How to reduce latency while monitoring
Learn how to reduce monitoring latency in Ableton Live using the "Reduced Latency When Monitoring" option, direct monitoring, or monitoring through an external mixing desk.
Latency is an unavoidable part of digital audio, but it can be minimized with optimal settings and configuration. For how to reduce latency in general, visit these guides:
How to reduce latency
Recordings are out of sync
How Latency Works
The following methods can help minimize latency while monitoring an audio source:
Use "Reduced Latency When Monitoring"
Certain devices/plug-ins or processes in Live can add latency to a set. Activate "Reduced Latency When Monitoring" in the Options menu to bypass device/plug-in related latency in monitored tracks:
Use direct monitoring (if your audio interface supports it)
Some audio interfaces have a function called direct monitoring. The signal enters the interface and is routed back out through the headphone monitor mix, instead of passing through Live first, so you can monitor with near-zero latency directly through the interface. A copy of the signal is sent into Live at the same time for recording. If using this option, turn off monitoring in the recording track.
Monitor through an external mixing desk
Instead of monitoring through your interface or Live, monitor through an external mixing desk. At the same time, send a copy of the signal into Live to record it. If using this option, turn off monitoring in the recording track.