Steinberg Cubase 6 - Music Production Software

Cubase 6 from Steinberg is a native music production system for Mac OS X and Windows 7. Like its past incarnations, the software combines full-featured audio and MIDI recording and editing, virtual instruments and powerful audio mixing, with the added flexibility of loop- and pattern-based arranging and mixing. Version 6 includes another round of significant new features and upgrades.

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The software places emphasis not only on technology and precision, but also on user friendliness, usability and ergonomics. With VST Expression 2, the company raises sequencer-based composing to a whole new level and offers an intuitive and functionally complete MIDI composing and sequencing toolset.

VST Expression Maps allow for working with multiple instrument articulations (e.g. huge orchestra libraries) and introduces an editing concept that is user-customizable and fully integrated with the Key and Score Editors. Instead of handling all MIDI controllers for switching articulations, VST Expression Maps allow seamlessly and transparently integrated editing as well, as full control over multiple articulations.

The software includes a huge set of VST MIDI plug-ins, creative tools, such as the drum step sequencer, the Beat Designer, a powerful arpeggiator, a MIDI pattern sequencer and a MIDI chord processor, and more. The Cubase Sample Editor allows for almost limitless creative freedom while editing audio with a full editing toolset that offers a huge range of functions.

The list could go on and on. Instead, please refer to the feature set to get a complete overview of everything the software can do. Cubase 6 has taken the concept of a complete virtual studio (in the box) to levels that were only a dream a decade ago. The user only needs to supply a computer, an I/O interface and monitoring to have access to virtually every tool possible to create professional audio, including working with surround.
What's New in Cubase 6

Drum Editing (Faster with Less Clicks)

Intelligent Transient Detection

Based on a state-of-the-art algorithm
Finding all drum hits is easy with intuitive preview feature and two specialized filters, called Peak and Beats
Detect single hits, rolls and ghost notes faster and more accurate than before
After the transients have been detected they are merged across multiple tracks by taking user definable priority of individual tracks into account
The drum hits are then cut up and grouped together ready for detailed tweaking - in this way, copying a great fill from verse 2 to verse 1 is solved with minimum effort - select one, move them all

Advanced Tempo Detection

Newly developed tempo detection algorithm, which accurately and semi-automatically determines the tempo of any rhythmic audio material, making it easy to determine the tempo of a drum performance that has not been recorded to a metronome
The resulting tempo map can be used to keep the dynamic feeling of natural tempo variations or to remove unwanted tempo changes quickly
Whatever rhythm is at hand, the software will detect the tempo and match the track to a beat grid of your choice

Multi-Track Audio Quantization

Rhythmic audio material can be quantized just like any MIDI material, offering numerous possibilities to fix timing issues and to change the groove of live-recorded drums
To preserve phase relationships between tracks, the individual slices on all tracks are still grouped and moved at once
Cubase automatically creates cross-fades between slices to ensure seamless transitions between them and fill gaps that might be introduced during quantization
A few clicks, and all drum tracks are matched to the bass drum, snare or whatever source or sources are desired
With the Slice Rules you can decide which sources will get a higher priority during slicing

Straightforward Drum Replacement

Hitpoint-to-MIDI function makes it very easy to replace, double or enrich live-recorded drum sounds
When the transients have been detected, a single click on the Create MIDI Notes button creates a MIDI track containing a MIDI note for each single drum hit
It's then up to the user which sampler or synthesizer they want to fuel with the note - one choice could be the included Groove Agent ONE drum sampler

Comp the Perfect Take

Lane Track

New Lane Track concept for lightning fast multi-take compositing
When recording several takes, the software instantly creates a Lane Track for each take
Simply swipe across the best parts of a take and Cubase automatically creates a master take that contains all selected parts
For comfortable compositing, each Lane Track sports a solo button and full editing functionality

Track Grouping

Track Edit Groups

The Track Edit Groups tool refines working with multi-track recordings by allowing multi-track editing with single-click actions
Whether it is guitar, bass or ambient recording, sound engineers mix several signals to get the best results (when recording a guitar for example, it is common to record signals from different amps or microphone types on separate tracks)
With Track Edit Groups activated, related tracks are tied together and can be edited at once, making this feature a huge time-saver

