Steinberg Cubase Pro is a highly regarded digital audio workstation (DAW) renowned for its comprehensive features that cater to music production, recording, editing, and mixing. During our extensive testing of music production software, we found this industry-leading platform to be one of the most powerful solutions for professional musicians, producers, and composers seeking advanced capabilities.
TechRadar reviewers have spent thousands of hours testing 50+ digital audio workstations, giving us deep insight into what makes each platform work for different users. If you’re looking at different options, we recommend checking out our guide to the best music production software, where you’ll find alternatives that might better suit more specific needs.
Cubase Pro provides a sophisticated experience, but it doesn’t quite match the streamlined workflow and modern interface offered by Logic Pro, our top pick for the best music production software in 2025. Cubase’s strength lies in its comprehensive feature set and flexibility — allowing users to handle complex projects with advanced MIDI editing and pristine audio quality. But it comes at the cost of a steeper learning curve and interface complexity.
STEINBERG CUBASE PRO: 2-MINUTE REVIEW
During our time with Cubase Pro, we found it very easy to create professional-quality music productions. It stands out for its comprehensive feature set. You can record, edit, mix, and master everything within a single application with industry-leading precision.
Cubase focuses on professional music production needs. It includes powerful MIDI editing, advanced audio manipulation, and extensive mixing capabilities. We liked the high-resolution audio engine that delivers pristine sound quality and the modular approach that lets you customize workflows.
However, this comprehensive approach has a learning curve consideration. The interface can be complex for beginners compared to more streamlined DAWs like GarageBand. Performance can be impacted with large projects or extensive plugin usage, which may challenge users with modest computer specifications.
But while it lacks the simplicity of beginner-focused DAWs or the modern interface of newer competitors, Cubase Pro offers a well-balanced professional platform. It prioritizes depth and capability over ease of use. For those serious about music production, Cubase’s approach feels more comprehensive than most alternatives.
WHAT IS STEINBERG CUBASE PRO?
Cubase is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by Steinberg for music and MIDI recording, arranging and editing. Simply put, it lets musicians and producers create professional-quality recordings without expensive studio equipment. Think of it as a complete recording studio inside your computer.
Begin by recording instruments or vocals using audio interfaces and microphones. Afterwards, you can edit your recordings using advanced tools for timing, pitch, and dynamics. The platform handles complex routing, effects processing, and mixing automation behind the scenes.
Developed by Steinberg, a German company with a long-standing reputation in the music software industry, Cubase Pro has been shaping digital music production since 1989. Along with recording and editing, it offers virtual instruments, effects processing, and comprehensive mixing tools that enable complete music production workflows from composition to mastering.
FEATURES
Cubase Pro packs essential features tailored for professional music creation, including advanced MIDI editing, high-resolution audio recording, comprehensive mixing tools, virtual instruments, score notation, and project collaboration capabilities. Cubase is renowned for its powerful and intuitive music production capabilities. From recording and editing to mixing and mastering, Cubase provides an environment where creativity flourishes.
AI integration plays a supporting role through intelligent audio analysis and automated correction tools, while advanced visualization features help users understand signal flow and project organization.
However, the extensive feature set may feel overwhelming for casual users compared to simplified consumer DAWs. As we explore Cubase’s capabilities, we’ll examine their functionality, performance, and practical value for music professionals while providing insights to maximize your production workflow.
TOOLS
Cubase offers a comprehensive toolkit designed specifically for professional music production and audio engineering workflows.
Audio Engine and Recording
One of Cubase Pro’s defining features is its high-resolution audio engine. Supporting 64-bit floating-point processing and sample rates up to 192 kHz, the engine ensures pristine audio quality throughout the production process. This level of fidelity is crucial for professional music production, where subtle details and dynamic range make the difference.
Cubase Pro excels in audio recording with support for recording multiple audio and MIDI tracks simultaneously, low-latency monitoring, and Steinberg’s renowned audio engine for exceptional sound quality. The audio engine is designed for stability and efficiency, capable of handling large track counts and intensive processing without compromising performance.
MIDI Editing and Composition
Cubase Pro is widely regarded as one of the most powerful DAWs for MIDI composition and editing. Its MIDI capabilities are extensive, making it a favorite among composers, arrangers, and electronic musicians. The Key Editor and Drum Editor provide specialized interfaces for detailed MIDI manipulation.
Chord Tracks help users keep track of chord changes and can optionally harmonize audio and MIDI tracks automatically, as well as trigger arpeggios and chords with basic voicings or voicings for piano and guitar. Expression Maps allow for detailed control over articulations and dynamics in instrument libraries, enhancing realism in MIDI-based orchestration.
