Akai mpc3000 Manuel D’Utilisation

In the MPC3000, sounds in programs and drum notes in sequences
are assigned not to pad numbers but to MIDI note numbers in the
range 35-98. Each of the 64 pad/bank combinations (A01-D16) is
assigned to a unique MIDI note number (35-98) and it is the pad’s
assigned note number that is sent to the sound generator, se-
quencer, and/or MIDI output when the pad is played. In other
words, the MIDI note number is the basic unit of communication
between the different sections of the MPC3000 and the outside
world. This communication is shown graphically in the following
diagram.

MPC3000 

Sequencer 

section

MPC3000   

Sound Generator 

section

MIDI note 

number

MIDI in

MIDI out

Pad

Pad number to 
MIDI note number 
assignment*

*MIDI key, option 1

As you can see from the diagram, hitting a pad will generate a pad
number, which is then converted into a MIDI note number. This
note number can then trigger a sound in the Sound Generator
section, be recorded by the Sequencer section, and/or go out the
MIDI output. Similarly, note numbers coming in from the MIDI
input can trigger a sound and/or be recorded into the sequencer. And
note numbers played back by the sequencer can trigger internal
sounds and/or go out the MIDI output.