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What Does the Akai MPC 1000 Save Sound Files As?

The Akai MPC 1000 drum machine stores audio data in three different file formats: WAV, PGM and SEQ. Each of these file formats has a unique use. WAV files are the actual samples that the MPC 1000 uses, while PGM files collect samples into drum kits. SEQ files are recording of drum beats that you make using the MPC 1000.
  1. WAV

    • The Akai MPC 1000 uses the WAV format to store samples. WAV is a high-quality, uncompressed audio format that nearly all audio software and devices can open. A sample is one distinct sound. Each drum sound in the MPC 1000 is a unique sample. You can combine samples using the MPC to create drum rhythms.

    PGM

    • A PGM file contains an audio program for the Akai MPC 1000. An audio program is a set of complementary drum samples. Using audio programs to organize samples saves time, as you don't need to load each sample individually into the MPC 1000's memory every time you want to start putting a beat together. The MPC 1000 includes several preset drum programs optimized for genres like hip-hop and drum 'n' bass. If you've put together your own MPC 1000 program, you can save it as a PGM file.

    SEQ

    • SEQ files contain drum patterns that you create with the Akai MPC 1000. The SEQ format is similar to MIDI, but is proprietary to the MPC line of hardware. Start recording a sequence, then play a drum beat on the MPC 1000's pads. Play back the SEQ file to listen to the pattern. You can also record multiple sequences, then overlay them to create a song.

    Saving Files

    • To save a file on the Akai MPC 1000, press the "Mode" key, then the "3" button. Set the "Type" to "Save a Sample," "Save a Program" or "Save a Sequence" depending on the type of file you want to save. Select "Memory Card" or "Hard Disk" in the "Save To" field. Press "F6" to save the file. If you're saving a PGM file, select either "With Samples" or "Program Only" in the "Save a Program" window that appears, then set "Replace Same Samples" to "Yes" if you have edited the samples in the program. Press "F5" to finish saving the PGM file.

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