VST Expression 2

Maximum Expression on Every Note

Assign, create and edit multiple controller values directly on single note-level, all in a single handy graphical interface
The perfect choice for demanding orchestral arrangements and creating unique sound effects, Note Expression allows controller values to be drawn directly onto single note events in the Key Editor
Because each individual note event contains its own set of controller data, even polyphonic sounding notes can now be dynamically controlled, fully independent from each other
Composers can access controller information such as volume or pitch bend in one place, making it easy to scale, shift or delete several values at once
When moving or copying a note event, the associated controller data will follow as well - each single note event and controllers are treated as one unit, which makes working with instrument articulations faster and more intuitive
Breaking the traditional MIDI limitations opens up entirely new creative possibilities - imagine a chord containing different filter sweeps, volume curves or dynamic expressions for every single note
From ultra-realistic instrument sounds to the most unexpected sonic spheres, VST 3.5 and Note Expression enable a whole new creative approach to composition and sound design
Use VariAudio together with Note Expression to bring lifeless MIDI recordings to life -with the Extract MIDI feature inside the Sample Editor the user can make snapshots of the pitch and volume curves of monophonic audio recordings and paste that information into MIDI notes

Dynamics

The VST Expression set has been extended and now also sports dynamics in the Key Editor
From pianissimo to crescendo and fortissimo, all dynamics from the Score Editor are available in the new Articulations/Dynamics Lane in the Key Editor
When using VST 3.5-compatible instruments, instant acoustic feedback is available from parts that contain dynamics
Dynamics Mapping feature allows very fine adjustments for up to three controllers for dynamics, including velocity, volume and freely assignable MIDI CC

VST Expression Map

VST 3.5 compatible instruments such as the included HALion Sonic SE, as well as HALion Sonic and the HALion Symphonic Orchestra VST Sound Instrument Set can automatically transfer the articulation setup of each individual instrument sound to a VST Expression Map, a function that will dramatically speed up the setup of VST Expression maps

Processing and Instruments

VST Amp Rack

Featuring the best in convolution technology, VST Amp Rack delivers a comprehensive collection of outstanding guitar tones across an array of genres and styles, from vintage to modern, available with the simple push of a button
Based on some of the finest guitar amplifiers ever created, the rack comes with 7 distinct amplifier models that exactly reproduce the unique character of their originals
Whether it is clean, crunchy, or sustain, VST Amp Rack can delivers the perfect tone for studio-grade guitar tracks
The customizable guitar rack allows guitarists, bassists, engineers and producers to create complete setups, consisting of amplifiers, classic stomp box effects, speaker cabinets and microphone models
Sixteen legendary stomp boxes are available, including Wah Wah, Tape Delay and Fuzz, in combination with 6 classic speaker cabinets, 2 microphones, and a tuner

HALion Sonic SE

Streamlined version of HALion Sonic, Steinberg's premier VST workstation
Incorporates the same pristine audio and synthesizer engine as its brother, offering tight integration with Cubase 6 and more than 900 production-ready sounds and instruments
Intuitive handling, instant playability and VST 3.5 support make this new instrument the perfect choice for creative songwriting or just playing along
Equipped with detailed acoustic instruments and brilliant synthesizers, the SE version is an extensive pool of sounds for everyday studio work
Supports VST 3.5 and benefits from VST Expression 2 technology, includes time-saving tools for composers such as the automatic VST Expression map setup and the Note Expression features
Eight intuitive Quick Controls provide fast access to the most important sound-shaping parameters
MIDI file import mode makes full use of HALion Sonic SE's 16-part multi-timbral mode

HALion Symphonic Orchestra VST Sound Instrument Set

Contains a 60-day fully functional trial version of the HALion Symphonic Orchestra VST Sound Instrument Set, providing a wealth of acoustic orchestral instruments
The trial version can be upgraded online to a permanent license at a very special price exclusively for Cubase 6 customers
Existing HSO users can use HALion Symphonic Orchestra VST Sound Instrument Set with their existing license as a free update right away
Capturing every nuance and detail of a full palette and dynamic range of strings, brass, woodwind and percussion instruments, the library includes an almost inexhaustible range of articulations and expressive playing technique, directly accessible in HALion Sonic SE with VST Expression 2

