How to sync tempo

Discover how to sync the tempo in Ableton Live, whether with external MIDI devices or other applications using various synchronization methods.

Getting Started · intermediate level

Steps

  1. Sync to External MIDI Clock

    Go to 'Options' (Windows) or 'Live' (macOS) menu > 'Preferences' > 'Link/Tempo/MIDI'. In the 'MIDI Ports' section, ensure the 'Sync' output is enabled for your external device. Then, in the top left control bar of Live, click the 'External Sync' (EXT) button to activate external tempo sync.

  2. Use Link for Other Ableton Instances

    If syncing with another instance of Ableton Live (on the same or different computer) or Link-enabled applications, simply click the 'Link' button in the top left control bar. All Link-enabled applications on the network will automatically synchronize their tempo and phase.

  3. Adjust Master Tempo Manually

    When not using external sync, Live acts as the master. Adjust the BPM (Beats Per Minute) value directly in the tempo field in the top left control bar. You can type in a value, drag up/down, or tap the 'Tap Tempo' button to set the tempo by rhythm.

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