Can you build a complete Hard Techno jam using only three tracks?
In this new AudioBlast tutorial, we create a full arrangement inside Ableton Live using Drum Blaster for the rhythm and two instances of ABX3 for the bass and lead parts.
The objective is simple: start with a small number of musical elements, create variations quickly and keep every important control accessible for live performance.
French narration and English subtitles are included.
Start with the Final Result
The video begins with the finished jam, so you can immediately hear what will be created during the tutorial.
No huge project, complicated signal chain or endless collection of tracks is required. The entire performance is built from:
- One Drum Blaster track
- One ABX3 bass track
- One ABX3 lead track
This minimal setup keeps the Ableton Live session readable and makes it easier to concentrate on groove, sound selection, automation and performance.
Building the Beat with Drum Blaster
The rhythmic foundation begins with Drum Blaster.
A Hard Techno MIDI file and matching preset are selected from the included library. The original MIDI clip is then edited to isolate the different rhythmic elements.
Toms, cymbals, claps and one-bar breaks can be removed or introduced across several duplicated clips. Starting from the same MIDI performance makes it possible to create multiple arrangement variations without programming every section again from scratch.
Drum Blaster includes more than 4,000 drum samples, 200 presets and 100 MIDI files. Its 16 independent channel strips and multi-output routing also make it possible to send individual sounds to separate DAW tracks.
In the tutorial, the kick is routed to its own Ableton Live track for more precise mixing and processing control.
Adding Bass and Lead Parts with ABX3
Two instances of ABX3 provide the melodic elements.
The first instance is used for the bass, while the second adds a complementary lead sound. Because the included patterns and presets are designed to work across electronic music styles, it is possible to find matching sounds quickly and keep the creative process moving.
ABX3 combines a 16-to-64-step sequencer, 32 independent patterns, 32 oscillator shapes, a parameter sequencer, eight distortion types and three integrated FX slots.
This makes ABX3 more than a traditional 303-style emulation: it can be used as a complete sequencing and performance instrument.
Ableton Automation vs ABX3 Internal Automation
The tutorial demonstrates two different ways to automate an ABX3 parameter.
First, the movement is created with a traditional Ableton Live automation lane. The selected ABX3 control follows the curve programmed inside the DAW.
The same movement is then recorded directly into ABX3’s internal parameter sequencer.
Once recorded inside the plugin, the automation remains connected to the ABX3 sequence. There is no need to maintain an additional Ableton automation lane, and interpolation can be enabled to transform stepped movements into smoother curves.
For quick modulation and live experimentation, this internal workflow can be faster and easier to manage.
It also keeps the sound, pattern and parameter movement together when ABX3 is opened in another compatible DAW.
Switching ABX3 Patterns with MIDI Notes
The final section demonstrates how ABX3 patterns can be triggered using low MIDI notes.
Each Ableton Live scene can send a different note to ABX3. When the scene changes, ABX3 recalls the corresponding pattern automatically.
ABX3 can store up to 32 patterns, and each pattern can use its own sound settings. This means a single plugin instance can move between different sequences and sounds throughout a live performance.
Producers who prefer a more traditional workflow can also keep one sound across the entire instrument while switching between different MIDI patterns.
A Fast Workflow for Live Electronic Music
This three-track Hard Techno tutorial reflects the AudioBlast production philosophy:
Fewer tracks. Faster decisions. More character.
By combining Drum Blaster’s MIDI-based rhythm workflow with ABX3’s internal sequencing, automation and pattern switching, a complete arrangement can be created without interrupting the musical flow.
It is an oldschool approach enhanced with modern production and performance tools.
Try the Plugins
Explore ABX3:
https://www.audioblast.me/product/abx3/
Explore Drum Blaster:
https://www.audioblast.me/product/drum-blaster-beat-generator-plugin/
Discover all AudioBlast plugins:
https://www.audioblast.me/shop/
Oldschool workflow. Newschool tools.
