Steinberg Cubase - Detailed Review
Music Tools
Steinberg Cubase - Product Overview
Steinberg Cubase Overview
Steinberg Cubase is a comprehensive digital audio workstation (DAW) that has been a cornerstone in music production since its inception in 1989. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
Cubase is designed for music and MIDI recording, arranging, and editing. It allows users to edit and sequence audio signals and MIDI data, making it an essential tool for composers, producers, and engineers. The software supports both audio and MIDI tracks, enabling users to create, edit, and mix music from start to finish.
Target Audience
Cubase caters to a wide range of users, from professional composers and producers to beginners in music production. It is used by Grammy and Oscar award-winning professionals as well as by students and hobbyists. The different editions of Cubase, such as Pro, Artist, and Elements, are tailored to meet the varying needs and skill levels of its users.
Key Features
Audio and MIDI Editing
Audio and MIDI Editing: Cubase offers advanced tools for editing both audio and MIDI tracks. Features include the Key Editor, Drum Editor, and Score Editor, which provide precise control over note editing, chord inversions, and quantization.
VST Instruments and Effects
VST Instruments and Effects: Cubase supports Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plug-ins, allowing users to integrate a wide range of virtual instruments and effects. This includes instruments like HALion Sonic SE and Groove Agent SE, which are included in various editions of Cubase.
Expression and Note Control
Expression and Note Control: The software includes features like Expression Maps and Note Expression, which allow for detailed control over instrument articulations and dynamics. This enables more nuanced and expressive performances.
Audio Warp and Quantize
Audio Warp and Quantize: Cubase features Audio Warp Quantize, which allows for non-destructive quantization of audio tracks, and real-time time-stretching and pitch-shifting without losing sound quality.
Mixing and Exporting
Mixing and Exporting: Users can mix their tracks down into various formats, including stereo WAV files, MP3s, and files ready for CD or DVD burning, or for web publication.
Multiple Editions
Multiple Editions: Cubase is available in several editions, each with different track limits and feature sets. For example, Cubase Pro offers unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, while Cubase Artist and Elements have limited but still substantial track counts.
Overall, Cubase is a versatile and powerful DAW that provides a comprehensive set of tools for music production, making it a favorite among professionals and aspiring musicians alike.
Steinberg Cubase - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Redesigns
Revamped MixConsole
Cubase 13 features a revamped MixConsole with a sleek, streamlined user interface. This overhaul is designed to help users focus better on mixing, with a new channel tab in the Project window that provides direct access to the most important mixing parameters for each channel. This allows for intuitive adjustments to the mix without leaving the song’s arrangement, all within a compact, per-channel view.Ease of Use
Approachable Interface
The interface is generally considered approachable and relatively intuitive, even for newcomers. Steinberg has included new contextual help features that highlight functions as users search for them, making it easier for new users to find their way around the software. The documentation and video resources provided by Steinberg further enhance the ease of use.Workflow Enhancements
MIDI Editors and Chord Pads
Cubase 13 introduces several workflow enhancements. For example, the MIDI editors have been enhanced with features like the Range Selection tool, allowing users to view and edit multiple parts directly from within the MIDI editors. This streamlines the composition workflow significantly. Additionally, the Chord Pads have been redesigned with new functionalities, including an integrated Chord Assistant and a circle of fifths, which helps users find creative chord progressions easily.Vocal Production
VocalChain Plugin
The new VocalChain plugin is a notable addition, combining all processing steps of the vocal mixing workflow into one ultra-flexible plugin. This makes it easier to achieve professional-sounding vocal recordings quickly and easily. The VoxComp compressor, specifically designed for vocals, is also available, helping to tame recordings without compromising clarity or expression.Visual Aesthetics
Design Changes
While the new interface is more streamlined, some users have noted a shift towards a more stark and aggressive visual design compared to earlier versions. The newer interface lacks the softer visuals and subtle contrasts of older versions like Cubase 8.5, which some users found more comfortable for extended use.Overall User Experience
Performance and Stability
The overall user experience in Cubase 13 is enhanced by its improved performance and stability, particularly on Mac systems, where previous versions had been problematic. The software now offers a mostly trouble-free experience, with smoother graphic performance and fewer crashes. The inclusion of high-quality samples, loops, and virtual instruments, such as HALion Sonic SE and Groove Agent SE, further enriches the user experience by providing a wide range of creative tools.Conclusion
In summary, Cubase 13 offers a more streamlined and intuitive user interface, enhanced workflow tools, and significant improvements in performance and stability, making it a versatile and user-friendly music production software. Steinberg Cubase - Key Features and Functionality
Steinberg Cubase Overview
Steinberg Cubase, a renowned digital audio workstation (DAW), has been integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced features to enhance music production. Here are some of the key features and how they work, particularly focusing on the AI-driven aspects:
AI Integration: Colors Free Plugin
One of the notable AI-driven features in Cubase is the “Colors Free” plugin. This plugin is a free VST instrument that leverages AI to generate unique sounds and textures. Here’s how it works:
- AI-Generated Randomizations: Colors Free uses AI to create randomizations of sounds, allowing users to explore a wide range of creative possibilities without manual tweaking.
