AKAI MPC LIVE II - How To Make Your First Beat!

An AKAI MPC LIVE II (MPC LIVE 2) beginner guide video about how to make your first beat in standalone. I walk you thru all of the processes like main screen navigation, note repeat, recording/overdubbing, timing correct (quantize), picking sounds, program editing, plugins, effects, arps, and more. If you have any questions or suggestions. Please fill feel to leave them in the comments.
get an MPC Live ii here
www.zzounds.com/item--AKAMPCL...
or get the retro edition here
www.zzounds.com/item--AKAMPCL...
MPC LIVE playlist
• AKAI MPC LIVE ii Tutor...
MPC ONE playlist
• AKAI MPC One Tutorials
MPC Beats Software playlist
• AKAI MPC Beats Tutorials
0:00 intro
0:47 turning it on & getting started
1:54 main screen (sequences, tracks, & programs explained)
3:50 how to select sounds/programs (file browser & previewing)
6:16 laying down drumlines, velocity, metronome, full/16 level, note repeat
10:33 timing correct (quantize)
11:49 selecting tracks, plugins, pad perform, & chord progressions
15:24 using presets & program editing pt.1
16:28 double length & adding chord variations
17:19 keygroups explained (adding 808's) & transposing tracks
20:35 adding melodies
21:41 adding effects & panning
24:24 adding arpeggios
25:56 adding master effects & lofi
27:29 naming tracks
28:25 how to save your beats
30:20 final thoughts
social media links
djavemcree.net/contact [Contact me here for fastest response!]
/ djavemcree
/ dj-ave-mcree
/ avemcree
/ avemcree
#AKAI #MPC #beginner

[@izzywalker471]

Dude, Had this thing for a little over a week and wasn't making any progress despite having lots of similar gear over the last 20 years. You just made it click here. Thank you so much.

[@larrymyers5989]

Facts. Ave’s videos are so informative and descriptive.

[@John-lv6uj]

He is a great teacher

[@KneelSun]

Watched Linn’s review and immediately bought one. Akai should put a link to this video on the box. It’s exactly what I was looking for to get me started.

[@michaeltravis3562]

Got a LIVE2 yesterday; I’ve watched this video several times following along with you. You’re good at teaching - more specifically, you’re really good at organizing and presenting the information as it becomes necessary. That’s huge! Many videos out there have people who can’t stay on point, and it overwhelms the beginner …makes things way too confusing. But not you. Your method helped me out tremendously, gave me a good fundamental understanding of the Akai workflow, and had me making music quickly. Thank you 🙏🏼

[@thahomie773]

What you’re skill levels at now

[@luisalmeida2866]

I've just revisited this tutorial and I would say again that this is the only thing that puts me working with the MPC Live II right away.

[@willgogetit7857]

Listen I'm a rapper my brother is an aspiring super producer . Your explanation was flawless for people who never used anything but just bought the MPC . We picked it up like we dropped it . Thanks family 💪🏿🙏🏿

[@youngjdet]

Aye I just listened to your song Blood Brothers, it's tight my dude.

[@GodsPoetryProductions]

I just got my MPC live 2 and your video helped me a lot. I was one of those people that couldn't figure out where my sounds were. Lol

[@bud9269]

I was one of those people too lol

[@pyro707]

“ I don’t hear any sounds, I don’t know what to do? Yes I do.” 😂 That same thing happened to me before when is first loaded up the sounds. Got it down now.👊🏽

[@AveMcree]

the same thing happened to me

[@braintraxmusic]

@@AveMcree do you have any videos explaining how to properly connect a synthesizer (Roland fantom) to the mpc live 2?? Great video by the way

[@Dchane]

I purchased my MPC Live 2 and hardly was able to use it for the longest because I had no clue how to use it even after watching a few videos. I watch this video and had a track laid out in what felt like minutes. Great video man. I'll definitely be coming back to this channel for more tutorials. Mad props Ave. Thank you!

[@darklight6931]

Ave - you are THE MAN when it comes to teaching the MPC. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. You are definitely the Maestro on this kit.

[@neilkod]

This video is outstanding - thanks. I've been messing around with my MPC for a few weeks now - but this video made a lot of things 'click' for me-and my results are sounding great. Thanks for producing this video.

[@mpattara]

Thank you Ave for this video. As a complete newbie (someone who knows next-to-nothing about both drum machines in general, plus new to the world of MPCs) - I was able to create a sequence of my own including beats, chords, bass and melodies on my new Live 2. Much more to still learn, but it's certainly worth it!

[@SIKAMOTV]

This video is 3 years old and still gold .. I’ve had this thing sitting in the box for like 2 weeks now.. finally a good video to help me figure it out ..hope I don’t give up too soon lol

[@AveMcree]

What do you want me to explain next?? Thanks for watching!!

