First, there was software – and mapping it manually to controllers. Then, there was integrated hardware made for specific software – but you practically needed a different device for each tool. Maschine Jam is a third wave: it’s deeply integrated with software workflows, but it can swap from one tool to another without having to change how you work.
That’s possible because Maschine Jam is focused on some fairly specific workflows as far as triggering patterns, creating melodies and rhythms, and controlling parameters. The “jam” part is really focused on live control. So it’s not quite about deep sample editing and studio production like Ableton Push or Maschine Studio, but it is then adaptable to lots of other contexts.
In short, even if you keep your beloved Push in the studio, Maschine Jam wants to be the lightweight live gigging controller you toss in your backpack.
And it doesn’t necessarily force you to choose a particular tool. Even if you never touch Maschine, it’s now a reasonable controller for Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Bitwig Studio in its own right. And significantly, if you do use Maschine, you can now switch between working with Maschine and your DAW of choice, and the control mappings stay the same. (Of course, that may make you decide you want two Jams, but you get the picture.)
I was already impressed by Maschine Jam’s Ableton Live integration. It’s not a Push, mind – there’s no velocity sensitivity, and you will sometimes miss the availability of displays on the hardware. (That means looking at the computer screen, which is part of what these controllers could free you from.) But it’s also lighter, boasts integrated touch strips for mixing and parameter control, and lots of quick workflow shortcuts that make it really handy playing live. When Gerhard first introduced Push, he talked about it as a way to start tracks. And it remains a powerful hardware window into the production process. But now I find Jam fits the rest of the picture: quick jam sessions and playing live.
Oh yeah, and there’s the price: US$399 street, which of course includes Maschine and all the Komplete 11 Select features. That’s not a bad deal on the hardware controller alone, and it’s a stupidly good deal once you figure in it gives you entry to all the software.
But now a new update deepens the integration with Ableton Live, Max for Live, FL Studio, and Bitwig Studio, too, giving you a range of choices on Mac, Windows, and Linux.
As other controllers attempting to be universal live controllers have faded into the background, Maschine Jam seems to realize the promise. Let’s look at how integration works in each.
Why Maschine, Why Jam?
If I had to show just one feature that explains how Jam is a bit different than Launchpad Push APC grid blah blah more grids blah blah….
Well, it’s this. Maschine’s locking and morphing means that you can experiment with capturing and then transforming different settings. There’s some especially deep possibilities here when you combine it with Reaktor Blocks, synth lovers.
So before we start controlling other software, let’s have a look at that:
Ableton Live, Max for Live
Maschine Jam already works in Ableton Live for clip triggering and (crucially) mixing with fader strips. Clip triggering works exceptionally well, in fact: while NI’s grid lacks velocity sensitivity, the compact pads are ideal for this use case and deliver a responsive ‘snap’ when pressed. Device parameter control is there, too, though you may slightly miss having a screen for knowing which control is which.
Here’s the basic Ableton integration. It’s very, very similar to what you get with Ableton Push – but now you can swap between working this way in Maschine and working this way in Ableton. And honestly, part of the appeal to me of Jam is that it does less – so there’s a limited set of stuff that you get really quick at.
(In the very small tweaks department, the update also adds triplet access, finally.)
Where things get interesting in today’s update is that now you’ve got a dedicated Max for Live template, too. That opens up lots of other clever features – or even locking the Jam to a Max patch whilst another controller does something else.
Now, I know Ableton may be a bit squeamish about this being an Ableton controller that lacks their branding and collaboration. But as a user of Live since version 1, part of the ongoing appeal to me of this tool is its versatility and the ability to use a variety of hardware in different situations. So I do hope the Abletons warm up to what NI have done here.
FL Studio
Intrepid FL Studio users have hacked all sorts of smart ways of playing live over the years. Now, more recent versions of FL are really nicely equipped for live performance.
Ableton Vs Fl Studio Software Download
And FL is really an ideal match for Jam. It has long had step sequencing as an integrated, native feature, and now combines the level of steps/notes with larger clips and patterns.
It’s a really lovely environment. In fact, just … possibly mute the video you’re about to see, because while the music will appeal to someone, it sort of reinforces this idea that FL is just for certain music genres. It’s not. You can do anything you like. And FL’s architecture and efficiency I think are top notch.
MIDI, Logic
You can also use the MIDI template included with Maschine Jam to control software. It’s not nearly as deep as the other examples here, but it is interesting. Here’s an example with Apple Logic Pro:
Bitwig Studio
I’ve sort of saved the best for last. Bitwig benefit from having a new architecture rather than loads of ancient legacy code. And as a result, the environment hardware makers have for compatibility is really ideal.