LoopMash

LoopMash 2 offers more ways to remix loops and create new fresh variations while providing total control over the process
Over 20 new MIDI-controllable live and slice-based effects such as scratches, stutters and tape stops
Contains twice the amount of scenes (a total of 24) to inject more variety into a performances
Scenes can be rearranged using drag-and-drop and renamed by double-clicking on them
With full Undo/Redo support the user has the freedom to try every parameter combination that comes to mind without worrying about the consequences
Drag-and-drop slices from one LoopMash 2 track to another, or even into Groove Agent ONE

1

Workflow

Graphic User Interface

Significantly redesigned GUI that not only looks good but also makes the huge software feature set even more accessible
Color and contrast optimization minimize eye strain and viewing fatigue during extended viewing sessions, pivotal when working long hours to meet project deadlines
The brand-new look for Parts, Events, Arranger and Marker tracks helps distinguish between what's important and what may not be so important in the Project window, while the revised Inspector and the overall new color scheme round out the new design

X64 Support for Mac

The native Cubase 64-bit support under Mac OS X 10.6 64-bit increases the addressable amount of RAM from 2GB to 1TB
More RAM allows for the use of more tracks, plug-ins and samples
Allows for the use all the compatible libraries available on the market today

Enhanced Accessibility

Key Editor has been extended to provide smooth and intuitive access to all pivotal parameters
Command console for all the most important MIDI tools and functions in the form of the new Inspector
Expression Maps, Note Expression, Quantize, Transpose and Length are now close at hand, available from one central spot
New scaling tools for controller and automation data offer a highly intuitive user experience when working with MIDI data, including simultaneous editing of several events and a dramatically streamlined look-and-feel
Scale, rotate and move marked events up or down - all events are scaled smoothly in relation to each other
Parameters can be directly assigned to a Quick Control by simply right-clicking a VST 3 plug-in or instrument control
Use the Quick Control's "Learn mode" button to assign a plug-in or instrument's control to an empty Quick Control slot

Video Tutorials

Included

Features more than 2 hours of detailed video tutorials produced by Streamworks Audio.
Instructions range from step-by- step for beginners to advanced workflow and editing techniques
Recorded in finest HD quality and included for free

Other Details

Composing and Sequencing

Key Editor

At the heart of MIDI sequencing is the Key Editor, a powerful yet transparent tool which offers functional wealth that opens up virtually limitless possibilities for songwriters and composers
Entering, cutting, moving and transposing individual notes or whole chords, editing any of the hundreds of MIDI parameters available or reworking even the most subtle nuances of a MIDI performance are just some of the tasks for which the Key Editor has been developed and refined
The Inspector provides smooth and intuitive access to the most important MIDI tools and functions, including Expression Maps, Note Expression, Quantize, Transpose, Length and many more in one central spot
With the In-place Editing function, users can also process MIDI parts directly in the Project window in context with other tracks

Score Editor

Completely integrated, full notation environment for viewing the music in the form of scores, with full support for just about all symbol, display and editing options that this entails
Support for lyrics and remarks as well as drum notes, guitar tablature and lead sheets
Includes hundreds of professional notation symbols - simply select the tools needed to create fully professional score layouts for others including soloists, orchestras and choirs
Exchanging scores with other notation packages is only a matter of seconds with full Music XML Import / Export support
The Expression Maps of the VST Expression 2 set have been engineered to offer new levels of speed and intuitiveness when working with large sample libraries by introducing dynamic support for articulations and expressive notation that is automatically interpreted by a VST instrument

List Editor

The List Editor is a powerful MIDI editing tool that gives fast access to every single aspect of a MIDI note and can be a huge timesaver in complex projects

MIDI Plug-Ins

Huge set of VST MIDI plug-ins, including the drum step sequencer, the Beat Designer, a powerful arpeggiator, a MIDI pattern sequencer and a MIDI chord processor

Recording

Next Generation Audio Engine

Delivers a crystal-clear 32-bit floating-point resolution and 192kHz sample rate, with a pristine sound quality Includes true surround capability throughout, with each track and channel offering up to six discreet channels, ready for 5.1 surround and powered by Virtual Studio Technology

