocity>'Tune' field. 3. Adjust the field to the desired value while checking the level by hitting the desired pad.
79 off will be set higher and more of the high frequencies will be let through the filter, resulting in a brighter sound. If you set this field to 0, the sample will always sound bright. Voice Overlap Normally, when you hit the same pad several times, the same sound will be overlapped. When you use the MPC500 as a drum machine, you can make the performance sound natural with this feature. However, when you are using a phrase sample, it may be better not to overlap the same sound.
80 Chapter 12: Program Mode Additional Program Editing Changing the Program Name 1. In the 'Edit select' field of the PROGRAM page, select Rename program 2. In the 'Program name' field, enter the new name. For more information on setting the name, see the "Setting Names" section on Page 11. 3. Press the [DO IT] button to accept the new name. This closes the window and goes back to PROGRAM mode. Copying a Program You can copy a program to make a new program. 1.
81 All the samples which are not assigned to the program will be deleted at the same time. Setting the Program Change Number You can switch the programs assigned to a track within the sequence by setting the program change numbers in each program. You do not have to set the program change numbers if you do not need to switch the programs. To switch the programs, program change events are used. You can enter these events in the STEP EDIT mode.
83 Chapter 13: Effects In this section, you will learn how to select and edit effects. The MPC500 has two stereo effects processors and one master effect. To apply the effects to a specific pad sound, use the two stereo effects. To apply effects to the entire mix, use the master effect. Note: The effect settings will be saved with the ALL file, which is created when you save the data by selecting SAVE ALL SEQS & SONGS. Applying Fx1 to a Specific Pad Sound You can apply effects to a selected pad sound.
84 Chapter 13: Effects 2. Scroll in the 'Select' field to choose the Fx send parameter. 3. Choose a pad to apply reverb to by hitting a pad. This will select the desired pad in the 'Pad' field. 4. In the 'Send' field, choose FX2. Notice now, that the 'Send level' field is available. 5. Select the 'Send level' field. You cannot apply the reverb effect by just selecting the FX SEND. To apply the effect, you need to adjust the signal level sent to the reverb in the 'Send level' field. 6.
85 'Depth' Field Sets the amount to lower the sound quality. The larger the value, the more lo-fi sound will be created. 4 Band EQ (4 Band Equalizer) This effect is the equalizer, which can adjust the 4 frequency bands to correct or process the sound. Low/Hi EQ is a shelving type equalizer, which boosts or cuts the frequencies higher or lower than the specified frequency. The Mid 1/2 is a peaking type equalizer, which boosts or cuts the specified frequency and the harmonics surrounding the frequency.
86 Chapter 13: Effects 'Release' Field Sets the time it takes to finish the compression after the incoming signal falls below the level set in the 'Threshold' field. Phase Shifter This effect duplicates the signal and changes its phase, then adds it to the original sound. This creates a swelling or rotating sound. 'Sweep Rate' Field Adjusts the speed of the modulation here. 'Offset L/R' Field Adjusts the amount of the phase shift for the left and right stereo channel individually.
87 'Pan Low' Field Adjusts how to move the position. If you select LINEAR, the position moves horizontally. If you select ROTATE, the position rotates in circle. 'Seqsync' Field Adjusts the Sweep rate (the speed of the sound rotation) with the Beat and the Pulse of the tempo in the sequence. When it is set to ON, the display in the 'Sweep rate' field will change to Beat and Pulse. Reverb This effect adds the reverberation to the original sound, to give a spatial effect and depth to the sound.
88 Chapter 13: Effects Chorus and Flanger FLANGER adds modulated delay sounds to the original sound to give a ringing effect to the sound. Both CHORUS and FLANGER add modulated delayed sounds, which are added to the original sound to give a ringing effect. The settings are the same for both effects. Note: You can select CHORUS and FLANGER only in the FX2. 'Slow Sweep Rate' Field Sets the modulation speed here. 'Slow Sweep Depth' Field Sets the depth of the modulation here.
