Writing Tips In Ableton Live

In this weeks blog article, we explore a few of our favourite Ableton writing tips and tricks.  Topics covered include the use of writing templates, creating perfect loops, sample pack production and default settings on channels - prepare to be inspired.  

  

 

 

Templates

Having pre-made templates is a great way to keep the energy high whilst writing.  In this video Stu has created an in depth template which allows him to create a sample pack with ease, have his favourite EQ, auto-pan and compressor active on each channel plus have access to re-sampling from any track.  

 

You can download our Ableton writing template HERE

 

Creating Hi-Hats With Arpeggiators 

Ableton's arpeggiator device is a great way to add swift movement to your hats. By simply automating the 'rate' dial we can create amazing sub divisions ranging from slow 1/4 note patterns all the way to 32nd note Trap fills and movement driving triplets.  All at the switch of one simple dial.   

 

Random Panning In Simpler

This sneaky little dial can add width and movement to your drums without the need for automation.  The higher the percentage the more extreme the effect hence your hats will move wider and wider from side to side. 

 

Tip: When using this dial be careful not to push things too far.  Your drums will start to loose that cohesive feel and sound obscure. 

 

Velocity Tool For Live Hats

The velocity tool is amazing for adding variance in the loudest of each individual sample.  In this example the use of the velocity tool allows our hats to feel more human and live.  By setting the hi & low levels were telling Ableton the loudest and quietest we want to our sample to be played. 

Random then actively changes the volume of each hit randomly within our chosen range - incredible useful and super easy to implement. 

 

For more live drum tips check out Live Drum Programming Blog Article HERE

 

Mixing With Aux Channels

 

Creating Aux Channels when mixing is a great way to simplify the last movements in the mix process.  In the same way that analogue summing works,  we're able to check in on our gain staging, compress elements together and EQ the group as a whole adding that final polish and shine. 

Check the video to see how this is routed. 

 

Get stuck into some great Ableton live sample packs and enhance your next production. 

 

Creating Perfect Loops

When creating sample packs a huge issue is ensuring the samples 'loop' when they include reverb and delay tails.  Stu has a great technique for accommodating this by utilising Ableton's re-sample mode and record a double pass.  It's this extra movement that ensures it loops seamlessly and doesn't lose energy or flow when deep into your track.