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Ableton Live 9: Convert Audio to a New MIDI Track

Ableton Live Arrangement ViewPublished 2013.04.02Updated 2026.07.17
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Ableton Live 9 introduced the ability to convert audio tracks into MIDI data automatically. You can use this feature to turn phrases from sampling CDs into editable material, reduce the work involved in learning phrases by ear, or match the groove of an existing song in another piece. Live analyzes the audio and generates a MIDI clip, which you can then edit freely—for example, by changing chords or adjusting patterns—to streamline your workflow and explore new creative possibilities.

Create MIDI Files Easily

The long-awaited Live 9 was recently released.

Ableton Live 9 Suite

One of its most notable new features is
converting audio tracks to MIDI data.

  • Reconstruct phrases from sampling CDs
  • Save time transcribing by ear and study phrases
  • Unify the groove of a song

These are just a few of the possibilities.

Convert Audio to a New MIDI Track: Drums and Harmony


Convert Audio to a New MIDI Track: Melody


Video Highlights: Conversion Steps

The process is very simple.

Audio-to-MIDI conversion menu

Right-click the audio clip you want to convert.
From the menu, select Convert Drums to New MIDI Track.

After conversion

Live starts analyzing the audio and automatically creates a MIDI clip.

Editing the MIDI clip

After conversion, you can adapt the result to your song.
Change chords or change the pattern while keeping the groove—these are just some of the adjustments you can make.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. How do I convert audio to MIDI in Ableton Live 9?

For drums, right-click the audio clip and select “Convert Drums to New MIDI Track” from the menu. Live begins analyzing the audio and automatically creates a MIDI clip.

Q2. Can this feature be used with drums, melodies and other sources?

Yes. It supports different types of material, including drums, harmony and melody, with a conversion option optimized for each type.

Q3. How freely can I edit the converted MIDI data?

You can edit the converted MIDI data in many ways, including changing chords and adjusting patterns, to suit your production.