Operation Manual
The Steinberg Documentation Team: Cristina Bachmann, Martina Becker, Heiko Bischoff, Lillie Harris, Christina Kaboth, Insa Mingers, Matthias Obrecht, Sabine Pfeifer, Benjamin Schütte Translation: Ability InterBusiness Solutions (AIBS), Moon Chen, Jérémie Dal Santo, Rosa Freitag, Josep Llodra Grimalt, Vadim Kupriianov, Filippo Manfredi, Roland Münchow, Boris Rogowski, Sergey Tamarovsky This document provides improved access for people who are blind or have low vision.
Table of Contents 7 New Features 9 9 9 10 10 11 Introduction Platform-Independent Documentation PDF Documents and Online Documentation Documentation Structure Conventions Key Commands 12 12 13 22 27 Setting up Your System Studio Setup Dialog Setting up Audio Setting up MIDI Synchronizers 28 28 29 30 31 32 32 Audio Connections Audio Connections Window Renaming the Hardware Inputs and Outputs Adding Input and Output Busses Presets for Input and Output Busses Monitoring Bus Bus Configurations 34 35 35
Table of Contents 208 210 215 223 223 Monitoring Audio Recording Specifics MIDI Recording Specifics Remaining Record Time Lock Record 224 224 231 Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import MIDI File Import 233 233 234 235 235 235 236 Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Functions Quantizing MIDI Event Starts Quantizing MIDI Event Lengths Quantizing MIDI Event Ends Quantizing Audio Event Starts Quantize Panel 243 243 247 248 251 Fades and Crossfades Event-Based Fades Creating Clip-Based Fades Cro
Table of Contents 485 490 496 496 504 509 510 Other MIDI Controllers and MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog MIDI Controller Settings Pane MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant MIDI Remote Manager Window MIDI Remote Script Console MIDI Remote API 511 511 511 512 514 515 516 517 518 Remote Controlling Cubase Connecting Remote Devices Removing the Remote Input from All MIDI Inputs Setting up Remote Devices Remote Devices and Automation Assigning Commands to Remote Devices Track Quick Controls VST Quick
Table of Contents 732 732 734 735 735 Customizing Setup Options Windows Dialog Where are the Settings Stored? Safe Mode Dialog 738 738 739 739 740 Optimizing Audio Performance Performance Aspects Settings That Affect Performance Audio Performance Window ASIO-Guard 742 742 743 749 749 753 754 757 758 758 760 761 763 765 Preferences Preferences Dialog Editing Editors Event Display General MIDI MediaBay Metering Record Transport User Interface VST Video 766 Index 6 Cubase AI 12.0.
New Features The following list informs you about the most important improvements in Cubase and provides links to the corresponding descriptions. New Features in Version 12 Highlights Sample Accurate Volume Automation ● The new Volume Automation Precision function allows for volume automation that is 100% sample accurate, regardless of the buffer size. You can set the number of samples after which a new volume automation event is processed.
New Features More New Features Markers ● The new Markers window gives you a better overview of the markers used in your project and facilitates editing. See Markers Window. Sample Editor Editing Improvements ● The Sample Editor toolbar now comes with several improvements for displaying, zooming, and editing clips and events. See Sample Editor Toolbar.
Introduction This is the Operation Manual for Steinberg’s Cubase. Here you will find detailed information about all the features and functions in the program. The screenshots are taken from Cubase Elements. Platform-Independent Documentation The documentation applies to the operating systems Windows and macOS. Features and settings that are specific to one of these platforms are clearly indicated. In all other cases, the descriptions and procedures in the documentation are valid for Windows and macOS.
Introduction Documentation Structure Documentation Structure In our documentation, we divide information into three different types of topics, according to their content. Descriptions of the User Interface Topics that describe the functionality of user interface items and list the options and settings of dialogs, panels, or other items. Descriptions of Basic Concepts Topics that describe concepts and explain the functionality of a specific software feature.
Introduction Key Commands Example Provides you with an example. Result Shows the result of the procedure. After Completing This Task Informs you about actions or tasks that you can perform after completing the procedure. Related Links Lists related topics that you can find in this documentation. Markup Bold text indicates the name of a menu, option, function, dialog, window, etc. EXAMPLE To open the Functions menu, click Functions Menu in the top right corner of the MixConsole.
Setting up Your System To use Cubase, you must set up your audio, and if required, your MIDI system. Studio Setup Dialog The Studio Setup dialog allows you to set up your connected audio, MIDI, and remote control devices. ● To open the Studio Setup dialog, select Studio > Studio Setup.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Reset All Devices Resets all devices in the devices list. Devices list Select a device in the Devices list to show its settings in the right section. The following options are available at the bottom of the page for each device: Reset Sends a reset signal to the active ASIO device and restarts the audio processing. This can solve problems with audio playback. NOTE This leads to a short interruption of the playback. Apply Applies your settings on this page.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Simple Stereo Input and Output Setup If you only use a stereo input and output from Cubase, you can connect your audio hardware, for example, the inputs of your audio card or your audio interface, directly to the input source and the outputs to a power amplifier and speaker.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Word Clock Connections If you are using a digital audio connection, you may also need a word clock connection between the audio hardware and external devices. For details, refer to the documentation that came with the audio hardware. IMPORTANT Set up word clock synchronization correctly, or you may experience clicks and crackles in your recordings. Selecting an Audio Driver By selecting an audio driver, you allow Cubase to communicate with the audio hardware.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio NOTE The control panel is provided by the manufacturer of your audio hardware, and it is different for each audio interface brand and model. However, control panels for the Generic Low Latency ASIO Driver (Windows only) are provided by Steinberg. 4. Set up your audio hardware as recommended by the manufacturer. Audio System Page On the Audio System page, you can select an ASIO driver for your audio hardware.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Input Latency Shows the input latency of the audio hardware. Output Latency Shows the output latency of the audio hardware. ASIO-Guard Latency Shows the ASIO-Guard latency. HW Sample Rate Shows the sample rate of your audio hardware. HW Pull Up/Down Shows the pull up/down status of the audio hardware. In the Advanced Options section, the following options are available: Reset Allows you to reset the options in this section to their defaults.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Disk Preload Allows you to specify how many seconds of audio are preloaded into RAM prior to starting playback. This allows for smooth playback. Adjust for Record Latency If this option is activated, the plug-in latencies are taken into account during recording. Record Shift Allows you to shift the recordings by the specified value. Volume Automation Precision Allows you to set the number of samples after which a new volume automation event is processed.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio The following options are available: Control Panel Opens the control panel for the audio hardware. Input Latency Shows the input latency of the audio driver. Output Latency Shows the output latency of the audio driver. Clock Source Allows you to select a clock source. Externally Clocked Activate this option if you use an external clock source. Direct Monitoring Activate this option to monitor via your audio hardware and to control it from Cubase.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio I/O The port input/output status. Port System Name The system name of the port. Show As Allows you to rename the port. This name is used in the Input Routing and Output Routing pop-up menus. Visible Allows you to activate/deactivate audio ports. State The state of the audio port. At the bottom of the page, the following options are available: Reset Sends a reset signal to the active ASIO device and restarts the audio processing.
Setting up Your System Setting up Audio Using Several Audio Applications Simultaneously You can allow other applications to play back via your audio hardware even if Cubase is running. PREREQUISITE You have set other audio applications that access the audio hardware to release the audio driver. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2. In the Devices list, select Audio System. 3. Activate Release Driver when Application is in Background.
Setting up Your System Setting up MIDI Audio Bus Setup Cubase uses a system of input and output busses to transfer audio between the program and the audio hardware. ● Input busses let you route audio from the inputs of your audio hardware into Cubase. This means that audio is always recorded through one or several input busses. ● Output busses let you route audio from Cubase to the outputs of your audio hardware. This means that audio is always played back through one or several output busses.
Setting up Your System Setting up MIDI MIDI Connections To play back and record MIDI data from your MIDI device, for example, a MIDI keyboard, you need to connect the MIDI ports. Connect the MIDI output port of your MIDI device to the MIDI input port of your audio hardware. This way, the MIDI device sends MIDI data to be played back or recorded inside your computer. Connect the MIDI input port of your MIDI device to the MIDI output port of your audio hardware.
Setting up Your System Setting up MIDI MIDI Port Setup Page The MIDI Port Setup page in the Studio Setup dialog displays the connected MIDI devices and allows you to set up their ports. ● To open the MIDI Port Setup page, select Studio > Studio Setup and activate MIDI Port Setup in the Devices list. The following columns are displayed: Device The connected MIDI devices. I/O The port input/output status. Port System Name The system name of the port. Show As Allows you to rename the port.
Setting up Your System Setting up MIDI Use System Timestamp for 'Windows MIDI' Inputs Activate this option if you have persistent timing problems, such as shifted notes. If this is activated, the system timestamp is used as a time reference. Use Device 'DirectMusic' If you do not use a device with a DirectMusic device driver, you can leave this option deactivated. This enhances the system performance.
Setting up Your System Setting up MIDI The following columns are displayed: Vendor Shows information about the vendor of the connected MIDI controller. Device The connected MIDI controller. Created By Shows information about the script creator for the connected MIDI controller. Input Shows the input port of your MIDI controller. Output Shows the output port of your MIDI controller. Open MIDI Remote in Lower Zone Opens the MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window.
Setting up Your System Synchronizers Synchronizers When using Cubase with external tape transports, you must probably add a synchronizer to your system. IMPORTANT Make sure that all equipment is turned off before making any connections. For information on how to connect and set up your synchronizer, refer to the documentation of your synchronizer. RELATED LINKS Synchronization on page 688 27 Cubase AI 12.0.
Audio Connections To play back and record in Cubase, you must set up input and output busses in the Audio Connections window. The bus types that you need depend on your audio hardware, on your general audio setup, and on the projects that you use. Audio Connections Window The Audio Connections window allows you to set up input and output busses. ● To open the Audio Connections window, select Studio > Audio Connections.
Audio Connections Renaming the Hardware Inputs and Outputs The Device Port pop-up menu displays how many busses are connected to a given port. The busses are shown in square brackets next to the port name. Up to three bus assignments can be displayed in this way. If more connections have been made, this is indicated by a number at the end of the port name. For example, “Adat 1 [Stereo1] [Stereo2] [Stereo3] (+2)” means that the Adat1 port is already assigned to three stereo busses plus two additional busses.
Audio Connections Adding Input and Output Busses Activating and Deactivating Ports (macOS only) On macOS, you can specify which input and output ports are active. This allows you to use the microphone input instead of the line input or to deactivate the audio card input or output. NOTE This function is only available for built-in audio, standard USB audio devices, and some other audio cards. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2. In the Devices list, select your audio hardware driver. 3.
Audio Connections Presets for Input and Output Busses RESULT The selected bus is used as the default bus. Main Mix is indicated by a speaker icon next to its name. RELATED LINKS Inputs/Outputs Tab on page 28 Presets for Input and Output Busses For input and output bus configurations, you can use different kinds of presets. ● Standard bus configurations. ● Automatically created presets tailored to your specific hardware configuration.
Audio Connections Monitoring Bus RESULT The preset is deleted. Monitoring Bus The default output bus (Main Mix) is used for monitoring. You can adjust the monitoring level in the MixConsole. RELATED LINKS Setting the Default Output Bus (Main Mix) on page 30 MixConsole on page 263 Bus Configurations After you have set up all the required busses for a project, you can edit the names and change port assignments. The bus configuration is saved with the project.
Audio Connections Bus Configurations Renaming Multiple Busses You can rename all the selected busses at once using incrementing numbers or letters. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Audio Connections. 2. Select the busses that you want to rename. 3. Do one of the following: 4. ● Enter a new name for one of the busses, followed by a number. ● Enter a new name for one of the busses, followed by a space and a capital letter. Press Return .
Project Window The Project window provides an overview of the project, and allows you to navigate and perform large scale editing. Each project has one Project window. The Project window is displayed whenever you open or create a new project. ● To open a project, select File > Open. ● To create a new project, select File > New Project.
Project Window Showing/Hiding Zones 3 Lower Zone The lower zone shows the Chord Pads, the Editor, the MixConsole, and MIDI Remote. 4 Right Zone The right zone shows the VSTi rack, and the Media rack. RELATED LINKS Project Zone on page 35 Left Zone on page 47 Lower Zone on page 52 Right Zone on page 58 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Showing/Hiding Zones You can show/hide the zones in the Project window according to your needs.
Project Window Project Zone RELATED LINKS Track List on page 42 Event Display on page 43 Global Track Controls on page 43 Ruler on page 44 Status Line on page 46 Info Line on page 46 Overview Line on page 47 Transport Bar on page 47 Project Window Toolbar The toolbar contains tools and shortcuts for opening other windows and various project settings and functions.
Project Window Project Zone Opens/Closes the MediaBay. Open Pool Window Opens/Closes the Pool window. Open MixConsole Opens/Closes the MixConsole. State Buttons Deactivate All Mute States Deactivates all mute states. Deactivate All Solo States Deactivates all solo states. Activate/Deactivate Read for All Tracks Activates/Deactivates read automation for all tracks. Activate/Deactivate Write for All Tracks Activates/Deactivates write automation for all tracks.
Project Window Project Zone Shows the right locator position. Transport Controls Go to Previous Marker/Zero Moves the project cursor to the previous marker/zero position on the timeline. Go to Next Marker/Project End Moves the project cursor to the next marker/project end. Rewind Moves backward. Forward Moves forward. Activate Cycle Activates/Deactivates cycle mode. Stop Stops playback. Start Starts playback. Transport Record Activates/Deactivates record mode.
Project Window Project Zone Split Splits events. Glue Glues events together. Mute Mutes events. Zoom Zooms in. Hold Alt/Opt and click to zoom out. Line Creates a series of contiguous events. Play Allows you to play back events. Color Allows you to colorize events. Color Menu Select Color for Selected Tracks or Events Opens the Colorize pane that allows you to colorize the selected tracks or events. Nudge Nudge Start Left Increases the length of the selected event by moving its start to the left.
Project Window Project Zone Nudge End Left Decreases the length of the selected event by moving its end to the left. Nudge End Right Increases the length of the selected event by moving its end to the right. Snap Snap to Zero Crossing Restricts editing to zero crossings, that is, positions where the amplitude is zero. Snap On/Off Restricts horizontal movement and positioning to the positions specified by the Snap Type. Snap Type Allows you to specify to what positions you want events to snap.
Project Window Project Zone The upper bar displays either the current realtime peak or the ASIO-Guard load, depending on which of the two has the higher value. The lower bar shows the hard disk transfer load of the disk engine. For a more detailed display of realtime peak and ASIO-Guard load, click to open the Audio Performance window. MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant Open MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant Opens the MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant.
Project Window Project Zone Left/Right Toolbar Divider The left and right toolbar dividers allow you to lock the position of specific tools at the left or at the right side of the toolbar, so that they are always shown. All other items are shown in the center of the toolbar. When you reduce the width of the Project window, these toolbar items are hidden successively. When you increase the width, they are shown again.
Project Window Project Zone RESULT The track list is divided, and video, marker, or arranger tracks are automatically moved to the upper track list. All other track types are moved to the lower track list. NOTE The area of the project zone that has the focus is indicated by a highlighted and solid focus frame, whereas the non-active area is shown with a dashed frame.
Project Window Project Zone 1 Add Track Opens the Add Track dialog. 2 Use Track Preset Allows you to add a track using a track preset. Ruler By default, the ruler shows the timeline and the display format of the project. Initially, the Project window ruler uses the display format that is specified in the Project Setup dialog. However, you can select an independent display format for the ruler.
Project Window Project Zone The selection that you make affects the time display formats in the following areas: ● Ruler ● Info line ● Tooltip position values The following options are available: Bars+Beats Sets the ruler to display bars, beats, sixteenth notes, and ticks. By default, there are 120 ticks per sixteenth note. To change this, adjust the MIDI Display Resolution setting in the Preferences dialog (MIDI page). Seconds Sets the ruler to display hours, minutes, seconds, and milliseconds.
Project Window Project Zone Selecting the Primary Time Format on page 194 Status Line The status line shows the most important project settings. ● To activate the status line, click Set up Window Layout on the toolbar and activate Status Line. The following information is shown on the status line: Audio Inputs/Audio Outputs These fields are shown if the audio device ports are not connected. Click to open the Audio Connections dialog and connect the ports. Max.
Project Window Left Zone Example: You have selected two audio events. The first event has a length of 1 bar, the second event has a length of 2 bars. If you change the info line value to 3, the first event is resized to 3 bars and the second event is resized to 4 bars. ● Value changes are applied absolute to the current values if you press Ctrl/Cmd while modifying the value on the info line. In the example above, both events are resized to 3 bars.
Project Window Left Zone ● Inspector RELATED LINKS Inspector on page 48 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Inspector The Inspector displays controls and parameters for either the selected track in the track list or the event or part that is displayed in the editor in the lower zone. ● To show/hide the Inspector, click Show/Hide Left Zone in the Project window toolbar. 48 Cubase AI 12.0.
Project Window Left Zone The following tabs are available: Track Opens the Track Inspector for the selected track. Editor Opens the Editor Inspector for the event or part that is shown in the editor in the lower zone. RELATED LINKS Opening the Track Inspector on page 49 Opening the Editor Inspector on page 50 Opening the Editor in the Lower Zone on page 55 Opening the Track Inspector The Track Inspector shows controls and parameters for the selected track in the track list. PROCEDURE 1.
Project Window Left Zone RESULT The Track Inspector for the selected track opens. If more than one track is selected in the track list, the controls and parameters for the topmost selected track are shown. NOTE In this documentation, we use Inspector to refer to the Track tab of the Inspector. Opening the Editor Inspector The Editor Inspector shows controls and parameters for the event or part that is displayed in the editor in the lower zone.
Project Window Left Zone RESULT The Editor Inspector for the event or part opens. NOTE The Editor Inspector only contains information if an editor is displayed in the lower zone. Otherwise, it is empty. RELATED LINKS Opening the Editor in the Lower Zone on page 55 Inspector Sections The Track tab and the Editor tab of the Inspector are divided into sections that each contain different controls for the track, event or part. Not all Inspector sections are shown by default.
Project Window Lower Zone Key Editor Inspector on page 584 Drum Editor Inspector on page 615 Sample Editor Inspector on page 355 Lower Zone The lower zone of the Project window allows you to display specific windows and editors in an integrated and fixed zone of the Project window. This is useful if you work on single screen systems and notebooks, for example. To show/hide the lower zone, click Show/Hide Lower Zone on the Project window toolbar.
Project Window Lower Zone 2. Do one of the following: ● Activate/Deactivate the options in the pop-up menu to show/hide tabs in the lower zone. ● Select Setup to open a dialog where you can activate/deactivate the tabs and change their position. NOTE In the Presets section of this dialog, you can also save a preset of your configuration. RESULT The tabs in the lower zone are shown, according to your configuration.
Project Window Lower Zone RESULT The Chord Pads are opened. RELATED LINKS Chord Pads on page 644 Setting up the Lower Zone on page 52 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Opening the MixConsole in the Lower Zone The MixConsole in the lower zone allows you to perform all basic mixing procedures from within the lower zone of the Project window. At the same time, you see the context of your tracks and events. PROCEDURE 1. Click Show/Hide Lower Zone on the Project window toolbar to activate the lower zone. 2.
Project Window Lower Zone RESULT The MixConsole is displayed in the lower zone. RELATED LINKS MixConsole in Lower Zone on page 263 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Opening the Editor in the Lower Zone The Editor in the lower zone allows you to perform event editing procedures from within the lower zone of the Project window. At the same time, you see the context of your tracks and events.
