I Tested 130+ Max for Live Devices - Only THESE Are Worth It

Tested over 130 Max for Live devices to evaluate their usefulness for music production in Ableton Live.

• Some devices can hack music theory and write melodies • Others spark creative ideas • Many speed up workflow • Some are not worth using at all

Max for Life devices are typically much cheaper than third-party plugins that perform similar functions.

Content focuses on devices that are actually useful, fun, and worth the investment, starting with free options.

• Create empty MIDI clip with command shift M • Find string in generate tab • Use controls to generate patterns • Can adjust note octave and gate timing

• Generates drum patterns with spot-on execution • Allows changing notes to match your drum rack • Can toggle generation of kick, snare, and clap individually • Supports timing adjustments like 1/8 note timing

A paid competitor exists but has poor execution with limited pattern variations, making the free version superior.

Edit generated patterns manually to add authenticity and avoid accusations of being a fake musician.

Free device that smoothly switches between audio or MIDI clips inside a group, enabling dynamic pattern variations.

• Pair the switcher with LFO set to random mode • Set LFO rate to 1/8 • Map LFO to direction control • Works better with multiple clip variations

Six different drop loops with the group switcher create continuously randomized variations during playback.

Sidebrain's device converts the traditionally complex editing process into a one-click operation for exporting patterns.

• Euclidean sequencer used daily for music production • Lacks built-in scale lock features • Features randomization by pressing jam button • Scrolls through steps, rotations, events, and note variations

Advanced randomization tool offering maximum possibilities for happy accidents and creative variations.

Stock MIDI tools in Live 12 can overcomplicate workflows despite their capabilities.

• Extract bass notes from chords by setting to lowest and converting • Build new chord progressions efficiently • Best option for basic music theory applications

• BS Audio Tools devices like Disintegrator and Wave Shaper • Spectral Dynamics for frequency-based compression • Stank Face Generator for character effects

Spectral Dynamics provides frequency range editing, though the curve interface could be better. Recommend Nasco's Spec Comp as a free alternative or I Feature's competitor version.

Only the most reliable and frequently used effects survived extensive testing and daily production use.

Additional honorable mentions and effects from previous videos are included in the video description.

• Saves custom racks for persistent access across sessions • Drag and drop saved racks into Max folders • Automatically appears in new and old sessions after refresh

Group effects with desired EQ curves, save as custom racks, and load them through Fast Item Loader for consistent setups.

• Superior version of classic utility racks • Includes built-in phase correlation meter • Features face and volume controls with tail EQ

Automute button prevents hearing delay artifacts when stopping playback, protecting ears from unwanted noise.

Theme bundle that customizes Ableton Live's appearance with multiple skin options and optional custom font.

Installer may appear sketchy but creates a copy of Live with all skins included for safe use.

Plenty of skin options available to customize appearance and impress others, though not every skin is equally polished.

Links to all discussed devices are provided in the video description for deeper exploration and access.