"This is how you get your brain out of the technical side": Chromeo's live rig – exclusive tour

Summary

In this insightful walkthrough, Chromeo's P Thug reveals the technical setup behind their live performances, highlighting the use of two Mac minis running Ableton with a redundancy system for seamless audio control. He explains the integration of Ableton's Able Set for managing song sections and lyrics, the autotune setup for live key changes, and the use of MIDI for synchronizing various instruments and effects. The video also showcases the iPad-based control system for monitoring and adjusting show elements, emphasizing the automation and efficiency of their live music production.

Takeaways

• 🎛️ The stage setup is controlled by a redundancy system with two Mac minis running Ableton, ensuring a seamless transition if one computer fails.
• 🔄 The use of USB over Ethernet extends the connection across the stage, allowing for comprehensive control of audio and other elements.
• 🎵 Ableton's Play audio 12 is integral to the setup, with features like dual computer inputs for redundancy and automatic failover.
• 📚 Able Set, a playlist system, has become a standard in managing live performances, offering synchronization and section creation for songs.
• 🎤 The script highlights the use of Able Set for managing lyrics and sections during live performances, providing a visual guide for vocalists.
• 🔄 MIDI is used extensively for controlling various aspects of the performance, including autotune, lighting, and effects on instruments.
• 🎹 The autotune system is automated, with presets for different keys, allowing for dynamic key changes without manual intervention.
• 🎚️ A custom OSC page was created for additional control and monitoring of the autotune system during performances.
• 💻 iPads are used on stage to access and control Able Set, providing a convenient way to manage the show and troubleshoot issues.
• 🔌 The network setup includes a device to convert MIDI over Ethernet, allowing for expanded control across the stage.
• 🎥 Mention of a Resolume computer for visuals and a Line 6 system for guitar and bass, all controlled via MIDI from the Ableton session.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of the two Mac minis in the setup described by P Thug from Chromeo?

The two Mac minis are used for redundancy in controlling everything on stage, including audio playback. They run the same Ableton session simultaneously, and if one computer stops working, the system automatically switches to the other without any interruption.

What is the role of the USB extenders in the stage setup?

The USB extenders are used to extend USB signals over Ethernet, allowing the stage setup to control various devices and instruments throughout the stage, such as guitars and other equipment.

How does the Ableton Live's 'Playlist' system enhance the performance setup?

The 'Playlist' system in Ableton Live allows for the creation of sections and vocals directly from the Ableton session. This feature enables the performers to follow along with the lyrics and sections of the songs, ensuring a seamless performance.

What is the significance of having the same Ableton session running on both computers?

Running the same Ableton session on both computers ensures that if one computer fails, the other can take over immediately without any loss in performance continuity, providing a fail-safe mechanism.

How does the autotune system work with the Ableton setup?

The autotune system is connected to the Ableton setup via a MIDI trigger that tells it to switch to different presets for each song. This allows for automatic key changes during the performance without manual intervention.

What is the function of the UA MIDI Control program mentioned in the script?

The UA MIDI Control program enables the user to send MIDI messages from the computer or network to any UA parameter. It is used to control various aspects of the performance, such as autotune presets and lighting cues.

How does the stage setup ensure that all technical aspects are checked before a show?

The stage setup includes a test loop run for sound checks, where all lines and equipment are verified to be working properly. This includes checking that the autotune is changing keys and that MIDI is sent to control lights and other stage effects.

What is the role of the MIDI network setup in the stage performance?

The MIDI network setup allows for the control of various instruments and effects from the Ableton session. It enables the automation of patch changes, effect controls, and other performance aspects, reducing the need for manual operation during the show.

How does the iPad with Ableton and the custom OSC page enhance the performer's control during a show?

The iPad with Ableton and the custom OSC page provides an extra layer of control, allowing the performer to monitor and adjust autotune keys, mute tracks, follow lyrics, and switch between digital and modular sounds in real-time during the performance.

What is the significance of using the Nord Modular and Nord G2/G2x keyboards in the setup?

The Nord Modular and Nord G2/G2x keyboards offer flexibility in sound creation and are used to recreate the sounds from the album without having to bring all the synthesizers on tour. They also allow for MIDI control of patch changes and integration with the modular system.

How does the performer ensure that the autotune system is functioning correctly before a show?

The performer runs a line check loop before each show to verify that the autotune is changing keys properly. This test ensures that the autotune system is ready for the performance and can be monitored from the iPad for any necessary adjustments.