Ableton Live Setup & Preferences

Ableton Live Guide for GKM Worship

This guide provides instructions on using Ableton Live for worship sets at GKM, based on training livestreams and video transcripts.

Table of Contents

1. Initial Setup & Preferences
2. Session View Basics
3. Arrangement View Basics (Click, Pads, Loops)
4. Arrangement View with Multi-Tracks
5. Routing Outputs
6. Tips & Tricks

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1. Initial Setup & Preferences

Before starting, ensure Ableton Live is set up correctly:

• Audio Output:
  • Go to Preferences > Audio.
  • Select the correct Audio Output Device. Use Built-in Output if connecting directly from the laptop’s headphone jack. Use your audio interface if applicable.
  • Ensure the Sample Rate is consistent with your audio files (usually 44.1 kHz) to avoid pitch/tempo issues.
• Output Configuration:
  • Under Output Config, ensure the desired mono and stereo outputs are activated (yellow). For typical GKM use, activating outputs 1-4 is sufficient.
• Key Assignments:
  • Go to Preferences > MIDI/Key.
  • Assign the lowercase m key to toggle the Metronome on/off.
  • For Arrangement View: Assign lowercase s to Set Locator (marker). Assign the comma (,) key (Shift + left arrow) to Previous Locator (marker left) and the period (.) key (Shift + right arrow) to Next Locator (marker right).
• Saving:
  • Always save your Live Set before starting.
  • Create a structured folder system (e.g., Sunday Sets) to keep sets organized. Save with a clear name (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD Service).