- Layering and Presets: Users can save their crafted sounds as presets within Halion Sonic, the host instrument for Colors Free. Additionally, multiple instances of Colors Free can be layered to create complex, multi-layered patches.
Composition Tools
Cubase includes several composition tools that, while not necessarily AI-driven, are highly beneficial for creative workflows:
- Chord Pads and Chord Track: These tools help in creating and managing chord progressions. You can drop an audio recording onto the Chord Track, and Cubase will analyze and lay out the chord progression for you. The Chord Assistant can also suggest alternative chords based on the detected scale.
MIDI and Audio Editing
Cubase has enhanced its MIDI and audio editing capabilities:
- MIDI Retrospective Recording: This feature captures MIDI input even when you are not recording, allowing you to recover and use your best performances. It can stack cycles or continuous performances across multiple tracks.
- Audio Performance Window: This window provides real-time indicators, ASIO-Guard, and peak indicators to help monitor and optimize audio performance.
Automation and Workflow
Cubase has introduced several features to streamline the workflow:
- Combine Selection Tools Mode: This mode combines selection tools for both objects and ranges, speeding up the editing process by eliminating the need to switch between tools.
- Default Fades and Audition Function: Users can apply default fades to create event-based fade-ins and fade-outs. The audition function allows direct preview of any position in the analyzed audio event.
MIDI Controller Integration
Cubase has improved MIDI controller integration:
- MIDI Remote Scripts: Cubase automatically detects and maps MIDI controllers using new MIDI remote scripts. Users can also create custom scripts using the MIDI Controller Surface Editor.
Export and Compatibility
Cubase offers advanced export options and compatibility features:
- Dolby Atmos Export: Users can export Dolby Atmos mixes as fully compliant Audio Definition Model (ADM) files in Broadcast Wave Format (BWF).
- Video Export: Cubase allows exporting videos including audio directly, rendering videos as MP4 with H.264 video compression and 16-bit stereo audio.
These features, especially the AI-driven Colors Free plugin, demonstrate how Cubase is integrating advanced technologies to enhance creativity and efficiency in music production.
