Akai MPD32 User Manual

5
A NOTE ABOUT USING THE MPD32 WITH SOFTWARE
1. Make sure that the MPD32 and all external devices are connected and that the USB
cable is connected to your computer before opening any software applications with
which you intend to use the MPD32. If the unit is not plugged in before, your software
application might not recognize the MPD32 as an available device.
2. In your software application, you will need to set the MPD32 as a default MIDI input
device. This is usually done in the MIDI section of the Preferences menu.
3. If you would like to use tempo-synced features, such as Note Repeat, you will also need
to slave the MPD32 to a MIDI Clock generated by your software DAW. Make sure that
your software is set up to send MIDI clock to the MPD32 and that the unit’s MIDI Clock
setting is set to “External” (see Global Mode). This will ensure that Note Repeat is
synchronized to the tempo selected in your software DAW.
IMPORTANT
The operation of the MIDI OUT port changes depending on whether or not a USB cable is
connected to the MPD32.
• USB cable connected:
MIDI data from your computer is passed to the MIDI OUT port. When a USB cable is
connected, you should activate "MIDI echo" in your sequencer if you want the MPD32 to
control another external device.
• USB cable not connected:
Whatever you play on the MPD32 is sent to the MIDI OUT port.
Note: If you have another device connected to the MPD32's MIDI IN port, that device's
MIDI information will be ignored.
ABOUT FOOTSWITCH TYPES
Since the Footswitch and Expression Pedal inputs detect whether the pedal is a "Normally
Open" or "Normally Closed" type on power-on, pedals should be plugged in prior to power-
on.

Akai MPD32 Specifications

General

Mixer section	-
Product color	Black
Drum pads backlight	Yes
Number of drum pads	16
Display type	LCD
USB connector type	USB Type-B
Power supply type	USB

Weight and Dimensions

Depth	384 mm
Width	308 mm
Height	64 mm