Ableton Live 13 announced with a step sequencer, new drum synth, and more
Today, Ableton announced Live 13, which is expected to arrive in early 2027 with a slew of new features. Most of the changes are seemingly minor on paper, but when combined, they make for the biggest update to the digital audio workstation (DAW) in years. The feature most likely to draw attention is the addition […]
Ableton has unveiled Live 13, a major update to their digital audio workstation (DAW) set to launch in early 2027. Among the new features is a powerful step sequencer, a long-awaited addition to the desktop app. The step sequencer allows users to manipulate velocity, timing, chance, length, and repeats for each step in the grid, enabling the creation of complex, evolving patterns.
Another significant addition is ARA plugin support, which enables compatible plugins to be used directly on audio within the DAW. This means tools like Melodyne, which previously required separate audio processing, can now be applied in Live's user interface for tasks such as pitch correction and time-stretching.
A new mixer view has been introduced, providing a compact vertical view of all loaded devices on a track. This view allows for easy dragging and dropping of devices between tracks and simplifies navigation through large sessions.
Among the experimental features is Looplet, an innovative looping instrument with four playheads. Looplet offers granular processing, filtering, pitch and speed control, and allows each playhead to be routed to individual tracks for further processing. This tool is particularly well-suited for ambient and soundtrack work.
Other notable enhancements include a new drum synth with over 20 models spanning classic drum machines and experimental abstract percussion. Capture now includes automation data along with MIDI notes, while contextual browsing enables users to swap instruments and presets directly in the device view. Additionally, multiband racks allow for processing different frequencies through separate effect chains, and transient shapers tighten up drum sounds.
Envelope clips on return tracks enable automation of effects, and racks can accommodate up to 32 macros and custom mapping curves. Lastly, custom layouts on Push 3 allow users to combine mixers, note grids, step sequencers, and more for a personalized workflow.
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