Complete Guide to Sampling in Live

Using Zones in Sampler to make Multi-Sampled Presets

Modules in this course:

Module 1: Intro to Sampling and Guide to Simpler

After explaining what Sampling is and the reasons for doing it, there is a thorough guide to Simpler, covering sample importing and looping, and showing how the various envelopes, filters and LFO can be used to shape the sound. Sampler is briefly introduced at the end of the module.

Module 2: Sampler Part 1 - Recap and Extended Sample Looping Features

This lesson starts by recapping on how to import samples and change the section that's triggered, before going into the many ways in which the looping facility is expanded.

Module 3: Sampler Part 2 - Making a Synchronised Vocal Loop

This module shows how to make a complex, looped vocal sample, which has one part looping each beat while a note is held down and another part looping in a syncopated, 3/16-note fashion when a note is let go. Loop lengths are calculated in samples using certain formulae, which are explained in the module movie and accompanying written notes.

Module 4: Sampler Part 3 - Envelopes and LFOs

This module begins by going over the concepts introduced in module 1, like envelope and LFO modulation, extending them to show how much more can be done with Sampler, including setting of envelope curves, envelope looping and using multiple LFOs to modulate some of the unique, morphing filter section parameters.

Module 5: Sampler Part 4 - Modulating LFOs

Taking modulation to the next level, this module begins to demonstrate the sounds that can be achieved by modulating LFO amounts and rates with additional LFOs and envelopes, to create unique and captivating rhythmic and dynamic bassline effects.

Module 6: Sampler Part 5 - Pitch and Osc Modulation Sections

This lengthy module shows how both the pitch and modulation oscillator envelopes can be used to create dramatic shifts in frequency and timbre, which can be applied to leads, pads, FX and basslines.

Module 7: Sampler Part 6 - Making an FX Patch

This lesson provides an example of how all the techniques so far can be put into practice to make an FX patch, which uses a tiny part of a much larger sample to create a long, evolving riser that incorporates multiple envelopes and LFOs to build tension and atmosphere.

Module 8 - Sampler Part 7 - MIDI Section

In this module, the MIDI section is demonstrated, showing how external MIDI controllers can be set up and then used to create basic and then more complex modulation sequences with a new lead sound in Live's clip editor.

Module 9: Sampler Part 8 - Multi-Sampling and Sample Zones

This lesson explains what can be done with the Zones section, showing how to create more realistic presets with multiple samples mapped across the keyboard, and how to stack up and blend samples in the Zones-Velocity section to make a live-sounding conga preset.

Module 10: Sampler Part 9 - Importing of Sampler Presets

This module shows how to import presets for other samplers, such as EXS24 into Sampler.

Bonus Module - Simpler v2 Updates

A run through of the changes to Simpler in Live 9.5