89 If you increase the gain in the 'Hi gain' field, you can boost frequencies higher than the selected frequency. If you lower the gain, you can lower the level of frequencies higher than the selected frequency. If you increase the gain in the 'Lo gain' field, you can boost frequencies lower than the selected frequency. If you lower the gain, you can lower the level of frequencies lower than the selected frequency.
90 Chapter 13: Effects The settings of the effect set selected in the 'Eff' field will be reset to the default settings. Pressing the [CANCEL] button cancels the operation and closes the window. MPC500 Operator's Manual rev 1.
91 Chapter 14: Save / Load The sample and sequence data you have made in the MPC500 will be deleted when you turn off the unit. If you wish to keep the data, you need to save it to a memory card. You can use the saved files again by loading them back into the MPC500. About memory cards The MPC500 can use the memory card called "compact flash". The MPC500 comes with one 128MB (megabyte) compact flash card. You can use any memory card that supports compact flash.
92 Chapter 14: Save / Load 1. In the 'Select' field of the Save to screen, scroll with the [DATA] wheel to select New folder. The new folder will be created in the selected location. 2. Press the [DO IT] button. The following screen will be displayed. 3. Enter a name for the new folder. For more information about setting the name, see the "Setting Names" section on page 11. 4. Press the [DO IT] button. The new folder will be created in the selected directory.
93 You can select the Program data in memory by turning the [DATA] wheel. 3. Press the [DO IT] button. 4. Using the [DATA] wheel and the [CURSOR] buttons, select a folder to save the selected program to. 5. Press the [DO IT] button. The following screen will be displayed. 'Save' Field You can choose whether or not to save the sample data (sounds) with the program data. With Samples The MPC500 will save the program data and the samples used for the program. Normally you should select this option.
94 Chapter 14: Save / Load SMF is a file format set by MIDI standard. If you wish to load the MPC500’s sequence data to another sequencer, select this option. However, the data specific to the MPC500 cannot be saved. 8. Press the [DO IT] button. The MPC500 will start saving the data. Note: If the destination folder already has the data with the same name, the File Exists window will be displayed. For more information on saving, see "Chapter 14: Save / Load" on page 91.
95 5. Press the [DO IT] button. The MPC500 will start saving the data. Saving All Data in Memory at the Same Time You can save sample/program/ALL files at the same time. When you save the data, a project file will be saved, as well as a sample, program and ALL files. The project file does not have actual sample or sequence data, but it has the information about the sample/program/ALL files that are saved when you save the data.
96 Chapter 14: Save / Load Replacing the Sounds and Sequences in the Internal Flash Memory If you select Save: To internal in the SAVE field, you can save the data to the MPC500’s internal flash memory. When this is selected, you can choose to save All sequences and songs, or All programs and samples. You cannot save the individual sample or sequence data. The saved data will be loaded automatically when you turn on the MPC500, like the preset program and the demo sequence.
97 Loading a File In this section, you will learn how to load a file. The MPC500 can load a file from the Memory Card or the Internal Flash Memory. This is done in the LOAD page, which is accessed by pressing the [MODE] button and then the [PAD 2] (LOAD). Selecting a File To select a file to load, proceed as follows: 1. Press the [MODE] button and the [PAD 2] (LOAD). The LOAD page will be displayed. To load a file from the memory card, insert the compact flash card in the memory card slot.
98 Chapter 14: Save / Load Selecting Replace and pressing the [DO IT] button will overwrite the data by the new data. Selecting Rename and pressing the [DO IT] button will show the following page: Here, you can change the name of the file you are about to save. When you enter the name in this window and press the [DO IT] button, the MPC500 will start to load the sample. Loading a Program You can load a program file one by one. 1. Select a program file and load it.
99 Loading the All File You can load the ALL file, which has sequence and song data. When you load the ALL file, all the sequences and songs, which are currently in the MPC500, will be replaced by the new data. 1. Select the ALL file and load it. 2. The Load ALL (SEQS&SONGS) File window will be displayed. 3. In the 'Parameter' field of the Load screen, make sure All seq&songs is selected and press the [DO IT] button. The MPC500 will start loading the data.
