Depends if you actually know how to put songs togethor yet
Print up that reference manual and keep it next to you like a bible so much you will learn from it as you go, I been reading it for over a year(casually referring back to it when i run into something, I occasionally use it to remember the time scretch selection parts(danceA etc))
Once you learn the mpc reasonably well if you don't know how to put a song togethor, you will just know the sequencer really well with no knowledge of how to put it to use
For that I'd study some of your fav records, and maybe get some music theory and some composition behind my belt(piano lessons help as well)
You can know how to play your ass off, but your still going to need some sounds, so either start chopping up samples you get from various sources, or go get some nice sample cds and maybe a sound module to have to the side to help
If your trying to do any real playing I'd suggest you get a midi controller as well so you can lay down some keys way easier
Thats all I can think of for now, just remember a mpc is a commitment
