How to edit envelopes

Master editing envelopes in Ableton Live, from clip envelopes to device automation, to bring expressive dynamics and movement to your tracks.

Editing · intermediate level

Steps

  1. Access Clip Envelopes

    In Session View, select a MIDI or audio clip. Navigate to the 'Clip View' (Shift+Tab) and open the 'Envelopes' tab at the bottom. Choose a parameter from the dropdown menus (e.g., 'Mixer > Track Volume' or a device parameter).

  2. Draw and Edit Automation Points

    Click directly on the envelope line to create automation breakpoints. Drag these points to change their value and position. Right-click on a segment between points to access curve shape options like 'Slope' or 'Jump'.

  3. Record Real-time Automation

    Enable Arrangement Record (F9) and Automation Arm (the red circle next to the transport controls). Move a parameter on a device or mixer while playback is running to record its automation directly into Arrangement View.

  4. Globally View and Hide Automation

    In Arrangement View, press 'A' to toggle the visibility of automation lanes for all tracks. You can expand individual tracks to show specific automation envelopes or collapse them for a cleaner view.

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