[@straightedge_eli2062]

Been waiting for ya Ave! I appreciate you bro. Thanks.

[@dantheman4011]

how to connect mpc live 2 into mpc beats on computer? mpc 2.0 software on computer? mine just goes to red, looking for computer, screen when I open enter controller mode on the hardware itself and open mpc beats and mpc live is not on the list of midi devices in preferences on mpc beats. I haven't been able to use mpc 2.0 software yet, hopefully that is the fix?

[@djgeorgieporgie7862]

Ave Mcree CV implementation with another gear 🤗

[@thahomie773]

Give in-depth tutorial on chopping samples and what are the different effects for and when to use them

[@trollunderthebridge3429]

How do you make the whole beat? So you can bounce it to the computer and record on it.

[@GenePriest]

just got one of these bad boys in the mail yesterday, loaded up my sample library to an SD Card, and your video was a masterclass for anyone just starting with this DEEP MACHINE but getting such a killer overview to kickstart the beat-journey! subbed 💯

[@thomasusheriii971]

Im thinking of buying one of these to create my own rap beats to put with my lyrics.Dumb question but how do you obtain a sample library, do you record them yourself?

[@LoadTekPros-wy5lw]

My brother, I have been looking at this MPC live2 for over a year after 15 years FL,Reason, and Pro tool. Your granular training approach helped me tremendously. Gratitude and blessings🙏

[@vitalvicious]

I've been using an MPC live for 3 years, and omg this video has my mind 🤯 I learned more in the 30 mins watching this, than I did in 3 years! I have to figure out the key groups.. Thanks Ave, your videos are always on point!!!

[@unworthyServant08]

Thank you DJ Ave. This was a good, quick refresher on a tool I haven't sat at in a few weeks.

[@themeatspot5020]

I was in two minds about buying this, but your video has defo helped to make the decision to buy it, looks fun as hell!

[@7Wounds]

I'd be considering getting into the MPC for a while and was recently thinking which became planning and decideing to jump with the Live 2, so I came back to bookmark this video and see it was made on my birthday lol. It's a sign!! hahahah. Thanks for all your dilligence brother. Your video make me able to focus on the fun of it because the answers to my questions are all so available.

[@TheInsaneHardstyle]

I don't even own a live2 but you made me really want one, you teach so good and simple. Straight to the point of how it works without it getting complicated. Great video

[@413XF]

Dude thank you for this amazing video, this is by far the best one I've seen. Perfectly on point and well organized and explained. I just got my first mpc yesterday and I was clueless on the workflow coming from ableton. I learned so much just now

[@vossies123]

Dude awesome, I got my first MPC Live yesterday as well

[@LooseOrangeJuice]

This video was immensely helpful, with some much needed comic relief. Thank you for making this!

[@ron2298]

Good morning thank you for this awesome video like always it rocks. have a great day today as much as you can. I pray that you can find comfort this mother's day considering the situation you had this year. Bless you always thank you again.

[@chrisgarey6746]

Thank you man, for a clear and concise tutorial on the basics of this awesome piece of hardware. I have the MPC Bible, but sometimes nothing beats diving right into a beat to keep you inspired.

[@lycidos8752]

This helped me out a lot! I’ll be coming back to view the video many times.

[@trollunderthebridge3429]

Man this was the most helpful video on the MPC Live ive found no bullshit. I have always just used keyboards and daws but ive had the live 2 sitting for about 4 months and only turned it on a few times kuz its all new but watching this helped for sure. Appreciate you brother!!!

[@GunninRebel55]

Man you laid this out thoroughly and perfectly for a beginner like me. I appreciate you for sharing the knowledge!

[@reggiegimmix9128]

Really good and detailed explanations and tutorials...great how you explain what everything is and what they do. This is very good for beginners or new comers to the MPC. I got the MPC Live years ago and barely touched it because I just couldn't get my head round some of the naming terms they used and I found the workflow confusing compared to what I'm used to. This was very helpful. thanks

[@upbeatentertainmentx]

Thanks for this video! Just ordered mine and can’t wait to follow along

[@dondonaudio8191]

Man! At least for my needs, you made the best MPC video I found so far! Thank you so much! 🥁🎼🎹

[@eugenephillips481]

Thank you, Ave! I just traded in my Akai Force for this MPC Live II today. I went step by step with you on my first beat and I feel very good about my decision to purchase this product. I truly appreciate you for giving us this tutorial.

[@rayygun]

Do you prefer this? I'm unsure which to get.

[@eugenephillips481]

@@rayygunHi. I no longer have either unit since I made this comment a couple of years ago. I ended up moving to the MPC Keys 61, which is a fun unit. As far as your question on which to get, it really, really, really depends on your workflow for completing a project. Both are great pieces of gear, but the approach is different. Maybe dig into the KZbin tutorial videos for each unit as well as go to your local music store and play around on demo units...if they have them on the floor. At the end of the day, you can make beautiful music with both units. Take care!

