sync issue

Why when i sync protools up to something, it starts like a millisecond after the master starts? Also, i hear a lot about midi timepieces. what exactly do they do? How much do they cost?

Your better off making sure to insert a blank bar or 2 in your sequence and seeing if thatdoesn't fix the problem- with the MTP you'll still have start lag and / or latency issues...the MTP provides a number of clock sources - ADAT, WORD CLOCK, SMPTE, which are all quite stable, but you already have a decent clock in your MPC with SMPTE, MTC or the imbeded clock in your digital signal. Look for a latency problem with your computer first - especially if you are trying to use USB. The MTP also offers great midi routing flexibility, but again, it may not be necessary....

I tried to start them a bar late, but the tracks didnt sync like they should have. Each track was off from the other........

Is ProTools and the MPC using the same Tempo?

IF the difference is consistant, try setting an offset value in pro tools to correct the problem. What format Sync are you using? Are you using USB? What computer setup are you running? This info may help folks help you....

The tempo was correct on each end. I have a usb midi hookup, on a pc. I also have a behringer bcn44 midi controller. A korg smkII, mpc 1000, yamaha aw16g track recorder (I need the audio from the track recorder put into pro tools) , and an e mu mp7, the pro tools hardware is the m box. Another issue, is that when i have the midi controller starting pro tools, the midi output wont start the machine the message is sent too.