How to use clip launch modes

Master Ableton Live's clip launch modes for dynamic performance and arrangement. Learn Quantization, Trigger modes, and Follow Actions.

Getting Started · intermediate level

Steps

  1. Set Global Quantization

    In Ableton Live's Session View, navigate to the 'Global Quantization' drop-down menu in the top left corner of the interface. Select a quantization value (e.g., '1 Bar', '1/2') to determine the timing for launching clips.

  2. Configure Individual Clip Launch Quantization

    Select an audio or MIDI clip in Session View and open its Clip View at the bottom of the screen. In the 'Launch' box, adjust the 'Quantization' setting to override the global quantization for that specific clip.

  3. Choose Clip Launch Mode

    In the 'Launch' box of the Clip View, select a 'Launch Mode' from the drop-down menu (e.g., 'Trigger', 'Gate', 'Toggle', 'Repeat'). This determines how clips behave upon launch, such as sustaining while a button is held down or cycling through repeats.

  4. Utilize Legato Launch

    Enable 'Legato' in the 'Launch' box for a clip to ensure that instruments continue playing without re-triggering their envelopes when launched. This is particularly useful for seamless transitions between clips with sustained sounds.

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