Ableton has announced that the Live 12.1 update is now in public beta. This update includes significant additions and improvements to all editions of Live. Live 12 users can join the beta program to try the free update right away, and it will be free to all Live 12 license holders after the beta testing concludes. Here’s a quick look at what Live 12 users can expect from the 12.1 update.

Auto Shift

Live 12 users working with vocals will appreciate the real-time pitch correction being added with the update. To keep every note in tune with the rest of the track, users can select a scale or define their own. Using Auto Shift’s MIDI sidechain, it is even possible to play and make harmonies from any monophonic signal. It is also possible to use MPE or the device’s LFO to add vibrato and modulate your sound.

Drum Sampler

The new update also adds a drum sampler for more fluid beat-making. All the essential sampling controls for immediate manipulation are present, but that’s not all. Users can also pair them with everything from time stretch and looping modes to FM and ring modulation, opening up a world of creative possibilities. In addition, it is possible to layer a sub oscillator or noise, add punch, or even crush sounds using an 8-bit mode. 

Auto-Tagging

Say goodbye to the need to tag samples yourself, as the 12.1 update adds auto-tagging. Live 12.1 will now automatically assign new tags to any of the samples in your library that are under a minute. It also uses metadata to assign tags to VST3 plugins, and the entire library can be searched faster using filters.

Limiter and Saturater Improvements

The 12.1 update has given both the Limiter and Saturater some attention, with the Limiter getting a complete overhaul. In addition to a smoother release curve, which results in less distortion, it now offers better metering with the improved UI. Other new additions include Mid/Side routing, True Peak, Soft Clip, and Maximize modes. Saturator now boasts a more focused front panel along with a Bass Shaper curve that is ideal for low-end processing. 

MIDI Improvements

With the update, the new toolbar in the MIDI Editor allows you to filter MIDI notes by time, pitch, velocity, chance, duration, and numerous other dimensions. It also introduces both GLissando and LFO MPE-specific MIDI Transformations, which allow users to create curves for the MPE parameters of the selected notes.

Push Updates

Push is also receiving some improvements thanks to the Live 12.1 update. Mapping macros to design sounds with more detail and control is now possible with Push 2 and 3, while Macro Variations make it easier to experiment with a range of different sounds. Push 3 has the option to add groove instantly to all MIDI clips in your Set using just a single twist of an encoder. Push 2 and 3 users can now save Default Sets and Template sets while also organizing their sets by moving tracks and scenes. Finally, Live 12’s filtering system has been brought to the browser in Push 2 and 3, along with auto-tagging for samples on Push 3 standalone. 

The 12.1 update includes plenty of other new additions, including accessibility improvements, browser improvements, sidebar improvements, and much more. Check out the complete list on the Live 12 Beta Release Notes page or head to Centercode to join the Live 12 Beta Test if you are a Live 12 owner.