Convenience

Retrospective Record means that no take ever gets lost because record mode wasn't engaged in time
VST plug-in can be recorded with the signal, or simply used for monitoring while the untouched, signal is recorded in Cubase
The intuitive user interface supports even the largest recording rigs, with easy-to-use folders, customizable Track views and custom color schemes for Tracks that differentiate track types at a glance
The VST Connections window allows the user to not only setup custom I/O setups and customize port names but also switch between different I/O setups on the fly
Additional functions have been engineered to accelerate recording workflows, including the Arm/Disarm All Audio Tracks function, the Lock Record mode, and the Remaining Record Time display

Control Room

Dispensing with the need for hardware mixing consoles, the Control Room represents a paradigm shift for software in integrating real-world studio setups, and firmly puts the software at the heart of any recording environment
Custom busses and setups for up to 4 studio sends for performers, full talkback and metronome integration, custom monitor setups, and much more
In conjunction with Steinberg's MR816 CSX/X Advanced Integration DSP Studio FireWire interfaces, the Control Room offers latency-free recording completely integrated into the Cubase mixer and Control Room panels, with no need to use an additional mixing application

Editing

Sample Editor

Allows almost limitless creative freedom while editing audio
A full editing toolset offers a huge range of functions that not only cover common editing tasks right down to the sample level
The loop functions are a boon for anyone using loops in their project, including state-of-the-art transient and tempo detection, as well as audio quantization functions to perfect the timing, feel and flavor of live-recorded drum tracks

VariAudio

Offers completely integrated vocal editing and pitch alteration of individual notes in monophonic vocal recordings and can solve intonation and timing problems with only a few mouse clicks
Editing vocal lines in the Sample Editor is just as seamlessly and quick as if editing MIDI notes in the Key Editor
Provides complete control over the melody and intonation
Automatically corrects the intonation of vocal lines by quantizing the pitch and micro-pitch of an entire part
All detected notes and segments can be converted to MIDI notes, including the micro-pitch envelope which translates to pitch bend MIDI data
Seamless integration with Note Expression
No noticeable artifacts preserve the soul of the recording and its sonic fidelity

Multi-Track Editing

An intuitive toolset for multi-track audio editing and phase-stable quantization
Overcoming the differences between audio and MIDI, the software allows the user to quantize audio material just like any MIDI note, offering numerous possibilities to fix timing issues and to change the groove and feel of live-recorded drums and percussion instruments

Mixing

Professional Mixer

128 physical inputs and outputs, 8 inserts per Channel, 64 FX sends as well as 256 groups/busses and unlimited routing between audio channels, busses, groups and FX returns
Even in the largest projects, the system-wide automatic latency compensation synchronizes all audio streams in the system automatically
Three freely configurable mixer views show specific combinations of channels, channel types and zoom, guaranteeing full control over the session.
Track Presets system lets the user store, recall and archive track settings for just about any audio track or VST instrument for almost instant recall through the MediaBay

Full Automation

Dedicated automation panel for quick access to all automation functions
Enhanced transparency and flexibility provides professionals with the capability to set up a complete automation within minutes and control the session clearly

Free Routing

Routing capabilities allow totally unlimited routing between group channels regardless of their order, and supports sending from groups to FX returns as well as from FX returns into group channels
For even more flexibility, audio tracks not only send signals into groups and FX returns with help of the pre fader sends, but also patch signals post fader from the output tab to group channels and FX returns

Surround Mixing

Fully surround-capable architecture
All Cubase 6 VST 3 plug-ins are fully surround-ready, intelligently adapting their I/O configuration as required for mono, stereo or surround
Complete multi-channel audio signal path from input to output
Ability to export to the MP3 surround format for convenient delivery and distribution

Sidechain Input

Available on most VST 3 plug-ins included with Cubase 6
Thanks to the "free routing" architecture virtually any signal in the VST mixer can be used as a sidechain input signal
Sidechain is a crucial function for audio-controlled effects such as ducking (compression controlled by an audio source), but can be used creatively in many ways (for example controlling the LFO in modulation effects)

High-End EQ and Pro Reverb

Using the Channel Studio EQ means being able to create high quality mixes right out of the box, including multiple filter modes and characteristics
The REVerence convolution reverb sets high quality standards within the audio mixing process