[@BenGomori]

Thanks for putting this together! Got the ball rolling nicely

[@paulschilens3231]

Excellent! I’m very new and really appreciate the tutorial. I learned a lot with this and I’m looking forward to learning more!

[@arch1771]

Thank you, i'm an old school musician going solo and educating myself in modern music production (DAW less). Love the hands on tutorials.🙏

[@JACKOJACKO121]

Thanks for this, I got my mpc today and was pretty lost with it, this video was soooo helpful man! hope u have a nice day!

[@yvesdropBeats]

Just got my MPC LIVE II and this video helped me make my first beat. Thanks.

[@pc2908]

Fantastic initial breakdown. You’re giving me a head start for an incoming Xmas gift. I’ll be spending much time witcha! Happy Holidays, and thanks a million!!

[@mikeyreedtv253]

You killed this tutorial homie !!! Much applause and thanks 😃🤙🏽 couldn’t help but to see the heat you cookin up on the stove 👽

[@osibrathwaite2146]

Dope video very detailed on the beginning steps of using the Live 2. Even though I've been using the Live one now the 2. I love watching these type of tutorials because it helps you understand certain things you've might have missed when you first started out because your so excited to get going right away making beats lol. So I appreciate what you do because you just showed me some stuff I can incorporate these tools into my workflow. Thanks for everything!!! Much Respect!!!

[@clayhughesmusic]

MUCH APPRECIATED!!! This video REALLY helped me get started on my MPC Live 2....cannot thank you enough!

[@ickebins6948]

This is pure gold! Took me along time to get my MPC connecting to my pc. Now that this is done I' f-ing ready :) Thanks for this Ave

[@ickebins6948]

over 1 year later and I have to admit that I'm not a fan of the MPC workflow at all... I can make music just fine but for me its not fun with an MPC.

[@commonsense5188]

@@ickebins6948 Same here. I've tried it but ultimately, just give me fl studio, a midi keyboard and a mouse and let me get to work.

[@jessewormington]

I’ve watched like so many of these and this is the most helpful. Thanks man!

[@renniegomes9189]

Awesome vid bro. Well illustrated!1

[@michaelfrancisco776]

im getting em tomorrow after watching this video! thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@elroachy]

Great video, thanks for teaching me how to take my 1st steps on the MPC.

[@luisalmeida2866]

Dude, best tutorial on MPC LIVE 2 for Dummies EVER!!! Thanks so much and God bless you. Gonna make my first beat. Xau!

[@powermix24]

Thanks a lot for this, just bought the MPC one and this helps a lot! Doing beginner videos is excellent

[@vicvic889]

So this works for the mpc live one as well?

[@TheRapEmbassy]

I just bought this mpc a few days ago switching over from maschine. This really helped me understand how to get started shout out to you 🙏🏽

[@Sleachface]

This video was extremely helpful and easy to follow. Im loving this unit. Ive been through at least 4 lower priced drum machines and most of them have been sun par. But the MPC is a great piece of gear.

[@TheBuddahLoc]

This was all i needed bro. Thank you.

[@beeisbad]

Bruh!!!!!! excellent...EXCELLENT content/tutorial!! I love that you're a tech-knowledged brother who KNOWS how to talk "non-tech-sih" when explaining your tutorials! F'n excellent bro. You make it as if you're talking or laughing with your friends or cousins Lol. Simply the best bro!!

[@seanl8195]

This was a great intro to the basics. Thanks a bunch!

[@wehappyfewmusic]

Just got my first MPC today (live 2) and this video is super helpful. Many thanks!

[@robbiemarsh100]

Best vid I’ve seen , great explanation and easy to follow. Thanks so much for taking the time.

[@JeanPhilippeSavoie]

I've learned more in the 5 minutes watching your video than I did going through all 30 videos from Akai's official playlist. for example you show from the beginning how to load programs and plug ins which is the basis to hte beat. akai does not!. Bravo!

[@malcolmflex5480]

My man! You are a goat. Super informative and easy to follow.

[@dannydicandilo8859]

Most educational mpc video I've seen, but dawg the word normal to you just aint the same to everybody else lmao

[@timmerkerson9741]

I'm going to get a MPC Live II for my birthday. The video was very informative. I will be watching again. Thank you for the jewels. I'm looking forward to your videos and yes I have subscribed to your channel.

[@biglipbilly8032]

Been watching your vids for awhile, your awesome bro

[@ROBDIX84]

Dope..... i just got mine and this video helped the most. Blesssssssingz.....

