Enhanced capabilities of Ableton Live's revamped Auto Filter device: Exploit eight innovative functionalities
In the groove with Live 12.2's revamped Auto FilterLet's dive into the refreshing updates of Ableton Live's trusty effect - the iconic Auto Filter. This fantastic tool, often based on imitation of hardware filters, is a versatile frequency spectrum shaper that breathes life into repetitive sounds, giving them dynamics and movement.
The latest version, Live 12.2, has brought a significant overhaul to this beloved effect - the biggest Auto Filter update yet. Here, we'll explore some of our favorite new features, along with classic ones that continue to charm us. Prepare to hear the transformative power of the Auto Filter in our audio examples, showcasing four bars of the unprocessed sound before unleashing its magic.
One, two, three, roll the dice
Open Live 12.2 and add a beat loop. Drop Auto Filter onto the same track, and marvel as the yellow XY dot dance inside the black rectangle. As you twist and turn the dot, you'll see the Frequency and Resonance values adjust on the left. These two core sound-shaping features allow you to choose a frequency to cut or boost and set the amount of cut or boost at the selected point. The real-time spectrum visualizer integrated into Auto Filter showcases the action visually.
Taste the rainbow
The key to filtering lies in selecting the right filter type, as it determines what part of your sound passes unaffected. Auto Filter offers low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, notch, and morph filters, but there's more - some exciting new additions tailored to easily control low and high pass with one control (we call it "Go-Go"), and a vowel filter that tries to mimic the character of the human voice. Listen to the delightful sounds of these new filter types below.
Circuit bending
Auto Filter incorporates emulations of classic analog hardware filter circuits, and experimenting with these is a must. Each circuit enhances the chosen filter type and adds unique character: try SVF for a clean state variable filter, DFM for an edgier, distorted tone, MS2 for a classy Korg hardware filter vibe, and PRD based on the renowned Moog Prodigy's filter. These circuits really come alive when pushed to extremes!
Got the moves
We've always loved Auto Filter's movement, and now there are several ways to achieve it without demanding manual control. The built-in LFO can be synced to the project tempo or run free-running on a specified Hz value for a more organic feel. The LFO can also be quantized for an even more intricate pattern. We suggest using Steps to create a striking pattern feel by cycling through the range of steps from 2 to 64 and listening to the magic they weave.
Onwards and upwards
As always, everything in Auto Filter can be automated, but the LFO feels particularly hands-on. An invigorating choice is to apply the PRD circuit, set Resonance to around 90%, Frequency to around 600 Hz, LFO waveform to Wander, Amount to around 30%, rate to 1/4. These settings will spark your creativity depending on your source material - there's endless potential for movement here!
Taking a detour
You can sidechain Auto Filter to "lift" the timing from another track or a live input and apply it to the filter frequency. To enable sidechaining, click the tiny triangle at the left of Auto Filter, and you'll see the sidechain controls. Turn on the External switch, select a source track, and voila! Even if the source track is muted, the audio signal from it will reach the sidechain.
Groovy twinspiral
When the LFO is active, pay heed to the stereo modes: Phase and Spin. Manipulate the space between the LFO's stereo channels, creating a wider, more immersive soundscape. If Phase is on, moving the control will offset the left/right signal, indicated in degrees. For a more mesmerizing movement, try Spin.
Saturation Station
Auto Filter now offers new options for the output stage, including the Drive control, which can add warmth or distortion to your sound. Give it a spin alongside a high Resonance setting and modulated Cutoff to generate a vibrant, sweeping effect with an added punch. Be sure to enable Clip, which helps maintain control over peaks and extremes.
In essence, Live's revamped Auto Filter is a versatile effect device that thrills with simple mixing tasks while offering limitless opportunities for creative sound design. Our favorite features? The intuitive LFO step quantization and the intriguing LFO Phase controls, which really widen the stereo field. But beware, it's so addictive that sometimes we need to reel it in to avoid overpowering the rest of our tracks! Enjoy the newfound possibilities and let your imagination run wild with Live's Auto Filter!
Enrichment Insights:- Live 12.2 introduces several enhancements to Ableton Live's Auto Filter effect: + Addition of various new filter types and circuits, including the Bi-directional DJ-style filter mode, Vowel filter, and DFM circuit. + Waveshape expansion and wave morphing capabilities for the LFO. + Sidechain functionalities like a built-in EQ section, mono mode, and gapless triggering for more precise filter modulation. + Improved output options, such as output loudness control, soft clipping, global dry/wet control, and a real-time spectrum visualizer.
These updates aim to upgrade the Auto Filter's versatility, making it a more powerful ally for both subtle tonal shaping and experimental sound design. They also make managing signal levels and modulation complexity easier within a more user-friendly visual environment.
- The new filter types and circuits, such as the bi-directional DJ-style filter mode, vowel filter, and DFM circuit, bring fresh possibilities for shaping sound in Live 12.2's Auto Filter.
- Experiment with the LFO's stereo modes, Phase and Spin, to create wider, more immersive soundscapes in your music by manipulating the space between the LFO's stereo channels.
