How To Sample On The MPC Live 2! [Video & Image Tutorial]

In this blog, I’ll take you through DDSproductions journey of learning how to sample on the MPC Live 2. Having primarily used Serato Sample before, stepping into the world of the MPC has been a thrilling experience, and all the amazing insights within this post.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Sampling
• Getting Started with the MPC Live 2
• Chopping Samples: The Basics
• Warping and Key Changes
• Finding and Adding Drums
• Exploring MPC Functions
• Adding Instruments to Your Beat
• Incorporating 808s
• Playing with Effects
• Final Thoughts and Reflections
• FAQs

Introduction to Sampling

The content of this blog post is curated from this video: I Learned How To Sample On The MPC Live 2!. DDSproductions shares his experience learning how to sample on the Akai MPC Live 2, stepping outside his usual workflow with Serato Sample. It’s a great watch for producers interested in exploring new audio gear and expanding their beat-making skills!

Sampling is the heartbeat of modern music production. It’s the technique of taking a portion of a sound recording and reusing it in a different song or piece of music. With tools like the MPC Live 2, you can manipulate these samples to create something entirely new and unique.

As you dive into sampling, you’ll discover its rich history and how it has shaped genres from hip-hop to electronic music. Understanding the nuances of sampling is key to unlocking your creative potential.

Why Sampling Matters

• Creativity: It allows you to create entirely new sounds from existing audio.
• Expression: Sampling can convey emotions and themes that resonate with listeners.
• Innovation: It encourages experimentation, leading to groundbreaking music styles.

Getting Started with the MPC Live 2

The MPC Live 2 is a powerhouse for any producer looking to sample effectively. Its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities make sampling straightforward and fun.

First, ensure your device is set up correctly. Connect it to your audio interface, and make sure you have your samples loaded onto the internal SSD. This way, you can access them easily while creating.

Navigating the Interface

Familiarise yourself with the main screen; it’s where you’ll spend most of your time. The menu options are clear, allowing you to switch between sampling, editing, and sequencing quickly.

You’ll also want to explore the various modes available, particularly the sample edit mode, which is where the magic happens when you start chopping and manipulating your samples.

Chopping Samples: The Basics

Chopping samples is an essential skill for any hip hop producer. It involves cutting a sample into small pieces that can be rearranged to create new rhythms and melodies.

To get started, load your sample into the MPC Live 2, navigate to the sample edit screen, and select the chop option. This is where you can start defining your slices.

Key Techniques for Chopping

• Slice Selection: Carefully choose where to slice your sample to maintain its musicality.
• Timing: Ensure your slices align with the beat for a cohesive sound.
• Experimentation: Don’t hesitate to try different slice points; sometimes, unexpected cuts yield the best results.

Warping and Key Changes

Once you’ve chopped your samples, the next step is warping. This allows you to sync your samples to the project tempo, ensuring everything fits well together.

 

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To warp a sample, select all your pads and apply the warp function. This will adjust the samples to match your current tempo, making it easier to work with.

Adjusting Pitch and Key

Changing the key of your samples can dramatically alter their feel. To do this, navigate to track edit and adjust the semitones. This feature lets you shift the pitch without affecting the tempo, giving you more creative flexibility.

Finding and Adding Drums

Drums are the backbone of any beat, and the MPC Live 2 offers a plethora of options. You can browse through your expansions or use built-in kits to find the perfect drum sounds for your track.

Once you’ve identified a suitable drum kit, load it into your project. The sixteen levels function allows you to vary the velocity and pitch, adding depth to your drum patterns.

Creating Drum Patterns

• Layering: Combine different drum sounds to create a fuller rhythm.
• Panning: Use panning to give each drum sound its own space in the mix.
• Velocity Variation: Adjusting the velocity of hits can add a human feel to your beats.

Exploring MPC Functions

The MPC Live 2 is equipped with various functions that enhance your sampling and beat-making experience. Familiarise yourself with these features to maximise your workflow.

