Akai MPC Live Automation Tutorial Control Plugins, Map MIDI, and Level Up Your Beats!

Learn how to take your Akai MPC Live, Live II, or MPC X to the next level with virtual instrument automation! 🎛️ In this video, I’ll show you step-by-step how to map MIDI controllers like the MPK Mini, automate filters, motion, and plugin parameters, and record those movements right into your tracks — all inside the standalone MPC environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned beatmaker, this tutorial will help you unlock hidden power in your MPC, add movement to your beats, and get the most out of the gear you already own. 💪🏽🔥 ⏱️ Video Chapters: 0:00 – Intro: MPC Live 3 vs MPC Live Mk1 – Why I’m Sticking With Mine 1:12 – Why Automation Is a Game-Changer for Beatmakers 2:48 – Gear Setup: MPC Live + MPK Mini III MIDI Controller 4:05 – What Is Automation & Why It Matters 5:30 – Step 1: Enable Global & Control for MIDI Devices 6:42 – Step 2: Use MIDI Learn to Map Your Knobs 9:15 – Mapping Virtual Instrument "Sway" Parameters (XY Blend, Motion, Filter) 12:02 – Step 3: Record Automation Into Your Track (Write Mode Explained)14:38 – Layering Multiple Automations Without Overwriting 17:20 – Bonus: Edit Automation Manually with Track Automation List 19:45 – Real Talk: Master Your Old MPC Before Upgrading 21:30 – Final Thoughts & Next Steps #AkaiMPC #MPCLive #MusicProduction #BeatMaking #MPKMini #MPCAutomation