Ableton 11 to be released soon. Here’s what’s new…
4 min read
Ableton have release the upcoming release of Live 11, the latest edition of one of the most popular DAWs on the market today.
With much-needed features such as comping and the addition of several new devices, Live 11 is a welcome update for Ableton users.
Set for release in early 2021, new users can also get a 20% discount on Live 10, complete with a free upgrade to Live 11 when it releases. There really isn’t a better time to jump on the Ableton bus.
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How much is Ableton Live 11?
Download versions of Ableton Live 11 will cost €79/$99 USD for Live Intro, €349 EUR/$449 USD for Live Standard and €599/$749 USD for Live Suite.
Existing Ableton users will be able to log into their account to see upgrade pricing.
Ableton Live 11 NEW FEATURES
Ableton have added a video highlighting the main updates to Live these include comping where you can record multiple takes in lanes – a much needed feature for vocalists and people recording live instruments.
It also includes MPE, which allows you to use your MPE controller and edit MPE data for better hardware integration.
One of the coolest new features will sit well with bands who use Ableton in their sets. Live 11 will be able to follow the tempo of the band and keep up allowing for tighter performances and better creativity options.
One of my favourite features is the ability to store the state of Macros, meaning you can have your own “preset folder” in the Macro itself. You can now also randomise Macro values.
A huge gripe I had with the Macros in Live 10 was the fact that you HAD to have eight of them in view, and you couldn’t have any more. Not in Live 11. With the update you can now configure your Macros to control between one and 16 parameters, simplifying the look if you only want a one-knob control.
For those looking to gain new creative inspiration, you can now set note probabilities, meaning they won’t necessarily play each time, opening you up to new ideas and variations. Velocity probability can also be set in a similar manner.
New sounds are another great reason to consider the upgrade. Ableton has partnered with Spitfire Audio to include a whole wealth of new audio samples in Live 11 – as well as updating existing packs.
New devices in Ableton Live 11
New Instruments in Ableton Live 11
Live 11 will include six new instruments developed by Dillon Bastan, which are inspired by natural and physical processes to generate unique and “playful” sounds.
I am particularly excited about the Tree Tone instrument and the absolutely gorgeous sounds it is making in the demo.
There are also more conventional sounds added: an Upright Piano, Brass Quartet, and String Quartet.
Conclusion
Ableton have added a lot of much-needed improvements to their already smooth-running DAW. These improvements will make producers’ lives easier and allow for more creative freedom.
The added instruments are a welcome inclusion, especially the Inspired By Nature series, which is a really cool idea – if not a bit obscure for some mainstream producers.
MIDI compositions will be a lot more interesting with the new note and velocity probability features, and the streamlined Macros will make mixing and producing even smoother than before.
We recommend the current upgrade offers if you can afford it and love the sound of the new features. If nothing tickles your fancy here though, the upgrade price may be a bit too steep to justify it.
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