Ableton Live is a great app and definitely one of the best but it's missing one key feature: the ability to preview MIDI loops using any instrument you choose. Â Finally, there's an inexpensive solution to the problem: MIDI Explorer
Tip: If you use Logic or Garage Band, please see this post for information about an inexpensive solution for Mac users:Â Free Mac MIDI Player
MIDI Explorer
MIDI explorer is a device that allows you to preview MIDI files directly on an instrument track, and load them as a clip into the project directly from the device using drag and drop.
It's reliable and it currently costs only $8. Considering the time it can save you, it's a good deal!
System Requirements
- Live Version: 10 / 11 / 12 with Max for Live
- Operating System: Windows and Mac
MIDI Explorer Interface
Here's an overview of the MIDI explorer interface.
To open a folder, click the folder icon (number 6 in the image below) and navigate to the folder of your choice.
To play a MIDI clip, simply click on the file (right side of the image below)
To load a clip, select the file and drag it to a slot using icon 2 in the image below.
To stop playing the file, click on the square icon (number 3)
To loop a file so it plays continuously, click on the circle icon (number 4)
The icon labeled number 5 in the image below is the MIDI controller lock. See the product manual for additional information.
MIDI Loops for Live
The second problem many users face is finding drum kits to match their drum loops. To address this issue, we have mapped our MIDI drum loops to work with the Session Drums pack from Ableton. All of our MIDI drum packs have files mapped for Session Drums. Our Percussion Packs include files mapped for the Ableton Latin Percussion Pack.
Questions?
If you have additional questions about our products, please ask! You'll find our contact info on the Contact Us page.