Project Window Lower Zone RESULT Depending on your event or part selection, the lower zone shows either the Audio Part Editor, the Sample Editor, or one of the MIDI editors. NOTE To change the default MIDI editor, select MIDI > Set up Editor Preferences, and select an option from the Default MIDI Editor pop-up menu. NOTE If you open the editor and no event or part is selected, the editor in the lower zone is empty.
Project Window Lower Zone RESULT The MIDI part is displayed in the selected editor. NOTE This selection is temporary. The next time you open the MIDI part, the default MIDI editor is used. Opening MIDI Remote in the Lower Zone The MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window allows you to load scripts for MIDI remote controllers. It shows a visual representation of the actual physical controller and its control mappings to Cubase parameters. PROCEDURE 1.
Project Window Right Zone NOTE The MIDI Remote tab is not a clickable user interface. All operations are meant to be performed on the connected MIDI controller. RELATED LINKS MIDI Remote on page 480 Right Zone The right zone of the Project window allows you to display the VSTi rack and the Media rack. To show/hide the right zone, click Show/Hide Right Zone on the Project window toolbar. The top of the right zone features the following tabs: VSTi and Media.
Project Window Right Zone Opening the VSTi Rack in the Right Zone You can open the VSTi rack in the right zone of the Project window. This allows you to add and edit VST instruments, and, at the same time, to see the context of your tracks and events. PROCEDURE 1. Click Show/Hide Right Zone on the Project window toolbar to activate the Right Zone. 2. At the top of the right zone, click the VSTi tab. RESULT The VSTi rack is opened in the right zone of the Project window.
Project Window Right Zone Opens the Add Track dialog that allows you to select an instrument and to add an instrument track that is associated with this instrument. Find Instruments Opens a selector that allows you to find a loaded instrument. Set Remote-Control Focus for VST Quick Controls to Previous Instrument Allows you to set the remote control focus to the previous instrument.
Project Window Right Zone RESULT The Media rack is opened in the right zone of the Project window. RELATED LINKS Media Rack in the Right Zone on page 62 MediaBay and Media Rack on page 408 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 61 Cubase AI 12.0.
Project Window Right Zone Media Rack in the Right Zone The Media rack in the right zone of the Project window allows you to drag audio events, MIDI parts, or instrument presets into the event display. It lists Steinberg factory content and any installed Steinberg content sets. The Media rack Home tab displays the following tiles: VST Instruments Shows all included VST instruments. VST Effects Shows all included VST effects.
Project Window Keyboard Focus in the Project Window RELATED LINKS Media Rack in Right Zone on page 408 MediaBay and Media Rack on page 408 Keyboard Focus in the Project Window The different zones in the Project window can be controlled by key commands. For this to work, you must set the keyboard focus to the zone that you want to control by key commands.
Project Window Zooming in the Project Window ● To activate the next zone, press Tab . This allows you to move forward through the zones. ● To activate the previous zone, press Shift - Tab . NOTE The editor in the lower zone automatically gets the keyboard focus if you double-click an event or part in the event display, if you select an event or part and press Return , or if you use key commands to open the zone.
Project Window Zooming in the Project Window NOTE For this to work, you must deactivate the Zoom Tool Standard Mode: Horizontal Zooming Only option in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Tools page). ● Use the vertical zoom sliders to zoom in and out. If you have made any individual track height adjustments, the relative height differences are maintained. ● Click Shift - H to zoom in vertically. Click Shift - G to zoom out vertically.
Project Window Zooming in the Project Window Zoom to Selection (Horiz.) Zooms in horizontally so that the current selection fills the screen. Zoom to Event Zooms in to show the currently selected event. This option is available in the Sample Editor and in some MIDI editors. Zoom In Vertically/Zoom Out Vertically Zooms in/out one step vertically. Zoom In Tracks/Zoom Out Tracks Zooms the selected tracks in/out one step vertically.
Project Window Zooming in the Project Window This displays the project from the Project Start Time to the Project Length, as set in the Project Setup dialog. ● To delete a preset, open the Zoom Presets pop-up menu and select Organize. In the dialog that opens, select the preset in the list and click Delete. ● To rename a preset, open the Zoom Presets pop-up menu and select Organize. In the dialog that opens, select a preset from the list and click Rename. Type in a new name for the preset.
Project Window Snap Function Snap Function The Snap function helps you to find exact positions when editing in the Project window. It does this by restricting horizontal movement and positioning to certain positions. Operations affected by Snap include moving, copying, drawing, sizing, splitting, range selection, etc. ● To activate/deactivate Snap, activate/deactivate Snap on the toolbar.
Project Window Snap Function The same principle works when changing the order of more than two events. Cursor This grid type causes the project cursor to become magnetic. Dragging an event near the cursor causes the event to be aligned with the cursor position. Grid + Cursor This is a combination of Grid and Cursor. Events + Cursor This is a combination of Events and Cursor. Events + Grid + Cursor This is a combination of Events, Grid, and Cursor.
Project Window Snap Function NOTE You can assign key commands to the grid types in the Key Commands dialog in the Edit category. If you select Seconds as the display format, the following grid types are available: 1 ms Sets the grid and snap resolution to 1 ms. 10 ms Sets the grid and snap resolution to 10 ms. 100 ms Sets the grid and snap resolution to 100 ms. 1000 ms Sets the grid and snap resolution to 1000 ms.
Project Window Snap Grid RELATED LINKS Snap Types Menu on page 68 Zooming in the Project Window on page 64 Ruler Display Format Menu on page 44 Snap Grid In the Project window, and in some of the editors, you can have events, parts, and ranges snap to the grid. The grid is based on the following settings: ● Primary time format You can set the primary time format on the Transport panel. ● Snap Type You can select the Snap Type on the Project window toolbar.
Project Window Cross-Hair Cursor Ruler on page 44 Snap Types Menu on page 68 Ruler Modes on page 45 Selecting the Primary Time Format on page 194 Grid Type Menu on page 69 Cross-Hair Cursor The cross-hair cursor is displayed when working in the Project window and in the editors, facilitating navigation and editing, especially for large projects. ● You can set up the cross-hair cursor in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Tools page).
Project Window Color Handling State Shows the state of the action. Details Shows further details, and allows you to enter new text. Separator Move the separator upwards to undo your actions. To redo an action, move the separator down. NOTE ● You can also undo applied audio processes. However, we recommend to use Direct Offline Processing window to modify or delete plug-in effects or audio processes.
Project Window Color Handling 2. Select the tracks that you want to colorize. 3. On the Project window toolbar, select Select Color for Selected Tracks or Events. The Colorize pane opens. NOTE If you want to select colors by names, activate the Select Colors by Name option in the Project Colors Setup dialog (Options page). 4. Select a color. RESULT The selected tracks are colorized, and the events and parts get the track color.
Project Window Color Handling NOTE If you assign a different color to individual events or parts with the Color tool, they no longer follow color changes of the track. RELATED LINKS Colorizing Events on the Fly on page 76 Options Tab on page 80 Resetting the Track Color You can reset the color of a track to the default color. PROCEDURE 1. In the Project window, select the track that you want to reset to the default color, and deselect all events or parts. 2.
Project Window Color Handling Colorizing Events on the Fly You can colorize events or parts with the Color tool. By default, events or parts follow the color of the corresponding track. However, you can overwrite this setting and, for example, select the same color for events or parts that reside on different tracks. PROCEDURE 1. In the Project window toolbar, select the Color tool. 2. Do one of the following to select a tool color: 3. ● Alt/Opt -click an event or part to copy its color.
Project Window Color Handling Project Colors Setup Dialog The Project Colors Setup dialog allows you to set up colors for your project. ● To open the Project Colors Setup dialog, select Project > Project Colors Setup. RELATED LINKS Color Picker on page 80 Color Set Tab on page 78 Presets Tab on page 79 Options Tab on page 80 77 Cubase AI 12.0.
Project Window Color Handling Color Set Tab The Color Set tab allows you to change the color set that is used in the project. The following options are available: Color fields Click a field to open the Color Picker and specify a new color. Name Shows the name of the color. Double-click to change it. Set up Allows you to add or remove color fields. ● Insert Color Adds a new color field. ● Duplicate Color Duplicates the selected color field. ● Remove Color Removes the selected color field.
Project Window Color Handling Presets Tab The Presets tab allows you to expand the color set to 24 or even 32 colors or to reduce it to 8 colors. You can add tints, and you can sort colors according to their color tint or their basic color. In the New Color Set Settings section, the following options are available: Number of Basic Colors You can set up 8, 16, 24, or 32 basic colors. Number of Color Tints You can set up 1, 2, or 4 color tints.
Project Window Color Handling Options Tab The Options tab allows you to access the color set options. In the Color Set Options section, the following options are available: Store Color Set as Default Saves the current set of colors as default. Reset Color Set to Default Applies the default set of colors. Reset Color Set to Factory Settings Returns to the standard color palette. Select Colors by Name Allows you to select colors by name. Apply Applies your changes and closes the dialog.
Project Window Color Handling Color selectors Allow you to select a color shade and the nuance of the shade. Context menu Allows you to copy, paste, or reset colors. Current Color/New Color Shows the current color and the new color. Hue/Saturation/Value Allows you to edit the colors numerically. Red/Green/Blue Allows you to edit the colors numerically. OK Confirms the color changes. NOTE You must restart the application for some changes to take effect. 81 Cubase AI 12.0.
Project Handling In Cubase, projects are the central documents. You must create and set up a project to work with the program. Creating New Projects You can create empty projects or projects that are based on a template. PROCEDURE 1. Select File > New Project. Depending on your settings, either the Hub or the Project Assistant dialog opens. 2. 3. In the location options section, select where to store the new project. ● To use the default location, select Use default location.
Project Handling Project Assistant Dialog NOTE Make sure that you have an active Internet connection to access this material. Projects Section The Projects section allows you to create new projects, which can either be empty or based on a template. It allows you to specify where to save the projects. It also allows you to access recently opened projects or projects that are stored in other locations. This section offers the same functionality as the Project Assistant dialog.
Project Handling Project Files Category bar The available factory templates are sorted into the predefined categories Recording, Production, Scoring, and Mastering. The Recent category contains a list of the recently opened projects. The More category contains the default project template and all templates that are not assigned to any of the other categories. Template list When you click on one of the category items, the list below the category bar shows the available factory templates for this category.
Project Handling Template Files The project folder contains the project file and the following folders that Cubase automatically creates, if necessary: ● Audio ● Edits ● Images ● Track Pictures Template Files Templates can be a good starting point for new projects. Templates are projects where you can save all settings that you regularly use, such as bus configurations, sample rates, record formats, basic track layouts, VSTi setups, drum map setups, etc.
Project Handling Template Files The following options are available in the Current Presets section: New Folder Allows you to add a folder to the template list. Template list Lists the templates and the folders. The following options are available in the Attribute Inspector section: Value Click this field to enter a description for the Content Summary attribute or to select a template category for Template Category attribute.
Project Handling Template Files Saving a Project Template File You can save the current project as a template. When you create a new project, you can select this template as a starting point. PREREQUISITE You have removed all clips from the Pool. This ensures that references to media data from the original project folder are deleted. PROCEDURE 1. Set up a project. 2. Select File > Save as Template. 3. In the New Preset section of the Save as Template dialog, enter a name for the new project template.
Project Handling Project Setup Dialog Project Setup Dialog The Project Setup dialog allows you to make general settings for your project. ● To open the Project Setup dialog, select Project > Project Setup. ● To open the Project Setup dialog automatically when you create a new project, activate the Run Setup on Create New Project option in the Preferences dialog (General page).
Project Handling Project Setup Dialog Project Time Displays In the Project Time Displays section, the following options are available: Display Format Allows you to specify the global display format for all rulers and position displays in the program, except for the ruler tracks. However, you can make independent display format selections for the individual rulers and displays.
Project Handling Project Setup Dialog Record File Type Allows you to specify the file type of the audio files that you record in Cubase. NOTE ● For wave file recordings larger than 4 GB, the EBU RIFF standard is used. If you use a FAT 32 disk (not recommended), audio files are split automatically. In the Preferences dialog, you can specify what happens if your recorded Wave file is larger than 4 GB. ● You can set up embedded strings in the Preferences dialog.
Project Handling Opening Project Files Opening Project Files You can open several saved project files at the same time. IMPORTANT If you open a project saved with a different program version and it contains data for functions that are not available in your version, this data may be lost when you save the project with your version. NOTE ● If you open an external project, the last used view that was saved on your computer is used.
Project Handling Saving Project Files Opening Recent Projects You can open recent projects from the recent projects list. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● In the category bar of the Hub or the Project Assistant dialog, click Recent, select a project from the projects list, and click Open. ● Select File > Recent Projects and select a recently opened project.
Project Handling Reverting to the Last Saved Version ● To specify the time intervals in which a backup copy is created, use the Auto Save Interval setting. ● To specify how many backup files are created with the Auto Save function, use the Maximum Backup Files option. When the maximum number of backup files is reached, the existing files are overwritten, starting with the oldest file. Saving Project Files As a New Version You can create and activate a new version of an active project file.
Project Handling Self-Contained Projects 2. Do one of the following: ● Click Create Empty to create a new empty project. ● Select one of the template projects and click Create to create a project based on a template. RESULT The project is created and saved in the specified location. Self-Contained Projects To share your work or to transfer it to another computer, your project must be self-contained.
Project Handling Self-Contained Projects 3. Make your changes in the Back up Project Options dialog and click OK. RESULT A copy of the project is saved in the new folder. The original project remains unaffected. NOTE VST Sound content provided by Steinberg is copy-protected and is not included in the backup project. If you want to use a backup copy that uses VST Sound content on a different computer, make sure that the corresponding content is also available on that computer.
Project Handling Self-Contained Projects RELATED LINKS Export Audio Mixdown Dialog on page 675 96 Cubase AI 12.0.
Tracks Tracks are the building blocks of your project. They allow you to import, add, record, and edit parts and events. Tracks are listed from top to bottom in the track list and extend horizontally across the Project window. Each track is assigned to a particular channel strip in the MixConsole. If you select a track in the Project window, the controls, settings, and parameters displayed in the Inspector and the track list allow you to control the track.
Tracks Track Inspector Settings Dialog Hidden Items Displays sections that are hidden in the Inspector. Visible Items Displays sections that are visible in the Inspector. Pin Activate Pin by clicking the column for a section to prevent this section from being closed automatically. Add Allows you to move a selected item from the list of hidden sections to the list of visible sections. Remove Allows you to move a selected item from the list of visible sections to the list of hidden sections.
Tracks Track Controls Settings Dialog Equalizers Allows you to adjust the EQs for the track. You can have up to four bands of EQs for each track. Sends Allows you to route the track to one or several FX channels. Fader Shows a duplicate of the corresponding MixConsole channel. Notepad Allows you to enter notes about the track. Quick Controls Allows you to configure quick controls to use remote devices, for example.
Tracks Track Controls Settings Dialog Track type Allows you to select the track type to which your settings are applied. Hidden Controls Displays controls that are hidden in the track list. Visible Controls Displays controls that are visible in the track list. Width If you click in this column, you can set the maximum length for the track name. Group Displays the group number. Add Allows you to move a selected item from the list of hidden controls to the list of visible controls.
Tracks Track Controls Settings Dialog Reset Allows you to restore all default track controls settings for the selected track type. Controls Area Preview Shows a preview of the customized track controls. Presets Allows you to save settings for track controls as presets. To recall a preset, click Switch Presets in the bottom right corner of the track list. The name of the selected preset is shown in the left corner.
Tracks Track Controls Settings Dialog Bypass EQs Bypasses the equalizers for the track. Bypass Sends Bypasses the sends for the track. Freeze Channel Opens a dialog that allows you to set the Tail Size time in seconds. Channel Configuration Shows the channel configuration of the track.
Tracks Track Controls Settings Dialog Write Automation Allows you to write track automation. Instrument Tracks The following controls are specific to instrument tracks: Edit Instrument Allows you to open the instrument panel. Instrument Allows you to select an instrument. MIDI Tracks The following controls are specific to MIDI tracks: Channel Allows you to specify the MIDI channel. Output Allows you to specify the output for the track.
Tracks Add Track Dialog Locate Allows you to move the project cursor to the selected marker position. Cycle Allows you to select a cycle marker. Zoom Allows you to zoom in on a cycle marker. Add Track Dialog The Add Track dialog allows you to set up and add tracks.
Tracks Audio Tracks Audio Tracks You can use audio tracks for recording and playing back audio events and audio parts. Each audio track has a corresponding audio channel in the MixConsole. An audio track can have any number of automation tracks for automating channel parameters, effect settings, etc. You can add audio tracks via the Add Track dialog. RELATED LINKS Add Track Dialog – Audio on page 105 Add Track Dialog – Audio The Audio page of the Add Track dialog allows you to set up and add audio tracks.
Tracks Audio Tracks The following settings are available: Audio Inputs Opens a window where you can select an input of your connected audio hardware. If you have added an input bus in the Audio Connections window, you can connect to that input bus. The Open Audio Connections button opens the Audio Connections window. Configuration Allows you to set the channel configuration. Audio-related tracks can be configured as mono or stereo tracks. Audio Outputs Allows you to set the output routing.
Tracks Audio Tracks Click once to show/hide the basic track settings section. Double-click to rename the track. Colorize Selected Track Allows you to colorize the selected track. Edit Channel Settings Opens the Channel Settings window for the track. Mute Mutes the track. Solo Solos the track. Read Automation Allows you to read track automation. Write Automation Allows you to write track automation. Auto Fades Settings Opens a dialog where you can make separate fade settings for the track.
Tracks Instrument Tracks Input Routing Allows you to specify the input bus for the track. Output Routing Allows you to specify the output bus for the track. RELATED LINKS Inspector Sections on page 98 Instrument Tracks You can use instrument tracks for dedicated VST instruments. Each instrument track has a corresponding instrument channel in the MixConsole. An instrument track can have any number of automation tracks. You can add instrument tracks via the Add Track dialog.
Tracks Instrument Tracks The following settings are available: Instrument Allows you to select an instrument. Audio Outputs Allows you to set the output routing. Name Allows you to specify a track name. Count Allows you to enter the number of tracks that you want to add. Keep Dialog Open Activate this to keep the dialog open after clicking Add Track. This allows you to click the page of another track type to set up and add more tracks.
Tracks Instrument Tracks The top section of the instrument track Inspector contains the following basic track settings: Track name Click once to show/hide the basic track settings section. Double-click to rename the track. Colorize Selected Track Allows you to colorize the selected track. Edit Channel Settings Opens the Channel Settings window for the track. Mute Mutes the track. Solo Solos the track. Read Automation Allows you to read track automation. Write Automation Allows you to write track automation.
Tracks MIDI Tracks Loads or saves a track preset or reverts the default presets. Input Routing Allows you to specify the input bus for the track. Activate Outputs This control is only available if the instrument provides more than one output. It allows you to activate one or more outputs for the instrument. Edit Instrument Allows you to open the instrument panel. Programs Allows you to select a program. Drum Maps Allows you to select a drum map for the track.
Tracks MIDI Tracks ● Select Project > Add Track > MIDI or right-click in an empty area of the track list, and select Add MIDI Track. This opens the MIDI page of the Add Track dialog. The following settings are available: Name Allows you to specify a track name. Count Allows you to enter the number of tracks that you want to add. Keep Dialog Open Activate this to keep the dialog open after clicking Add Track. This allows you to click the page of another track type to set up and add more tracks.