[@MucaMusic10]

Just found your tutorial online, seriously great stuff and very hard to find people with teh right teaching mindset. Well done and looking forward for the next videos

[@Daddeedudee]

This clarified a whole bunch of things for me man, thank you so much! I feel like I can get my groove now 🙏🏾

[@Frozen_Frequencies_Ent]

Thank you DJ Ave! Just made my first beat on my Live 2. I appreciate your tutorial 😎

[@FREEZER4000]

You always make me laugh !! , and I'm *still * searching for the right MPC , in the middle of giving up, I play one of your video's and I get the strength to continue this journey from singer song writer to composing on one of these , keep up the good work Thx!!

[@scrub_with_dubbs3380]

After watching this video i can comfortably sit at my mpc x and feel like im actually achieving something. Very informational def will be watching all these videos LOL

[@ericwells7209]

Thanks Ave for this video, I got the Live 3 weeks ago and just started messing with it, man this is a beast as I also have the Maschine plus, but thanks again time to put in work.

[@eazenyce]

Dope vid, man. VERY helpful for new jacks!

[@thomasbiggs5131]

Man I love your videos. Keep up with the good work.

[@CDMESD]

This was a great, well thought, and very informative tutorial. Thanks bro. This is why we respect you.

[@donjames1903]

Dude I just bought the gold mpc live 2 and your the first tutorial that I went to straight out the box and I’m all good until I don’t have the sd card or any samples yet , but right on for me to follow your every move ! Thanks my friend

[@edrodmusicent4970]

Awesome video I'm convinced to pick up this piece for my studio

[@humbertoponce7527]

Thank you so much! I just bought one of these a few days ago.

[@whereisko]

Thank you for this video, it helped a lot in my first 24hrs 🙏🏿 looking forward to more

[@TheCaptainsCabin]

Bruh, So appreciated Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge I just had my MPC for a week and you got me working this beast!! I’ll keep you updated on my progress! I’m gettin funky now lol!🤣Another happy subscriber here take care!!✊🏽

[@mrlotto32]

Best tutorial video I ever watched! Subscribing

[@olatunjimason]

Thanks for sharing Ave!!! This video was really helpful!

[@DJ_JCUTT]

The Best Tutorial For Me. Im Still Using My Roland Mv8800 just got this Mpc live 2. Love It! ✅🎶🎶🎶

[@RasTuft]

Great vid dude! Easy to follow and lots to of great instruction to use. Thanks.

[@azieser]

Excellent tutorial!

[@Tsampl]

Thank you a lot for this video man, much love, and you’re a great teacher bro 🙏🏾 subcribed 🔥

[@nate6935]

had this same pad since 2020 around this time - watched the first 7 min and already started making some shitttttt - gonna finish the video later - thank u , changed niggas life

[@YOURFISHINGCHANNEL]

thank you for this well structured video , i was in maze when i got mine last week. this has got me making all kinds of crazy stuff. i subbed

[@KingOfPain35]

Thanks man! Very informative! I just got mine today and was lost out of the box, but thanks to you I have a handle on things now. 🙏🏼

[@exhyledademon9121]

Best review I’ve ever seen

[@clevadeva]

Great video think I’m going to get one in the new year!👏🏾🌹

[@bicycleninja1685]

Excellent tutorial. I like the beat as well.

[@vshell7673]

Perfect timing for this video. Thanks for the information

[@AveMcree]

my pleasure

[@bud9269]

Thanks a lot. I play guitar and I just got am mpc but im completely new to it. Your video helped a lot.

[@VladimirKorbut]

Thank you. That`s may be the best tutorial I had looking for.

[@Parisalexamusic]

Yeah thank you a million times for making this! definitely responsible for whatever musical genius that comes from finally understanding how to work this super machine

[@o.g.a.m.7555]

Great content, keep up the good beat tempo with the educational essentials.

[@obiwanshinobi3940]

This video just convinced me to buy this thanks man

[@RocBoy317]

Just got mine today..... Really helpful big homie

[@Jam3syV2]

awesome video man!

[@MyJeer]

Thanks for the help, love the vids!

[@ricflomusic]

Just want I needed after getting my Mpc live, thank you!

[@vicvic889]

Does this work for the mpc live one as well?

[@DJ-uk5mm]

Great tutorial. Thanks so much

[@larrymyers5989]

I’m sure I’m not the only beginner that uses this video as a study guide

[@Lupieman]

Good man, just the video i was looking for. I usually find it hard to keep up when it’s a different style of music to mine just like it would be for any hip hop producer to learn listening to hard dance or techno lol However not only were the sounds great, the way you explained everything was perfect. Thank you 🙏🏻

[@Sinosure]

Great stuff!! I love my new Retro!!😁😁😁😁😁

[@VentureRecordings]

Thank you , once again, thank you for this, its helped me tremendously.