A few ideas :
If you are serious about integrating Ableton and hardware, then a Sync Lock is pretty much mandatory. You can do without, but once you try it, it will be impossible to go back.
It’s one of those devices that seems almost pointless, as it doesn’t create any sound on its own. However, it allows for tight, virtually “jitter - free” sync between your DAW and all your MIDI gear. That has no price, to be honest.
Also, do not rely on the tempo indicator on Ableton or the OT to evaluate a MIDI clock’s tightness. The varying readout on the tempo indicator does not mean that the actual tempo is fluctuating by that much, only that the readout and display is not 100% accurate. This has been confirmed by Elektron on the old forums.
Finally, using VST’s to feed the OT is a great way to increase and stimulate creativity. My favourite plug in of all times is Reaktor. I spend a lot of time on the NI user library, downloading new ensembles and trying them out. It feels like Christmas ! Reaktor provides prefect OT food.
Hope this helps 
Cheers