Tracks MIDI Tracks MIDI Track Inspector The Inspector for MIDI tracks contains controls and parameters that allow you to control your MIDI track. These affect MIDI events in real time, on playback, for example. The top section of the MIDI track Inspector contains the following basic track settings: Track name Click once to show/hide the basic track settings section. Double-click to rename the track. Colorize Selected Track Allows you to colorize the selected track.
Tracks MIDI Tracks Volume Allows you to adjust the level of the track. MIDI Pan Allows you to adjust the MIDI panning of the track. Delay Allows you to adjust the playback timing of the track. Load/Save/Reload Track Preset Loads or saves a track preset or reverts the default presets. Input Routing Allows you to specify the input bus for the track. Output Routing Allows you to specify the output bus for the track. Channel Allows you to specify the MIDI channel.
Tracks Group Channel Tracks Group Channel Tracks You can use group channel tracks to create a submix of several audio channels and to apply the same effects to them. A group channel track contains no events as such, but displays settings and automation for the corresponding group channel. For easy management, all group channel tracks are automatically placed in a special group track folder in the track list. Each group channel track has a corresponding channel in the MixConsole.
Tracks Group Channel Tracks The following settings are available: Configuration Allows you to set the channel configuration. Audio-related tracks can be configured as mono or stereo tracks. Audio Outputs Allows you to set the output routing. Folder Setup Allows you to select whether you want to create the effect inside or outside a dedicated folder. Name Allows you to specify a track name. Count Allows you to enter the number of tracks that you want to add.
Tracks Group Channel Tracks Click once to show/hide the basic track settings section. Double-click to rename the track. Colorize Selected Track Allows you to colorize the selected track. Edit Channel Settings Opens the Channel Settings window for the track. Mute Mutes the track. Solo Solos the track. Read Automation Allows you to read track automation. Write Automation Allows you to write track automation. Volume Allows you to adjust the level of the track. Pan Allows you to adjust the panning of the track.
Tracks FX Channel Tracks FX Channel Tracks You can use FX channel tracks for adding send effects. Each FX channel can contain up to eight effect processors. By routing sends from an audio channel to an FX channel, you send audio from the audio channel to the effects on the FX channel. You can place FX channel tracks in a special FX channel folder, or in the track list, outside an FX channel folder. Each FX channel has a corresponding channel in the MixConsole.
Tracks FX Channel Tracks The following settings are available: Effect Allows you to select an effect. Configuration Allows you to set the channel configuration. Audio-related tracks can be configured as mono or stereo tracks. Audio Outputs Allows you to set the output routing. Folder Setup Allows you to select whether you want to create the effect inside or outside a dedicated folder. Name Allows you to specify a track name. Count Allows you to enter the number of tracks that you want to add.
Tracks FX Channel Tracks FX Channel Track Inspector The Inspector for FX channel tracks shows the settings for the FX channel. When you select the folder track instead, the Inspector shows the folder and the FX channels it contains. You can click one of the FX channels in the folder to display the settings for that FX channel in the Inspector. Track name Click once to show/hide the basic track settings section. Double-click to rename the track.
Tracks Ruler Track Ruler Track You can use ruler tracks to show several rulers with different display formats for the timeline. This is completely independent from the main ruler, as well as from rulers and position displays in other windows. You can add ruler tracks via the Add Track dialog. RELATED LINKS Add Track Dialog – Ruler on page 121 Add Track Dialog – Ruler The Ruler page of the Add Track dialog allows you to set up and add ruler tracks.
Tracks Folder Tracks Keep Dialog Open Activate this to keep the dialog open after clicking Add Track. This allows you to click the page of another track type to set up and add more tracks. NOTE This is only available if you open the Add Track dialog from the global track controls. Add Track Adds one or more tracks, according to the track type and the settings of the active page, and closes the dialog. Ruler Track Controls In the track list for ruler tracks, you can change the display format for the ruler.
Tracks Folder Tracks Add Track Dialog – Folder The Folder page of the Add Track dialog allows you to set up and add folder tracks. To open the Folder page of the Add Track dialog, do one of the following: ● Click Add Track in the global track control area of the track list, and click Folder. This opens the global Add Track dialog on the Folder page. ● Select Project > Add Track > Folder. This opens the Folder page of the Add Track dialog.
Tracks Folder Tracks Add Track Adds one or more tracks, according to the track type and the settings of the active page, and closes the dialog. Folder Track Inspector The Inspector for folder tracks shows the folder and its underlying track, similar to the folder structure in the File Explorer/macOS Finder. When you select one of the tracks shown under the folder, the Inspector shows the settings for that track. Track name Double-click to rename the track.
Tracks Chord Track Expand/Collapse Folder Shows/Hides the tracks in the folder. Hidden tracks are played back as usual. Track name Double-click to rename the track. Mute Mutes the track. Solo Solos the track. Record Enable Activates the track for recording. Monitor For audio-related tracks, this routes incoming signals to the selected output. For MIDI and instrument-related tracks, this allows you to route incoming MIDI signals to the selected MIDI output.
Tracks Chord Track Colorize Selected Track Allows you to colorize the selected track. Mute Chord Track Mutes the track. Record Enable Activates the track for recording. Acoustic Feedback Allows you to audition the events on the chord track. For this to work, you need to select a track for auditioning in the track list. Voicing library Allows you to set up a voicing library for the track. Voicing library subset Allows you to select a library subset.
Tracks Video Tracks Shows the name of the track. Double-click to rename the track. Record Enable Activates the track for recording. Mute Chord Track Mutes the track. Select Track for Auditioning Allows you to select a track for auditioning the chord events. Resolve Display Conflicts Allows you to show all chord events on the track properly, even at low horizontal zoom levels. Show Scales Allows you to show the scale lane in the lower part of the chord track.
Tracks Marker Track Video Track Controls The track list for the video track contains parameters to control the video track. Mute Video Track Mutes the track. Name Shows the name of the track. Double-click to rename the track. Marker Track You can use the marker track to add and edit markers that help you to locate certain positions quickly. You can add this track type only once to a project. ● To add the marker track to your project, select Project > Add Track > Marker.
Tracks Marker Track Marker Track Controls The track list for the marker track contains controls and parameters that allow you to edit the marker track. Track name Double-click to rename the track. Locate Allows you to move the project cursor to the selected marker position. Cycle Allows you to select a cycle marker. Zoom Allows you to zoom in a cycle marker. Add Marker Allows you to add a position marker at the project cursor position.
Track Handling Tracks are the building blocks of your project. In Cubase, events and parts are placed on tracks. Adding Tracks via the Add Track Dialog You can add tracks via the Add Track dialog. PROCEDURE 1. In the global track control area of the track list, click Add Track 2. Do one of the following: 3. . ● Click the track type and set up the options according to your needs. ● To add other track types, open the More Tracks section and click the track type. Click Add Track.
Track Handling Adding Tracks by Dragging Files from the MediaBay RELATED LINKS Track Presets on page 141 Adding Tracks by Dragging Files from the MediaBay You can add tracks by dragging files from the MediaBay. PREREQUISITE One of the following prerequisites must apply: ● The MediaBay is open. To open the MediaBay, press F5 . ● The Media rack in the right zone of the Project window is open. Click Show/Hide Right Zone and click the Media tab to open it. PROCEDURE 1.
Track Handling Exporting MIDI Tracks as Standard MIDI Files NOTE If you want to include Inspector settings that differ from those specified in the Export Options, use Merge MIDI in Loop to convert these settings to real MIDI events. RELATED LINKS Export Options Dialog for MIDI Files on page 132 Merging MIDI Events into a New Part on page 536 Export Options Dialog for MIDI Files The Export Options for MIDI files allow you to specify what data to include in the exported MIDI files.
Track Handling Removing Selected Tracks Export Locator Range Exports only the range between the left and the right locator. Export includes Delay Includes delay settings you have made in the MIDI file via the Inspector. RELATED LINKS Automation on page 442 Markers on page 254 MIDI Track Parameters on page 523 Merging MIDI Events into a New Part on page 536 Export Options on page 755 Exporting MIDI Parts as MIDI Files on page 167 Removing Selected Tracks You can remove selected tracks from the track list.
Track Handling Automatically Assigning Colors to New Tracks/Channels If you want to assign the same name to all events on the track, hold down any modifier key and press Return . AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK If the Parts Get Track Names option is activated in the Preferences dialog (Editing page) and you move an event from one track to another, the moved event will automatically be named according to its new track.
Track Handling Showing Track Pictures RELATED LINKS Track Pictures Browser on page 135 Adding Track Pictures to MixConsole Channels on page 291 Track Pictures Browser The Track Pictures Browser allows you to set up and select pictures that can be shown in the track list and in the MixConsole. With track pictures, you can recognize tracks and channels. You can select pictures from the factory content or add new ones to the user library.
Track Handling Setting the Track Height Track Color Opens the Color Picker that allows you to select a track color. Intensity Allows you to apply the track color to the track picture and to set the color intensity. Zoom Allows you to change the size of the track picture. Rotate Allows you to rotate the track picture.
Track Handling Selecting Tracks The following options are available: Zoom Tracks x Rows Zooms all track heights to show the specified number of rows. Zoom Tracks Full Zooms all tracks to fit in the active Project window. Zoom Tracks N Rows Allows you to set the number of rows to fit in the active Project window. Zoom x Tracks Zooms the specified number of tracks to fit in the active Project window. Zoom N Tracks Allows you to set the number of tracks to fit in the active Project window.
Track Handling Deselecting Tracks ● If this option is activated, the Up Arrow key and the Down Arrow key are only used to change the track selection – the current event/part selection in the Project window is not altered. Deselecting Tracks You can deselect tracks that are selected in the track list. PROCEDURE ● Shift -click a selected track. RESULT The track is deselected. Duplicating Tracks You can duplicate a track with all of its contents and channel settings.
Track Handling Organizing Tracks in Folder Tracks NOTE You can also select Edit > Freeze/Unfreeze > Selected Tracks (with Current Settings) to freeze the tracks without showing the Freeze Channel Options dialog. In this case, the last settings are applied. 4. Click OK. RESULT ● The output of the tracks are rendered to audio files, and on playback you hear the same sound as before freezing. ● Less CPU load is used. ● The Freeze Audio Channel or Freeze Instrument Channel buttons light up.
Track Handling Handling Overlapping Audio ● To hide/show tracks in a folder, click the Expand/Collapse Folder button of the folder track. ● To hide/show data on a folder track, open the context menu for the folder track, and select an option from the Show Data on Folder Tracks submenu. ● To mute/solo all tracks in a folder track, click the Mute or Solo button for the folder track. NOTE Hidden tracks are played back as usual.
Track Handling Track Presets ● Hide Data When Expanded Hides the display of events when you open folder tracks. ● Show Event Details Displays event details instead of data blocks. NOTE You can change these settings in the Preferences dialog (Event Display—Folders page). RELATED LINKS Event Display - Folders on page 752 Track Presets Track presets are templates that can be applied to newly created or existing tracks of the same type.
Track Handling Track Presets NOTE To access the track presets functions for input and output channels, activate the Write buttons for input and output channels in the MixConsole. This creates input and output channel tracks in the track list. MIDI Track Presets You can use MIDI track presets for multitimbral VST instruments. When creating MIDI track presets, you can either include the channel or the patch. The following data is saved in MIDI track presets: ● MIDI modifiers (Transpose, etc.
Track Handling Track Presets RELATED LINKS Track Presets on page 141 Loading Presets for VST Instruments When working with VST instruments, you can choose from a variety of presets via the Results browser. PROCEDURE 1. In the track list, right-click the instrument track and select Load Track Preset. 2. In the Results browser, double-click a preset to apply it.
Track Handling Track Presets Extracting the Sound from an Instrument Track or VST Preset For instrument tracks, you can extract the sound of an instrument track preset or VST preset. PROCEDURE 1. Select the instrument track to which you want to apply a sound. 2. In the Inspector, click Extract Sound from Track Preset. 3. In the preset browser, select an instrument track preset or a VST preset. 4. Double-click the preset to load the settings.
Track Handling Track Presets Loading Track or VST Presets You can apply track or VST presets to selected tracks. PROCEDURE 1. In the Project window, select a track. 2. Do one of the following: ● In the Inspector, click Load Track Preset. ● In the track list, right-click the track and select Load Track Preset. 3. In the preset browser, select a track or VST preset. 4. Double-click the preset to load it. RESULT The preset is applied.
Parts and Events Parts and events are the basic building blocks in Cubase. Events In Cubase, you can view and edit most event types on their specific tracks in the Project window. You can add events by importing or recording. RELATED LINKS Audio Regions on page 148 MIDI Events on page 149 Audio Events Audio events are created automatically when you record or import audio in the Project window. You can view and edit audio events in the Project window and in the Sample Editor.
Parts and Events Events RELATED LINKS Basic Recording Methods on page 204 Audio File Import on page 224 Importing Audio CD Tracks on page 227 Importing Audio from Video Files on page 229 MediaBay and Media Rack on page 408 Audio Part Editor on page 379 Sample Editor on page 348 Creating New Files From Events An audio event plays a section of an audio clip, which, in turn, refers to one or more audio files on the hard disk.
Parts and Events Events correct positions. You will hear this as a single recording, with processing applied to one section only. This allows you to undo processing at a later stage, and to apply different processing to different audio clips that refer to the same original file. You can view and edit audio clips in the Pool. RELATED LINKS Pool on page 389 Audio Regions on page 148 Replacing Clips in Events on page 148 Replacing Clips in Events You can replace the clips in audio events.
Parts and Events Events Creating Regions You can create regions from several selected audio events or from selection ranges. PROCEDURE 1. Select several audio events or selection ranges. 2. Select Audio > Advanced > Event or Range as Region. 3. In the Create Regions dialog, enter a name for the regions, and click OK.
Parts and Events Parts ● Copy an event from a different Cubase project and paste it in the event display. RELATED LINKS Basic Recording Methods on page 204 Importing MIDI Files on page 232 MIDI Editors on page 547 MediaBay and Media Rack on page 408 Parts Parts are containers for MIDI or audio events and for tracks. RELATED LINKS Audio Parts on page 150 MIDI Parts on page 150 Folder Parts on page 151 Audio Parts Audio parts are containers for audio events.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events Folder Parts A folder part is a graphic representation of events and parts on the tracks in the folder. Folder parts indicate the time position as well as the vertical track position. If part colors are used, these are also shown in the folder part. Any editing that you perform on a folder part affects all the events and parts it contains. Tracks inside a folder can be edited as one entity.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events RESULT The track on which you click is played back, starting at the click position. Playback is stopped when you release the mouse button. NOTE When auditioning, the Main Mix bus is always used for monitoring. RELATED LINKS Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Previewer Section on page 429 Scrubbing The Scrub tool allows you to locate positions in events by playing back, forwards or backwards. PROCEDURE 1. Click Play. 2.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events NOTE You can also use the Up Arrow , Down Arrow , Left Arrow or Right Arrow keys on the computer keyboard to select the event on the upper or lower track or the previous or next event on the same track. RELATED LINKS Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Event Display on page 749 Select Submenu If the Object Selection tool is selected, the Select submenu features specific options for selecting events in the Project window.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events NOTE ● When the Range Selection tool is selected, the Select submenu features different functions. RELATED LINKS Select Menu for Selection Ranges on page 168 Range Editing on page 359 Event Display on page 749 Removing Events You can remove events from the Project window. PROCEDURE ● To remove an event from the Project window, do one of the following: ● On the Project window toolbar, activate Erase and click the event.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events NOTE You can only drag events to tracks of the same type. If you hold down Ctrl/Cmd while dragging, you can restrict the movement either horizontally or vertically. RESULT The events are moved. If you moved several events, their relative positions are kept. NOTE To avoid accidentally moving events when you click them in the Project window, when you move an event by dragging, the response is slightly delayed.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events Setting up a Snap Grid for Nudge Operations You can set up an independent snap grid just for nudge operations. This way, you can perform all editing with the mouse using a musical (tempo-related) grid that is set to Bars+Beats while all nudge operations and corresponding key commands are based on a linear (time-related) grid. PREREQUISITE The primary time format on the Transport panel is set to Bars+Beats.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events ● To nudge the events to the left, click Move Left or use the corresponding key command Ctrl/Cmd - Left Arrow . ● To nudge the events to the right, click Move Right or use the corresponding key command Ctrl/Cmd - Right Arrow . RESULT The selected events or parts that you nudged are moved. They snap to the linear grid that you set in the Nudge Settings pop-up menu.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events Moving Events via the Info Line You can move a selected event by changing its start value on the info line. PROCEDURE 1. Select the event that you want to move. 2. On the info line, double-click the Start field, and enter a new value for the event start. RESULT The event is moved by the set value. Renaming Events PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Select the events, and type in a new name in the File field on the info line.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events NOTE If your event contains fades and you want to adapt their length while sizing the event, hold down Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt . RESULT The event is resized and, depending on where you dragged, more or less of the content is revealed. If several events are selected, they are all resized in the same way.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events RESULT The part is stretched or compressed to fit the new length. ● If you resize MIDI parts, the note events are stretched (moved and resized). Controller data are stretched, too. ● If you resize audio parts, the events are moved, and the referenced audio files are timestretched to fit the new length. If several events are selected, they are all resized in the same way.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events Ruler Display Format Menu on page 44 Grid Type Menu on page 69 Resizing Events Using the Nudge Settings You can move the start or the end position of events. The setting on the Nudge Settings pop-up menu applies. PREREQUISITE The Object Selection tool is set to Normal Sizing or Sizing Moves Contents. PROCEDURE 1. Right-click the Project window toolbar and activate Nudge. The Nudge Settings become available on the toolbar. 2.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events 3. Select Scrub. 4. Click and drag the lower left or right corner of the event. RESULT The event is resized, and you get an acoustic feedback while dragging. RELATED LINKS Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Splitting Events PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Select Split, and click the event that you want to split. ● Select Object Selection, hold down Alt/Opt , and click the event.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events Splitting Events Repeatedly You can repeatedly split events into multiple events of equal size. PROCEDURE ● Select Split split. , hold down Alt/Opt , and click the event where you want to make the first RESULT The event is automatically split into as many equal events as the length of the original event allows. Gluing Events In the Project window, you can glue two or more events on the same track.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events If the selected track is of the wrong type, the event is inserted on its original track. Pasting Events to Matching Track Names You can copy events in one project and paste them at the first track that matches the exact track name in another project. PROCEDURE 1. Copy the events in one project. 2. Activate the project where you want to paste the events. 3. Select Edit > Functions > Paste to Matching Track Name.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events ● Move the mouse pointer over the middle of the right event border so that it becomes a pointing hand symbol. Click and drag to the right to create a real copy. ● Select the events, hold down Alt/Opt - Shift , and drag to the right to create a shared copy. NOTE This applies to MIDI events only.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events RELATED LINKS Repeating Events on page 164 Repeat Events Dialog on page 165 Fill Loop You can create a number of copies between the right and left locators. ● Select Edit > Functions > Fill Loop to create a number of copies, starting at the left locator and ending at the right locator. The last copy is automatically shortened to end at the right locator position.
Parts and Events Editing Techniques for Parts and Events RELATED LINKS Info Line on page 46 Muting Events You can mute events in the Project window. Muted events can be edited as usual, with the exception of adjusting fades, but they cannot be played back. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Select the Mute tool, and click the events or drag a selection rectangle around them. ● Select the events, and select Edit > Mute. RESULT The events are muted and grayed out.
