Using Robot Rocket with Ableton Live

Vocoders need two inputs to function — one that’s typically a voice (modulator), and another that’s typically a synth (carrier). Sound will only be produced when the voice and synth channels are playing something. Here’s the steps to get Robot Rocket set up.

1. Add a voice and synth track #

Start by adding a voice and synth track to your project. These can be audio you’ve recorded, or a live mic input and a software instrument, or really anything that makes sound. Our example project below has recorded audio for the voice and synth.

2. Mute the synth #

Once the synth is set up with a sound you like, mute the synth track. The final vocoded result will be heard via the voice track, so the synth track’s output doesn’t need to be heard. A basic sawtooth synth with the filter open is a good starting sound source for a vocoder.

3. Add Robot Rocket to the voice track #

Find and add the Robot Rocket plugin to the voice track.

4. Set up the side chain #

Set the side chain input for Robot Rocket to the synth track. You should now be able to hear a vocoded sound after pressing play. Please note that Robot Rocket will not produce any sound unless the side chain is set up and both channels are playing audio.

Troubleshooting #

If you’re using the Audio Unit plugin, please ensure “Use Audio Units v3” is turned on in Ableton Live’s plugins settings. If it’s off, Ableton Live will not be able to find any Audio Unit version 3 plugins, including Robot Rocket.

If you’re using the VST plugin, please ensure “Use VST3 Plug-In System Folders” is turned on in Ableton Live’s plugins settings. If it’s off, Ableton Live will not be able to find any VST3 plugins, including Robot Rocket.