Native Instruments have partnered with Bitwig directly as I understand it in order to deliver a template with deep integration. The basic mold is what you get from Ableton – control Maschine, switch and control Bitwig, get pattern creation and sequencing and mixing and parameter control in each.
But there are some subtle and important differences here.
Fine fader control. The best one to me is this one – SHIFT gives you fine-adjustment on the touch strips for more precision, as in Jam.
Note events light up on running patterns.
Bitwig’s onscreen overlay works. That actually gets a bit confusing in Ableton Live, which lacks Maschine’s heads-up display. Actually, it’d be great if Live had this, for Max patchers and custom controllers.
Global swing support. Again, as in Jam. That really adds to the hardware/groove feel of the integration, though.
Switch projects from hardware. You had me at “switch projects.”
Change drum machines using the built-in Bitwig drum machines when sequencing (via SELECT).
SHIFT+SOLO to change pattern length.
And this is definitely the best video, because it comes from Thavius Beck.
More on this from our friends at AskAudio:
You’ll want the latest version of Bitwig Studio. This being Bitwig, it’s even ready for Ubuntu.
Related posts
In the world of music, there are a lot of factors to consider when you’re trying to determine the differences between Ableton Live Vs. FL Studio. Both of these DAWs are extremely powerful, which in terms allows users to create beautiful music. Honestly, the best thing to do is to try to use both of them by yourself and see which you perform better on.
First up we have Ableton Live. This DAW is known for its versatility. This multi-layered platform can be used for live performances just as easily as it can be used for studio production. Due to its widespread use among professionals and those who aspire to reach a professional level, there is a huge amount of tutorials online and dedicated hardware allowing users to make the best music of your life.
Next up we have FL Studio (formerly Fruity Loops) is a DAW that focuses on being highly customizable to the user. Widely known for its advanced piano roll and easy to use interface, users can quickly and efficiently transition between its Pattern and Arrangement modes, which in terms increases workflow. We recently had the chance to reach out to a few well-credited musicians ranging from recording artists to engineers and got their input on which DAW they operate better on. Check out their response down below.
Kaleb Mitchell (Recording Artist/Producer)
“I tried Ableton a long time ago, but honestly it just wasn’t that user-friendly, for me at least. As soon as I downloaded FL, I knew I had found what was right for me. The layout and workflow are much better in my opinion and it makes producing fun. Definitely would recommend at least starting on FL Studio.”
Nikobeats (Producer/MC/Engineer)
“Ableton without a doubt. Been using it for the last few years & I don’t plan on looking back (I track, record, produce, mix & master all in Ableton.) When using Ableton, I feel like I can be 100% creative (not feeling boxed in or limited as most DAWS do.) Working in Ableton makes me feel free to do whatever I want, however, I want & when it comes to making music, that ability to maneuver/create effortlessly is extremely important. To the young producers coming up, I’d advise them not to concern themselves getting caught up in the DAW wars or even the debate of what equipment/software/gear is “best” and rather make what they do* have (or can afford) work for them –MixedByAli”
Calev (Producer/Rapper)
“I personally use Logic and Maschine now but I’m definitely a fan of Ableton and FL. I made my first beats on Ableton years ago, but I never really took the time to learn the program.
To me, FL seems to stay consistent, which is dope, but Ableton continues to add new features rather than just slightly update previous versions. With that being said, FL is definitely easier to use if you’re just starting. The interface and controls are super user-friendly, whereas Ableton looks super confusing if you haven’t used a DAW for production before. With that being said, I love sampling in Ableton. For the past year or so I’ve been contemplating whether or not to switch to Ableton and sell my Maschine to get the Ableton Push. I sample a lot, whether it’s traditional sampling or sampling things that I play, so having a system in place that makes sampling easier is a huge deal for me. I guess we’ll see what happens after my project is finished.
All things considered, FL is the better choice if you’re trying to learn the basics fast, but Ableton is a better choice if you’re willing to take the time to sit down and learn the program. Also, Ableton is amazing for live performances (especially with the Ableton Push) so to me that pushes it above FL.”
Connor Barkhouse (Producer/Engineer)
“Personally, I’m a fan of Ableton, and have never used FL before primarily because I’m Mac-based. I’m a huge fan of Ableton’s workflow, but I think a lot of people say the same about FL. Both are great producing tools, but I think there are more unique tools at your disposal with Ableton. The audio warping is unparalleled, and the ability to drag tracks from other projects into new projects completely redefined my workflow. Windows 7 64 bit android edition torrent free. There’s also a live element to Ableton, so if you’re a producer that’s into performing, Ableton is the move. Also, the Ableton Push is an incredible piece of hardware, but extremely expensive, as is the software. It ultimately comes down to PC/Mac, and budget.”
