Used by plenty of professional musicians and producers, Cubase is a DAW that can do pretty much whatever you have in mind. Here’s everything you need to know…
Cubase is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by the German company Steinberg. It provides tools for recording, editing, and mixing music and audio, and is used by musicians, sound engineers, and producers worldwide.
This article will delve into the history, features, and uses of Cubase, providing a comprehensive overview of this powerful software, helping you decide whether this DAW is the right DAW for you. Let’s do this…
History
Steinberg introduced Cubase in 1989, and it was one of the first DAWs to combine MIDI sequencing and audio recording in a single application. Initially, it was available for the Atari ST computer, but versions for Windows and Macintosh were released in the following years.
Over the decades, Steinberg has continuously updated and improved Cubase, adding new features and capabilities to keep pace with advances in digital audio technology.
Steinberg’s commitment to innovation and improvement is a key aspect of Cubase’s success and longevity. Let’s delve into some of the significant updates and enhancements that have been made to Cubase over the years.
Early Years and MIDI Revolution
In its initial versions, Cubase was primarily a MIDI sequencer, with limited audio capabilities. The introduction of Cubase Audio in 1991 was a significant step forward, as it allowed users to record and manipulate digital audio alongside MIDI. This was a game-changer in the music production industry, as it brought professional-level audio editing capabilities to the home studio.
VST Introduction
In 1996, Steinberg introduced the Virtual Studio Technology (VST) format with Cubase 3.02. This allowed third-party developers to create plugins for Cubase, dramatically expanding the software’s capabilities. VST plugins can emulate a wide range of hardware, from synthesizers and samplers to effects processors and mixers, making Cubase a much more versatile and powerful tool for music production.
SX Series and Advanced Audio Editing
The launch of Cubase SX in 2002 marked another significant milestone. This version introduced a new audio engine and a host of advanced audio editing features, including time stretching and pitch shifting. These features allowed users to manipulate audio in ways that were previously impossible, opening up new creative possibilities.
Integration of Advanced Music Notation
With the release of Cubase 4 in 2006, Steinberg introduced a score editor capable of professional music notation. This made Cubase an attractive option for composers and arrangers, further broadening its user base.
Introduction of MixConsole
Cubase 7, released in 2012, introduced the MixConsole. This feature provided a full-screen mixer with customizable layouts and integrated EQ/Dynamics channel strip modules, offering users a high degree of control over their mixes.
Cubase Pro 8 and Performance Optimization
In 2014, Cubase Pro 8 was launched, featuring significant performance optimizations. This version introduced render in-place and VCA faders, which improved the workflow and made handling complex projects easier.
Recent Developments
In recent years, Steinberg has continued to add innovative features and improvements. For instance, Cubase 10 introduced VariAudio 3, a feature that provides users with sophisticated pitch correction and manipulation capabilities. Cubase 11 added advanced features like SpectraLayers One for spectral editing and SuperVision for metering.
Cubase Versions: Elements, Artist & Pro
| ELEMENTS | ARTIST | PRO | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $99.99 USD | $239 USD | $579 USD |
| Target Users | Beginners and home studio enthusiasts | Intermediate users looking to expand | Professional music producers and studios |
| Audio Tracks | 48 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| MIDI Tracks | 64 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| VST Instrument Tracks | 24 | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Instrument Sounds | 1000+ | 2600+ | 3000+ |
| VST Plugins | 45 | 77 | 99 |
| Inputs & Outputs | 24 | 32 | 256 |
| VCA Tracks | 0 | 0 | 256 |
Cubase 12 – The Latest Version of Cubase
The most recent update to Cubase, version 12.0.70, primarily focuses on enhancing support for plug-in developers through improvements in the Virtual Studio Technology (VST) 3 Software Development Kit (SDK). This update is a significant step forward for the Cubase community, particularly for those involved in creating and developing plugins.
