Reference Manual

561 Synchronization and ReWire
Chapter 31
Synchronization and ReWire
31.1 Synchronizing via MIDI
The MIDI protocol defines two ways to synchronize sequencers, both of which are supported
by Live. Both protocols work with the notion of a sync master, which delivers a sync signal that is
tracked by the sync slave(s).
MIDI Clock. MIDI Clock works like a metronome ticking at a fast rate. The rate of the incoming
ticks is tempo-dependent: Changing the tempo at the sync master (e.g., a drum machine) will
cause the slave to follow the change. The MIDI Clock protocol also provides messages that indi-
cate the song position. With respect to MIDI Clock, Live can act as both a MIDI sync master and
slave.
MIDI Timecode. MIDI Timecode is the MIDI version of the SMPTE protocol, the standard means
of synchronizing tape machines and computers in the audio and film industry. A MIDI Timecode
message specifies a time in seconds and frames (subdivisions of a second). Live will interpret a
Timecode message as a position in the Arrangement. Timecode messages carry no meter-relat-
ed information; when slaving Live to another sequencer using MIDI Timecode, you will have to
adjust the tempo manually. Tempo changes cannot be tracked. Detailed MIDI Timecode prefer-
ences are explained later in this chapter (page 563). With respect to MIDI Timecode, Live can
only act as a MIDI sync slave, not a master.
31.1.1 Synchronizing External MIDI Devices to Live
Live can send MIDI Clock messages to an external MIDI sequencer (or drum machine). After
connecting the sequencer to Live and setting it up to receive MIDI sync, turn the device on as a
sync destination in Live’s MIDI/Sync Preferences.