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How to Create Ableton Template Files

By default, Ableton Live launches with an empty set containing an audio channel, a MIDI channel and two return channels. This default set is the program's template; Ableton stores it as "Template.als" in the Preferences folder. Creating a custom template to replace the default set saves time when you're starting a new project. You can, for example, add additional channels to the template; you can also add commonly used devices like reverbs and delays and save MIDI mappings.

Instructions

    • 1

      Double-click the Live desktop icon to launch Ableton. Add additional audio channels by pressing "Ctrl" and "T" together; add MIDI channels by pressing "Ctrl," "Shift" and "T." Insert audio return channels by pressing "Ctrl," "Alt" and "T" simultaneously.

    • 2

      Click the Live Devices icon. Click "Instruments," and then drag and drop any instruments you want to add to the template onto MIDI channels. Repeat the process for the "MIDI Effects" section of the Live Device browser. Click "Audio Effects." Drag and drop any desired audio effects onto audio or return channels.

    • 3

      Click the "MIDI" button if you're using a MIDI keyboard with Ableton; if you're using the computer keyboard, click "KEY." Click on any controls you want to map, and either move a control on the MIDI keyboard or press a key on the computer keyboard, depending on which one you're using. Click the "MIDI" or "KEY" button when you're finished.

    • 4

      Click the "Options" menu. Click the "File Folder" tab. Click the "Save" button next to "Save Current Set as Default" to create a new default Ableton template.

Digital Music

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