How do they compare?
Back in early 2012, when we were first invited to check out an upcoming DAW from a new German developer going by the curious name of Bitwig, we were absolutely floored by just how much it appeared to be 'borrowing', quite openly, from Ableton Live.
The GUI, the built-in devices, the Session View-style Clip Launcher… Truth be told, at that point the similarities were so numerous that we weren't entirely convinced it would ever actually make it to market - the involvement of several ex-Ableton developers notwithstanding.
Now, two years later, Bitwig Studio is real, released and very much its own DAW. It’s still evidently built on Live foundations, but beyond that, it undeniably pushes the envelope in numerous areas, making Ableton's seemingly untouchable music production and performance giant look at times conservative and behind the curve.
New kid in town
Of course, Bitwig has the advantage of being new and, consequently, automatically exciting, while Live is a well-established feature of the music technology landscape and thus all too easy to take for granted. To describe Bitwig as any kind of successor to Live's throne after only a few weeks on sale, then, would be ridiculous.
Or would it.?
Take your seats, grapple fans, for the ultimate music software face-off: Ableton Live 9 vs Bitwig Studio 1.0 in the, er, World Series of DAWs… of a particular type. Over six rounds, we're going to let the two applications do battle, comparing everything from their interfaces and workflow to controller support and more.
It's on, and if you want to find out much more about Bitwig Studio, check out Computer Music magazine issue 203, which includes a complete guide to the software that features step-by-step walkthroughs and videos.
NEXT: Bitwig Studio vs Ableton live round 1I'm starting to think this program is damn amazing, I never really looked at this so called toy and used 'pro' stuff like cubase and ableton.At may be that I only see the good things about it since I'm new at this program and often the bad things shine through later when you really know the stuff.. - it's no real daw so audio editing sucks I a would't mix in it, but for composing I think I really like it. can't say if it's true since I'm new to this program. - I like the fluid gui, it's ugly yes but it's very smooth like a video with a high frame rate. After that the live GUI seems to lag in comparison. - the piano roll is really good and the groove quantisation seems to be better then in most other daws at first glance - great automation curves and also very nice looking - it works different than other daws but I like the pattern and clip design after I understood it. so fast to build an arrangement. - good overview in the arrangement - midi cc input smoothing(!) Are here some long time fl studio which do electronic/techno/house stuff in it? what is the bad part about fl studio. there must a a bad part. I even think that the preset synth sounds really good. I don't know.. I really think if I make a switch or at least use it as a vsti inside live.
Producing music used to be prohibitively expensive. The advent of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) has changed this. Of the many DAWs available, Ableton Live and FL Studio are two of the best picks.
Ableton Live and FL Studio are pricey purchases, but both have free trial versions you can download and test. However, to help you decide between the two, we compared both Ableton Live vs. FL Studio.
The Best for Beginners: FL Studio
FL Studio receives praise as one of the best DAWs for beginners. Ease of use is built into the design, and no previous digital music production experience is required. Many aspects of FL Studio aim at people who haven’t traditionally trained as musicians.
FL Studio also comes with template projects set up for different kinds of music production. These templates are the perfect way to get to grips with the software. The intuitive nature of FL Studio, along with the vast online tutorial community, make it ideal for first time producers.
The Best for Professionals: Ableton Live
Ableton Live has a devoted following with good reason. Several features of the software are unique. While some beginners find it daunting, long time users swear by its advanced audio warping and envelope controls. FL Studio allows limited warping, and envelope control too, but it’s Live’s other features that set it aside.
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The Session view, which enables users to arrange tracks in grids rather than on a timeline, is a good example.
Within the Session view, Follow Actions allow users to automate clip triggering, and even create music using random logic. Max for Live uses the visual programming language, Max, to create unique instruments and effects.
Ableton Live’s advanced workflows take time to learn, but once mastered it’s unmatched in its ease of use. The ability to approach music and sound creation from so many angles makes it the ultimate Swiss Army Knife of professional music production tools.
The Best for Mac Users: Ableton Live
While both pieces of software are available for Windows and macOS, Ableton Live takes the prize here. FL Studio is still in the process of being ported to macOS, whereas Live has been entirely cross-platform since early in its development.
Alongside being a better fit for macOS, Live has another advantage in this regard. Many people swear by Apple hardware for music production due to the reliability of the operating system. Setting up audio is also widely believed to be a much easier process in macOS.
