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Jason Allen

This course is "5-Star Certified" by the International Association of Online Music Educators and Institutions (IAOMEI). This course has been independently reviewed by a panel of experts and has received a stellar 5-star rating.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

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This course is "5-Star Certified" by the International Association of Online Music Educators and Institutions (IAOMEI). This course has been independently reviewed by a panel of experts and has received a stellar 5-star rating.

100% Answer Rate. Every single question posted to this class is answered within 24 hours by the instructor.

For years I've been teaching Ableton Live in the college classroom. As a University Professor, my classes are sought after, and, frankly, expensive. I believe Ableton Live can be learned by anyone, and cost shouldn't be a barrier. This class uses the same outline and syllabus I've used in my college classes for years, at a fraction of the cost.

This is Part 2: Recording and Warping

In this class, we cover everything when it comes to recording in Ableton Live - including Recording techniques in general.

  • Recording Hardware Needs

  • Recording Hardware Setup

  • Microphone Types and Options

  • Microphone Purchasing Tips

  • Microphone Placement

  • Audio Interface Needs

  • Audio Interface Purchasing Tips

  • Single and Multitrack Recording

  • MIDI Hardware Needs

  • MIDI Hardware Purchasing Tips

  • MIDI Setup

  • MIDI Recording

  • ...and much more.

I will be making 6 (six. ) complete classes in order to bring you the most comprehensive manual on Ableton Live production techniques ever created. Each class has Sets, sessions, and experiments for you to try on your own and follow along with.

And of course, once you sign up for any part, you automatically get huge discounts on all the upcoming parts (the next 5. ) of this class.

You will not have another opportunity to learn Ableton Live in a more comprehensive way than this. Start here.

J. Anthony Allen is an Ableton Certified Trainer and a Ph.D. in Music Composition and master of Electronic Sounds. His music has been heard internationally in film, radio, video games, and industrial sound, as well as the concert hall and theater.

He currently is an adjunct professor of composition at the University of St. Thomas, Macphail Academy of Music, and the CEO of Slam Academy in Minneapolis.

Praise for other classes by J. Anthony Allen:

  • "Dr. Allen does it again with his music theory for electronic musicians series. This course really opened up everything I learned from the 1st section and now I understand more about the composition side of things for music. I highly highly recommend this course to anyone. Really opened my eyes to many things I wasn't aware of."

  • "The Best Teacher Ever, who makes you understand the ins & outs of Music Theory by all mean without giving what you don't want to know."

  • "I have never had any formal training in music at all. Trying to learn all the notes and how everything translated was a serious challenge. After going thru this class, Dr. J has totally brought down the barriers. The content was very useful and was easy to grasp for me."

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Record audio using the best techniques for the home studio
  • Record midi using a keyboard input, controller, or manually inputting notes.
  • Understand and setup tracks for warping using live's powerful warping engine

Syllabus

A few words before we get started on what we will be covering in this class.

Welcome to the class! A few notes about what we will cover in this class.

Read more

A few notes about getting started, what to expect, and how to get the most out of this course.

An overview of what we will be covering in this section. Don't worry - it won't be all that technical!

We typically think of two things that we need to record: A computer, and a microphone. But there is one other piece of the puzzle that is essential.

Now that we know what our hardware looks like, in this section we will walk through how to set it all up.

What to look for in a microphone, the different kinds of microphones, and my personal recommendations.

Microphone placement techniques could be a whole other class, but in this video I'll give you a few tips to get a clean sound and avoid some common issues.

Back to Ableton Live! A brief explanation of Monitor Modes - very, very important for home-studio situations in which feedback could be a big (and dangerous) problem.

We will start recording into Arrangement View, using a single microphone (but multiple tracks).

Now that we can cleanly record a single microphone in Arrangement View, in this section we will look at recording multiple microphones at once - a situation you would need to record a band.

Now lets look at tracking in Session View. It is mostly the same, but has a few things that work different that you need to know about.

Overdubbing is a way of re-recording something for a second take. Punching In is a much smoother way to do that, and in Ableton Live, we have a few smooth tricks for getting the "punch" exactly right.

In this video we will talk about what will be covered in this section, and make sure we are all up to speed on some terms.

The hardware you need to do MIDI recording can be simple and inexpensive if you know what to look for.

Once we've selected our MIDI controller (keyboard or something else), we need to tell Ableton Live a few things about it to get it setup correctly.

In order to make sense of MIDI in Ableton Live, we need to understand a little more background about MIDI. In this video we will walk through what MIDI is, and what an "Instrument" is.

Now we can get down to business! In this video we will walk through setting up a track and recording into Arrangement View.

Now that we've conquered Session View for MIDI recording, we will now look over at Session View.

One of the biggest advantages that working with MIDI has is our ability to Quantize. In this section I'll explain what that means, and do a few demonstrations.

Warping is a powerful element in Ableton Live. In this introduction I'll explain some key concepts about it.

