@yeswehavetheright

the mpc is a great tool for learning the basic of rythym and loop programing. Anything that is in your head, you just program the pads to play the samples you want, hit record, and play the pads, voila...and if you are just totally unable to play the pads then you can step sequence....wonderful!
In addition to the mpc you will probably need a mixer with at least six channels (four for the mpc1000 and a couple more for some sound modules). You will probably also want a synth or two, and a midi keyboard.
To start I have a Korg ms2000r for my hardware synth, the fairly inexpensive Yamaha mg12/4 mixer, an oxygen8 midi keyboard and the mpc. I would like a few more sound modules, but for now I can make some fun stuff. PLUS, if I want something extra I go to my MAC, boot up logic, write a loop, sample it and import to the mpc. soooo nice.
I gotta say though, writing on the mpc requires a much different approach. I have been forced to listen to the music a lot more...rather than seeing the music/midi on the computer screen.