The Best for Making Electronic Music: FL Studio
If you are planning on making mostly electronic music, FL Studio has the workflow for you. The “everything in one place” nature of FL Studio makes it quick to get your ideas out. Many users find the Midi Piano Roll much better to use in FL Studio too, and it has been a long time go to product for Hip-Hop and Techno producers.
Templates and grouping make it easy to work on different groups of instruments and samples at a time. A single click can mute the entire set of drum or vocal tracks, allowing you to work on specific groups of sounds.
There are many effects in FL Studio designed with simple things in mind. The perfectly named “Soundgoodizer” is a perfect example, which can take any sound and give it more punch in your mix.
Both Ableton Live and FL Studio have a considerable amount of samples and presets which can help anyone build a track quickly. They both also allow for the use of external effects, and there are plenty of high-quality free VST effects
12 Free VST Plugins Every Musician Must Have 12 Free VST Plugins Every Musician Must Have Virtual Studio Technology makes music production easier than ever, and these free VST plugins are the best of the best. Read More available. The Best for Audio Recording: Ableton Live
Early versions of FL Studio didn’t support audio recording. While it now does, Ableton Live is still far ahead in terms of audio recording and manipulation.
Ableton Live has a robust I/O system allowing simultaneous recording from multiple inputs. It also doesn’t skimp on the effects, with many presets explicitly designed for different types of voice and instrument. FL Studio also has this functionality, but Live has something else up its sleeve.
According to some, Ableton Live’s Warp feature is worth the cost of the software alone. In short, it takes any piece of audio and warps it to fit with another’s timing or pitch. Different Warp modes allow for different types of stretching, some natural, some strange sounding effects in their own right.
The ability to record audio and manipulate it without destroying its natural sound is one of Live’s most powerful features. Of course, your recorded audio will only sound good if you use these essential tips to help you record better audio
10 Essential Tips to Help You Record Better Audio 10 Essential Tips to Help You Record Better Audio The simplest way to deliver the best quality sound is to record better audio in the first place. Here are some essential tips. Read More . The Best for Sound Design: Ableton Live
Alongside music production, DAWs used extensively in sound design for film and video games. Being able to import and manipulate sounds quickly is essential to fast production workflows. Adobe allows linking between Audition and Premiere/After Effects, but in terms of sound design Audition is somewhat lacking.
Live shines as a sound design platform due to the Session view and powerful Warp functions. You can quickly assemble a palate of sounds, and apply effects to them in batches. Export of each sound is possible as an individual clip for use in game development software, or a video editor.
The Best for Performing Live With a Midi Controller: Ableton Live
Ableton Live lives up to the “Live” part of its name. For a long time, it has been the top name in live electronic music performance. Alongside countless DJs using the platform, many musicians use it in conjunction with live instruments.
Both Live and FL Studio allow the use of Midi Controllers to trigger samples and control FX. Both support almost every controller. Once again, however, Ableton Live does have the upper hand here.
Ableton’s Push controller was explicitly designed to use with Live and combines many different forms of Midi/software control into one package. The combination of pads, knobs, and screen of the push are designed to almost entirely free the user from the mouse and keyboard.
While a good Midi controller can help with both music making and performing on any platform, FL Studio doesn’t have an answer to the Push.
The Best Value for Money: FL Studio
So far, Ableton Live seems to be pulling ahead somewhat. However, price is the one area in which it suffers.
Ableton Live is currently on Version 10 and costs $449 for the Standard version and $749 for the Suite. FL Studio 20 has several versions, from the $99 Fruity edition all the way up to the $899 All Plugins Bundle edition.
This means that most of FL Studio’s options are cheaper than Ableton Live. Historically FL Studio has always been the more affordable option, adding to its beginner-friendly reputation.
Ableton Live further suffers here as each version of Live is an individual purchase. Owners of one version get a discount on upgrading, but it will still cost you $229 for a Standard upgrade and $299 for the Suite. In comparison, whether you own the $99 Fruity version of FL Studio, or the full priced bundle, updates are free for life.
Ableton Live vs. FL Studio: The Best DAW for You
Which DAW is best for making music is an ongoing argument. While both pieces of software certainly excel at specific tasks, it is difficult to choose which is best.
It’s important to not that neither piece of software will make you a star musician overnight, and spending some time learning music theory is going to help more than any program you purchase.
Regardless of which DAW you choose, any piece of software requires time to learn. So, with that in mind, this Ableton Live tutorial for beginners
Ableton Live: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide Ableton Live: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide Ableton Live is a complicated piece of music software — but with our beginner’s tutorial, you’ll be making and recording music in no time. Read More could be essential reading.
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