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Ableton Push 2

Push 2 launching clips instead of notes, or normal controls not working? Check Note, Session and User modes in the Live 12 workflow.

Manufacturer documented Push 2 used with Ableton Live 12, not Push 3 or its standalone mode. Host-software behavior is documentation-reviewed, not physically tested.

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At a glance

MIDI quick reference

Computer connection
USB connection to a computer running Live.
Manufacturer documented
Live setup
Live detects Push 2 automatically.
Manufacturer documented
Pad behavior
Note plays notes; Session launches clips.
Manufacturer documented
Custom mappings
User mode disables the built-in control-surface behavior.
Manufacturer documented
Full MIDI reference
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Common problems

Manufacturer documented
Push 2 pads launch clips instead of playing notes
The pads are in Session mode.Manufacturer documented
Push 2's normal Live controls have stopped working
User mode deliberately changes the controller's behavior.
Official resources

Manuals & resources

Using Push 2 — Live manual

Ableton · Live 12 online manual · chapter 36 · last checked 2026-10-07

References

Sources & review

Sources reviewed: . Documentation does not replace a physical hardware test.

Sections reviewed: §36.1, Setup; §36.9, Push 2 Control Reference; §36.3, Playing and Programming Beats; §36.9, Push 2 Control Reference.