From duplicating patterns to adjusting effects, understanding these functions will help you create more complex arrangements efficiently.

Essential MPC Functions to Master

• Pattern Duplication: Quickly duplicate patterns to experiment with variations.
• Effect Chains: Apply effects to your samples to create unique sounds.
• Sequence Management: Learn how to manage and arrange your sequences for optimal workflow.

Sampling can seem daunting at first, but with the MPC Live 2, the process becomes an exciting journey. Dive in, experiment, and enjoy the creativity that sampling brings to your music production!

Adding Instruments to Your Beat

Once your samples are chopped and your drums are ready, it’s time to layer in some instruments. Adding instruments can elevate your beat, giving it depth and character. The MPC Live 2 makes this process intuitive, allowing you to explore various sounds effortlessly.

Start by selecting your favourite instrument sounds from the built-in library or any expansions you have loaded. You can access these in the main menu. Once you’ve chosen your instrument, you can assign it to a pad, ready for performance or sequencing.

Key Tips for Adding Instruments

• Choose Wisely: Select instruments that complement your samples and drums. Think about the overall vibe you want to create.
• Layering: Don’t be afraid to layer multiple sounds to create a richer texture. For instance, combining a piano with a synth can produce a unique sound.
• Experiment: Try different effects and settings to find what works best. Play around with reverb, delay, and modulation to enhance your sound.

Incorporating 808s

808s are a staple in modern music, especially in hip-hop and trap. They add a powerful low end that can drive your track forward. The MPC Live 2 has an array of 808 sounds that you can easily incorporate into your beat.

To add an 808, browse your drum kits or download a dedicated 808 expansion pack. Once you’ve found the right sound, load it onto a pad. You can then play it alongside your samples and drums, adjusting the pitch and velocity to fit your track.

Tips for Using 808s Effectively

• Tune Your 808: Make sure your 808 is in key with your samples. This can make a significant difference in how cohesive your track sounds.
• Layer with Kicks: Experiment with layering your 808 with kick drums for a fuller sound. This adds punch and can make your beat hit harder.
• Use Effects: Don’t hesitate to apply effects like distortion or compression to your 808s for added character.

Playing with Effects

Effects can transform your beats from good to extraordinary. The MPC Live 2 comes with a variety of built-in effects that you can apply to individual pads or your overall mix. Experimentation is key here; don’t shy away from trying different combinations.

To start, select the pad you want to affect, navigate to the effects menu, and choose from options like reverb, delay, distortion, or EQ. Each effect can be fine-tuned to suit your needs, allowing for a tailored sound.

Essential Effects to Explore

• Reverb: This can create a sense of space and depth in your mix.
• Delay: A great way to add rhythm and texture, especially in melodic elements.
• Compression: Helps to balance your mix and ensure all elements sit well together.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

As you continue to explore the MPC Live 2, remember that the journey of sampling and beat-making is about experimentation and growth. Each session will teach you something new, and every mistake can lead to unexpected creativity.

Don’t rush the process; take your time to learn and perfect your technique. Sampling can be intricate, but with practice, you’ll find your unique sound. Enjoy the ride, and don’t forget to share your experiences with others!

FAQs

What is the best way to start sampling on the MPC Live 2?

Begin by loading your samples and getting familiar with the chop and edit functions. Experiment with different samples to see what resonates with you.

Can I use third-party plugins with the MPC Live 2?

Yes, the MPC Live 2 supports various third-party plugins, allowing you to expand your sound library significantly.

How do I ensure my samples are in key?

Use the pitch adjustment feature in track edit to change the semitones of your samples. Make sure they align with your 808s and other instruments.

Where can I find more tutorials on sampling and beat-making?

Check out our Curated Videos & Articles On How To Make Beats for in-depth tutorials and tips!

Are there specific expansions for 808 sounds?

Absolutely! Look for dedicated 808 expansion packs, or explore your existing drum kits for suitable 808 sounds.