Here’s What You Get Inside Cubase 12.0.70
Enhancements in VST 3
One of the key features of this update is the integration of the new plug-in replacement process from the VST SDK 3.7.8. This enhancement will streamline the process of replacing plugins within the Cubase environment, making it more efficient for users.
Improvements in Track Import
The 12.0.70 update also addresses several issues related to track import. Now, when users import tracks via “Import Tracks from Project” and Track Archives, Send FX connections, MIDI output ports, and routings to group channels will function correctly. These improvements will ensure a smoother and more reliable track import process.
MIDI Remote Enhancements
For MIDI Remote users, the update brings persistent mappings for Device Surfaces that have “Label Fields” assigned for the “Piano Keys” item. This enhancement will provide a more consistent user experience when using MIDI Remote.
Stability and 3rd Party Support
Steinberg has also improved the stability of Cubase 12.0.70, particularly when importing track archives using HALion Sonic with content without valid licenses and when drawing into the waveform image with multiple clips open in the Sample Editor.
Additionally, the update introduces support for the Spatial Connect plug-in by Dear Reality, expanding the range of third-party plugins compatible with Cubase.
Availability
The Cubase 12.0.70 update is available for download via the Steinberg Download Assistant, allowing users to take advantage of these new features and improvements immediately.
What Can You Do With Cubase?
Cubase offers a wide range of features that cater to the needs of both amateur and professional users. Here’s a general overview of just some of the things you can do with Cubase. It doesn’t include everything but we’ve tried to include all the main reasons why producers and artists use Cubase.
Multi-track Recording
Cubase’s multi-track recording feature allows users to record multiple audio sources simultaneously. This is particularly useful for band recordings where each instrument can be recorded on a separate track for individual control over volume, panning, and effects. This feature also enables complex music productions, where layers of different sounds and instruments can be built up to create a rich, textured final mix.
MIDI Sequencing
Cubase’s MIDI sequencing capabilities are extensive, providing users with the ability to compose and arrange music using virtual instruments. MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) data represents musical information like pitch, duration, and intensity, which can be used to control virtual or hardware instruments. This allows composers to create intricate compositions, from simple melodies to full orchestral scores, all within the Cubase environment.
Audio Editing
Cubase provides a comprehensive set of tools for editing audio. Basic functions like cutting, pasting, and crossfading allow users to manipulate audio clips with ease. More advanced features include time stretching, which changes the length of an audio clip without affecting its pitch, and pitch shifting, which alters the pitch without changing the length. These tools give users the flexibility to mold and shape their audio to fit their creative vision.
Mixing and Mastering
Cubase features a professional-grade mixing console that emulates the layout and functionality of a traditional hardware mixing desk. This, combined with a suite of high-quality effects and plugins, provides users with everything they need to mix and master their audio to a professional standard. Equalizers, compressors, reverbs, and limiters are just some of the tools available to shape the sound and create a balanced, polished final mix.
VST Support
Cubase supports Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plugins, a standard developed by Steinberg itself. VST plugins can emulate a wide range of hardware, from synthesizers and samplers to effects processors and mixers. This allows users to expand their sonic palette far beyond the built-in capabilities of Cubase, with thousands of VST plugins available from various developers.
Score Editing
Cubase includes a score editor that allows users to create and edit musical notation. This is a valuable tool for composers and arrangers, allowing them to see and edit their music in traditional notation format. The score editor supports complex scoring layouts and symbols, making it suitable for everything from lead sheets to full orchestral scores.
Integration with Other Steinberg Products
Cubase integrates seamlessly with other Steinberg products, such as the HALion sampler and the WaveLab audio editor.
This means that users can easily incorporate sounds from HALion, or edit their audio in WaveLab, without leaving the Cubase environment. This integration enhances workflow and provides a cohesive, unified user experience.
Do Professional Producers Use Cubase?
Cubase has been around for decades and during this time it has earned itself a reputation as one of the best DAWs on the market. There’s plenty of competing DAW platforms, of course, but Cubase has remained one of the most trusted brands in the market and is used by a whole host of famous artists and producers, as you can see below.
