Ableton Forum

Hi everybody,

I have an idea for performance but I'm not sure how to accomplish it.

In Ableton I've built a patch changing instrument rack that lets me cycle through many softsynths while only ever running one at a time. Basically I have the instruments grouped and distributed over the rack's chain selector which is then mapped to macro. The power buttons of each individual are then mapped to same macro with the "on" range limited to the same range as in the chain selector. That macro is mapped to a key range on my controller.

If I'm on sound 1 (c-1), I can hit the second button on my controller (C#-1) to switch to sound 2 which in turn disables sound 1 keeping processor burden down and letting me use lots of softssynths in a live set responsibly.

NOW, my question is.

I'd like map the knobs and faders to parameters on the softsynths so I can tweak the sounds live, like a hardware synth. mapping all thatis the easy part. What I can't figure out:

Is there and elegant way of sending a patch change message when I leave a selected sound - causing all parameters to revert to the original state of the patch.

Playing sound 1 -> start tweaking filters and envelopes (destroy the sound) -> Switch to sound 2 (changes to sound 1 are erased)

Anybody got any ideas?

Im using the solo/record/mute buttons on a korg taktile49. these buttons dont let me send multiple CCs or PCs from one button though I do have a Sofstep in the rig that does.

There isn't a super easy way to do this in Live as is but you should look into Clyphx Snaps.

http://beatwise.proboards.com/board/5

Clyphx snaps allow you to take a "snap" of all of your controls and settings in an entire live set or just a single track or device (you pick what you want to snap). When you play back your "snap" all the settings revert to that previously saved snap. So while it wouldn't be easy for it to change back when you leave you could easily set it up to change back when you arrive if you get what I mean.

I find Clyphx essential for live performances and I couldn't live without it, this kind of functionality should be built into Live honestly.

Or you could set up a MIDI Loopback, to send resetting CCs from the same notes (your C1, C#1... etc) that select the chain zones. Have a look at this thread:
viewtopic.php?f=1&t=214885&start=0

Great suggestions guys, thanks.

I think I'll give Clyphx a shot first cause it seems a little more flexible than shooting the CC values back at the preset.

Ill let you know how it goes.

Thanks again!