Range Editing Editing in the Project window is not restricted to handling whole events and parts. You can also work with selection ranges, which are independent from the event/part and track boundaries. Creating a Selection Range PROCEDURE 1. On the Project window toolbar, select Range Selection. 2. Do one of the following: ● Draw a selection rectangle around the range that you want to select. ● Select Edit > Select, and select one of the menu functions.
Range Editing Editing Selection Ranges From Cursor to End Makes a selection on all tracks, from the project cursor to the end of the project. Equal Pitch - all Octaves This function requires that you select a single note. It selects all notes of this part that have the same pitch in any octave as the selected note. Equal Pitch - same Octave This function requires that you select a single note. It selects all notes of this part that have the same pitch and the same octave as the selected note.
Range Editing Editing Selection Ranges CHOICES ● Drag the edges of the selection range vertically or horizontally. ● Hold down Shift , and click where you want to extend/reduce the size of the selection range. The closest selection range edge is moved to the position at which you clicked. ● On the info line, adjust the values for Range Start, Range End, Range Length, Top Track or Bottom Track.
Range Editing Editing Selection Ranges Nudging Selection Ranges You can nudge selection ranges to a new position without moving their contents. PREREQUISITE ● You have created a selection range. ● You have activated the Nudge section by right-clicking the Project window toolbar and activating Nudge. PROCEDURE 1. Open the Grid Type pop-up menu and select a value to set the nudge amount. 2.
Range Editing Editing Selection Ranges Paste Pastes the clipboard data to the start position and track of the current selection. Existing events on the tracks remain at their original position. Paste at Origin Pastes the clipboard data back at its original position. Existing events on the tracks remain at their original position. This option is available in Edit > Functions. Cut Time Cuts the selection range and moves it to the clipboard.
Range Editing Editing Selection Ranges Cropping Selection Ranges You can crop events or parts that are partially within the selection range. PREREQUISITE You have created a selection range. PROCEDURE ● Select Edit > Range > Crop. RESULT Events that are entirely inside or outside the selection range are not affected. Inserting Silence You can insert empty track space from the start of the selection range. The length of the silence equals the length of the selection range.
Playback and Transport Cubase offers multiple methods and functions to control playback and transport. Transport Panel The Transport panel contains the main transport functions as well as many other options related to playback and recording. ● To show the Transport panel, select Transport > Transport Panel or press F2 . Transport Panel Sections The Transport panel has different sections that you can show or hide by activating the corresponding options on the Transport panel context menu.
Playback and Transport Transport Panel MIDI Auto Quantize Automatic MIDI Record Quantize Activates automatic quantizing during a MIDI recording. Locators Go to Left Locator Position Allows you to go to the left locator position. Left Locator Position Shows the left locator position. Go to Right Locator Position Allows you to go to the right locator position. Right Locator Position Shows the right locator position.
Playback and Transport Transport Panel Rewind Moves backward. Forward Moves forward. Cycle Activates/Deactivates cycle mode. Stop Stops playback. Start Starts playback. Transport Record Activates/Deactivates record mode. Time Display Select Primary Time Format Allows you to select a time format for the primary time display. Primary Time Display Shows the position of the project cursor in the selected time format. Markers Jump to Marker Allows you to set and locate marker positions.
Playback and Transport Transport Panel Activate Post-roll Activates post-roll. Post-roll Amount Allows you to set the post-roll position. To show/hide this, click the points on the divider. Tempo & Time Signature Activate Tempo Track Allows you to activate/deactivate the tempo track. Tempo Allows you to set the tempo value. Time Signature Allows you to set the first time signature value. To show/hide this, click the points on the divider.
Playback and Transport Transport Menu MIDI Out Activity Displays the MIDI output signals. Audio Activity Displays the audio input/output signals. Audio Clipping Displays audio clipping. Level Display Displays the output level. Level Control Allows you to control the output level. Set up Transport Set up Transport Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which elements are visible.
Playback and Transport Transport Menu Record Activates/Deactivates record mode. Rewind Moves backward. Forward Moves forward. Fast Rewind Moves backward at a faster speed. Fast Forward Moves forward at a faster speed. Nudge Cursor Left Moves the project cursor position to the left. Nudge Cursor Right Moves the project cursor position to the right. Enter Project Cursor Position Allows you to enter the project cursor position manually. Enter Tempo Allows you to enter the tempo manually.
Playback and Transport Transport Menu Set Locators to Selection Range Sets the locators to encompass the selection. Exchange Left & Right Locator Positions Switches the positions of the left and right locator. Loop Selection Range Activates playback from the start of the current selection and keeps starting over again when reaching the selection end. Punch Points Activate Punch In Activates/Deactivates punch in. Activate Punch Out Activates/Deactivates punch out.
Playback and Transport Transport Menu Play until Selection Start Activates playback two seconds before the start of the current selection and stops at the selection start. Play until Selection End Activates playback two seconds before the end of the current selection and stops at the selection end. Play until Next Marker Activates playback from the project cursor and stops at the next marker. Play Selection Range Activates playback from the start of the current selection and stops at the selection end.
Playback and Transport Transport Menu Audio Record Mode These options allow you to select what happens when you record over existing events. Keep History Keeps existing events or portions of events. Cycle History + Replace Replaces existing events or portions of events with the new recording. In cycle mode, all takes from the current cycle recording are kept. Replace Replaces existing events or portions of events with the last take.
Playback and Transport Transport Bar Insert from Track Input as Cycle Recording Inserts MIDI data that was sent to the track input as stacked MIDI parts on the selected track. Empty All Buffers Empties the retrospective record buffer for the selected track. Metronome Setup Opens the Metronome Setup dialog. Activate Metronome Activates/Deactivates the metronome click. Project Synchronization Setup Opens the Project Synchronization Setup dialog.
Playback and Transport Transport Bar Transport Bar Sections The Transport Bar has different sections that you can show or hide by activating the corresponding options on the context menu. ● To activate the Transport Bar, click Set up Window Layout on the Project window toolbar and activate Transport Bar. ● To show/hide tools, open the Transport Bar context menu by right-clicking in an empty area of the Transport Bar, and activate the tools that you want to display. To show all tools, select Show All.
Playback and Transport Transport Bar The upper bar displays either the current realtime peak or the ASIO-Guard load, depending on which of the two has the higher value. The lower bar shows the hard disk transfer load of the disk engine. For a more detailed display of realtime peak and ASIO-Guard load, click to open the Audio Performance window. Locators Go to Left Locator Position Allows you to go to the left locator position. Left Locator Position Shows the left locator position.
Playback and Transport Transport Bar Rewind Moves backward. Forward Moves forward. Cycle Activates/Deactivates cycle mode. Stop Stops playback. Start Starts playback. Transport Record Activates/Deactivates record mode. Retrospective Record Insert Retrospective Recording from All MIDI Inputs on Selected Track Allows you to recover MIDI notes that you played in stop mode or during playback. Time Displays Select Primary Time Format Allows you to select a time format for the primary time display.
Playback and Transport Transport Bar Activates pre-roll. Pre-roll Amount Allows you to set the pre-roll position. To show/hide this, click the points on the divider. Activate Post-roll Activates post-roll. Post-roll Amount Allows you to set the post-roll position. To show/hide this, click the points on the divider. Tempo & Time Signature Activate Tempo Track Allows you to activate/deactivate the tempo track. Tempo Allows you to set the tempo value.
Playback and Transport Transport Pop-Up Window Open Metronome Setup Opens the Metronome Setup dialog. To show/hide this, click the points on the divider. Input/Output Activity MIDI In Activity Displays the MIDI input signals. MIDI Out Activity Displays the MIDI output signals. Audio Activity Displays the audio input/output signals. Audio Clipping Displays audio clipping. Level Display Displays the output level. Level Control Allows you to control the output level.
Playback and Transport Time Display Window Enter Tempo Shift - T Enter Time Signature Shift - C Enter Punch In Position Shift - I Enter Punch Out Position Shift - O Go to Left Locator Num 1 Go to Right Locator Num 2 A specific key command opens the corresponding section of the Transport pop-up window: Transport pop-up window for entering the left Locator position. NOTE To close the Transport pop-up window, press Esc .
Playback and Transport Left and Right Locators Seconds Displays the time in seconds. fps Displays the time in frames per second. Samples Displays the time in samples. Show Beat Count Only Shows the beat counts only. This is useful if you want to use the Time Display window as a visual metronome. Increase Window Size Increases the size of the window and the displayed values. Decrease Window Size Decreases the size of the window and the displayed values.
Playback and Transport Left and Right Locators ● NOTE If you activate cycle mode and the right locator is positioned before the left locator, the locator range is skipped during playback.
Playback and Transport Left and Right Locators Setting the Right Locator Setting the right locator can be useful if you want to add a reference position in the Project window and in the editors. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Press Alt/Opt , and click in the upper part of the ruler to set the right locator to that position. ● Adjust the Right Locator Position value.
Playback and Transport Setting the Project Cursor Setting the Project Cursor You can set the project cursor to the position where you click, or to markers or other predefined positions. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Hold down Shift - Alt/Opt , and click in the Project window event display. ● Click Go to Previous Marker/Zero or Go to Next Marker/Project End.
Playback and Transport Time Formats The project cursor is kept in the middle of the window, and the ruler scrolls continuously to the left. RELATED LINKS Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Suspend Auto-Scroll When Editing If you do not want the Project window display to change when editing during playback, activate Suspend Auto-Scroll when Editing. Suspend Auto-Scroll when Editing is available as an option in the Select Auto-Scroll Settings pop-up menu to the right of the Auto-Scroll button.
Playback and Transport Pre-Roll and Post-Roll Pre-Roll and Post-Roll You can activate pre-roll and post-roll with the corresponding buttons in the Pre-roll & Postroll section on the Transport panel or by selecting Transport > Pre-roll & Post-roll > Use Pre-roll/Use Post-roll. NOTE To show the Pre-roll & Post-roll section, right-click anywhere in the Transport panel or in the Transport Bar and activate Pre-roll & Post-roll.
Playback and Transport Punch In and Punch Out Punch In and Punch Out The punch in and the punch out points are a pair of markers that you can use for punch in and punch out of recordings. The punch in position determines the record start position and the punch out position determines the record stop position. You can activate punch in and punch out by activating the corresponding buttons on the Transport panel.
Playback and Transport Metronome Click RELATED LINKS General Tab on page 198 Click Sounds Tab on page 199 Transport Bar Sections on page 184 197 Cubase AI 12.0.
Playback and Transport Metronome Click General Tab The General tab allows you to make basic metronome settings. In the topmost section, the following options are available: Activate Metronome Click Activates/Deactivates the metronome click. In the Click Destinations section, the following options are available: Use MIDI Click Activates a MIDI click for the metronome. Use Audio Click Activates an audio click for the metronome that is output via the audio hardware.
Playback and Transport Metronome Click ● Time Signature at Record Start Position Activate this to let the count-in automatically use the time signature and tempo set at the position where recording starts. ● Time Signature at Project Position Activate this to let the count-in use the time signature at the project position. ● Use Custom Time Signature Allows you to set a time signature for the count-in. In this mode, signature changes in the project do not affect the count-in.
Playback and Transport Metronome Click Velocity Allows you to set the velocity of the MIDI click sound. Set the velocity for the first beat in a bar in the top row and the velocities for the other beats in the rows below. The Audio Click Settings section allows you to set up the audio click that sounds if you activate Use Audio Click in the Click Destinations section on the General tab. Use Steinberg Click Sound Activates the default sounds for the metronome click.
Playback and Transport Chase 4. Click Open. 5. Click the other rows to select audio files for the other beats. 6. Set the level of the sounds by clicking the respective rows in the Level column and adjusting the value. 7. Optional: Click Start to audition the custom sounds. RESULT The metronome uses the defined custom sounds for the audio click. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK Open the Click Sound Presets pop-up menu, and save your custom sounds as a preset.
On-Screen Keyboard The On-Screen Keyboard allows you to play and record MIDI notes by using your computer keyboard or mouse. This is useful if you have no external MIDI instrument at hand and you do not want to draw in notes with the Draw tool. When the On-Screen Keyboard is displayed, the usual key commands are blocked because they are reserved for the On-Screen Keyboard.
On-Screen Keyboard On-Screen Keyboard Options On-Screen Keyboard Options The On-Screen Keyboard offers different display modes as well as other options. ● To open the On-Screen Keyboard, select Studio > On-Screen Keyboard. 1 Note Velocity Level This slider allows you to adjust the volume of the On-Screen Keyboard. You can also use Up Arrow or Down Arrow for this. 2 Change On-Screen Keyboard Type This button allows you to switch between computer keyboard and piano keyboard display mode.
Recording In Cubase, you can record audio and MIDI. Make the following initial preparations: ● Set up, connect, and calibrate your audio hardware. ● Open a project and set up the parameters in the Project Setup dialog according to your specifications. The parameters in the Project Setup dialog determine the record file format, sample rate, project duration, etc. that affect the audio recordings that you make during the course of the project.
Recording Basic Recording Methods VST on page 763 Record Enabling Tracks on Selection You can set up a preference so that tracks are record-enabled when you select them. PROCEDURE 1. Select Edit > Preferences. 2. Open the Editing—Project & MixConsole page and activate Enable Record on Selected Audio Track or Enable Record on Selected MIDI Track. RESULT The tracks are record-enabled when you select them. Activating Recording Manually You can activate recording manually.
Recording Basic Recording Methods Stopping Recording You can stop recording manually. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● Click Stop on the Transport panel. ● Press Num * . RESULT Recording stops while playback continues. Stopping Recording Automatically with Punch Out Activating Punch Out allows you to stop recording automatically at the defined punch out position. PROCEDURE ● Activate Punch Out on the Transport panel.
Recording Basic Recording Methods As soon as the project cursor reaches the right locator, it jumps back to the left locator and continues recording a new lap. RESULT The results of cycle recording depend on the selected record mode. They also differ for audio and MIDI. RELATED LINKS Left and Right Locators on page 190 MIDI Recording on page 217 Audio Recording on page 212 Common Record Modes Menu The Common Record Modes determine what happens if you click Record during an audio or MIDI recording.
Recording Monitoring NOTE The previous recordings are removed from the project and cannot be retrieved using Undo. However, they remain in the Pool. Monitoring In Cubase, monitoring means listening to the input signal while preparing to record or while recording. The following ways of monitoring are available: ● Via Cubase. ● Externally by listening to the signal before it reaches Cubase. ● By using ASIO Direct Monitoring. This is a combination of both other methods.
Recording Monitoring PROCEDURE 1. In the Preferences dialog, select VST. 2. Open the Auto Monitoring pop-up menu and select Manual. 3. Deactivate Monitor in Cubase. 4. On your mixing desk or mixer application for your audio hardware, activate the Thru or Direct Thru mode to send the input audio back out again. ASIO Direct Monitoring If your audio hardware is ASIO 2.0 compatible, it may support ASIO Direct Monitoring. This feature may also be available for audio hardware with macOS drivers.
Recording Audio Recording Specifics Monitoring MIDI Tracks You can monitor everything you play and record through the MIDI output and channel that are selected for the MIDI track. PREREQUISITE Local Off is activated on your MIDI instrument. PROCEDURE 1. In the Preferences dialog, select MIDI. 2. Make sure MIDI Thru Active is activated. 3. In the track list, activate Monitor. RESULT Incoming MIDI is echoed back out again.
Recording Audio Recording Specifics Setting the Audio Record Folder Each Cubase project has a project folder containing an Audio folder. By default, this is where recorded audio files are stored. However, if needed, you can select record folders independently for each audio track. PROCEDURE 1. In the track list, select all tracks to which you want to assign the same record folder. 2. Right-click one of the tracks to open the context menu. 3. Select Set Record Folder. 4.
Recording Audio Recording Specifics Selecting an Input Bus for the Track Before you can record on your track, you must add and set up the required input busses and specify from which input bus the track records. PROCEDURE 1. In the Inspector for the audio track, open the Input Routing pop-up menu. 2. Select an input bus.
Recording Audio Recording Specifics Keep History Existing events or portions of events that overlap with a new recording are kept. Cycle History + Replace Existing events or portions of events that overlap with a new recording are replaced by the new recording. However, if you record in cycle mode, all takes from the current cycle recording are kept. Replace Existing events or portions of events that overlap with a new recording are replaced by the last recorded take.
Recording Audio Recording Specifics ● You hit Record too late. For this to work, you must specify an audio pre-record time. ● The system failed during recording. Specifying an Audio Pre-Record Time You can capture up to 1 minute of any incoming audio that you play in stop mode or during playback. This is possible because Cubase can capture audio input in buffer memory, even when not recording. PROCEDURE 1. In the Preferences dialog, select Record > Audio. 2.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics ● Do not try to actively bring about this kind of situation to test this feature. Although the internal program processes are designed to cope with such situations, Steinberg cannot guarantee that other parts of the computer are not damaged as a consequence. MIDI Recording Specifics Specific preparations and settings are required for MIDI recordings.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics Setting the MIDI Input In the Inspector, set the MIDI input for the track. PROCEDURE 1. In the track list, select the track to which you want to assign a MIDI input. 2. In the topmost Inspector section, open the Input Routing pop-up menu, and select an input. The available inputs depend on the type of MIDI interface that you use. If you hold down Shift - Alt/Opt , the selected MIDI input is used for all selected MIDI tracks.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics NOTE Bank Select messages are recognized differently by different MIDI instruments. The structure and the numbering of banks and programs may also vary. Refer to the documentation of your MIDI instruments for details. RELATED LINKS MIDI Track Inspector on page 113 Recording in MIDI Editors You can record MIDI data into the MIDI part that is opened in a MIDI editor. PREREQUISITE You have selected Merge or Replace as the MIDI Record Mode. PROCEDURE 1.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics You can find them in the Preferences dialog on the MIDI and on the Record—MIDI page. RELATED LINKS Basic Recording Methods on page 204 MIDI on page 754 Record - MIDI on page 759 Types of MIDI Messages You can record different types of MIDI messages. ● To specify which event types are recorded, deactivate the options for the type of MIDI message that you want to record in the Preferences dialog (MIDI—MIDI Filter page).
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics You can record Program Change Messages on their own tracks, separately from the notes to which they belong. As long as you set the two tracks to the same output and MIDI channel, the MIDI instrument identifies them as two simultaneously created recordings. System Exclusive Messages SysEx (System Exclusive) messages are special types of MIDI messages that are used to send data that only makes sense to a unit of a certain make and type.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics Merge Existing events in parts that overlap with a new recording are kept. The newly recorded events are added to the existing part. Replace Existing events in parts that overlap with a new recording are replaced. MIDI Cycle Record Mode When you record MIDI in cycle mode, the result not only depends on the MIDI record mode, but also on the cycle record mode that is selected in the Cycled MIDI Recording Only section.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics The buffer captures up to 10000 MIDI events. This can amount to a MIDI recording of around 2 minutes and 30 seconds. However, if you use a keyboard that produces a large amount of MIDI controller events, such as the ROLI Seaboard, this only corresponds to a recording of around 20 seconds. NOTE In the Preferences dialog (Record—MIDI page), you can specify a Retrospective Record Buffer Size.
Recording MIDI Recording Specifics PROCEDURE 1. Select the MIDI track into which you want to insert the captured MIDI data. 2. In the top section of the MIDI track Inspector, click Retrospective Recording. 3. From the pop-up menu, select one of the following: ● To insert the MIDI data as one, continuous MIDI part, select Insert as Linear Recording. ● To insert the MIDI data as stacked MIDI parts, select Insert as Cycle Recording.
