Build the whole song, one part at a time.
Begin with a loop, then keep the parts that work. Add a bassline, record a vocal and try different sections until the song takes shape. Standard gives you room to keep developing the idea without Intro’s track limit.
Your first project can start with three parts
- Build a drum loop. Choose an included drum sound and draw or play a short rhythm.
- Add a bassline or melody. Try an instrument sound and record a second part. You can enter notes with your mouse or use a MIDI controller.
- Turn the loop into a song. Arrange sections on the timeline, add changes and effects, then export audio to listen back.
Is Live 12 Standard right for you?
Choose Standard if you want unlimited tracks, a wider sound collection and the tools to record, arrange and mix complete songs. It suits growing projects without needing Suite’s full instrument collection.
Starting with smaller projects? Live 12 Intro offers the core workflow with 16 tracks. Want more instruments and Max for Live for deeper sound design? Explore Live 12 Suite.
The essentials
| License | Ableton Live 12 Standard software license. |
|---|---|
| Computer | A compatible Mac or Windows computer. Check Ableton’s current computer requirements. |
| Listening | Start with your computer’s audio output. Headphones are useful for listening closely. |
| MIDI controller | Optional. |
| Recording | Recording microphones or external instruments may require an audio interface and suitable cables. |
Add hands-on playing when you want it
Move is a portable instrument for making ideas away from the computer. Push gives you expressive pads and hands-on control of Live.
Buying a hardware bundle instead? Our Move bundle already includes Live 12 Standard, and both Push bundles include Live 12 Suite. You do not need to purchase the same software twice.
Learn one useful thing at a time
Try Ableton’s free Learning Music lessons to explore the basics without equipment, then use Ableton’s Learn Live videos to find your way around the software.
Compare Move, Push and Live in our Ableton guide → Need help choosing an edition? Message Silent Noise.
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