Simpler is Ableton's lighter-weight sampler instrument that comes with all versions of Ableton Live. It enables you to quickly manipulate, slice, and play sounds with powerful control over pitch, filtering, and looping.

What is Simpler?

Simpler is an instrument in Ableton Live that combines basic sampling functionality with classic synthesizer parameters.

It can play a user-defined region of a sample, which can be processed with envelopes, filters, LFOs, and other controls.

It’s perfect for creating melodic and harmonic instruments, drum hits, and rhythmic slices from your samples.

How to Use Simpler

1. Load Simpler

1. Open Ableton Live and navigate to the Browser on the left side.
2. Go to Instruments > Simpler.
3. Drag and drop Simpler onto a MIDI track.

2. Load a Sample

1. Drag a sample from the Browser into the Simpler device. You can use any audio file or clip from your library.
2. The sample waveform will be displayed in the Simpler interface.

3. Choose a Playback Mode

Simpler has three playback modes: Classic, One-Shot, and Slicing.

Classic Mode

Classic Mode is ideal for melodic and harmonic instruments. It supports looping and has an ADSR envelope.

1. Click the Classic button in Simpler.
2. Adjust the Start, End, and Loop points to define the sample playback region.
3. Use the ADSR envelope to shape the amplitude.

One-Shot Mode

One-Shot Mode is perfect for drum hits and short samples. It plays the sample from start to end when triggered.

1. Click the One-Shot button in Simpler.
2. Adjust the Start and End points as needed.
3. The sample will play in full when triggered, ignoring note duration.

Slicing Mode

Slicing Mode is great for rhythmic samples and loops. It slices the sample into individual hits.

1. Click the Slicing button in Simpler.
2. The sample will be sliced based on transients or other criteria.
3. Each slice can be triggered by different MIDI notes.

4. Use the Controls Tab

1. Click on the Controls tab to access additional parameters.
2. Adjust the Filter, LFO, Volume, and Pitch settings to further shape your sound.
3. Experiment with different settings to achieve the desired effect.

5. Fine-Tune Your Sample

1. Zoom in on the sample waveform by scrolling with the mouse wheel while holding the Ctrl (Win) / Cmd (Mac) key.
2. Adjust the Warp settings if you want the sample to sync with the project tempo.
3. Replace the sample by dragging a new one into Simpler or by activating the Hot-Swap mode.

FAQs

What types of samples can I use in Simpler?

You can use any audio file, such as drum hits, vocal samples, instrument recordings, or loops, in Simpler.

How do I sync a sample to my project tempo?

Enable the Warp function in Simpler to sync the sample to your project tempo. This works similarly to warping audio clips in Ableton.

Can I use Simpler for live performance?

Yes, Simpler is suitable for live performance. You can trigger samples using a MIDI controller and adjust parameters in real-time.

How do I create a loop in Classic Mode?

In Classic Mode, set the Loop points within the sample waveform. Enable looping by clicking the Loop button.

Can I automate parameters in Simpler?

Yes, you can automate any parameter in Simpler by enabling automation mode and drawing automation curves in the arrangement or session view.

How do I save my Simpler preset?

Once you’ve configured Simpler to your liking, right-click on the Simpler device title bar and select Save Preset. This will save your settings for future use.

What is the difference between Simpler and Sampler in Ableton?

Simpler is a more straightforward and user-friendly sampler, while Sampler offers advanced features and more in-depth control over sample manipulation. Sampler is included in Ableton Live Suite, while Simpler is available in all versions of Ableton Live.