Recording Remaining Record Time RESULT The MIDI data that was captured on the track input is inserted into the MIDI part. ● If the data was captured during playback, it is inserted into the MIDI part along the timeline. ● If the data was captured in Stop mode, it is inserted at the project cursor position. Emptying the Retrospective Record Buffer You can empty the retrospective record buffer manually.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files You can add audio and MIDI files to your project by importing them. Audio File Import You can import compressed and uncompressed audio files in a variety of different formats. You can also import audio from audio CDs or extract the audio of video files.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import Import Options dialog for single file import Import Options dialog for multiple file import Copy File to Project Folder/Copy All Files to Project Folder Copies the audio file to the Audio folder of the project and causes the clip refer to the copy. Deactivate this option if you want the clip to refer to the original file in the original location. In this case, it is marked as “external” in the Pool.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import Copy File to Project Folder/Copy All Files to Project Folder Copies the audio file to the Audio folder of the project and causes the clip refer to the copy. Deactivate this option if you want the clip to refer to the original file in the original location. In this case, it is marked as “external” in the Pool.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import FLAC file This is an open source format that reduces the size of audio files by 50 % to 60 %, compared to regular Wave files. The file extension is .flac. MPEG 1 Layer 3 file This is a family of standards used for encoding audio-visual information, such as movies, video, and music in a digital compressed format. Cubase can read MPEG Layer 2 and MPEG Layer 3. MP3 files are highly compressed files that still provide good audio quality. The file extension is .
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import Drive Opens a pop-up menu that allows you to select the correct CD drive. Speed (Windows only) Allows you to select the data transfer speed. NOTE While you normally want to use the fastest possible speed, you may have to select a slower speed for flawless audio extraction. Eject CD Opens the CD drive. Secure Mode (Windows only) Activates error checking and correction when reading the CD.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import Size The file size of the audio CD track in MB. Copy Start The start of the section that is imported. On the ruler, drag the Left Marker to the right to adjust this. Copy End The end of the section that is imported. On the ruler, drag the Right Marker to the left to adjust this. The Ruler The ruler has the following functions: 1 Play Tracks Plays back the selected track from the start to the end or from the left marker to the right marker.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files Audio File Import RESULT The audio of the selected video file is extracted and converted to a wave file that is saved in the Audio folder. A new audio clip is created and added to the Pool. In the Project window, an event referencing the audio file is inserted on the selected track at the project cursor position. If no track was selected, a new track is created.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files MIDI File Import MIDI File Import Cubase can import standard MIDI files. This allows you to transfer MIDI material to and from virtually any MIDI application, on any platform. Import Options for MIDI Files The Import Options for MIDI files allow you to specify what data to include in imported MIDI files. Extract First Patch Converts the first Program Change and Bank Select events for each track to Inspector settings for the track.
Importing Audio and MIDI Files MIDI File Import ● HALion Sonic SE multi-timbral creates several MIDI tracks, each routed to a separate instance of HALion Sonic SE in the VST Instruments window, and loads the appropriate presets. Import Karaoke Lyrics as Text Converts karaoke lyrics in the MIDI file to text that can be displayed in the Score Editor. If this option is deactivated, lyrics are only shown in the List Editor. Importing MIDI Files You can import MIDI files into Cubase. PROCEDURE 1.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantizing means moving recorded audio or MIDI and positioning it on the nearest grid position that is musically relevant. Quantizing is designed to correct errors, but you can also use it in a creative way. You can quantize audio and MIDI to a grid or to a groove. Audio and MIDI can be quantized at the same time. However, what exactly happens during quantizing differs for audio and MIDI: ● Audio quantizing affects the audio event starts.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantizing MIDI Event Starts ● Freeze MIDI Quantize Makes the start and end positions of MIDI events permanent. This function is useful in situations where you want to quantize a second time, based on the current quantized positions rather than the original positions. ● Create Groove Quantize Preset Creates a groove quantize preset based on hitpoints that you have created in the Sample Editor.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantizing MIDI Event Lengths Quantizing MIDI Event Lengths You can quantize the MIDI event lengths. PREREQUISITE You have set up a length quantize value on the Length Quantize pop-up menu on the Key Editor toolbar. PROCEDURE 1. 2. Perform one of the following actions: ● In the Key Editor, select the MIDI events that you want to quantize. ● In the Project window, select a MIDI part. Select Edit > Advanced Quantize > Quantize MIDI Event Lengths.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel PROCEDURE 1. In the Project window, select an audio event, a sliced loop, or an audio part. 2. Select Edit > Quantize. RESULT The event snap point, or, if not available, the start of the audio event, is quantized. Event starts that do not match exact note positions are moved to the closest grid positions. NOTE If you use the Quantize function on an audio part, the starts of the events inside the part are quantized.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel Quantize Presets The quantize presets are displayed at the top of the Quantize Panel. Here, you can load and save presets that include all settings for quantizing. Select Preset Allows you to select a preset. Save Preset Allows you to save the current settings as presets, so that they become available on all Quantize Presets pop-up menus. Remove Preset Allows you to remove the selected preset. Rename Preset Opens a dialog where you can rename the selected preset.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel Creating Groove Quantize Presets You can create a groove quantize preset, based on hitpoints that you have created in the Sample Editor. PROCEDURE 1. In the Project window, double-click the audio event from which you want to extract the timing. The Sample Editor opens. 2. Open the Hitpoints section. The hitpoints for the audio event are automatically detected and displayed. 3. Open the Create section, and click Groove. The groove is extracted.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel The following options are available: Grid Allows you to select the basic value for the quantize grid. Swing Offsets every second position in the grid, creating a swing or shuffle feel. NOTE Swing is only available if Grid is set to a straight value and Tuplet is deactivated. Catch Range Allows you to set a value that determines that quantizing only affects audio or MIDI within the set distance from the grid lines. This is reflected in the grid display.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel Tuplet Creates rhythmically more complex grids by dividing the grid into smaller steps, thereby creating n-tuplets. Rough Allows you to set a distance in ticks, so that your audio or MIDI is quantized to random positions within the specified distance from the quantize grid. This allows for slight variations and, at the same time, prevents your audio or MIDI from ending up too far away from the grid.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel The following options become available: Position Determines how much the timing of the groove affects the music. Velocity (MIDI Only) Determines how much the velocity values within the groove affect the music. NOTE Not all grooves contain velocity information. Length (MIDI Only) Allows you to specify how much the lengths of the notes are affected by the groove. NOTE For drums, the Length setting is ignored.
Quantizing MIDI and Audio Quantize Panel Max. Move Allows you to select a note value to specify a maximum distance for audio or MIDI movement. Orig. Position Sets the original starting position of the quantized material as the starting point of the quantizing. This allows you to synchronize material that does not start from bar 1 of the project.
Fades and Crossfades Fades allow you to gradually increase or decrease the volume at the start or at the end of audio events or audio clips, and to create smooth transitions. You can create the following fades: ● Fade ins/fade outs Fade ins and fade outs allow you to gradually increase or decrease the volume of audio events or audio clips. Fade ins and fade outs can be either event-based or clip-based. Event-based fades are calculated in real time when you play back audio events.
Fades and Crossfades Event-Based Fades Creating and Editing Fades with the Handles You can create and edit event-based fade ins and fade outs using the event handles. This gives you a visual feedback and allows you to apply the same fade type to several selected events. PROCEDURE 1. Select the audio events for which you want to create fades, and point at one of them with the mouse. Triangular fade handles become visible in the upper left and right corners. 2.
Fades and Crossfades Event-Based Fades Fade and volume changes are reflected in the event waveform and on the info line. NOTE To change the event volume and the fades with the mouse wheel, activate Use Mouse Wheel for Event Volume and Fades in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Audio page). To move the fade in end point, press Shift while moving the mouse wheel, and position the mouse pointer somewhere in the left half of the event.
Fades and Crossfades Event-Based Fades NOTE If you select several events, you can adjust the fade curves for all selected events at the same time. This is useful if you want to apply the same type of fade in to more than one event, for example. The following options are available: 1 Presets pop-up menu Allows you to set up presets for fade-in or fade-out curves. 2 ● To apply a saved preset, select it from the pop-up menu. ● To remove a saved preset, select it from the pop-up menu and click Remove.
Fades and Crossfades Creating Clip-Based Fades ● 7 If you set the current fade as the default fade, the length value is included as part of the default settings. As Default Saves the current settings as the default fade. 8 Apply Applies the current fade settings to the selected events. Creating Clip-Based Fades You can create and edit clip-based fade ins and fade outs using Direct Offline Processing. These fades are applied to the audio clip. Events that refer to the same clip receive the same fades.
Fades and Crossfades Crossfades Crossfades Crossfades allow you to create smooth transitions for consecutive audio events on the same track. Crossfades are always event-based. You can only create crossfades if the consecutive events or their respective clips overlap. ● If the audio events overlap, a crossfade of the default shape (linear, symmetric) is applied in the overlapping area. NOTE You can edit the default crossfade length and shape in the Crossfade editor.
Fades and Crossfades Crossfades RESULT The crossfade length is adjusted to the selected range. Crossfade Editor The Crossfade editor allows you to edit crossfades. It contains fade-in and fade-out curve settings, and common settings. ● To open the Crossfade editor, select one or both crossfaded events, and select Audio > Fades > Crossfade or double-click the crossfade zone.
Fades and Crossfades Crossfades Length Specifies the length of the crossfade area. Cubase tries to center the crossfade, that is, the length change is applied equally to both sides. To be able to resize a crossfade, it must be possible to resize the corresponding event. For example, if the fade-out event already plays its audio clip to the end, its end point cannot be moved any further to the right.
Fades and Crossfades Auto Fades and Crossfades NOTE You can also remove a crossfade by clicking and dragging it outside the event. Auto Fades and Crossfades Cubase features an Auto Fade function that can be set either globally or separately for each audio track. Auto fades allow you to create smoother transitions between events by applying fade ins and fade outs with a length between 1 and 500 ms.
Fades and Crossfades Auto Fades and Crossfades 1 Auto Fade In Activates auto fade ins. 2 Auto Fade Out Activates auto fade outs. 3 Auto Crossfades Activates auto crossfades. 4 Use Project Settings This is only available if you opened the Auto Fades dialog for individual tracks. Deactivate this to set up and apply the settings to individual tracks only. To apply the global settings again, activate Use Project Settings. 5 Length Specifies the length of the auto fades or crossfades.
Fades and Crossfades Auto Fades and Crossfades Provides the settings for auto crossfades. Equal Gain allows you to adjust the fade curves so that the summed fade-in and fade-out amplitudes are the same, all along the crossfade region. Equal Power allows you to adjust the fade curves so that the energy (power) of the crossfade is constant, all along the crossfade region. Making Global Auto Fade Settings You can set up auto fades and crossfades for the whole project. PROCEDURE 1.
Markers Markers are used to locate certain positions quickly. There are two types of markers: position markers and cycle markers. If you often find yourself jumping to a specific position within a project, you should insert a marker at this position. You can also use markers to make range selections or for zooming. Markers are located on the marker track. You can add 1 marker track.
Markers Markers Window Setting the Locators Using Cycle Markers Cycle markers represent ranges in your project. You can use them for moving the left and right locators. PROCEDURE ● To set the left locator to the cycle marker start and the right locator to the cycle marker end, perform one of the following actions: ● Double-click on a cycle marker. ● Select a cycle marker from the Cycle pop-up menu in the track list. RESULT The left and right locators are moved to encompass the cycle marker.
Markers Markers Window Settings Section Show Marker IDs on Marker Track If this option is activated, the marker IDs are shown on marker track events. Cycle Follows When Locating to Markers This automatically sets the left and right locators to a position or cycle marker when locating to this marker. This is useful if you need to set the locators on the fly during recording for Punch In/Punch Out, for example.
Markers Markers Window ● Reassign Cycle Marker IDs reassigns the IDs for all cycle markers on the active marker track to match the order of markers on the track. Auto-Scroll with Project Cursor Allows you to keep track of the locate arrow, even if your project contains a high number of markers. If this option is activated, the Markers window is automatically scrolled to keep the locate arrow visible. List of markers Lists the markers of the selected track.
Markers Markers Window NOTE Regardless of what attributes you sort by, the second sort criterion will always be the position attribute. Marker Attributes Marker attributes are shown in the marker list of the Markers window. ● To open the Markers window, select Project > Markers. The following attribute columns are available: Locate An arrow indicates which marker is at the project cursor position (or closest to the project cursor).
Markers Marker Track NOTE To navigate in the list of marker attributes, you can also use the Tab key and the Up Arrow , Down Arrow , Left Arrow , and Right Arrow keys. To edit a marker attribute on the info line, select the marker in the Project window, and click the corresponding attribute field on the info line. NOTE To choose which marker attributes are displayed on the info line, click Set up Info Line to the right of the info line.
Markers Marker Track 1 Add Position Marker Adds a position marker at the cursor position. 2 Add Cycle Marker Adds a cycle marker at the cursor position. 3 Locate pop-up menu If you select a position or a cycle marker in this pop-up menu, the corresponding marker in the event display or in the Markers window is selected. 4 Cycle pop-up menu If you select a cycle marker in this pop-up menu, the left and right locators are set to the corresponding cycle marker.
Markers Importing and Exporting Markers ● To move a marker, select it and drag it. You can also edit marker positions on the info line. ● To remove a marker, select it, and press Delete or use the Erase tool. RELATED LINKS Marker Track on page 259 Using Markers to Select Ranges Markers can be used in conjunction with the Range Selection tool to make range selections in the Project window. This is useful if you quickly want to make a selection that spans all tracks in the project. PROCEDURE 1.
Markers Importing and Exporting Markers Exporting Markers via MIDI You can export your markers as part of a MIDI file. ● To include any markers in the MIDI file, activate Export Markers in the Export Options dialog. The following settings are exported: ● The start position of position markers and cycle markers NOTE To export markers via MIDI export, your project must contain a marker track. RELATED LINKS Exporting MIDI Tracks as Standard MIDI Files on page 131 262 Cubase AI 12.0.
MixConsole The MixConsole provides a common environment for producing mixes in stereo. It allows you to control level, pan, solo/mute status, etc. for audio and MIDI channels. Furthermore, you can set up the input and output routing for multiple tracks or channels at the same time. You can open the MixConsole in a separate window or in the lower zone of the Project window.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Allows you to select what page is displayed in the fader section: the channel faders, the insert effects for a channel, or the send effects. The top button allows you to show/hide the toolbar. 2 Toolbar The toolbar shows tools and shortcuts for settings and functions in the MixConsole. 3 Fader section The fader section is always visible and shows all channels in the same order as in the track list.
MixConsole MixConsole Window The MixConsole is divided into the following sections: 1 Toolbar The toolbar shows tools and shortcuts for settings and functions in the MixConsole. 2 Left Zone Allows you to set up the visibility of channels in the fader section. 3 Fader section The fader section is always visible and shows all channels in the same order as in the track list. 265 Cubase AI 12.0.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Apart from the main sections, you can also access the following sections from within the MixConsole window: 1 Meter bridge Allows you to monitor the levels of your channels. 2 Equalizer curves Allows you to draw an EQ curve. Click in the curve display to open a larger view where you can edit the curve points. 3 Channel racks Allows you to show additional channel controls, as needed. 4 Pictures Allows you to add a track picture to the selected channel.
MixConsole MixConsole Window RELATED LINKS MixConsole Left Zone on page 267 MixConsole Toolbar on page 268 Project Window Toolbar on page 36 Fader Section on page 276 Channel Racks Selector on page 273 Adding Track Pictures to MixConsole Channels on page 291 Adding Notes to a MixConsole Channel on page 291 Channel Latency Overview on page 292 Channel Strips on page 288 MixConsole Left Zone The left zone of the MixConsole shows a list of the MixConsole channels that allows you to show/hide specific channels
MixConsole MixConsole Window NOTE The MixConsole in the lower zone of the Project window does not follow any visibility changes that you perform in the MixConsole window and vice versa. MixConsole Toolbar The toolbar contains tools and shortcuts for settings and functions in the MixConsole. NOTE The MixConsole toolbar in the lower zone of the Project window contains a limited set of tools. Left Divider Left Divider Allows you to use the left divider.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Right Locator Position Shows the right locator position. Locator Range Duration Locators to Selection Allows you to set the locators to the selection. Locator Range Duration Shows the duration of the locator range. Transport Buttons Go to Previous Marker/Zero Moves the project cursor to the previous marker/zero position on the timeline. Go to Next Marker/Project End Moves the project cursor to the next marker/project end. Rewind Moves backward. Forward Moves forward.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Select Primary Time Format Allows you to select a time format for the primary time display. Secondary Time Display Shows the position of the project cursor in the selected time format. Select Secondary Time Format Allows you to select a time format for the secondary time display. Markers Jump to Marker Allows you to set and locate marker positions. Open Markers Window Opens the Markers window. State Buttons Deactivate All Mute States Deactivates all mute states.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Link Group Temporary Link Mode Synchronizes all touched parameters of selected channels. Zoom Palette Reduce Channel Width Allows you to reduce the channel width. Set Number of Channels Displays the set number of channels. Increase Channel Width Allows you to increase the channel width. Reduce Rack Height Allows you to reduce the rack height. Increase Rack Height Allows you to increase the rack height.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Shows/Hides the left zone of the window. Set up Window Layout Allows you to set up the window layout. Set up Toolbar Set up Toolbar Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which toolbar elements are visible. Filtering Channel Types The channel types filter on the MixConsole toolbar allows you to determine which channel types are shown. PROCEDURE 1. Click Set Channel Type Filter. This opens the channel types filter. 2.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Update Configuration If you change the active configuration, this is indicated by an asterisk after the configuration name. Use this function to save changes to the active configuration. Rename Configuration Opens the Rename Configuration dialog that allows you to rename the active configuration. Delete Configuration Allows you to delete the active configuration. Move Configuration to Position This function becomes available if 2 or more configurations exist.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Inserts Allows you to select insert effects for your channel. Equalizers (audio-related channels only) Allows you to set the channel EQ. Channel Strip (audio-related channels only) Allows you to integrate channel strip modules, such as Gate, Compressor, EQ, Transformer, Saturator, and Limiter that allow you to enhance your sound. Sends Allows you to select send effects for your channel.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Using Quick Link You can activate the Temporary Link Mode to synchronize all touched parameters of selected channels. PROCEDURE 1. Select the channels that you want to link. 2. On the MixConsole toolbar, activate Q-Link. NOTE You can also press Shift - Alt/Opt to temporarily link channels. In that case, the link is only active as long as you press the keys. 3. Change the parameters for one of the selected channels.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Reset MixConsole Channels Allows you to reset EQ, insert, and send effect settings for all channels or for selected channels only. Solo and mute buttons are deactivated, the volume fader is set to 0 dB, and pan is set to the center position. RELATED LINKS MixConsole Toolbar on page 268 Saving MixConsole Settings You can save MixConsole settings for selected audio-related channels and load them into any project. PROCEDURE 1.
MixConsole MixConsole Window NOTE If a channel is deactivated on the Visibility tab or if its channel type is deactivated, it is not shown in the fader section. The MixConsole in the lower zone of the Project window does not follow any visibility changes you perform in the MixConsole window and vice versa. It is linked to the track visibility of the Project window.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Pan Control For each audio-related channel with at least a stereo output configuration, you can find a pan control at the top of the fader section. For MIDI channels, the pan control sends out MIDI pan messages. The result depends on how your MIDI instrument is set to respond to pan. The pan control allows you to position a channel in the stereo spectrum. ● To make fine adjustments, hold down Shift when you move the pan control.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Volume Each channel in the fader section of the MixConsole has a volume fader. The fader levels are displayed below the fader, in dB for audio-related channels and as MIDI volume (0 to 127) for MIDI channels. ● To change the volume, move the fader up or down. ● To make fine volume adjustments, press Shift while moving the faders. ● To reset the volume to its default value, press Ctrl/Cmd and click a fader.