Artists, Producers & Bands That Use Cubase
- Hans Zimmer: Hans Zimmer is a renowned film composer known for his work on scores for blockbuster movies like “Inception,” “The Lion King,” and “The Dark Knight” trilogy. His innovative use of electronic elements alongside traditional orchestration has made him one of the most influential figures in modern film music.
- Ian Kirkpatrick: Ian Kirkpatrick is a record producer who has worked with a variety of pop artists, including Dua Lipa, Britney Spears, and Jason Derulo. He’s known for his catchy, contemporary production style that blends elements of pop, dance, and electronic music.
- Ludwig Göransson: Ludwig Göransson is a composer, conductor, and record producer known for his work in both film and music industries. He scored films like “Black Panther” and “Tenet,” and has also collaborated with artists like Childish Gambino.
- Cirkut: Cirkut, whose real name is Henry Walter, is a record producer and songwriter. He’s worked with some of the biggest names in pop music, including Katy Perry, Rihanna, and The Weeknd, and is known for his polished, radio-friendly production style.
- Alan Silvestri: Alan Silvestri is a prolific composer known for his work on film scores for movies like “Back to the Future,” “Forrest Gump,” and “The Avengers.” His memorable themes and skillful orchestration have made him a staple in Hollywood.
- Misha Mansoor: Misha Mansoor is a guitarist and producer for the progressive metal band Periphery. He’s known for his technical guitar playing and his role in developing the “djent” subgenre of metal. As a producer, he’s praised for his ability to create dense, intricate soundscapes.
- Tiesto: Tiesto is a world-renowned DJ and producer, known for his contributions to the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. His energetic, uplifting tracks and remixes have made him a staple in clubs and festivals around the world.
- CHVRCHΞS: CHVRCHΞS is an indie pop band from Scotland known for their synth-heavy sound and catchy melodies. Their use of electronic elements combined with pop sensibilities has earned them a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
- Tyler Smyth: Tyler Smyth is a producer and member of the rock band Dangerkids. He’s known for his production work in the rock and metal genres, and his band’s music often blends elements of rock, metal, and electronic music.
- Meshuggah: Meshuggah is a Swedish metal band known for their complex, polyrhythmic song structures and heavy, detuned guitar riffs. They’re often credited with pioneering the “djent” subgenre of metal.
- Zedd: Zedd is a DJ and producer known for his work in the EDM genre. His tracks often feature catchy melodies, big synth sounds, and collaborations with pop artists. He’s had several hits, including “Clarity” and “Stay.”
Cubase is used in a variety of musical and audio production contexts. Musicians use it to record and produce their music, while sound engineers and producers use it to mix and master recordings. It’s also used in post-production for film and television, where it’s used to edit and mix soundtracks and sound effects.
Cubase’s MIDI sequencing capabilities make it a popular choice for electronic music production, while its audio recording and editing features make it suitable for recording bands and solo artists. Its score editing features also make it a useful tool for composers and arrangers.
Basically, it is about as versatile as a DAW can get, so if you’re in the market for a rock-solid DAW that is not only trusted by some of the most famous musicians and composers currently working the planet but is also constantly evolving with new features, you might want to check it out for your recording projects.
Used by everything from Hans Zimmer to Meshuggah, Cubase is an industry stalwart and a leading pioneer in the field of DAWs. Ideal for creating, recording, mixing, and mastering, Cubase has all the tools you need to create professional-sounding music at home. We love this software.
- Control Room: Unmatched recording and monitoring control for a superior mix.
- Sound Quality: A 64-bit audio engine that delivers professional-level audio.
- Plug-Ins: A wealth of high-quality plug-ins for any genre.
- Score Editor: Ideal for composers with its sophisticated notation feature.
- Customizable Interface: Adaptable to your workflow for optimal productivity.
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