CPU maxes out too quickly--any tips?

[Keir]

My CPU maxes out very quickly when I use MIDI (simpler or Operator) along with even 1 or 2 audio tracks and very minimal use of effects.

I have the buffer set as high as possible--2048 samples. The problem doesn't go away if I change the buffer setting.

I assume there is a straightforward solution (not gonna replace my hardware right now, can't afford to add RAM). Others must have faced this problem.

I bought Live very recently after experimenting with a demo version for a while. Love it. But it's like paralyzed or something. Acts like a pirated copy (which it definitely is not).

Any tips? Cheers in advance.

[djastroboy]

Have you done the performance test? Do it and compare your performance to others with similar hardware.

http://www.ableton.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=24715

[Keir]

I did that performance test and isolated the problem (I had my processor set to automatic and not highest performance in Energy Saver, duh). My computer ran the test at the same CPU percentage as other comparable computers (still 66%, but better than 110%...).

I can make music again. Thanks much for the help!