How to use MIDI Polyphonic

Learn to use MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) in Ableton Live for expressive control over notes. Unlock advanced performance nuances in your music.

MIDI & Instruments · intermediate level

Steps

  1. Enable MPE in Preferences

    Go to 'Options > Preferences' (or Ctrl+, / Cmd+,) and click the 'Link/Tempo/MIDI' tab. In the 'MIDI Ports' section, locate your MPE-compatible MIDI controller and turn 'MPE' to 'On' for its 'Input' entry. Ensure the 'Track' option is also ON for this input.

  2. Load an MPE-Compatible Instrument

    Drag an instrument that supports MPE (such as Wavetable, Sampler, or an MPE-enabled VST/AU plugin) onto a MIDI track. Wavetable and Sampler are natively MPE-compatible in Ableton Live.

  3. Activate MPE on the MIDI Clip

    Record or draw a MIDI clip on the track. Double-click the MIDI clip to open its Clip View. In the 'Notes' tab, locate the 'MPE' section and ensure the 'MPE' toggle is turned on. This activates MPE per-note expression for the clip.

  4. Edit MPE Data in MIDI Editor

    With the MIDI clip still open in Clip View's 'Notes' tab, look for the 'Expression' editor at the bottom. You can select parameters like 'Pitch Bend', 'Slide', or 'Pressure' to view and edit per-note MPE data. Draw or edit the MPE automation directly on individual notes.

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