MixConsole MixConsole Window 2. 3. Do one of the following to set the level position for a color change: ● Double-click a level position to the right of the meter scale and enter the level (dB) value. To enter dB values smaller than zero, add a minus sign before the entered number. ● Click a level position, and drag it to a specific level. Press Shift for more accurate positioning. ● Click a level position, and nudge it up or down with the Up Arrow / Down Arrow keys.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Input Levels When recording digital sound, it is important to set the input levels high enough to ensure low noise and high audio quality. At the same time, you must avoid clipping (digital distortion). Setting Input Levels In the MixConsole, you can set the input level. Make sure that the signal is loud enough but does not exceed 0 dB. PROCEDURE 1. Select Functions Menu > Global Meter Settings > Meter Position and activate Input.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Clipping Clipping typically occurs in the audio hardware when an analog signal is too loud and therefore converted to digital in the A/D converters of the hardware. Channel Racks The Channel Racks section contains specific MixConsole functions, such as routing, insert, or send handling. These are organized in racks. NOTE The MixConsole in the lower zone of the Project window features the Inserts and the Sends rack only.
MixConsole MixConsole Window You can copy rack and channel settings between different types of channels, provided that the target channels have corresponding settings. ● For example, copying from input/output channels leaves the sends settings in the target channel unaffected. Routing The Routing rack allows you to configure input and output routing, that is, setting up input and output busses. NOTE This channel rack is only available in the MixConsole window.
MixConsole MixConsole Window ● Mono output busses, or mono group output busses. These should not lead to feedback. RELATED LINKS Routing on page 283 Input Routing Configurations for Stereo Channels For stereo channels, the following input routing configurations are available: ● Mono or stereo input busses. ● Mono or stereo output busses, and mono or stereo group output busses. These should not lead to feedback.
MixConsole MixConsole Window ● To bypass a single insert, click the button on the left of the inserts slot. ● To deactivate bypass, click the button again. Saving/Loading FX Chain Presets You can save and load all insert rack settings using FX chain presets. FX chain presets have the file name extension .fxchainpreset.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Equalizer Settings You can make equalizer settings for the 4 bands. These have different default frequency values and different Q names. However, they all have the same frequency range (20 Hz to 20 kHz). You can specify different filter types for each individual module. 1 Bypass EQ Click to bypass all EQ bands. 2 Curve display Click on the display in a channel to show a larger version.
MixConsole MixConsole Window ● Double-click the curve point to deactivate it. ● Drag the curve point up or down to adjust the gain. ● Press Ctrl/Cmd to edit only the gain. ● Drag left or right to adjust the frequency. ● Press Alt/Opt to edit only the frequency. ● Press Shift while dragging to set the Q-factor. ● To invert the EQ curve, open the context menu, and select Invert EQ Settings.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Opens a pop-up menu where you can select an EQ type for the band. Bands 1 and 4 can act as parametric, shelving, or high/low-cut filters. EQ bands 2 and 3 are always parametric filters. Saving/Loading EQ Presets You can save and load EQ presets. PROCEDURE ● In the top right corner of the EQ rack, open the presets pop-up menu, and perform one of the following actions: ● To save the current settings as a preset, select Save Preset, and name your preset.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Attack Determines how fast the compressor responds to signals above the set threshold. The longer the attack time, the more of the early part of the signal passes through unprocessed. Release Sets the time it takes for the gain to return to its original level when the signal drops below the threshold. Auto Make-Up Automatically adjusts the output for gain loss. Auto Release Automatically finds the best Release setting for the audio material.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Saving/Loading Strip Presets You can save and load strip presets. Strip presets have the file name extension .strippreset. PROCEDURE ● In the top right corner of the Channel Strip rack, open the Presets pop-up menu, and perform one of the following actions: ● To save the current settings as a preset, select Save Strip Preset, and name your preset. ● To load a preset, select Load Strip Preset, and select a preset.
MixConsole MixConsole Window 2. Select Add FX Channel to . 3. In the Add FX Channel Track window, select the effect and configuration. 4. Click OK. RESULT The FX channel track is added in the Project window, and the send is automatically routed to it. Adding Track Pictures to MixConsole Channels You can add track pictures to one or multiple channels in the MixConsole. PROCEDURE 1. On the MixConsole toolbar, click Set up Window Layout, and activate Pictures.
MixConsole MixConsole Window PROCEDURE 1. Select Edit > Preferences. 2. Open the User Interface page, and select Track & MixConsole Channel Colors. 3. In the Colorize Tracks and MixConsole Channels section, activate MixConsole Channels. 4. Optional: To adjust the brightness of a selected channel, adjust the Selected Channel Brightness slider. NOTE By default, the selected channel is shown in gray. If you want to display the selected channel in color, activate Show Color for Selected Channel.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Type Indicates if the latency is caused by an insert effect, a channel strip module, or a panner. Latency (ms) Shows the latency in milliseconds. NOTE ● If the latency value is marked with (*), the corresponding plug-in features a Live button or a low latency mode. If you activate Constrain Delay Compensation, this mode is automatically activated. ● If the latency value is marked with (**), the corresponding plug-in does not feature a Live button or a low latency mode.
MixConsole MixConsole Window The Channel Settings window is divided into several sections: 1 Toolbar The toolbar shows tools and shortcuts for settings and functions in the Channel Settings window. 2 Inserts/Strip The Inserts section features insert effect slots that allow you to load insert effects for a channel. The Strip section allows you to load built-in processing modules for separate channels.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Channel Settings Toolbar The toolbar in the Channel Settings window contains tools and shortcuts for settings and functions in the Channel Settings window. Channel Navigation Go to Last Edited Channel Shows the channel that you last edited in the Channel Settings window. This is only available if you have edited at least 2 channels. Go to Next Edited Channel Shows the next channel in the Channel Settings window. This is only available if you have edited at least 2 channels.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Shows the name of the output channel. Edit Instrument Edit VST Instrument Allows you to open the VST instrument control panel. This is available for MIDI and instrument channels only. Output Chain Show Output Chain Shows the output chain. This allows you to keep track of more complicated output routings. Track Templates Load/Save Track Preset Allows you to load/save track presets. Reload Track Preset Allows you to reload track presets.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Channel Settings – Channel Inserts The Channel Inserts section is shown in the Channel Settings window. Bypass Inserts Bypasses the insert effects for the channel. Inserts Allows you to add insert effects for the channel. Preset Management Allows you to load or save FX Chain presets. Move Channel Strip to Pre/Post-Inserts Position Allows you to move the channel strip to a pre-fader position or to a post-fader position in the signal flow.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Bypass Channel Strip Bypasses the channel strip modules for the channel. NOTE You can reset the channel strip modules for the channel by Alt/Opt -clicking this button. Channel Strip Allows you to activate and set up channel strip modules for the channel. Preset Management Allows you to load or save strip presets.
MixConsole MixConsole Window ● Hold ● Analysis ● Dry Mix ● Input Gain meter ● Output Gain meter ● Gain Reduction meter You can close the details view by clicking Close Module . RELATED LINKS Standard Compressor on page 288 Channel Settings – Equalizer The Channel Strip/Equalizer section is shown in the Channel Settings window. Bypass Equalizers Bypasses the equalizer settings for the channel. NOTE You can reset the equalizers by Alt/Opt -clicking this button.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Equalizer Controls Allows you to make equalizer settings for the 4 bands in a large EQ curve display with several modes. RELATED LINKS Channel Settings on page 293 Equalizer Settings Panel The Equalizer Settings panel allows you to set up the equalizer. ● To open the Equalizer Settings panel, click Equalizer Settings in the Equalizer section of the Channel Settings window. Show Equalizer Controls Shows/Hides the equalizer controls.
MixConsole MixConsole Window RELATED LINKS Channel Settings on page 293 Channel Settings – Channel Faders The Channel Faders section is shown in the Channel Settings window. The controls are the same as in the MixConsole fader section. RELATED LINKS Fader Section on page 276 Channel Settings on page 293 Keyboard Focus in the MixConsole You can control the left zone, the channel rack section, and the fader section with the computer keyboard. For this to work, the section must have the focus.
MixConsole MixConsole Window Navigating in a Section Once you have activated the focus for a section, you can control it with the computer keyboard. In the channel racks section and in the fader section, controls that are selected for keyboard control are indicated by a red border. CHOICES ● To navigate through the controls, use the Up Arrow , Down Arrow , Left Arrow , or Right Arrow keys. ● To activate or deactivate a switch, press Return .
Audio Effects Cubase comes with a number of included effect plug-ins that you can use to process audio, group, and instrument channels. The effects and their parameters are described in the separate document Plug-in Reference. Insert Effects and Send Effects You can apply effects to audio channels by using insert effects or send effects. Insert Effects Insert effects are inserted into the signal chain of an audio channel. As a result, the whole channel signal passes through the effect.
Audio Effects Insert Effects and Send Effects To edit send effects, you can use the following sends sections: ● The Sends rack in the MixConsole. ● The Destinations section in the Channel Settings window. ● The Sends section in the Inspector. RELATED LINKS Direct Offline Processing on page 326 VST Standard Audio effects can be integrated in Cubase, thanks to the VST standard. At the moment, the VST 3 and VST 2 standards are supported.
Audio Effects Insert Effects VST 3 dynamics plug-ins with look-ahead functionality feature a Live button that allows you to disengage the look-ahead. This minimizes latency during real-time recording. For details, see the separate document Plug-in Reference. To avoid latency during real-time recording or real-time playback of VST instruments, you can also use Constrain Delay Compensation.
Audio Effects Insert Effects Adding Insert Effects If you add insert effects to audio channels, the audio is routed through the insert effects. PROCEDURE 1. Select the audio track. 2. In the track list, click Edit Channel Settings. The Channel Settings window for the audio channel opens. 3. In the Inserts section, click the first insert slot on the Inserts tab, and select an effect from the selector. RESULT The selected insert effect is loaded and activated, and the audio is routed through it.
Audio Effects Insert Effects 2. Click Group. 3. Open the Audio Outputs pop-up menu, and select the desired output bus. 4. Click Add Track. The group track is added to the track list. 5. In the Inspector for the group track, open the Inserts section. 6. Click the first effect slot, and select an effect from the selector. 7. In the Inspector for the audio tracks, open the Output Routing pop-up menus and select the group.
Audio Effects Insert Effects PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > MixConsole. 2. In the Inserts rack, locate the insert effect that you want to copy. 3. Hold down Alt/Opt , and drag the insert effect on an insert slot. RESULT The insert effect is copied. If the destination slot already contains an insert effect, the existing effect is moved down one slot.
Audio Effects Insert Effects Bypassing Insert Effects If you want to listen to the track without having it processed by a particular effect, but do not want to remove this effect completely from the insert slot, you can bypass it. A bypassed effect is still processing in the background. This allows for crackle-free comparison of the original with the processed signal. PREREQUISITE You have added an insert effect to an audio channel. PROCEDURE 1.
Audio Effects VST Effect Selector 2. In the Freeze Channel Options dialog, specify a Tail Size in seconds. This adds time at the end of the rendered file. As a result, reverb and delay tails can fully fade out. RESULT ● The output of the audio track is rendered to an audio file, and on playback you hear the same sound as before freezing. ● Less CPU load is used. ● The Freeze Audio Channel button lights up. ● The track controls are grayed out. ● The audio events are locked.
Audio Effects Send Effects 1 Expand Tree/Collapse Tree Expands/Collapses the tree. 2 Search VST Effect Allows you to search for VST effects by typing in the name or parts of the name or the category. 3 Plug-in Collections and Options Allows you to select a collection. If you select the Default collection, the options Sort By Category and Sort by Vendor become available. These allow you to sort the default collection. Send Effects Send effects are outside the signal path of an audio channel.
Audio Effects Send Effects ● You can rename FX channel tracks, just like any other tracks. ● You can add automation tracks to FX channel tracks. This allows for automating various effect parameters. ● You can route the effect return to any output bus. ● You can adjust the FX channel in the MixConsole. This includes adjusting the effect return level, the balance, and the EQ. When you add an FX channel track, you can choose wether to create FX channel tracks inside or outside a dedicated folder.
Audio Effects Send Effects 2. In the Inspector, open the Sends section. 3. Right-click the send slot for the FX channel, and select Add FX Channel to Send. 4. Open the Effect pop-up menu, and select an effect for the FX channel track. 5. Open the Configuration pop-up menu, and select a channel configuration for the FX channel track. 6. Open the Folder Setup pop-up menu, and choose whether to create FX channel tracks inside or outside a dedicated folder. 7. Click Add Track.
Audio Effects Send Effects 2. In the Inserts section, click an insert slot on the Inserts tab, and select an effect from the selector. RESULT The selected effect is added to the FX channel track as an insert effect. Routing Audio Channels to FX Channels If you route an audio channel send to an FX channel, the audio is routed through the insert effects that you have set up for the FX channel. PROCEDURE 1. Select the audio track. 2.
Audio Effects Effect Control Panel Setting the Level for the Sends PROCEDURE 1. In the track list, select the FX channel track that contains the effect for which you want to set the level. 2. Open the Inserts section of the Inspector, and click the effect slot to open the effect control panel. 3. In the effect control panel, set the Mix control to 100. This allows for full control of the effect level when you use the effect sends to control the signal balance later. 4.
Audio Effects Effect Control Panel 1 Activate Effect Activates/Deactivates the effect. 2 Bypass Effect Allows you to bypass the effect. 3 Read Automation/Write Automation Allows you to read/write automation for the effect parameter settings. 4 Switch between A/B Settings Switches to setting B when setting A is active, and to setting A when setting B is active. 5 Apply current settings to A and B Copies the effect parameters of effect setting A to effect setting B, and vice versa.
Audio Effects Effect Control Panel Copy Setting/Paste Setting Allows you to copy the effect settings and to paste them to another effect. Load Preset/Save Preset Allows you to load/to save a preset. Default Preset Allows you to define and save a default preset. Switch to A Setting/Switch to B Setting Switches to setting B when setting A is active, and to setting A when setting B is active.
Audio Effects Effect Presets AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK You can copy the settings between A and B by clicking Copy A to B. These settings can serve as a starting point for further fine-tuning. Hiding/Showing Effect Control Panels When you add an audio effect, the respective plug-in control panel opens automatically. You can hide the control panels from view. This contributes to a better overview, in case you added a number of plug-ins to your project whose control panels clutter up the screen.
Audio Effects Effect Presets ● Windows: \Users\\My Documents\VST 3 Presets\\ ● macOS: /Users//Library/Audio/Presets// RELATED LINKS Loading Presets for Effects on page 319 Loading Insert Presets on page 322 Preset Browser The preset browser allows you to select a VST preset for the loaded effect. ● To open the preset browser, click the preset browser field in the effect control panel.
Audio Effects Effect Presets 2. In the Results section, select a preset from the list. 3. Double-click to load the preset that you want to apply. RESULT The preset is loaded. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK To return to the preset that was selected when you opened the preset browser, click Revert to Last Setting. Saving Effect Presets You can save your effect settings as presets for further use. PROCEDURE 1. Open the Preset Management pop-up menu. 320 Cubase AI 12.0.
Audio Effects Effect Presets 2. Select Save Preset. The Save Preset dialog opens. 3. In the New Preset section, enter a name for the new preset. 4. Optional: Click New Folder to add a subfolder inside the effect preset folder. 5. Optional: Click Show Attribute Inspector in the bottom left corner of the dialog, and define attributes for the preset. 6. Click OK. RESULT The effect preset is saved.
Audio Effects Effect Presets 3. Open another instance of the same effect. 4. Right-click the control panel, and select Paste Setting from the context menu. Saving Insert Presets You can save the inserts for a channel as an inserts preset, including all parameter settings. Insert presets can be applied to audio, instrument, FX channel, or group tracks. PREREQUISITE You have loaded a combination of insert effects, and the effect parameters are set up for each effect. PROCEDURE 1.
Audio Effects System Component Information Window 5. Double-click to apply the preset, and close the pane. RESULT The effects of the insert effect preset are loaded and any plug-ins that were previously loaded for the track are removed. Loading Insert Effect Settings from Track Presets You can extract the effects that are used in a track preset and load them into your inserts rack. PROCEDURE 1. Select the track to which you want to apply the new preset. 2. In the Inspector, open the Inserts section.
Audio Effects System Component Information Window The following columns are available: Active Allows you to activate or deactivate a plug-in. Instances The number of plug-in instances that are used in Cubase. Name The name of the plug-in. Vendor The manufacturer of the plug-in. File The name of the plug-in, including its file name extension. Path The path on which the plug-in file is located. Category The category of each plug-in. Version The version of the plug-in.
Audio Effects System Component Information Window Exporting System Component Information Files For archiving purposes or troubleshooting, you can save system component information as an XML file. ● The system component file contains information on the installed/available plug-ins, their version, vendor, etc. ● The XML file can be opened in any editor application that supports the XML format. NOTE The export function is not available for program plug-ins. PROCEDURE 1.
Direct Offline Processing Direct Offline Processing allows you to instantly add audio processes to the selected audio events, clips, or ranges, without destroying the original audio. Applying offline effects is common practice in dialogue editing and sound design. Offline processing has several advantages over applying real-time mixer effects: ● The workflow is clip-based. This allows you to apply different effects to events on the same track.
Direct Offline Processing Direct Offline Processing Workflow Direct Offline Processing Workflow You can perform offline processing operations in the Direct Offline Processing window. The window always shows the processing of the selected audio. When you add or modify offline processing, the following applies: ● If you add a process, its last used parameter settings are loaded. You can reset it to its default settings by clicking Reset to Default Values. ● All changes are instantly applied to the audio.
Direct Offline Processing Direct Offline Processing Window In the Direct Offline Processing window, the following options and settings are available: Toolbar Allows you to add audio processing, to audition the audio with the current edits, and to make global settings for offline processing. Process panel Shows the last added process and allows you to modify or reset its settings, or to delete it.
Direct Offline Processing Direct Offline Processing Window Audition Audition Allows you to audition the selected audio with all processing from the top of the process list to the selected process in the list. All processes below are ignored during playback. Audition Loop Loops the playback until you deactivate the Audition button. Audition Volume Allows you to adjust the volume. Process Range Extend Process Range in ms Allows you to extend the process range beyond the left and right event borders.
Direct Offline Processing Direct Offline Processing Window Applying Processing to Multiple Events Direct Offline Processing allows you to add the built-in audio processes to multiple events at once. You can also modify or delete processing on multiple events simultaneously. ● To apply audio processes to multiple events, select the audio and add, modify, or delete the processing.
Direct Offline Processing Built-In Audio Processes 2. Select Audio > Direct Offline Processing. 3. Do one of the following: ● Activate Audition, and modify the settings of the process. ● Reset the process to its default settings by clicking Reset to Default Values. ● Delete the process by clicking Delete on the process panel.
Direct Offline Processing Built-In Audio Processes Fade In/Fade Out Fade In and Fade Out allow you to apply a fade to the selected audio. Curve Type buttons Determine whether the corresponding envelope uses Spline Interpolation, Damped Spline Interpolation, or Linear Interpolation. Fade display Shows the shape of the fade curve. The resulting waveform shape is shown in a dark tone, while the current waveform shape is displayed in a light tone. ● To add points, click the curve.