Steinberg Cubase - Performance and Accuracy
Performance Issues
Cubase, despite its advanced features and widespread use, still faces some significant performance issues. Users have reported 100% performance load spikes, particularly in older versions like Cubase 7 and 8. These spikes can occur during simple actions such as dragging events around on the Arrangement track, hovering or moving the Mute or Cut Tool over events, or even just scrolling the Arrangement Track. In more recent versions, such as Cubase 13, users continue to experience performance and stability issues, including high peak performance spikes, audio dropouts, and erratic behavior, especially with low latency settings and certain VST instruments. These issues persist across different hardware configurations, including both Mac and Windows systems.Project Size Limitations
Another critical limitation is the project size cap. Cubase has a hard limit of exactly 4.29 GB for project size. Exceeding this limit by even one megabyte can result in instant project corruption. This is a significant constraint for users working on large, complex projects.Feature Enhancements and Improvements
Despite these issues, Cubase continues to receive updates and improvements. For example, Cubase 12 introduced several new features and workflow enhancements, including improved audio warp quantization, sample-accurate volume automation, and better integration with external devices. These updates aim to make the workflow more efficient and stable.Accuracy and Stability
The accuracy of Cubase’s tools, such as the Chord Tracks, Expression Maps, and Note Expression, is generally high. These features help users maintain precise control over chord changes, instrument articulations, and MIDI controller applications. However, the stability issues mentioned earlier can sometimes undermine the accuracy of these features in practice.Areas for Improvement
One of the main areas for improvement is optimizing performance, especially at low latency settings. Users have consistently reported that other DAWs like Studio One and Logic Pro handle similar tasks more smoothly. Addressing these performance issues would significantly enhance the user experience and reliability of Cubase. Additionally, resolving the project size limit would be beneficial for users working on large-scale projects. While the current limit does not corrupt earlier versions of the project, it still poses a significant constraint that could be alleviated with further development.Conclusion
In summary, while Cubase offers a rich set of features and tools for music production, it still faces challenges related to performance stability and project size limitations. Addressing these issues would be crucial for improving the overall user experience and ensuring that Cubase remains a competitive choice in the music production software market. Steinberg Cubase - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure of Steinberg Cubase
The pricing structure of Steinberg Cubase is varied, offering several options to cater to different user needs and budgets.
Purchase and Upgrade Options
- Users can purchase Cubase outright in a single payment. For example, Cubase Pro 12 can be bought for a one-time fee, which is typically around $500.
- For those upgrading from previous versions, the pricing has recently changed. Upgrading to Cubase 14 now costs £165 if you are upgrading from Cubase 12, or £207 if you are upgrading from earlier versions. This is an increase from the previous upgrade price of £85 for upgrades from Cubase 12.
Subscription Model
- Steinberg also offers a monthly subscription model for Cubase Pro 12, in partnership with Splice.com. This model allows users to pay $16.99 per month, and after 34 months, they will own the software outright. This option is beneficial for those who cannot afford the full purchase price at once.
Free and Trial Options
- There is no fully free version of Cubase available for everyone, but there are some limited free options:
- Cubase AI and LE versions are available for free, but these are typically bundled with specific hardware purchases, such as Yamaha audio and MIDI hardware.
- Steinberg offers a 60-day free trial for Cubase Pro 14 and Cubase Elements 14, allowing users to test the full features of the software before deciding to purchase.
Tiers and Features
- Cubase Pro: This is the full-featured version, offering advanced tools for music and MIDI recording, arranging, and editing. It includes features like Chord Tracks, Expression Maps, Note Expression, and Audio Warp Quantize.
- Cubase Elements: This is a more streamlined version with a subset of the features available in the Pro version. It is designed for users who do not need all the advanced features of the Pro version.
- Cubase AI and LE: These are cut-down versions that come with specific hardware. They offer basic features but are not as comprehensive as the Pro or Elements versions.
Conclusion
In summary, Steinberg provides multiple paths to access Cubase, including outright purchase, subscription models, and limited free versions tied to hardware purchases or trials. This allows users to choose the option that best fits their budget and needs.
Steinberg Cubase - Integration and Compatibility
Integration and Compatibility of Steinberg Cubase
Cubase, a prominent digital audio workstation (DAW), integrates with various tools and maintains a high level of compatibility across different platforms and devices. Here are some key points regarding its integration and compatibility:Platform Compatibility
Cubase is available on both macOS and Windows platforms, ensuring users can work seamlessly regardless of their operating system preference.VST Compatibility
While Cubase 14 marks the end of official compatibility support for VST 2 plug-ins, it continues to support VST 3 plug-ins. This change may affect users who rely on older VST 2 plugins, but there is no official workaround for using VST 2 in Cubase 14.DAWproject Support
Cubase 14 introduces support for DAWproject, an open exchange format for user data between different DAWs. This feature, developed in collaboration with the Bitwig team, enhances interoperability between Cubase and other DAWs, making it easier to transfer projects and data.Hardware Compatibility
Cubase is compatible with a wide range of hardware, including control surfaces and MIDI devices. For instance, hardware advertised as supporting Cubase generally works with Nuendo as well, since both share the same code base. However, there may be some exceptions where certain hardware features do not work identically in Nuendo.Cross-DAW Compatibility
Cubase and Nuendo, another DAW from Steinberg, share a significant amount of compatibility due to their shared code base. This means that third-party products and hardware that support Cubase will also support Nuendo, although some specific features might operate differently.Mobile and Tablet Integration
Steinberg also offers Cubasis, a version of Cubase designed for iOS and Android devices. Cubasis supports MIDI and audio tracks, Audiobus, and virtual MIDI, allowing users to work on their projects across different devices, from mobile to desktop.Version Compatibility
Cubase 14 introduces changes that affect forward compatibility with older Cubase versions. Projects created in Cubase 14 may not be fully compatible with previous versions, which could impact workflow for users who need to collaborate or work across different versions of the software.Conclusion
In summary, Cubase integrates well with a variety of tools and hardware, and its compatibility across different platforms and devices is well-established. However, users should be aware of the changes in VST support and version compatibility to ensure smooth workflow transitions. Steinberg Cubase - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Email Support
You can email your questions to Steinberg’s Customer Support Specialists. This is a good option if you need detailed assistance or prefer written communication. Support teams in different regions, such as the U.S. and Canada, are available to respond to emails during their respective business hours.
