Kit on multiple tracks (send to): MIDI vs empty 'DRUM' track

So if I want to put the same kit on tracks 1 & 2, the Akai recommended option (as per MPC2 project import, factory demos etc) is to use a blank MIDI track (2) and use SEND TO to trigger the kit on track 1.

So, why a MIDI track and not an empty DRUM track? Drum track has same pad layout (MIDI track needs to be set to chromatic pad perform). 'Track mute > event' works fine with a drum track, but 'audio' mutes only work with the MIDI track option. Drum track means I can layer pads (e.g. pad A1 with different samples on each track)

Anyone offer some other ideas why MIDI tracks are the better option here? Just wanting to add something about this to the MPC Bible, but want to ensure I'm not missing something really obvious.

When using an empty drum track, the Mute button on the main screen doesn’t work. This is because the button performs audio mute, and since it's commonly used in many workflows, this can be a limitation.

With a MIDI track, the Mute button on the main screen works as expected. However, MIDI tracks can be a bit tricky, as they may get transposed unexpectedly due to Pad Perform settings and other factors.

Cheers, yes muting seems to be the reason they decided on midi tracks (be it on track mute or via main). I guess I need to cover both options so people can decide which one works best for them.

not really sure if it's a clearcut "better" option. there's tradeoffs each way..
i think the main reason akai uses midi programs with the mpc2 importing is just so it's a little more clear in the arranger what is going on. (rather than just having like 30+ drum programs after importing..)

Hmm, with MIDI 'send to' I am finding sometimes 'mute' in MAIN is being ignored after the sequence loops.Only seems to be affecting imported MPC2 projects.

Another issue: If the track was originally made with '16 level' tune, then the events shown on the 'send to' MIDI track no longer show the 'modifier' events in list edit. Conversion to a DRUM track reveals the modifier events again.

Another issue with using 'SEND TO' tracks (be it MIDI or DRUM) is that they are completely ignored by the 'Separated Tracks' audio mixdown option.

So IMO after importing an MPC2 project you should look at converting them to 'proper' tracks sooner rather than later.