I'm new to this......need help!!!

First off, I am really inspired by DJ Premier and his beats, I grew up on the east coast and Premier beats banged out everywhere at the time. I am now searching for my first MPC because I used software before and I hated it for certain reasons (workflow, mouse-clicking, screen, etc.) I read that each MPC has a difference in the sound of a sample, and I want a MPC that creates the most rugged, crunchy sound that you hear usually in Preemo's beats. I also want something that I can learn pretty fast and provides for a quicker workflow. Right now I'm looking at a berely used MPC 2000xl for $750, a new MPC 2500 for $1999 but is on a monthly payment plan of $320, and a used MPC 1000 for $650 which is priced almost the same as the 2000xl. The only bad thing I heard was that the 1000 has pad problems and I don't want anything that's going to be an ongoing problem. Any suggestions........I would appreciate any advice.

what i would suggest is; if you have a chance to try any of them out 'before' you make the purchase, do so... that way you can determine on your own which one you prefer the most... just because someone feels a certain way about a certain model, doesn't mean that you're going to agree with that person's opinion... remember, you can always EQ a sample to make it sound a certain way before you start programming/sequencing your beat... also, try reading through the different forums to see what others are experiencing with their MPC's and see if you notice any trends regarding issues/problems/bugs... by doing some research you will be able to make a better decision... i doubt anyone here would be willing to do the homework for you (this may explain that lack of replies to your thread)...

thanks a lot J Villa, I want to try them out but I dont know where, maybe Guitar Center would let me try them out. I live out in Davis, CA. so its hard to find a huge music store with MPC's in it. Anyways, like I said, I am new to all of this and I just want an MPC that I can easily learn on without any technical issues.

Preemo uses an MPC 60 with an s950 sampler...you get that nice grit with them pieces...people say THAT equipment is limited, but just try telling that to preemo's face.....

Just thought i'd let you know..

just remember that other famous artists such as spandau ballet also used an MPC60.

you might buy an MPC60 and find that it is inhabited by the spirit of 80s synth pop and then have to destroy it.

jokes aside, my serious point is that you will always have your own style and your own way of working - the MPC (or whatever) is just an interface, a creative tool. to echo earlier sentiments, you should choose the instrument most suited to you.