What Warping is, What it is not, and how to take advantage of it.

In this section we get into the real details of warping: Setting Warp Markers, and helping Live to understand the clip.

We can help Live to understand our clip a little more by adjusting the Warp Modes. In this video we will walk through the different Warp Modes and look at what they are best used for.

Sometimes we might want to warp a clip "incorrectly" for musical purposes. This tends to result in granulation artifacts, which can make some interesting sounds if you use them well.

A few parting thoughts, where to go from here, and things to explore.

The next class is coming soon!

Part 3: Producing & Editing is live! Here is the info on getting in!

You've come this far... maybe you are willing to go a little further...

When it comes to microphones, you need the right tool for the job. In this video I'll show you a case for when a nicer dynamic mic is not the right choice.

Someone asked: Can I record two tracks at once in session view? YES! This is how.

I've received a lot of questions about just navigating the time line (Arrangement view). This video is an excerpt from the next class (Ultimate Ableton Live 3) in which we cover Timeline commands, and some navigation tricks. 

There is so much more to learn!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores topics like recording techniques, microphone types, and audio interface needs. These are all fundamental to the craft of audio production
Teaches essential recording and sampling techniques that are used in the modern music industry
Develops foundational skills for music production
Taught by Jason Allen, an Ableton Certified Trainer and a Ph.D. in Music Composition and master of Electronic Sounds
Remarkable ratings: This course has been "5-Star Certified" by the International Association of Online Music Educators and Institutions (IAOMEI) and has received a stellar 5-star rating after being independently reviewed by a panel of experts
Examines the subject matter in a comprehensive way: There are plans for making 6 classes in order to provide the most comprehensive manual on Ableton Live production techniques ever created

