How to Make Shuffle Hats

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If you're looking to add some momentum to your tracks, incorporating shuffling hi-hats, tambourines or shakers can be a game-changer. There are various techniques to achieve this effect, but in this tutorial, we will explore how to use a delay unit - specifically Ableton Live's filter delay - which offers three delay channels for added versatility.

Begin by selecting your preferred Hi-Hat sound and loading it into your preferred sampler or drum machine. For this example, we will be using a closed 909 hi-hat and setting up a midi clip with an offbeat hi-hat pattern.

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With the hi-hat ready, load in the filter delay. Rather than L, L+R and R, think of it like 'delay 1, 2, 3'. Start by pushing the dry up to its full value. From there switch off delay 2, 3 (L+R, R). This will allow us to focus just on 1 delay at a time. Move to delay 1 (L), switch off the filter section, change the sync time to 1 (which gives us a 16th note), then pull the feedback and level back so it's not so prominent. It may be also good to take the pan to closer to the centre.

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Now, let's add in some extra shuffle, start by switching on delay 2 (L+R), change the sync time to 2 which is the 8th note. Set the feedback to around 15% and level to around -25dB. 

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It’s time for the last delay, delay 3 (R). Switch the sync time to 3, which is a dotted 8th. Set the feedback to around 10% and level to -17dB. 

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This has given us a great shuffling hi-hat, we now group this into an audio rack and add some macros to adapt on a track by track basis. Start by mapping the delay levels to macro 1, 2, 3. From time to time it's cool to use the filter on the delay unit, so map the on/off button to macro 4.

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Now we have a delay audio rack set up we can add this to any sound we wish to add pace and shuffle to (and being able to control each level helps adapt the delay on a song by song basis). Stay tuned for our next venture into Ableton Live’s many tricks and tips.

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In conclusion, incorporating shuffling hi-hats can add a dynamic element to your productions, and using Ableton Live's filter delay is an excellent way to achieve this effect. By manipulating the delay channels and filter settings, you can create unique rhythmic variations that can take your tracks to the next level.

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