Cubase review
A full desktop studio for producers and composers who need audio, MIDI, mixing, and video workflows.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Cubase is Steinberg’s desktop digital audio workstation for music producers, composers, recording engineers, and musicians. It brings together multitrack audio recording and editing, MIDI sequencing, mixing, mastering, virtual instruments, effects, and video workflows. The software runs on Windows and macOS, with Pro, Artist, and Elements editions that separate advanced production capabilities from more focused toolsets. Its long history, dating to 1984, places it within the established desktop studio tradition.
The edition structure is the main buying consideration. Cubase Pro 15 is aimed at professional composition, recording, mixing, and editing, adding Dolby Atmos support, advanced MIDI editing, a modulation system, and a professional plug-in set. Artist 15 adds VariAudio pitch correction, multi-track AudioWarp and Audio Quantize, advanced comping, a pattern sequencer, and Drum Track. Elements 15 provides a narrower entry point with Chord Pads, Retrospective Record, Scale Assistant, Sampler Track, and over 20 GB of sounds and loops. Cubase is paid software without a free plan, while the vendor advertises a free trial.
Its strongest fit is traditional studio production that needs more than a basic audio editor. VST 3 support provides access to third-party instruments and effects, while the noise gate addresses unwanted noise artifacts. Video import, video tracks, audio extraction, and video export extend the workstation into audiovisual production. VST Connect adds remote recording and musician collaboration, and Omnivocal Beta provides vocal synthesis. Choose Cubase if you need a broad Windows or Mac production environment spanning audio, MIDI, plug-ins, and video. Look elsewhere if you need a free plan or a non-desktop workflow.
Cubase pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Combines multitrack audio, MIDI sequencing, mixing, and mastering tools
- Supports VST 3 plug-ins, video workflows, and remote recording via VST Connect
- Offers tiered editions for professional, advanced, and foundational workflows
- Where it doesn't
- No free plan is available
- Feature access varies across Pro, Artist, and Elements editions
- Focused on Windows and macOS desktop production
Cubase fact sheet, pricing and score →
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