Chat Support
Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, providing quick and immediate assistance for your queries.
Phone Support
Phone support is available Monday through Friday, but the hours vary. In the U.S., phone support is available from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. For users outside of warranty or not the original owners, there is an option for paid phone support at $9.95 for 15 minutes.
Additional Resources
Knowledge Base and FAQs
Steinberg provides an extensive Knowledge Base that includes update patches, manuals, troubleshooting steps, and frequently asked questions. This resource is available 24/7 and can be downloaded for your convenience.
Video Tutorials
There is a comprehensive collection of video tutorials on the Steinberg website, covering all levels of expertise. These tutorials include basics for beginners, advanced techniques, and specific topics like recording metal or producing drum and bass. These videos are designed to help you learn and improve your skills in Cubase.
Community Forum
The Steinberg community forum is another valuable resource where you can find answers to common issues and interact with other users who may have experienced similar problems.
One-on-One Training
For more personalized support, you can consider services like OBEDIA, which offers live one-on-one tutorials and tech support from industry experts via phone or remote desktop technology. This service is available for a monthly subscription and includes additional resources like recording guides and video tutorials.
By leveraging these support options and resources, you can quickly resolve issues, learn new skills, and make the most out of your Cubase experience.
Steinberg Cubase - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Steinberg Cubase
Audio and MIDI Editing
Cubase offers exceptional audio and MIDI editing tools, including the Key Editor and Drum Editor, which are highly versatile for songwriters and composers. The Sample Editor and AudioWarp technology allow for real-time audio time stretching and pitch shifting without compromising sound quality.Virtual Instruments and Effects
Cubase Pro includes a wide range of powerful virtual instruments such as Padshop, Retrologue, Loopmash, and the lighter versions of HALion and Groove Agent. These tools are highly praised for their creativity and usability. The effects plug-ins, including a new brickwall limiter and well-featured EQ, make it a strong contender for music production and mastering.Performance and Stability
Recent versions of Cubase have significantly improved in terms of performance and stability, particularly on Mac systems. Users have reported a mostly trouble-free experience, with fewer crashes and smoother interface performance.Ease of Use
Cubase is relatively approachable and intuitive, especially with the new contextual help system that highlights functions as you search. This, combined with solid documentation and video tutorials, makes it easier for newcomers to get started.MIDI Capture and Automation
Cubase has a superior MIDI capture function, especially when playing while looping, and its automation transformation functions are more flexible compared to other DAWs like Studio One.Disadvantages of Steinberg Cubase
Channel Grouping and VCA
One of the significant drawbacks is the lack of a proper channel grouping system and a fully realized VCA implementation. This limits the functionality compared to other DAWs like Pro Tools.Clip Launching and Modulation
Cubase does not fully support clip launching and internal modulation or macro systems, which are features that are well-developed in DAWs like Ableton Live and Bitwig.Limited Virtual Instruments in Lower Versions
While Cubase Pro offers a wide range of instruments, the lighter versions (Cubase AI and LE) include only the SE versions of HALion and Groove Agent, which are limited compared to their full versions.Comparison to Other DAWs
Cubase lags behind Apple Logic Pro in terms of the number and quality of included samples and loops, and some users find it less user-friendly compared to Studio One, especially in terms of workflow and specific features like patterns.AI Integration
While Cubase itself does not yet heavily integrate AI into its core functions, there are third-party plugins and tools, such as the Colors Free plugin, that utilize AI for advanced synthesizer capabilities. However, this is not a native feature of Cubase but rather an addition through external plugins. In summary, Cubase is a powerful DAW with excellent editing tools, virtual instruments, and effects, but it has some limitations in channel grouping, VCA implementation, and AI integration, and it may not be as user-friendly or feature-rich in certain areas compared to other DAWs. Steinberg Cubase - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing Steinberg Cubase
When comparing Steinberg Cubase to other music production software in the same category, several key features and differences stand out.