Instruments

Includes 8 virtual instruments
HALion Sonic SE - streamlined version of HALion Sonic, Steinberg's premier VST workstation, incorporating the same pristine audio and synth engine as its award-winning brother, HALion Sonic SE offers tight integration with Cubase 6 and more than 900 production-ready sounds and instruments that will truly inspire your creative work
Groove Agent ONE - combines sampling with sound shaping and includes sliced loop and MPC-import, plus a custom library of acoustic, urban, hip hop and dance drum kits - each of the 16 virtual pads feature a complete sound processing section that gives full control of textures, timbres and expressiveness
LoopMash 2 - offers a unique and innovative way of working with loops and beats to create stunning new rhythms and grooves, seamlessly blending variations of both the included loops and any loop from the user's library, opening up a myriad of new creative possibilities
Prologue - polyphonic subtractive synthesizer with multi-mode variable resonance filters, powerful modulation capabilities, on-board effects and hundreds of presets
Spector - based on 2 spectrum filters, utilizing up to 6 oscillators per voice, with 2 different waveforms each - new sounds are created by drawing new filter curves and then shifting or morphing the two filter's spectrums
Mystic - synthesis using a combination of physical modeling and comb filtering to generate unique sounds - the sounds can be shaped with a filter (damping), by adding an offset to the comb filters (detune), or by adding a noise component (crackle)
Embracer - simple but powerful polyphonic synthesizer designed entirely for producing pads and accompaniment sounds
Monologue - monophonic analog synthesizer based on physical modeling technology, offering full, rich and colorful sounds without consuming a lot of CPU power - the perfect tool for bass, lead and sequenced sounds

Effects - EQ and Dynamics

EQ

Standard Channel EQ - full 4-band parametric control with variable response curves and shelving modes
Studio EQ - full 4-band parametric control with variable response curves and shelving modes, as well as analog-style peak filters
GEQ10 - graphic equalizer with 10 bands features drawing of EQ curves, an invert parameter, and 7 different response types - also features a global range control for overall amount of equalization
GEQ30 - graphic equalizer with 30 bands features drawing of EQ curves, an invert parameter, and 7 different response types - also features a global range control for overall amount of equalization

Filter

Dual Filter - classic dual low and high pass filter with resonance: filters out certain frequencies while allowing others to pass through
Step Filter - pattern-controlled multi-mode filter that can create rhythmic, pulsating filter effects - supports up to 16 steps for individual settings of cutoff-frequency and filter
Tonic - analog modeling filter designed to be a creative tool to add color and punch to any track - its variable characteristics plus the powerful modulation functions make it an excellent choice for all current music styles
WahWah - typical modeling effect that emulates wah-wah pedals - features parameters for frequency range, filter width, and gain range

Dynamics
Compressor - classic compressor with auto release, auto make-up gain, hard/soft knee, RMS/Peak, and "Live" mode which disables look-ahead for low-latency use
VintageCompressor - modeled after one of the most famous vintage compressors - easy to use but very effective
MultibandCompressor - features 4 independent bands with 3 crossover frequencies - each band has its own independent compressor (with Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release und Makeup Gain) and features independent Solo and Bypass per band, and auto mode for automatic attack/release control. Each compressor band has an independent automatic make-up gain
VSTDynamics - multi-effect plug-in, combining Compressor, Gate, Limiter and Soft Clipper with flexible routing capabilities
DeEsser - special type of compressor reduces excessive sibilance, primarily for vocal recordings
Limiter - straight-forward low-distortion limiter with auto-release puts a "hard ceiling" on any signal - also suitable for the master stage
Maximizer - hard limiter/loudness enhancer for master channel; features soft clipping and automatic attack/release
Gate - independent attack and release controls, auto-release, a side-chain input filter for ducking effects, as well as a "live" mode for low-latency use
Expander - features auto-release and "live" mode for low-latency use
EnvelopeShaper - Manipulates the transients of ideally percussive input signals; offers variable attack gain and length, as well as release gain controls
MIDI Gate - gate effect not triggered by threshold levels, but instead by MIDI notes - silences audio signals depending on incoming MIDI notes and their velocity
Chopper - combined tremolo and autopan effect which can use different waveforms to modulate the level (tremolo) or left-right stereo position (pan), either using tempo sync or manual modulation speed settings