Direct Offline Processing Built-In Audio Processes NOTE In case of clipping, lower the Gain value, and use the Normalize audio process instead. This allows you to increase the level of the audio to the highest extent possible without causing clipping. RELATED LINKS Normalize on page 333 Invert Phase Invert Phase allows you to invert the phase of the selected audio. For stereo audio files, a pop-up menu is available.
Direct Offline Processing Built-In Audio Processes Resample Resample allows you to change the length, tempo, and pitch of an event. If you resample to a higher sample rate, the event gets longer, and the audio plays back at a slower speed, with a lower pitch. If you resample to a lower sample rate, the event gets shorter, and the audio plays back at a faster speed, with a higher pitch. File Sample Rate Shows the original sample rate of the event.
Direct Offline Processing Built-In Audio Processes Time Stretch Time Stretch allows you to change the length and the tempo of the selected audio without affecting the pitch. Define Bars You can set the length of the selected audio and the time signature in this section. Bars Allows you to set the length of the selected audio in bars. Beats Allows you to set the length of the selected audio in beats. Signature Allows you to set the time signature.
Direct Offline Processing Key Commands for Direct Offline Processing BPM Shows the resulting tempo in beats per minute. For this to work, the Original Length values must be specified. Range These settings allow you to set a range for the time stretch. Arbitrary Range Start Time Allows you to set a start position for the range. Arbitrary Range End Time Allows you to set an end position for the range. Use Locators Allows you to set the Range values to the left and right locator positions, respectively.
Direct Offline Processing Key Commands for Direct Offline Processing Option Key command Activate/Deactivate Audition (Playback Toggle triggers Local Preview must be activated in the Preferences dialog) Space Undo Ctrl / Cmd - Z To define key commands for further Direct Offline Processing operations, and for directly adding particular audio processes, use the Key Commands dialog.
Time Stretch Algorithms In Cubase, time stretching algorithms are used for operations like the Time Stretch offline process, or in the Sample Editor. RELATED LINKS Time Stretch on page 335 Sample Editor on page 348 Standard on page 338 Limitations on page 339 Standard The Standard algorithm is optimized for CPU-efficient realtime processing. The following presets are available: Standard – Drums For percussive sounds. This mode does not change the timing of your audio.
Time Stretch Algorithms Limitations Grain Size Allows you to determine the size of the grains into which the standard time-stretching algorithm splits the audio. Low grain size values lead to good results for material that has many transients. Overlap This is the percentage of the whole grain that will overlap with other grains. Use higher values for material with a stable sound character.
Audio Functions Cubase offers particular functions for analyzing the audio in your project. RELATED LINKS Detect Silence Dialog on page 340 Spectrum Analyzer Window on page 344 Statistics Window on page 346 Detect Silence Dialog The Detect Silence dialog allows you to search for silent sections in events. You can split events and remove the silent parts from the project, or create regions corresponding to the non-silent sections.
Audio Functions Detect Silence Dialog The following options are available: Waveform display Shows the waveform of the selected audio and allows you to preview the analyzed audio before it is processed. When you move the mouse over the waveform, the mouse pointer changes to a speaker icon. Click the waveform, and hold to play back the audio from this position. The Preview slider allows you to set the preview level. Mute Gaps mutes sections that are detected as silence when previewing.
Audio Functions Detect Silence Dialog NOTE This setting is only available if Peak Level Mode is activated. Close Threshold When the audio level drops below this value, the function closes and detects sounds below this level as silence. This value cannot be higher than the Open Threshold value. NOTE This setting is only available if Peak Level Mode is activated. Linked Activate this option to set the same values for Open Threshold and Close Threshold.
Audio Functions Detect Silence Dialog Apply Fades Applies fade ins and fade outs of the set length to the resulting events. Analyze Analyzes the audio event and redraws the waveform display to indicate which sections are considered silent. Auto Activate this option to analyze the audio event and to update the display automatically every time you change the settings. NOTE If you are working with very long files, consider deactivating the Auto option, as this may slow down the process.
Audio Functions Spectrum Analyzer Window AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK ● If you have selected more than one event and did not activate Process All Selected Events, the Detect Silence dialog opens again after processing, allowing you to make separate settings for the next event.
Audio Functions Spectrum Analyzer Window Analyzing the Audio Spectrum The Spectrum Analyzer allows you to analyze the audio of a selected event, clip, or selection range. PROCEDURE 1. Select an audio event, clip, or a selection range. 2. Select Audio > Spectrum Analyzer. RESULT The audio spectrum of the selected event, clip, or selection range is displayed as a twodimensional graph in the Spectrum Analyzer window.
Audio Functions Statistics Window RELATED LINKS Spectrum Analyzer Window on page 344 Statistics Window The Statistics function analyzes the selected audio events, clips, or selection ranges. ● To open the Statistics window for a selected audio event, clip, or selection range, select Audio > Statistics. The Statistics window shows the following information: Channel Shows the name of the analyzed channel. Min. Sample Value Shows the lowest sample value in dB. Max.
Audio Functions Statistics Window Average RMS (AES17) Shows the average loudness, in accordance with the AES17 standard. Max. RMS Shows the highest RMS value. Max. RMS All Channels Shows the highest RMS value of all channels. RELATED LINKS Remove DC Offset Option on page 333 347 Cubase AI 12.0.
Sample Editor The Sample Editor provides an overview of the selected audio event. It allows you to view and edit audio by cutting and pasting, removing, or drawing audio data, as well as by processing audio. Editing is non-destructive so that you can undo modifications at any time. You can open the Sample Editor in a separate window or in the lower zone of the Project window. This is useful if you want to access the Sample Editor functions from within a fixed zone of the Project window.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Toolbar Contains tools for selecting, manipulating, and playing back audio. 2 Info Line Shows information about the audio. 3 Overview Shows an overview of the whole audio clip and indicates which part of the clip is shown in the waveform display. 4 Sample Editor Inspector Contains audio editing tools and functions. NOTE The Inspector for the lower zone editor is shown in the left zone of the Project window. 5 Ruler Shows the timeline and the display format of the project.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Toolbar Left Divider Left Divider Tools that are placed to the left of the divider are always shown. Auto-Scroll Auto-Scroll Keeps the project cursor visible during playback. Select Auto-Scroll Settings Allows you to activate Page Scroll or Stationary Cursor and to activate Suspend Auto-Scroll When Editing. Preview Audition Plays back the selected audio. Audition Loop Loops the playback until you deactivate Audition. Audition Volume Allows you to adjust the volume.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Toolbar Snap Snap to Zero Crossing Restricts editing to zero crossings, that is, positions where the amplitude is zero. Snap On/Off Restricts horizontal movement and positioning to the specific positions. Grid Options Show/Hide Grid Shows/Hides the grid in the waveform display. Grid Type Allows you to select a grid type. The options depend on the display format that is selected for the ruler. If you select Seconds as the ruler format, time-based grid options are available.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Toolbar Remaining Number of Beats Defined in Audio File Displays the remaining number of beats of your audio file. Defined Tempo of Audio File Displays the estimated tempo of your audio file. Defined Time Signature of Audio File Displays the estimated time signature of your audio file. Warping Algorithm for Audio Clip Allows you to select a warp algorithm. View Options Zoom Mode Allows you to select a zoom mode for the waveform display.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Toolbar Activates/Deactivates the independent track loop. Loop Start Time The independent track loop start time. Loop End Time The independent track loop end time. Right Divider Right Divider Tools that are placed to the right of the divider are always shown. Window Zone Controls Open in Separate Window This button is available in the lower zone editor. It opens the editor in a separate window. Open in Lower Zone This button is available in the editor window.
Sample Editor Info Line 2. Click in the waveform display, and keep the mouse button pressed. The project cursor moves to the position where you clicked. 3. Drag to the left or to the right. RESULT The audio is played back, and you can hear at which position the cursor is located. NOTE You can determine the speed and the pitch of the playback by dragging faster or more slowly. Editing Audio Samples with the Draw Tool You can edit the audio clip at sample level with the Draw tool.
Sample Editor Overview Line ● To show or hide the info line, click Set up Window Layout on the toolbar, and activate or deactivate Info Line. The on/off status of the info line in the Sample Editor window and in the lower zone editor are independent of each other. NOTE Initially, length and position values are displayed in the format specified in the Project Setup dialog. Overview Line The overview line displays the whole clip and indicates which part of the clip is shown in the waveform display.
Sample Editor Sample Editor Inspector NOTE In the lower zone editor, the Inspector is always shown in the left zone of the Project window. ● To open or close the Inspector sections, click their names. RELATED LINKS Opening the Editor Inspector on page 50 Hitpoints Section The Hitpoints section allows you to edit hitpoints to slice your audio. Here you can create groove quantize presets, markers, regions, and events based on hitpoints.
Sample Editor Ruler Ruler The ruler shows the timeline and the display format of the project, the project tempo grid. The ruler is located above the waveform display. It is always shown. Waveform Display The waveform display shows the waveform image of the edited audio clip. 1 Level Scale menu Allow you to show the level as a percentage or in dB. Here, you can also activate the display of the half level axis. 2 Ruler Shows the project tempo grid.
Sample Editor Waveform Display Zooming Vertically You can zoom in the waveform vertically. This allows you to see a specific detail of the waveform. PROCEDURE ● Drag the vertical zoom slider down to zoom in or drag it upwards to zoom out. RESULT The vertical scale changes relative to the height of the Sample Editor. Zooming Horizontally You can zoom in the waveform horizontally. This allows you to zoom in or out on the time scale.
Sample Editor Range Editing Zoom to Selection Zooms out so that the entire clip is visible in the waveform display. Zoom to Selection (Horiz.) Zooms in horizontally so that the current selection fills the waveform display. Zoom to Event Zooms in so that the waveform display shows the section of the clip corresponding to the edited audio event. This is not available if you have opened the Sample Editor from the Pool. Zoom In Vertically Zooms in one step vertically.
Sample Editor Range Editing RESULT The selected range is highlighted in the waveform display. NOTE You can also use the functions in the Select pop-up menu to select ranges. RELATED LINKS Select Menu on page 360 Select Menu Select Submenu on the Edit Menu If you select Edit > Select, the following functions are available: All Selects the whole clip. None Deselects everything. In Loop Selects the audio between the left and right locator.
Sample Editor Regions List Creating Clips from Selection Ranges You can create a new clip that contains only the selected range. PROCEDURE 1. Select a range. 2. Click the selected range, and select Audio > Bounce Selection. 3. Perform one of the following actions: ● Click Replace if you want to replace the original. ● Click No if you want to keep the original. RESULT A new Sample Editor window opens with the new clip.
Sample Editor Regions List If you select a region from the list and click this button above, the corresponding section of the audio clip is selected (as if you had selected it with the Range Selection tool) and zoomed. This is useful if you want to apply processing to the region only. 6 Play Region Plays back the selected region. 7 Regions list Allows you to select and display regions in the audio waveform.
Sample Editor Regions List Adjusting Start and End Positions of Regions PREREQUISITE You have clicked Set up Window Layout on the toolbar, and you have activated Regions. You have created regions. PROCEDURE ● Perform one of the following actions: ● Drag the Region Start or Region End handle to a different position in the waveform display. ● Double-click the Start or End field in the regions list, and enter a new value.
Sample Editor Snap Point Snap Point The snap point is a marker within an audio event that can be used as a reference position. ● To show the snap point, select Show Clips and Events or Show Event as Editor Display Mode on the toolbar. The event snap point is set as follows: ● If you record an audio event, the snap point is set to the next grid position. ● If you bounce a selection, the snap point is set to the start of the new event or to the first snap point that you set manually.
Sample Editor Snap Point RELATED LINKS Sample Editor Toolbar on page 349 Adjusting the Snap Point on page 365 Adjusting the Snap Point PREREQUISITE The audio event is opened in the Sample Editor. Show Clips and Events or Show Event is selected as Editor Display Mode on the toolbar. PROCEDURE 1. Optional: On the Sample Editor toolbar, select the Scrub tool. This allows you to audition the audio while setting the snap point. 2.
Hitpoints Hitpoints mark musically relevant positions in audio files. Cubase can detect these positions and create hitpoints automatically by analyzing onsets and melodic changes of the audio. NOTE All hitpoint operations can be performed in the Sample Editor window and in the lower zone editor. When you add an audio file to your project by recording or by importing, Cubase automatically detects hitpoints if Enable Automatic Hitpoint Detection is activated in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Audio page).
Hitpoints Calculating Hitpoints ● You can move a hitpoint by moving the mouse pointer on the vertical line that represents the hitpoint and dragging to the left or to the right. RELATED LINKS Calculating Hitpoints on page 367 Editing Hitpoints Manually on page 369 Calculating Hitpoints When you add an audio file to your project by recording or by importing, Cubase can automatically detect hitpoints.
Hitpoints Calculating Hitpoints Main Section Edit Hitpoints Allows you to edit hitpoints manually in the event display. Threshold Filters hitpoints by their peaks. Drag the slider to the right to discard hitpoints of quieter crosstalk signals, for example. Intensity Filters hitpoints by their intensity. Drag the slider to the right to discard less intense hitpoints. Minimum Length Filters hitpoints by their distance between two hitpoints. This option allows you to avoid creating slices that are too short.
Hitpoints Calculating Hitpoints Events Creates events at hitpoint positions. MIDI Notes Creates MIDI notes at hitpoint positions. RELATED LINKS Editing Hitpoints Manually on page 369 Editing Hitpoints Manually It is crucial for any further editing that the hitpoints are set at the correct positions. Therefore, if the automatic hitpoint detection does not meet your expectations, you can edit hitpoints manually.
Hitpoints Calculating Hitpoints 3. To disable a hitpoint that you do not need, press Shift , and click on the line that represents the hitpoint. The mouse pointer changes to a cross icon, and the tooltip Disable Hitpoints is shown. Disabled hitpoints are not taken into account for further operations. 4. Press Tab to navigate to the next slice. The slice is played back automatically. 5. To insert a hitpoint, press Alt/Opt , and click at the position where you want to insert the hitpoint.
Hitpoints Locating to Hitpoints in the Project Window RELATED LINKS Hitpoint Filters in the Hitpoint Section on page 367 Locating to Hitpoints in the Project Window You can navigate through the hitpoints of an audio event in the Project window. PREREQUISITE Enable Automatic Hitpoint Detection is activated in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Audio page). PROCEDURE 1. Select the audio track that contains the audio event for which you want to locate hitpoints. 2.
Hitpoints Slices PROCEDURE ● Perform one of the following actions: ● In the Hitpoints section in the Sample Editor Inspector, open the Create section, and click Slices. ● Select Audio > Hitpoints > Create Audio Slices from Hitpoints. RESULT The areas between the hitpoints are sliced and become separate events. The original audio event is replaced by an audio part containing the slices. On playback, the audio plays back seamlessly at the project tempo.
Hitpoints Creating a Groove Quantize Preset AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK NOTE If you decide to change the tempo again, undo your actions and use the original, unstretched file. Deleting Overlaps If the project tempo is higher than the tempo of the original audio event, the slice events in the part may overlap. You can delete these overlaps. PROCEDURE 1. Right-click the track in the track list, and from the context menu, select Auto Fades Settings. 2. In the Auto Fades dialog, activate Auto Crossfades. 3.
Hitpoints Creating Regions PROCEDURE ● In the Hitpoints section in the Sample Editor Inspector, open the Create section, and click Markers. RESULT If your project has no marker track, a marker track is added and activated automatically, and a marker is created at every hitpoint position. RELATED LINKS Markers on page 254 Creating Regions You can create regions at hitpoint positions. This allows you to isolate recorded sounds.
Hitpoints Creating MIDI Notes Creating MIDI Notes You can create MIDI notes from hitpoints. This allows you to double, replace, or enrich drum hits by triggering sounds of a VST instrument. PREREQUISITE The audio event from which you want to create MIDI notes is opened in the Sample Editor, and the hitpoints are set at the correct positions. PROCEDURE 1. In the Hitpoints section in the Sample Editor Inspector, open the Create section, and click MIDI Notes. 2.
Hitpoints Creating MIDI Notes Pitch Sets a note pitch for all created MIDI notes. Length Sets a note length for all created MIDI notes. Destination Allows you to select a destination: ● To place the MIDI part on the first selected MIDI or instrument track, select First Selected Track. NOTE Any MIDI parts from previous conversions on this track will be deleted. ● To create a new MIDI track for the MIDI part, select New MIDI Track. ● To copy the MIDI part to the clipboard, select Project Clipboard.
Tempo Matching Audio Cubase offers several functions that allow you to match the tempo of the audio in your project. In the Sample Editor window and in the lower zone editor, you can perform the following tempo matching operations: ● Stretch to Project Tempo Stretches the selected event to match the project tempo. ● Musical Mode Applies realtime time stretching to audio clips, so that they match the project tempo.
Tempo Matching Audio Musical Mode RESULT The audio loop is stretched to match the project tempo. Musical Mode The Musical Mode allows you to tempo-match audio loops to the project tempo. If you activate Musical Mode for an audio clip, realtime time stretching is applied to the clip so that it matches the project tempo. The audio events adapt to any tempo changes in Cubase, just like MIDI events. In the Sample Editor, you can activate Musical Mode on the toolbar.
Audio Part Editor The Audio Part Editor provides an overview of the selected audio parts. It allows you to view, audition, and edit parts by cutting and pasting, crossfading, drawing level curves, or by processing parts. Editing is non-destructive so that you can undo modifications at any time. You can open the Audio Part Editor in a separate window or in the lower zone of the Project window.
Audio Part Editor Audio Part Editor Toolbar Displays the timeline and the display format of the project. RELATED LINKS Opening the Editor in the Lower Zone on page 55 Opening the Editor Inspector on page 50 Ruler on page 44 Info Line on page 46 Audio Part Editor Toolbar on page 380 Audio Part Editor Toolbar The toolbar contains tools for selecting, editing, and playing back audio parts. ● To show or hide the toolbar elements, right-click the toolbar and activate or deactivate the elements.
Audio Part Editor Audio Part Editor Toolbar Tool Buttons Object Selection Selects audio parts. Range Selection Selects ranges. Zoom Zooms in. Hold Alt/Opt , and click to zoom out. Erase Deletes audio parts. Split Splits audio parts. Mute Mutes audio parts. Draw Draws a volume curve. Play Allows you to play back the clip from the position where you click until you release the mouse button. Scrub Allows you to locate positions.
Audio Part Editor Audio Part Editor Toolbar Activate Part for Editing Lists all parts that were selected when you opened the editor and allows you to activate a part. Nudge Nudge Start Left Increases the length of the selected event by moving its start to the left. Nudge Start Right Decreases the length of the selected event by moving its start to the right. Move Left Moves the selected event to the left. Move Right Moves the selected event to the right.
Audio Part Editor Audio Part Editor Toolbar options are available. If you select Bars+Beats as the ruler format, musical grid options are available. Quantize Soft Quantize On/Off Activates/Deactivates soft quantize. Quantize Presets Allows you to select a quantize preset. Apply Quantize Applies the quantize settings. Open Quantize Panel Opens the Quantize Panel. Event Colors Select Color for Selected Tracks or Events Allows you to define audio part colors.
Audio Part Editor Info Line Open in Lower Zone This button is available in the editor window. It opens the editor in the lower zone of the Project window. Show/Hide Info Allows you to activate/deactivate the info line. Set up Toolbar Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which toolbar elements are visible.
Audio Part Editor Lanes Lanes Lanes can make it easier to work with several audio events in a part. Moving some of the events to another lane can facilitate selecting and editing. If Snap is deactivated and you want to move an event to another lane without accidentally moving it horizontally, press Ctrl/Cmd while dragging it up or down. RELATED LINKS Track Handling on page 130 Operations You can perform all operations in the Audio Part Editor window and in the lower zone editor.