100 Chapter 14: Save / Load Yes - pressing the [DO IT] button will remove all contents of the memory and load the selected folder No - adds the loaded program and samples. Pressing the [DO IT] button will show the following page. You can set how to handle files when a sample with the same name is already loaded. 2. NO - The MPC500 will not save the file with the same name. If you loaded the data from the memory card and edited only the program, select NO.
101 1. In the 'Type' field, select 'Format', which is displayed as 'Form' Frmt: Format CF card 2. Press the [DO IT] button. The following screen will be displayed. 3. Press the [DO IT] button again to start the formatting procedure. Saving Data to the Internal Flash Memory If you select 'To internal' in the select parameter with SAVE as the type, you can save data to the MPC500’s internal flash memory. Note: The internal flash memory has the factory preset program and demo sequence.
103 Chapter 15 Connecting the MPC500 to your computer The MPC500 supports the USB mass storage class. When you connect the MPC500 to a PC that supports USB mass storage class, the PC will recognize the memory card in the MPC500 as a removable media drive. You can transfer the data between the recognized memory card and the PC. You can save the data on the memory card to the PC, or you can load the data from the PC to the memory card. You need Windows 2000/Me/XP or later, or Mac OS 9.x/10.
104Chapter 15 Connecting the MPC500 to your computer 2. Connect the MPC500’s USB slave jack to your computer’s USB host jack via USB cable. Removable media will be displayed on the desktop. 3. To save the data in the computer, select the data and drag and drop it from the removable disk to the hard disk. To load the data from the computer, select the data and drag and drop it from the hard disk to the removal media. 4.
105 Chapter 16: Other settings In this section, you will learn about the other features, which were not mentioned in the other chapters. Adjusting the Master Level You can adjust the level of the headphone and the stereo out by turning the MAIN VOLUME knob. The MAIN VOLUME changes the analog signal level. This will also adjust the entire level of the MPC500 digitally. 1. Press the [MODE] button and then [PAD 8] (OTHER). This will switch you into the OTHER mode. 2.
106 Chapter 16: Other settings Initialize To Factory Default Various Sample and Sequence settings can be saved to Compact Flash when the file is saved. The global settings found in the MPC500 (listed below) are saved to the internal Flash Memory and stored when the MPC500 is turned off. You can re-initialize the Factory Preset settings using the following procedure. 1. Turn the MPC500 on while holding the [ERASE / UNDO] button. 2.
107 Specifications General Display: Memory card slot: Dimensions: Weight: Power requirement: Battery life: 2 x 16 character LCD w/back light Compact Flash (The size of the compact flash card that MPC500 can handle is from 32MB to 2GB) 266mm x 175mm x 44mm 1.34 kg 12v DC 600mA (negative tip) Approximately 4.5 hours of continuous use with LCD backlight ON.
109 MIDI Implementation Chart Sampler Section Function Transmitted Recognized Basic Default X 1 — 16 Channel Changed X 1 — 16 Default X 1 Messages X X Altered X X Mode Note Number Velocity After Touch X 35 — 98 True Voice X 35 — 98 Note On X O Note Off X X Keys X X Ch’s X O X X X X X 0-127 Pitch Bend Control Change 0-127 Program Change True # System Exclusive X X Song Pos X X Song Sel X X Tune X X System Clock X X Realtime Commands X X
110 MIDI Implementation Chart Sequencer Section Function Transmitted Recognized Basic Default 1 — 16 1 — 16 Channel Changed 1 — 16 1 — 16 Mode Note Number Velocity After Touch Default 3 1 Messages X X Altered X X X 0 —127 True Voice X 0 —127 Note On O O Note Off X X Keys O O Ch’s O O O O O O Pitch Bend Control Change 0-127 Program Change True # System Exclusive O O 0 —127 0 —127 O O Song Pos O O Song Sel X X Tune X X System Clock O O R
