Writing Dummy Clips WIth The Two Click Method

Writing dummy clips is essential for working in Ableton, especially in session view.

Dummy clips can have many functions. We can use them for patch changes like described in this post. You can use them to create that sort of “Jump to” functionality the way you are able to in Mainstage. You can also use them to adjust the range of keyboard splits, or other types of set up adjustments.

No matter what way you cut it, you will be putting information into dummy clips within Ableton, and so it’s really important that you are able to do it quickly and efficiently.

The Two Click Method

The two click method of writing dummy clips actually has four steps. It’s a great work flow that is going to save you tons of time.

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The two click method works like this:

1. Create a dummy clip
2. Click on the parameter you wish to map
3. Press Shift-Tab to switch to envelop view
4. Click the dotted line

Pro Tip

If you aren’t seeing the envelopes after you hit shift-tab, you may need to unhide it by clicking on the little envelope show hide button.

Step By Step In Context

For Patch Changes – Getting Set Up

Step One

Insert an instrument rack onto a default midi channel strip

Step Two

Add all of the instruments you would like to use. For this example, I’m using two types of layered pianos, and a thick pulsing pad.

Step Three

Move each instruments chain to a separate location on the X-axis. Remember, chains taking up the same x-axis location can be used for instrument layering.

Using The Two Click Method

Step One

Create a new dummy clip by double-clicking in an empty click slot.

Step Two

Move your chain selector to the position of your first sound. (Click one)

Step Three

Press Shift-Tab To reveal the Clip View

Step Four

click the dotted red line in the clip detail so Ableton knows where to move your chain selector when that clip is fired. (Click Two)

Pro Tip

Make sure your clips quantization is set to none so your patches change immediately.

For Effect Changes

Step One

One whichever parameter you would like to automate, Click and set the desired effect.

Step Two

Press Shift-Tab To reveal Clip View

Step Three

Click the dotted line to write the automation

Now get out there and start creating.

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until next time,

-Brett