Unique Features of Cubase
- Advanced Score Editor: Cubase, especially the Pro version, boasts a highly advanced score editor, which is particularly useful for composers and those working with notation. This feature is more comprehensive than what is available in Cubase AI and Elements.
- MIDI Implementation: Cubase is renowned for its powerful MIDI tools, including features like Chord Pads, Chord Track, and Note Expression. These tools make it a favorite among MIDI-intensive users.
- Channel Strip and Effects: Cubase offers a wide range of effects and a sophisticated Channel Strip with various processors like Tube Compressor, Vintage Compressor, and Brickwall Limiter. The Pro version includes even more advanced effects and processors compared to the Elements and AI versions.
- Arranger and Sampler Tracks: The Arranger Track allows for flexible arrangement of project sections, while the Sampler Track enables quick conversion of audio into playable instruments. These features are not available in Cubase AI.
Alternatives and Competitors
Ableton Live
- Live Performance Focus: Ableton Live is highly regarded for its live performance capabilities and real-time editing features. It is particularly popular among electronic music producers and live performers.
- Session View: Unlike Cubase’s linear timeline, Ableton’s Session View allows for a more flexible and improvisational workflow.
- Max for Live Integration: Ableton’s integration with Max for Live provides a vast array of customizable devices and effects.
Logic Pro
- Exclusive to Mac: Logic Pro is Apple’s professional DAW, available only for macOS. It is known for its seamless integration with other Apple products and a user-friendly interface.
- Built-in Instruments and Effects: Logic Pro comes with a wide array of built-in instruments and effects, including the popular EXS24 sampler and the Drummer plugin.
- Score Editor: While not as advanced as Cubase Pro’s score editor, Logic Pro’s score editor is still very capable and integrates well with the rest of the DAW.
FL Studio
- Beat-Oriented Workflow: FL Studio is popular among hip-hop and electronic music producers due to its beat-oriented workflow and powerful step sequencer.
- Plugin Suite: FL Studio includes a range of plugins, such as the Harmor and Harmless synthesizers, and the Fruity Reverb effect.
- User Interface: FL Studio has a unique and customizable interface that many users find intuitive and efficient.
Pro Tools
- Industry Standard for Audio Post-Production: Pro Tools is the industry standard for audio post-production and is widely used in professional recording studios.
- Advanced Audio Editing: It offers advanced audio editing tools, including multi-track editing and surround sound mixing.
- Integration with Avid Hardware: Pro Tools integrates seamlessly with Avid hardware, making it a favorite among professionals in the audio post-production field.
Conclusion
Each DAW has its unique strengths and user base. Cubase stands out with its advanced MIDI and scoring capabilities, making it a top choice for composers and producers who work heavily with MIDI and notation. However, depending on your specific needs, whether it’s live performance (Ableton), exclusive Mac integration (Logic Pro), beat-oriented production (FL Studio), or professional audio post-production (Pro Tools), there are other DAWs that might better suit your workflow.
Steinberg Cubase - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Steinberg Cubase
Q: What are the system requirements for Steinberg Cubase?
Cubase has specific system requirements to ensure smooth operation. For Windows, you need at least a 64-bit Windows 11 or Windows 10 (version 22H2 or higher), an Intel Core i5 (4th Generation) or AMD Ryzen processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 75 GB of free hard disk space. For macOS, you need macOS Ventura or Monterey, an Intel Core i5 (mid 2013 or later) or Apple silicon, and similar RAM and storage requirements.Q: How do I install and activate Cubase?
