> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sampler.meiji.industries/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Recording And Loop Problems

> Fix issues with arming, recording, overdubbing, loop timing, and loop editing.

# Recording and loop problems

## Recording will not start

Check:

* you are in the `Create` tab
* the loops row is focused
* the correct slot is selected
* your input or playback setup is not in a broken state

## The first loop feels wrong

Remember that the first meaningful loop establishes session timing. If that first loop is sloppy or unintended, later loops will inherit the wrong foundation.

Best fix:

* clear the bad first loop
* record the timing source again cleanly
* use First Loop Setup in Fixed mode when you want `90.00 BPM`, Quantize `OFF`, a `4 BEATS` count-in, a `REC + PLAY` click, and a loop that keeps the selected Length even if you press `[ENTER]` before the automatic stop; early commits queue as `OVR+` until the fixed interval arrives
* if the first beat is blank after a count-in, remember that the final count-in beat advances hits to `0:00`, including slightly early hits near that beat; play there or after REC starts when you want a top-of-loop event
* switch First Loop Setup to `Mode: AUTO TEMPO` only when you want the completed take to define the tempo by its ending; Auto keeps Length flexible while still applying the dialog's Quantize, Count-in, and Click choices, then continues directly into overdub

## Overdub made the loop worse

Use the smallest rollback possible:

* undo the last loop edit
* clear the affected track if available
* re-record the overdub only

## Loop length feels wrong

Check whether the issue is:

* bad take timing
* wrong loop close point
* quantization mismatch
* a loop that should have been extended or duplicated instead

## Quantize made it feel stiff

Use less correction, or leave more of the original timing intact. Quantization should improve the groove, not erase it.

## The project is playing too fast or too slow

Open `Settings → Tempo`, then set the BPM you actually want. This retimes loop playback and synced material while keeping pitch unchanged.

If first-loop detection keeps choosing the double-time or half-time BPM, set `Range` before recording the first loop. The default `65-135` range turns a detected `171.45 BPM` first loop into `85.73 BPM`; `None` disables this automatic correction.

## Tempo is unavailable in Settings

The project tempo editor requires at least one recorded loop to establish a timing source. Record a loop first, then open `Settings → Tempo`.

## Related pages

* [Loop](/learn/loop)
* [Overdub And Loop Editing](/guides/overdub-and-loop-editing)
* [Quantization And Swing — Project Tempo](/guides/quantization-and-swing#project-tempo)