how to expand all tracks at once ableton

Daniel Parker

2 min read

·

07-02-2025

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Ableton Live's track view can get cluttered quickly. Expanding all tracks simultaneously saves time and improves workflow. This guide shows you several methods to achieve this, catering to different preferences and Ableton versions. Knowing how to expand all tracks at once is a crucial timesaver for any Ableton user, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Method 1: Using the "Show/Hide" Function (All Ableton Versions)

This method utilizes Ableton's built-in show/hide functionality. While not a direct "expand all," it achieves a similar visual effect by maximizing track height.

1. Select All Tracks: Click the first track header, then hold down Shift while clicking the last track header. This selects all tracks in your session.

2. Maximize Track Height: In most versions of Ableton, this is usually a simple process. Look for the top of any of the selected tracks. You should see a small area between the track name and the top of the arrangement view. Click and drag this space upwards until all your tracks are fully expanded.

3. Alternative for Older Ableton Versions: In older versions, this area might not be as clearly defined. Experiment with dragging the space at the top of any selected track until all the tracks show their full height.

This method is straightforward and works reliably across all Ableton versions. It's the fastest way to expand tracks if you only need to show the full height of each track.

Method 2: Using Custom Scripts or Extensions (Advanced Users)

For more advanced control and automation, consider exploring Ableton Live's scripting capabilities or third-party extensions. There are community-developed scripts that can automate the process of expanding all tracks with a single button press or keyboard shortcut.

1. Search for Ableton Scripts: Websites like the Ableton forum and Max for Live user communities are good places to find custom scripts. Search for terms like "expand all tracks," "maximize track height," or similar phrases.

2. Install and Use the Script: Follow the instructions provided by the script's author to install it in your Ableton Live installation. Once installed, you'll typically have a new button or keyboard shortcut to expand all tracks instantly.

This approach is ideal for users who want a more streamlined workflow and prefer customized solutions. However, it requires some technical proficiency.

Method 3: Adjusting Track Heights Individually (Manual Method)

If the above methods don't work or you prefer a more granular approach, you can manually adjust each track's height. While time-consuming for many tracks, this allows you to customize the heights of individual tracks as needed.

1. Resize Individual Tracks: Grab the bottom edge of each track header and drag it upwards to adjust the height.

2. Repeat for All Tracks: Continue adjusting the size of each track individually until you achieve the desired layout.

This method provides complete control but is less efficient for a large number of tracks.

Maintaining a Clean Ableton Session

Expanding all tracks is a great way to improve visual clarity, but managing your session effectively is key to preventing clutter in the long run. Here are some tips:

• Use Folders: Group related tracks into folders to keep your session organized. This prevents excessive track expansion becoming unwieldy.
• Color Coding: Assign different colors to different track types to further improve readability.
• Regularly Clean Up: Delete unused tracks and clips to avoid unnecessary clutter.

By combining these methods and tips, you can create a much more efficient and enjoyable Ableton workflow. Remember to choose the method that best fits your needs and skill level.