Effects - Distortion and Modulation

Distortion

VST Amp Rack - virtual guitar tone suite, featuring 7 legendary amp models, 16 vintage stomp boxes, 6 classic speaker cabinets and 2 studio-grade microphone
AmpSimulator - guitar amp simulation with speaker simulation, also suitable for bass
ToneBooster - simple volume booster with a variable filter stage for tone control
Distortion - simulates the characteristic warm, lush sound of a tube amplifier
SoftClipper - soft clipping with independent 2nd and 3rd harmonics controls
DaTube - simulates the characteristic warm, lush sound of a tube amplifier
Grungelizer - adds noise and static to recordings
Bitcrusher - offers the possibility of decimating and truncating the input audio signal by bit reduction, to get a noisy, distorted sound

Modulation
Chorus - single stage chorus effect with filters
StudioChorus - dual-stage chorus with two identical stages running in serial; each stage also features a filter stage and a spatial parameter which creates modulation offsets between channels, also in surround configurations
Flanger - flanger with editable Lo/Hi Range, a filter stage, manual mode and a spatial parameter for multi-channel modulation offsets
Phaser - classic phaser with variable filter stage, manual mode, tempo sync and a spatial parameter for multi-channel modulation offsets
Tremolo - classic tremolo effect with optional tempo sync and a spatial parameter to add multi-channel modulation offsets
Vibrato - classic vibrato effect with optional tempo sync and a spatial parameter to add multi-channel modulation offsets
AutoPan - automatic panning effect with adjustable width, rate, two wave shapes - features tempo sync
Cloner - simulates the effect of double-tracking by creating up to four "cloned" signals from the original input source
Rotary - features independent Lo/Hi cabinet control, overdrive, slow/fast/stop modes
Tranceformer - ring modulator effect, in which the incoming audio is ring modulated by an internal, variable frequency oscillator, producing new harmonics
RingModulator - can produce complex, bell-like enharmonic sounds by multiplying two audio signals
Metalizer - feeds the audio signal through a variable frequency filter, with tempo sync or time modulation and feedback control

Effects - Reverb, Delay and Spatial

Reverb and Convolution

Roomworks - highly adjustable reverb plug-in for creating realistic room ambience and reverb effects in stereo and surround formats - CPU usage is adjustable to fit the needs of any system
Roomworks SE - light" version of Roomworks reverb - low on CPU load
REVerence - VST3 high end multi-channel convolution reverb processor, being capable of emulating speakers, analog gear and any natural room or hall imaginable - in stereo or surround with over 70 responses included

Delay
ModMachine - multi-stage delay/modulation effect that combines a wide-range delay with LFO controlled delay time, as well as a resonant filter with dual LFOs for frequency and resonance modulation
MonoDelay - monophonic delay processor with filter stage and tempo sync
StereoDelay - dual-channel delay with separate and independent left and right delay stage
PingPongDelay - dual-channel delay with tempo sync

Spatial
MonoToStereo - can create a pseudo-stereo signal from any mono source. Also includes controls for "color" and "delay"
StereoEnhancer - can enhance the stereo width of a stereo input signal. Features controls for "color" and "delay" to further enhance the effect

Effects - Pitch, Mastering and Tools

Pitch

PitchCorrect - the VST3 plug-in brings easy and automatic intonation control and scale correction of vocal and monophonic instrument recordings
Octaver - sub-octave pitch shifter creates two additional signals, one and two octaves below the input signal, each with variable level
Tuner - instrument tuner plug-in

Mastering
UV22 HR - dithering plug-in, based on an advanced algorithm developed by Apogee

Tools
Multiscope - used for viewing the waveform, phase linearity or frequency content of a signal
SMPTE Generator - sends out SMPTE time code to an audio output in order to synchronize other equipment to Cubase
Test Generator - generates an audio test signal for measurements and testing purposes of various kinds
Mix6to2 - allows controlling the levels of up to 6 surround channels and to mix these down to a stereo output
MixConvert - allows down mixing of surround channels for monitoring purposes
Mixer Delay - delay certain signals in the audio system if required
Surround Panner - used for positioning the sound source dynamically in the surround field

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