To install Cubase, you can download the installer from the Steinberg Download Assistant or the Help center. For activation, an internet connection is required once, but after activation, you can use the software without an internet connection. Cubase 13 uses Steinberg Licensing, an identity-based license management system, and does not require an eLicenser USB dongle.Q: Can I install Cubase on multiple computers?
Yes, you can install Cubase on multiple computers, but you can only activate it on three computers at any one time. This is part of the single-user license policy, which is intended for a single person’s use. If you need to activate it on a new computer, you must first deactivate it on one of your existing computers.Q: What is the difference between an update and an upgrade in Cubase?
An update allows you to move from a previous version to the latest version within the same generation (e.g., from Cubase Pro 12 to Cubase Pro 13). An upgrade, however, allows you to switch to a more advanced version of Cubase (e.g., from Cubase Elements 13 to Cubase Pro 13).Q: Does Cubase support VST2 plug-ins?
Yes, Cubase 13 supports VST2 plug-ins on Windows and Intel Macs. However, on Apple Silicon Macs, VST2 plug-ins are only supported in Rosetta 2 mode, not in native mode.Q: Can I open previous Cubase version projects with Cubase 13?
With a Cubase 13 license, you can open projects created in Cubase 12, but not projects from earlier versions that used the eLicenser license management system. However, you can use Cubase 13 to open and work on projects from previous versions.Q: What hardware components are crucial for running Cubase smoothly?
For optimal performance, it is recommended to have a powerful CPU (at least 8-core, preferably 12-core or more), ample RAM (16 GB or more, ideally 32 GB to 64 GB), and sufficient storage. The CPU is the most critical component, as it handles CPU-intensive tasks such as recording, mixing, and mastering.Q: Are there educational discounts available for Cubase?
Yes, Steinberg offers discounts for students, teachers, and educational institutions. You can find more details on these discounts in the Steinberg Education Shop.Q: How do I transfer a Cubasis project to Cubase on my computer?
To transfer a Cubasis project to Cubase, you need to install the Cubasis Importer for Cubase on your computer. Transfer the project via your preferred sharing method, which will arrive as a .zip file containing a .cpb (Cubasis Project) file and all audio files. Unzip the file and import the .cpb file into Cubase through the *File -> Import -> Cubasis* menu.Q: Do I need to be connected to the internet to use Cubase after activation?
No, after the initial activation, you do not need an internet connection to use Cubase. The software can run indefinitely without reconnecting to the internet. Steinberg Cubase - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase is a highly regarded and versatile music production software that caters to a wide range of users, from beginners to professional composers and producers. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and who would benefit most from using it.User Interface and Workflow
Cubase 13, the latest version, boasts significant user interface redesigns and workflow enhancements. The MixConsole has been overhauled for a more streamlined and intuitive mixing experience, and the new channel tab in the Project window allows for direct access to key mixing parameters without leaving the song arrangement.Features and Tools
Cubase is packed with features that make music production more efficient and creative. The VocalChain plugin simplifies the vocal mixing workflow, combining all processing steps into one flexible plugin. The software also includes enhanced MIDI editors, a redesigned Chord Pads feature for easy chord progressions, and the Iconica Sketch library for creating full orchestral scores.AI and Advanced Tools
While Cubase itself does not heavily integrate AI within its core functions, it does support various AI-driven plugins and tools. For example, users can utilize plugins like Colors Free, which leverages AI for advanced synthesizer capabilities, though these are not native to Cubase but rather compatible additions.Who Would Benefit Most
- Professional Composers and Producers: Cubase Pro offers advanced features like multi-part editing in MIDI editors, the Steinberg Vocoder, and high-quality equalizers and compressors, making it ideal for those working on complex compositions and studio-grade productions.
- Beginners and Hobbyists: Cubase Elements provides a more streamlined and accessible version of the software, perfect for those taking their first steps in music production. It still includes many of the core features and tools necessary for creating high-quality music.
- Musicians Across All Genres: Whether you are working on film scores, pop music, or any other genre, Cubase’s comprehensive feature set and ease of use make it a versatile tool for all music production needs.