Modulation and Automation
A completely new feature comes in the shape of six modulator tools that add excellent new functionality to the platform. These modulators provide creative options for parameter control and sound design, expanding the sonic possibilities within projects.
Event Volume Curves get a complete overhaul in Cubase 14. The ability to select a portion of an event and adjust its volume easily, with good visual and numerical feedback, brings advanced volume automation capabilities that were previously difficult to use.
Score Editor and Notation
The Score Editor provides a specialized interface for notation and scoring, catering to users involved in music composition and arranging. Significantly, the Score Editor has been completely revamped, with the older editor being replaced by a new one from the Dorico team, offering professional-grade notation capabilities.
This integration brings advanced scoring features that rival dedicated notation software, making Cubase suitable for composers who need both audio production and professional score output.
Mixing and Effects
Cubase Pro features a versatile mixing environment with the MixConsole providing comprehensive control over audio processing. Multitap Delay offers creative options for spatial and rhythmic effects in the mix, while extensive EQ and dynamics processing ensure professional results.
A full MixConsole view in the Lower Zone provides quick access to mixing controls without switching windows, streamlining the workflow between editing and mixing tasks.
Virtual Instruments and Sound Library
The software includes HALion Sonic SE, Groove Agent ONE, LoopMash 2, and VST Amp Rack, providing a comprehensive collection of virtual instruments and sound-shaping tools. These instruments cover everything from realistic acoustic instruments to electronic synthesis.
Sampler Track enables users to create sampled instruments directly within the DAW, expanding creative possibilities in sound design and allowing for quick manipulation of audio material into playable instruments.
EASE OF USE
Cubase Pro prioritizes professional functionality over simplicity, resulting in a powerful but complex interface that requires investment in learning. The design philosophy emphasizes comprehensive control rather than streamlined workflows, making it suitable for serious music production but challenging for beginners.
Getting Started
The application provides extensive documentation and tutorial resources to help new users navigate its complexity. However, the learning curve is steeper than consumer-focused DAWs, requiring time to master the interface organization and workflow concepts.
Project templates and track presets help accelerate the setup process for common production scenarios, while adaptive track presets allow users to create and save configurations that adapt to loaded instruments or effects.
Interface Design
Cubase features a traditional multi-window interface that can be customized extensively but may appear overwhelming initially. The layout follows professional audio software conventions, with separate windows for different functions like editing, mixing, and arrangement.
GUI can be inconsistent and lack clarity in some areas, and there are some users who regularly ask for more customization of the interface. Despite these limitations, experienced users appreciate the comprehensive access to all features and functions.
Workflow Optimization
The platform supports multiple editing paradigms, from linear timeline editing to pattern-based composition, accommodating different musical styles and production approaches. Smart Controls provide an intelligent interface for quick parameter control, enhancing efficiency for experienced users.
Remote Control Apps enable users to control various aspects of the DAW from compatible mobile devices, providing flexibility for different studio setups and collaborative workflows.
Performance Considerations
Cubase delivers stable performance for complex projects but requires adequate computer specifications for optimal operation. The software is optimized for modern processors and high-performance setups, supporting both Windows and Mac systems.
New Performance Monitor provides insights into system resource usage, helping users optimize their projects and identify performance bottlenecks before they impact workflow.
PRICING
Cubase Pro offers a tiered pricing structure designed to accommodate different user needs and budget considerations. The platform provides three main versions with varying feature sets and capabilities.
Version Comparisons
The three versions of Cubase – Elements, Artist and Pro – all share the same pristine sound quality and ease of use. Cubase Elements serves entry-level users, Artist targets intermediate producers, and Pro provides the complete professional feature set.
Pricing starts at approximately $99 for Elements, $329 for Artist, and $579 for Pro, positioning the full version in the premium segment of professional DAW software.
Value Proposition
The Pro version includes all advanced features like the complete Score Editor, comprehensive MIDI tools, advanced audio editing capabilities, and the full complement of virtual instruments and effects. This represents significant value for professional users who need complete functionality.
Educational discounts are available for students and teachers, making professional music production tools more accessible to learning environments and emerging musicians.
Upgrade Paths
Existing users can upgrade between versions at reduced costs, protecting their investment as their needs grow. Version updates typically provide new features and improvements while maintaining compatibility with existing projects.
Cross-platform licensing allows users to run Cubase on both Windows and Mac systems with a single license, providing flexibility for users working in mixed environments.
SECURITY
Cubase Pro implements comprehensive protection measures for project data and intellectual property throughout the production process. The platform follows professional software security standards while maintaining efficient workflow access.
