Ableton Link
A technology that keeps devices in time over a local network.
Overview
Ableton Link is not a standalone application, but a technology that can be integrated into software. It allows multiple devices running Link-enabled applications to play in time with each other over a shared local network (wired or wireless). Anyone can start and stop their part while others keep playing, and anyone can adjust the tempo for the whole group. It's widely adopted in electronic music for jamming and live performance.
✨ Key Features
- Keeps multiple devices and apps perfectly in time
- Works over a local network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
- Decentralized: anyone can join, leave, or change tempo
- No MIDI cables or complex setup required
- Integrated into Ableton Live and many third-party apps
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Extremely easy to set up and use
- Decentralized control (no master/slave relationship)
- Rock-solid timing over Wi-Fi
Unique Value: Provides a dead-simple, reliable way for musicians using different devices and software to play in time together, fostering spontaneous, collaborative jam sessions.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- A standard for local network synchronization in electronic music performance and production.
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Remote collaboration over the internet (it's local network only)
- Sharing audio or MIDI data (it only syncs timing and tempo)
🏆 Alternatives
Vastly simpler and more reliable than traditional MIDI clock synchronization, which requires cables and can be prone to timing drift. It is more focused and easier to use than setting up a full Network MIDI session.
💻 Platforms
✅ Offline Mode Available
🔌 Integrations
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Link is a free technology. It is included in Ableton Live and available for free in many third-party apps.
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