Groovebox

Inject intelligent drum machine swing straight into your MIDI patterns.

Overview

Groovebox is a Transformer-type MIDI Tool for Ableton Live 12 that reshapes existing clips with the timing, feel and quirks of legendary drum machines with a twist. It’s not just a swing slider, it expands on the classic drum machine grooves and uses proportionate push-pull timing as well as velocity accents and subtle randomness for grooves that feel alive. Groovebox applies gravity-like weighted offsets from classic drum machines and synthesisers like the Octatrack, TR-909, SP-1200 and more, giving your drum patterns a unique character.

Key Features

• Machine Emulation: Choose from a number of iconic drum machines
• Proportionate Scaling: Doesn't just shift single notes but pushes and pulls surrounding notes
• Groove Control: Dial subtle feel or extreme swing amount
• Rate Options: Add groove at 1/4 to 1/32 divisions
• Velocity Shaping: Add dynamic accents tied to the groove
• Character Dial: Amplify the unique characteristics of each machine
• Quantise Blend: Tighten the original pattern before applying groove
• Drift: Inject micro-variations for humanisation

Mini-FAQ

Q: Does it only work on drums?
A: While inspired by drum machine swing, Groovebox works on any MIDI clip.

Q: Do I need to know the original machines?
A: Not at all. The machine list is there for flavour but you can just pick the groove that feels best.

Q: Can I edit the notes afterwards?
A: Absolutely. All changes are printed to the clip so you can tweak, rearrange or fine-tune like any standard MIDI clip.

Q: Isn’t this just cheating and taking away from creativity?
A: Groovebox doesn’t replace creativity, it enhances it. It’s your musical taste that decides which grooves work and how far you should push them. It’s a tool for creative feel, not a shortcut to ideas.

Please Note

All processing is on-device. Pressing the Transform button in Ableton's GUI will create unintended changes to your MIDI clip.

Preview