If you ever tried to sync the MD with Ableton via midi cables, you probably know the struggle of syncing both devices. Either the midi clock is producing a lot of jitter (when Ableton is the master) or the workflow is just uncomfortable (when the MD is the master). I usually unplugged Ableton as I was too frustrated with getting the timing right.
Luckily, I found a solution which makes syncing very easy and struggle-free. What you need is the following:
- Ableton Live
- Elektron gear of your choice (I use the Machinedrum and the Monomachine)
- An iPhone or iPad
- The Link to Midi App for iOS (free)
- The Apple Camera Connection Kit (CCK)
- Any USB-to-Midi Interface
The setup is pretty straightforward:
1.) You connect the CCK to your iPad and your Midi Interface via USB to the CCK.
2.) Then you connect the Midi Out of your Interface to the Midi In of your MD. Make sure, the MD is ready to receive external clock and controls information.
3.) Then you start the Link to Midi App and select your Midi Interface as the Midi Out device.
4.) Then you active the Ableton Link in Ableton Live. Make sure that the PC/Mac with Ableton and your iPad are connected to the same WiFi network.
5.) Press play and see how everything is perfectly in sync (the BPM values vary in the XXX,02 range, which I find acceptable).
As this solution costs you around 50 bucks (given, that you own an Apple device), I think this is the closest you can get to a perfect Software/Hardware timing without buying a costly external clock device (e.g. E-RM Multiclock). Of course, such dedicated devices give an even better sync, but at a much higher price tag.
If you have any questions on this solution, I am happy to help.
Best
Michael