Chopping (or breaking up drum patterns) is an essential function of the Akai MPC and is generally used to change note order or overall rhythm. Thus, chops allow the user to introduce variations into preexisting drum patterns. On the Akai MPC 1000, the "sample edit" screen and the "Extract" function allow users to identify a particular part of a rhythm break and use it as a new sample. Before extracting, users should set up a new program by creating an endpoint and starting point by using the jog wheel. Since drum tracks are created in multiples of four beats, chopping is designed to maneuver endpoints until sounds are inaudible on certain beats (for instance, the snare on beat 2). The next step involves recreating the original beat through the "Sequence" function. Set the sequence to 1 bar long using the "Params" button. Once the timing has been set to 1/8, users can hit the "Step Edit" function to begin slicing on each beat.
The Akai MPC has the ability to sample drum sounds, musical instrument sounds, sounds from an effects processor and more. One of the best ways to sample is to use other editing software and make chops from that particular program. Steinberg's Wave Lab is a recommended editing program. Once chops have been made, the sample can be converted to a WAV file and then loaded into the machine or saved to a floppy disk that is compatible with the machine. This reduces the amount of time needed to sample and chop on any of the Akai MPC versions.
The Akai MPC may be used to add additional drum sounds and kits during live performances. Since Akai MPC products are built with sound pads, these pads can be tapped during live performances to replicate the drum sounds of a drummer. New York hip-hop producer Stoni recommends creating a series of programmed sequences. Users can then hit "Record" and "Play" (on the "Main Out" screen). This allows a sequence to be assigned to a particular pad. The sequence can then be edited and chopped (F5 pad). Upon completion, the new sample can be converted to a patch phrase using the F4 pad. Transfer this patch phrase to a pad to be used during the performance. Simply tapping the pad will play the entire drum track sequence.