How I Built an Analogue Studio Inside Ableton Push 3 (Standalone)

This guide walks you through how to mix a track from scratch on Push 3 using Max for Live devices that recreate the warmth of classic analogue equipment, with no hardware required.

Key Takeaways

• Group and sum tracks for an analogue-style workflow.

• Use Max for Live devices like Console 80, Pre73, and Comp4.

• Emulate vintage saturation, compression and EQ.

• All techniques work standalone — no computer needed.

• Includes FAQs on third-party plugin compatibility.

Turn Push 3 into an Analogue Mixing Console

Can Push 3 Really Sound Analogue?

Yes, with the right devices and workflow, Push 3 can emulate an analogue studio mix entirely standalone. By using Max for Live tools, you recreate classic tone, character and depth inside the digital box.

1. Group and Sum Your Tracks

To mimic a mixing desk:

• Hold SHIFT, select tracks on Push 3.

• Press Group.

• Rename the group via SHIFT → Click → Rename.

Then load the Console 80 Max for Live device on each group and your master.

What Console 80 Does:
It simulates analogue summing, soft clipping and a noise floor option.
Use vintage soft clip mode for the best analogue colour.

2. Add Preamp Saturation with Pre73

Next, bring warmth and harmonics with the Pre73, a Max for Live device based on the legendary Neve 1073 preamp.

• Load it on your drum bus (or any key track).

• Crank the Drive dial.

• A/B it before and after 

Apply this across the mix for extra body and fullness.

3. Glue the Mix with Comp4 Compression

Add cohesion using Comp4, a diode bridge compressor inspired by vintage British designs.

Suggested Settings:

• Slow attack, quick release

• 4:1 ratio, ~2 dB gain reduction

• Use the gain reduction meter to train your ears

Apply it to drum buses and groups for that tight, glued sound.

4. Sweeten with Pultec EQ

Use a Pultec-style EQ device like Monomono’s Max patch to boost and cut key frequencies.

• Slightly boost lows

• Sweep frequencies for the sweet spot

• Cut at same frequency to maintain balance

This helps recover tonal clarity after compression and saturation.

5. Real Analogue Sound, All on Push 3

These devices emulate key components of a real desk:

• Console 80 – summing

• Pre73 – saturation

• Comp4 – compression

• P‑Tech EQ – tonal shaping

All tested and working on Push 3 Standalone. You don’t need a computer or external VSTs.

FAQs

Can I use VST/AU plugins on Push 3 Standalone?
No. Push 3 Standalone doesn’t support third-party VST, VST3 or AU plugins.

Do Max for Live devices work on Push 3?
Yes, many do, but not all. Simpler Max devices with standard controls are most compatible.

How do I transfer Max for Live devices to Push 3?
Connect to your computer, place devices in the User Library, Presets folder, and access them on Push under Max for Live.

Can I use projects that contain third-party plugins?
Yes, but you’ll need to freeze and flatten those tracks first so they play back correctly on Push 3.

Will all Max for Live parameters map on Push?
Not always. Complex UIs may not display fully, but core parameters often remain accessible.

Conclusion: Analogue Vibe, No Outboard Gear Needed

With Max for Live tools, your Push 3 can sound as rich and textured as an analogue studio, all standalone. Skip the racks and cables. Use the right devices, tweak your mix, and get results that feel warm, wide and musical.