First post in here...need osme suggestions please!

Hi guys!
This is Hed…and that’s my first post in here…great forum tho !

Well I bought an MPC 500 a couple of weeks ago and I never used an mp before (I was into S2000 and I’m still using it tho). Anyway I’d ask you some Q’s about it (maybe they’re pretty silly or something, but you know, it’s completely new to me).
1- pads are pretty “hard” on the hit…using pad velocity and velocity curve I can reach good results, but I think they’re pretty differnt from the 1000 or the 2000…is it me or it’s correct??
2- Master Level was set at -12db (when I got it), but since the manual shows a 0db default settino, I raised it to -6db…well do you guys think the master level will influence the MPC conversion-colour??
3- About the colour: at Gearslutz.com someone told me 500 colour is not as good and punchy as 1000 or 2000 (xl) series…have some of you find out such a huge difference?!
4- Last one…sampling with S2000 didn’t ask me to reach such a high mixer volume compared to the MPC: I mean, to get an high signal into the MPC I need to turn the REC gain really high (near to the maximum)…am I doin’ something wrong? Of corse I put the input switch “down” (“line”), which means less gain than the “mic” setting (switch “up”).
Sorry guys for so many Q’s…hope you can help me out!
Pce

Hed

1. Pads in the MPC500 are quite hard compared to other models, but they are OK once you get used to them, so just take time and be sure you place your MPC on a stable hard surface (helps a lot to get the most of the pads).

2. I don't quite get what are you talking about. Master level is used for the mixing purposes, I suppose, and to solve issues with signal-to-noise ratio when you record signal from MPC to your DAW or using it in a gig when playing live. And since this setting influences the OUTPUT of the MPC, I just cannot imagine how it can influence the "conversion colour" which is obviously about the INPUT signal, isn't it? (well I may be wrong, so someone correct me if I am)

3. Just try playing with the Master Compressor settings in Effect mode. You will make some pleasant discoveries. I think the "punch" comes from there (using the master compressor wisely). Try switching it off and you will see what I am talking about.

4. Again, turning the rec gain knob to the maximum doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. It deals with signal-to-noise ratio: i.e. to minimize the noise and maximize the signal level. But if it makes you uneasy, you can always record signal at a low level and then use a Normalize function in the Trim mode.

Cheerz!

And since this setting influences the OUTPUT of the MPC, I just cannot imagine how it can influence the "conversion colour" which is obviously about the INPUT signal, isn't it? (well I may be wrong, so someone correct me if I am)

Yo man, I feel you're right...

3. Just try playing with the Master Compressor settings in Effect mode. You will make some pleasant discoveries. I think the "punch" comes from there (using the master compressor wisely). Try switching it off and you will see what I am talking about.

Thanks that's a good suggestion, I'll do it fo'sho!
Btw thanks Brazeca!

H.