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Reviews summary

Detailed ableton live recording & warping

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation in the core concepts of recording and warping within Ableton Live 9. Students particularly appreciate the clear and detailed explanations from the instructor, covering everything from hardware setup to advanced warping techniques. Many feel it's highly practical and helps demystify these crucial aspects of music production. While some reviews suggest it's great for beginners focusing on these specific topics, others found it comprehensive enough to deepen their existing knowledge.
Requires prior or future Ableton knowledge.
"This is Part 2, so make sure you have a basic understanding of Ableton's interface before diving in."
"It focuses specifically on recording and warping; you'll need other parts for production and mixing."
"Glad there are other parts coming to cover more advanced production aspects."
"This course is a piece of a larger puzzle for mastering Ableton Live."
Ideal for those new to these topics.
"As a complete beginner to recording in Live, this course held my hand through the entire process."
"I had zero prior knowledge of audio interfaces or MIDI controllers, but the course explained everything I needed to know."
"This is a great entry point if you understand basic Ableton but want to start incorporating audio and MIDI recording."
"Someone new to music production hardware will find the early sections on gear very informative."
Focus on practical techniques for home studio.
"Everything covered felt immediately applicable to my home studio setup. No abstract theory, just practical steps."
"The demos were helpful in showing exactly how to implement the recording techniques discussed."
"I was able to set up my audio interface and microphone correctly right after watching the relevant videos."
"Learning punching in techniques has really streamlined my workflow."
Covers recording and warping thoroughly.
"This course is a deep dive into recording and warping. It covers microphones, interfaces, MIDI, and all the nuances."
"I was surprised by the level of detail on microphone placement and purchasing tips – very valuable."
"From single tracks to multitrack recording in both views, it leaves no stone unturned."
"The warping section alone is worth the price; it unlocked so many creative possibilities for me."
Instructor explains complex topics clearly.
"Dr. J's explanations were so clear and easy to follow, even for someone like me who was new to recording hardware."
"The breakdown of warping modes was particularly helpful; I finally understand how to use them effectively."
"His method of explaining monitor modes made perfect sense and prevented feedback issues in my setup."
"I appreciated how he simplified potentially confusing topics like MIDI setup and quantization."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Ultimate Ableton Live 9: Part 2 - Recording & Warping with these activities:
Review how to use Ableton Live
Review past coursework or study materials on Ableton Live to strengthen your knowledge.
Browse courses on Ableton Live
Show steps
  • Go through the course materials and identify key concepts.
  • Review the syllabus to familiarize yourself with the topics covered in the course.
  • Complete practice exercises or listen to tutorials to reinforce your understanding.
Record a short audio demo
This activity will help you apply what you have learned in the first few sections of the course by recording a short audio demo. You will be able to practice your recording techniques and get feedback from your instructor.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your audio demo.
  • Write a script for your audio demo.
  • Record your audio demo using a microphone and an audio interface.
  • Edit your audio demo using Ableton Live.
  • Share your audio demo with your instructor for feedback.
Write a blog post about your experience recording a short audio demo
This activity will help you reflect on what you have learned in the first few sections of the course and share your knowledge with others. You will be able to practice your writing skills and get feedback from your instructor.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your blog post.
  • Write an outline for your blog post.
  • Write your blog post.
  • Edit your blog post.
  • Publish your blog post.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Watch tutorials on advanced audio recording techniques
This activity will help you learn advanced audio recording techniques by watching tutorials. You will be able to learn from experienced professionals and get new ideas for your own projects.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on an advanced audio recording technique that you are interested in.
  • Watch the tutorial.
  • Practice the technique that you learned in the tutorial.
Watch tutorials on advanced MIDI recording techniques
This activity will help you learn advanced MIDI recording techniques by watching tutorials. You will be able to learn from experienced professionals and get new ideas for your own projects.
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on an advanced MIDI recording technique that you are interested in.
  • Watch the tutorial.
  • Practice the technique that you learned in the tutorial.
Practice recording and editing audio using Ableton Live
This activity will help you improve your recording and editing skills by practicing with Ableton Live. You will be able to work on specific techniques and get feedback from your instructor.
Show steps
  • Choose a song or audio clip to practice with.
  • Record the song or audio clip using Ableton Live.
  • Edit the song or audio clip using Ableton Live.
  • Share your song or audio clip with your instructor for feedback.
Practice recording and editing MIDI using Ableton Live
This activity will help you improve your recording and editing skills by practicing with Ableton Live. You will be able to work on specific techniques and get feedback from your instructor.
Show steps
  • Choose a song or MIDI clip to practice with.
  • Record the song or MIDI clip using Ableton Live.
  • Edit the song or MIDI clip using Ableton Live.
  • Share your song or MIDI clip with your instructor for feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Ultimate Ableton Live 9: Part 2 - Recording & Warping will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Composer
A Composer creates and writes music for various media, including film, television, and video games. They use their knowledge of music theory and composition to create original and engaging pieces. This course may be useful for aspiring Composers, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Music Producer
A Music Producer is responsible for overseeing the production of music recordings. They work with artists, engineers, and other professionals to create and refine the sound of a song or album. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Producers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the recording and production process.
Sound Designer
A Sound Designer creates and manipulates sounds for various media, including film, television, and video games. They use a variety of techniques to create realistic and immersive sound effects. This course may be useful for aspiring Sound Designers, as it provides a solid foundation in audio recording and editing.
Sound Technician
A Sound Technician is responsible for the technical aspects of sound production for live events. They set up and operate sound equipment, and mix and adjust the sound to ensure that it is clear and balanced.
Music Archivist
A Music Archivist is responsible for the preservation and organization of music materials. They work in a variety of settings, including libraries, universities, and music schools. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Archivists, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Music Supervisor
A Music Supervisor is responsible for selecting and licensing music for use in film, television, and other media. They work with producers, directors, and other creatives to find the perfect music for each project.
Radio Producer
A Radio Producer is responsible for the production of radio programs. They work with hosts, writers, and other professionals to create and execute radio shows that are informative, engaging, and entertaining. This course may be useful for aspiring Radio Producers, as it provides a strong foundation in audio recording and editing techniques.
Audiovisual Technician
An Audiovisual Technician is responsible for the installation and maintenance of audio and visual equipment. They work in a variety of settings, including schools, businesses, and government agencies. This course may be useful for aspiring Audiovisual Technicians, as it provides a strong foundation in audio and video technology.
Music Librarian
A Music Librarian is responsible for the organization and preservation of music materials. They work in a variety of settings, including libraries, universities, and music schools. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Librarians, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Audio Engineer
An Audio Engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of sound recording. They set up and operate recording equipment, and edit and mix audio tracks. This course may be useful for aspiring Audio Engineers, as it provides a strong foundation in audio recording techniques, including microphone placement, audio interface setup, and MIDI recording.
Music Teacher
A Music Teacher teaches music to students of all ages. They may teach a variety of instruments and styles of music. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Teachers, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Musician
A Musician performs and records music. They may play a variety of instruments and sing. This course may be useful for aspiring Musicians, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Event Organizer
An Event Organizer plans and executes events of all types, including concerts, festivals, and corporate events. They work with a variety of vendors and professionals to ensure that each event is a success. This course may be useful for aspiring Event Organizers, as it provides a strong foundation in project management and budgeting.
Music Journalist
A Music Journalist writes about music for magazines, newspapers, and websites. They interview musicians, review concerts and albums, and write feature articles on a variety of music-related topics. This course may be useful for aspiring Music Journalists, as it provides a strong foundation in music theory and composition techniques.
Music Therapist
A Music Therapist uses music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and cognitive health. They may work with a variety of clients, including children, adults, and the elderly.

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Ultimate Ableton Live 9: Part 2 - Recording & Warping.
Covers the all the essential aspects of audio recording and production, from choosing gear to editing and mastering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of music theory, specifically tailored for electronic musicians.
Classic guide to mixing, covering everything from the basics to advanced techniques.

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