I dont use computers at all. I use the Mpc 2000(not the XL), zip, 1200's, dusty records, record on the tascam 688 8-track recorder and I monitor everything on an Aiwa Home Stereo. My thing is that I try to get my shits sounding butta on the MPC before i record it(I **** around with all the parameters until the beat sounds right.) I take a step back and listen to the dynamics....make sure all the sounds are in correct proportion. Cuz my ear is always the most important peice of gear in the studio. Computers are cool n all but im more into the older style of makin beats(I listen to mostly classic hip hop.) That "warm" feeling and that "dirty/gritty" sound everybody is looking for doesnt come from a computer(you can ask the older producers....they will tell you the same thing.) It comes from Analog gear. Its called tape saturation. The boom bap has been around for years....and the legends didnt use computers....its in the dusty records....but then again..thats how I make beats. I know some cats that know how to get their shit sounding right on PC's but they started off learning everything on a 4-track. Everybody has their own way....it took me 7 years to find mine..
You cant have the "boom-bap" without properly applying the Low end theory......Twerko