Project Protection
Project files are saved with robust error recovery systems that prevent data loss during crashes or system failures. Automatic backup systems create multiple save points, ensuring that work is preserved even during technical difficulties.
Version control features help manage project iterations and collaborate safely with other users while maintaining the integrity of original compositions and arrangements.
Copy Protection
The software uses Steinberg’s licensing system that balances security with user convenience. License management allows installation on multiple personal computers while preventing unauthorized distribution.
USB-eLicenser support provides additional security options for professional environments where software protection is critical.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Steinberg provides comprehensive support resources for Cubase Pro users, with extensive documentation, community forums, and direct assistance options. The support infrastructure reflects the professional nature of the software and its user base.
Documentation and Learning
Steinberg provides extensive support for Cubase Pro users, including detailed documentation, video tutorials, and a vibrant user community. The software is widely used in educational institutions, professional studios, and by independent musicians, ensuring a wealth of resources and shared knowledge.
Online tutorials cover everything from basic operation to advanced production techniques, helping users master the software’s extensive capabilities.
Community Resources
The Cubase user community is large and active, providing peer-to-peer assistance, sharing techniques, and discussing best practices. Forums and social media groups offer quick access to experienced users who can provide solutions and creative inspiration.
Professional Support
Direct support channels are available for technical issues and licensing problems, with response times appropriate for professional users who depend on the software for their livelihood.
Regular updates and user-driven development ensure that Cubase Pro continues to evolve in response to user needs, maintaining its position at the forefront of digital music production.
ALTERNATIVES
While Cubase Pro offers comprehensive professional music production capabilities, users with specific requirements might benefit from exploring alternative DAW solutions that provide different workflows or specialized features.
Logic Pro
For Mac users, Logic Pro provides a more streamlined interface with excellent built-in content at a lower price point. Logic offers similar professional capabilities with a more modern interface design and tighter integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
However, Logic is Mac-only and may lack some of Cubase’s advanced MIDI editing capabilities that appeal to composers and electronic music producers.
Pro Tools
Pro Tools remains the industry standard for professional audio recording and mixing, particularly in commercial studios. It offers superior collaboration features and is widely used in professional environments.
Pro Tools excels in audio editing and mixing but may lack some of Cubase’s MIDI composition features and virtual instrument integration.
Ableton Live
Ableton Live provides a unique session-based workflow that appeals to electronic music producers and live performers. Its non-linear approach and performance features make it ideal for certain musical styles.
Live’s workflow differs significantly from traditional DAWs and may require adjustment for users accustomed to timeline-based editing.
Reaper
Reaper offers professional features at a budget-friendly price with extensive customization options. It provides excellent value for users who prefer to customize their working environment.
However, Reaper requires more setup and configuration compared to Cubase’s more integrated approach.
HOW WE TESTED STEINBERG CUBASE PRO
To evaluate Cubase Pro comprehensively, we created multiple test projects spanning different musical genres and production styles. We tested MIDI editing capabilities, audio recording quality, and mixing features using professional audio interfaces and monitoring systems.
We evaluated the new features in Cubase 14, including the modulator tools, enhanced event volume curves, and updated Score Editor, comparing them against previous versions and competitor offerings.
Our assessment included testing system performance with large projects, plugin compatibility, and workflow efficiency for different production scenarios from simple recordings to complex orchestral arrangements.
Finally, we examined the learning curve for users with different experience levels, tested customer support responsiveness, and analyzed the value proposition compared to alternative DAW solutions.
SUMMARY
To sum it up, Cubase Pro is a powerful professional DAW that successfully addresses the complex needs of serious music producers, composers, and audio engineers. Its combination of advanced features, pristine audio quality, and comprehensive editing tools makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize capability over simplicity.
The platform’s strength lies in its balance between depth and functionality. Cubase remains a powerful DAW, and Cubase 14 should manage to live up to most of the requirements of its extremely varied user base, whilst garnering new users and converts in the process, enabling professional results across diverse musical genres and production styles.
However, users seeking simpler workflows, modern interfaces, or budget-conscious solutions might find Cubase challenging compared to more streamlined alternatives. This is a solid, if not ground-breaking, update to one of the original workhorses of the DAW world.
So, if you’re serious about music production and need comprehensive professional tools, Cubase Pro is worth considering, especially with its extensive feature set and industry reputation. However, if you’re just starting out or prefer simpler workflows, alternatives like Logic Pro or Ableton Live might better serve your needs. In either case, consider your specific musical goals and technical requirements before deciding whether Cubase aligns with your music production objectives.