Audio Part Editor Operations 2. ● To play back the section between the first and last selected event, select the events with the Object Selection tool. ● To play back a range, select a range with the Range Selection tool. ● To start playback from the current cursor position, set the project cursor to that position. On the toolbar, click Audition. NOTE If you activate Audition Loop, playback continues until you deactivate Audition.
Audio Part Editor Operations NOTE You can also edit the start and end positions of the loop numerically in the fields next to the Loop button. RESULT The loop is displayed in blue in the ruler. NOTE The events are looped as long as the Loop button is activated and the Audio Part Editor is open. RELATED LINKS Setup Options on page 732 Audio Part Editor Toolbar on page 380 Scrub In the Audio Part Editor, the Scrub tool has a separate icon on the toolbar.
Audio Part Editor Operations ● To switch between parts, activate them via key commands. In the Key Commands dialog, there are two functions in the Edit category: Activate Next Part and Activate Previous Part. If you assign key commands to these, you can use them to cycle between parts. RELATED LINKS Key Commands on page 716 Audio Part Editor Toolbar on page 380 388 Cubase AI 12.0.
Pool Every time that you record on an audio track, a file is created on your hard disk. A reference to this file, a clip, is added to the Pool. The following rules apply to the Pool: ● All audio and video clips that belong to a project are listed in the Pool. ● Every project has a separate Pool. The way the Pool displays folders and their contents is similar to the way the File Explorer/macOS Finder displays folders and file lists.
Pool Pool Window The content of the Pool is divided into the following folders: Audio folder Contains all audio clips and regions that are in the project. Video folder Contains all video clips that are in the project. Trash folder Contains unused clips that have been moved here from the hard disk for permanent removal. NOTE You cannot rename or delete these folders, but you can add any number of subfolders. Pool Window Columns The Pool window columns display information about the clips and regions.
Pool Pool Window The following columns are available: Media Contains the Audio, Video, and Trash folders. If the folders are opened, the clip or region names are shown and can be edited. Used Displays how many times a clip is used in the project. If there is no entry in this column, the corresponding clip is not used. Status Displays various icons that relate to the current Pool and clip status. The following symbols can be displayed: ● Record folder Indicates the Record folder.
Pool Pool Window Type Displays the file format of the clip. Date Displays the date when the audio file was last changed. Origin Time Displays the original start position where a clip was recorded in the project. As this value can be used as a basis for the Insert into Project option in the Media or context menu, you can change it if the Origin Time value is independent (for example, not for regions). Image Displays waveform images of audio clips or regions.
Pool Pool Window Project Folder Displays the path to the folder of the active project. Pool Record Folder Displays the path to the Record folder of the active project. By default, this is the Audio folder. However, you can create a new Audio subfolder and designate this as your Pool Record folder. Info Line The info line shows information about the event or part that you selected from the Pool. ● To activate the info line, click Show Info at the left of the toolbar.
Pool Working with the Pool Location Allows you to define a search location. Search Starts the search. Select/Import Selects the file that you select from the result list in the Pool window. If the selected file is not located in the Pool, the label of the button changes to Import. Click Import to import the selected file into the Pool. Previewer Allows you to listen to the file that you selected from the result list. Result list Lists all the files that match the search criteria.
Pool Working with the Pool PROCEDURE 1. In the Pool window, select the clip that you want to duplicate. 2. Select Media > New Version. RESULT A new version of the clip appears in the same Pool folder. The duplicated clip is named after the original, with a version number added to it. Regions within a clip are also copied but keep their name. Inserting Clips into a Project To insert a clip into a project, you can either use the insert commands on the Media menu or drag and drop.
Pool Working with the Pool RELATED LINKS Adjusting the Snap Point on page 365 Replacing Clips in Events on page 148 Cross-Hair Cursor on page 72 Deleting Clips from the Pool You can delete clips from the Pool with or without deleting the corresponding file from the hard disk. Removing Clips from the Pool You can remove clips from the Pool without deleting the corresponding files from the hard disk. PROCEDURE 1.
Pool Working with the Pool RESULT The files are deleted from the hard disk. Removing Unused Clips from the Pool You can find all clips that are not used in the project in the Pool. This allows you to quickly remove all unused clips. PREREQUISITE The Pool window is open. PROCEDURE 1. Select Media > Remove Unused Media. 2. Do one of the following: ● To move the clips to the Trash folder, select Trash. ● To remove the clips from the Pool, select Remove from Pool.
Pool Working with the Pool 2. Select Audio > Find Selected in Pool. RESULT The corresponding clips are located and highlighted in the Pool. Searching for Audio Files The search functions help you locate audio files in the Pool, on your hard disk, or on other media. The process is similar to a regular file search, with some additional options. PROCEDURE 1. In the Pool window, click Search on the toolbar. A search pane appears at the bottom of the window, displaying the search functions. 2.
Pool Working with the Pool RELATED LINKS Search Section on page 393 Using the Extended Search Functionality Apart from the search criterion Name, additional search filters are available. The extended search options allow for a detailed search, helping you to master even the largest sound database. PROCEDURE 1. In the Pool window, click Search on the toolbar. The search pane is displayed in the lower part of the Pool window. 2.
Pool Working with the Pool 2. In the Resolve Missing Files dialog, decide if you want the program to find the file for you (Search), if you want to find it yourself (Locate), or specify a directory for the program to use when searching for the file (Folder). ● If you select Search, a dialog opens to let you specify which folder or disk the program scans. Click Search Folder, select a directory or a disk, and click Start. If found, select the file from the list and click Accept.
Pool Working with the Pool If you activate Playback Toggle Triggers Local Preview in the Preferences dialog (Transport page), you can use Space to audition. This is the same as activating Audition on the toolbar. ● Select a clip and activate Audition. The whole clip plays back. To stop playback, click Audition again. ● Click in the waveform image for a clip. The clip plays back from the selected position in the waveform until the end. To stop playback, click Audition or anywhere else in the Pool window.
Pool Working with the Pool ● Windows Media Audio (Windows only) ● Wave 64 (W64 files) The following characteristics are possible: ● Stereo or mono ● Any sample rate NOTE Files that have a different sample rate than the project sample rate are played back at the wrong speed and pitch. ● 8 bit, 16 bit, 24 bit, 32 bit, 32 bit float, or 64 bit float ● Various video formats NOTE You can also use the commands on the Import submenu of the File menu to import audio or video files into the Pool.
Pool Working with the Pool Import Options dialog for single file import Import Options dialog for multiple file import Copy File to Project Folder/Copy All Files to Project Folder Copies the audio file to the Audio folder of the project and causes the clip refer to the copy. Deactivate this option if you want the clip to refer to the original file in the original location. In this case, it is marked as “external” in the Pool.
Pool Working with the Pool 3. Select the folder in which you want the new file to be created and click OK. 4. Optional: If you are using the Bounce Selection option to create a separate audio file for a clip that refers to the same audio file as another clip, enter a name for the new audio file. RESULT A new audio file is created in the specified folder. The file has the name of the region and is automatically added to the Pool.
Pool Working with the Pool NOTE You cannot put audio clips in a video folder and vice versa. 2. Select Media > Create Folder. 3. Rename the folder. 4. Drag the clips to the new folder. Applying Processing to Clips in the Pool You can apply audio processing to clips from within the Pool in the same way as to events in the Project window. PROCEDURE 1. In the Pool window, select the clips that you want to process. 2. Select Audio > Direct Offline Processing, and select a processing method.
Pool Working with the Pool ● To proceed with the unsaved project, click Later. RESULT Only the audio portions that are actually used in the project remain in the corresponding audio files in the Pool Record folder. RELATED LINKS Backing up Projects on page 94 Converting Files In the Pool, you can convert files to another format. PROCEDURE 1. In the Pool window, select the files that you want to convert. 2. Select Media > Convert Files. 3.
Pool Working with the Pool Converts the original file without changing clip references. However, the references are saved with the next save action. ● New + Replace in Pool Creates a new copy with the chosen attributes, replaces the original file with the new one in the Pool, and redirects the current clip references from the original file to the new file. Select this option if you want your audio clips to refer to the converted file but want to keep the original file on disk.
MediaBay and Media Rack You can manage media files on your computer as well as presets from multiple sources from within the MediaBay or the Media rack. The MediaBay window offers advanced functions for working with media files and managing database items. To show the media files on your computer in the MediaBay, you must scan the folders or volumes that contain the files so that these are added to the database.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone The following tiles are available: VST Instruments Shows VST instruments and instrument presets. VST Effects Shows VST effects and effect presets. Loops & Samples Shows audio loops, MIDI loops, or instrument sounds ordered by content set. Presets Shows the track presets, strip presets, FX chain presets, and VST FX presets.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone Loading Effect Plug-In Presets on page 437 Loading FX Chain Presets on page 437 Loading Strip Presets on page 437 Adding Favorites Using the Favorites Page on page 417 Adding Favorites Using the File Browser Page on page 418 Favorites Page The Favorites page allows you to add your own favorite folders to the Media rack. 1 Add Favorite Opens a file dialog where you can navigate to the location of a folder and add it as a favorite folder.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone The following options are available: 1 Media Rack navigation controls Allow you to navigate to specific folders and to filter the Results list. 2 Attribute filter Allows you to view and edit some of the standard file attributes found in your media files. 3 Results list Shows all media files that are found in the selected folder and allows you to select a media file. 4 Previewer Allows you to preview the selected media file.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone The following options are available: 1 Media Rack navigation controls Allow you to navigate to specific folders and to filter the Results list. 2 Add Favorite Allows you to add the selected folder as a favorite folder. 3 Back/Forward/Up Up navigates to the parent folder. Back navigates to the previously used folder. Forward navigates to the most recent folder. 4 File browser Allows you to browse selected folders.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone VST Instruments Page The VST Instruments page shows all VST instruments of the selected collection. ● To open the VST Instruments page, go to the Home page of the Media rack, and click VST Instruments. The following options are available: 1 Media Rack navigation controls Allow you to navigate to specific folders and to filter the Results list. 2 Expand All/Collapse All Expands/Collapses all results.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone RELATED LINKS VST Plug-in Manager Window on page 469 Adding Pictures of VST Instruments to the Media Rack on page 418 VST Effects Page The VST Effects page shows the VST effects of the selected collection. ● To open the VST Effects page, go to the Home page of the Media rack, and click VST Effects. The following options are available: 1 Media Rack navigation controls Allow you to navigate to specific folders and to filter the Results list.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone ● 6 Plug-in Manager opens the Plug-in Manager that allows you to create new plug-in collections. These will be listed in the Plug-in Collections and Options menu below the Default collection. Plug-in list Shows the plug-ins of the selected collection.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone Allows you to specify which attribute columns are displayed on the Results page. 5 Show/Hide Attribute Filters Shows/Hides the Attribute Filters section. RELATED LINKS Home Page on page 408 Results Page on page 410 Media File Attributes on page 433 Working with the Media Rack The Media rack in the right zone of the Project window allows you to search for supported media files and included VST instruments, and to add them to your project.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone 2. Do one of the following: ● To create an FX channel track, drag an effect on the track list. ● To add the effect to an audio-related track, drag the effect from the Media rack, and drop it in the Inserts or Sends section of the track Inspector.
MediaBay and Media Rack Media Rack in Right Zone RELATED LINKS Favorites Page on page 410 Adding Favorites Using the File Browser Page You can add favorite folders using the File Browser page. This allows you to directly access media files in specific folders. PROCEDURE 1. In the Media rack, click the File Browser tile. 2. In the File Browser, navigate to the folder that you want to add as a favorite, and select it. 3. Do one of the following: ● At the top left of the page, click Add Favorite.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Adding Pictures of VST Effects to the Media Rack Pictures of VST effects from other vendors are not loaded by default. However, you can manually add them to the Media rack. PREREQUISITE You have added a VST effect from another vendor. PROCEDURE 1. Open the control panel of the VST effect. 2. On the control panel, click Add VST Plug-in Picture to Media Rack. RESULT The picture of the VST effect is shown in the Media rack.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window 4 Results Displays all supported media files. You can filter the list and perform text searches. 5 Previewer Allows you to preview the files shown in the Results list.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Text Search Search Allows you to search media files by name or by attribute. Media Types Filter Select Media Types Allows you to select the media types that are displayed on the Results page. Rating Filter Rating Filter Filters files according to their rating. Reset Result Filters Reset Filters Allows you to reset the filters. Results Update Results Updates the results. Shuffle Results Shuffles the Results page.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Window Zone Controls Show/Hide Left Zone Shows/Hides the left zone of the window. Show/Hide Lower Zone Shows/Hides the lower zone of the window. Show/Hide Right Zone Shows/Hides the right zone of the window. Set up Window Layout Allows you to set up the window layout. Set up Toolbar Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which toolbar elements are visible. Setting up the MediaBay You can show and hide the different sections of the MediaBay.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window RELATED LINKS Scanning Folders on page 423 Adding Favorites on page 423 Scanning Folders To include specific folders in the MediaBay search, you must scan them. PROCEDURE 1. In the File Browser section of the MediaBay, navigate to the folder that you want to include in the scan. 2. Activate the checkbox for the folder to activate the scan. RESULT All files that are found in the scanned folder are shown in the Results list.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window RESULT ● In the File Browser section, a new folder with the specified name is added to the Favorites folder. ● In the Favorites section, the added favorite is available in the Select Defined Favorite pop-up menu. ● In the Media rack in the right zone of the Project window, a new tile with the specified name is added to the Favorites page. NOTE Favorites in the MediaBay window are not automatically scanned.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window NOTE You can set the maximum number of files to be displayed in the Results list in the MediaBay Settings. Setting up the Results List Columns For each media type, or for combinations of media types, you can specify the attribute columns to be displayed in the Results list. PROCEDURE 1. In the Results section, select the media types for which you want to make settings. 2.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window IMPORTANT If you delete a file using the File Explorer/macOS Finder, it is still displayed in the Results list, although it is no longer available to the program. To remedy this, rescan the corresponding folder. Shuffling the Results List You can display the Results list entries in a random order. ● To shuffle the Results list, click Shuffle Results in the MediaBay toolbar.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Show Media Types Selector You can activate the media types that you want to be displayed in the Results list. The following media types are available: Audio Files Shows all audio files. The supported formats are .wav, .w64, .aiff, .aifc, .rex, .rx2, .mp3, .mp2, .ogg, .wma (Windows only). MIDI Files Shows all MIDI files (file name extension .mid). MIDI Loops Shows all MIDI loops (file name extension .midiloop).
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Saving/Loading FX Chain Presets on page 285 Video File Compatibility on page 708 Filtering According to Rating With the Rating Filter, you can filter files according to their rating. NOTE The Rating Filter is not available in the Media rack in the right zone. PROCEDURE ● In the Rating Filter section of the MediaBay toolbar, select a value from the Rating Filter pop-up menu. Performing a Text Search You can perform a text search of the Results list.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window When entering text preceded by “not” (or a minus sign), all files not containing b are found. Parentheses [()] [(a or b) + c] Using parentheses, you can group text strings. In this example, files that contain c and either a or b are found. Quotation marks [“”] [“your search text”] With quotation marks, you can define sequences of several words. Files are found if they contain the sequence of words that you entered.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window 1 Transport controls Start, stop, pause, and cycle the preview. 2 Preview Level fader Specifies the preview level. 3 Auto Play New Results Selection Automatically plays back the selected file. 4 Align Beats to Project Plays back the selected file in sync with the project, starting at the project cursor position. Note that this can apply real-time time stretching to your audio file.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window RELATED LINKS VST Instruments on page 452 MIDI Loops Previewer The Previewer for MIDI loops allows you to listen to MIDI loops before applying them to your project. NOTE MIDI loops are always played back in sync with the project. 1 Transport controls Starts and stops the preview. 2 Preview Level fader Specifies the preview level. 3 Auto Play New Results Selection Automatically plays back the selected file.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window 3 MIDI Activity Allows you to monitor incoming MIDI messages. 4 Preview Level fader Specifies the preview level. 5 Keyboard You can display the Keyboard in keyboard display mode or in piano display mode. 6 Computer Keyboard Input Allows you to use your computer keyboard to preview the presets. RELATED LINKS Previewing Presets Using the Memo Recorder Mode on page 432 On-Screen Keyboard on page 202 Previewing Presets Via MIDI Input MIDI input is always active.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window RESULT The notes are played back with the instrument preset you selected in the Results section. When you pause for 2 seconds, the note sequence that you played until this moment is played back in a continuous loop. To use another sequence, start entering notes again. Previewing Presets Via the Computer Keyboard NOTE If you activate Computer Keyboard Input, the computer keyboard is used exclusively for the Previewer section.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window 2 Attribute values Displays the attribute values and indicates how often a certain attribute value has been assigned to your media files. NOTE ● Some attributes are linked to each other. For example, there are certain sub-category values available for each category value. Changing the value in one of these attribute columns results in different values in the other column. ● Each attribute column displays only the attribute values that are found.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Resetting the Filter PROCEDURE ● To reset the filter, click Reset Filter at the top of the Filters section. This also resets the Results list. Working with the MediaBay When you work with many music files, the MediaBay helps you to find and organize your content. After scanning your folders, all media files of the supported formats are listed in the Results section. You can set up Favorites, that is, folders or directories that contain media files.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window RELATED LINKS Show Media Types Selector on page 427 Loading Track Presets PROCEDURE 1. 2. Do one of the following: ● In the MediaBay, open the media types selector, click Track Presets, and select a preset. ● In the Media rack in the right zone, click Presets > Track Presets, and click the following tiles until you can select the preset from the Results list. Do one of the following: ● Double-click the track preset to create a new track with the loaded preset.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Window Loading Effect Plug-In Presets PROCEDURE 1. 2. Do one of the following: ● In the MediaBay, open the media types selector, click Plug-in Presets, and select a preset. ● In the Media rack in the right zone, click Presets > VST FX Presets, and click the following tiles until you can select the preset from the Results list. Do one of the following: ● Drag the plug-in preset to an audio track or to its Inserts section in the Inspector.
MediaBay and Media Rack Working with Volume Databases ● In the Media rack in the right zone, click Presets > Strip Presets, and click the following tiles until you can select the preset from the Results list. 2. In the Project window, select an audio track. 3. Drag the preset from the MediaBay or Media rack and drop it onto the open Strip section of the Inspector. RESULT The strip preset is applied to the track, and all settings of the preset are loaded.
MediaBay and Media Rack Working with Volume Databases IMPORTANT Select the topmost directory level for this. You cannot create a database file for a lower-level folder. NOTE If you create a volume database on a network drive, multiple users can access it. This can lead to write conflicts, as only one user at a time can write to the database. RESULT The file information for this drive is written into a new database file. Volume databases are indicated by the symbol to the left of the drive name.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Settings ● If you cannot reach the other user and you want to use the database, click Force unlock to remove the lock. Removing Volume Databases If you have worked on another computer using an external hard disk and return to your own computer and connect the external device as part of your system setup, you no longer need a separate volume database. Any data on this drive can be included in the local database file again, removing the extra database file.
MediaBay and Media Rack MediaBay Settings NOTE The MediaBay does not warn you if the maximum number of files has been reached. There might be situations where a certain file cannot be found because the maximum number of files was exceeded. Show File Extensions in Results List Shows file name extensions in the Results list. Scan Unknown File Types When scanning for media files, the MediaBay ignores files with unknown file extensions.
Automation In essence, automation means recording the values for a particular MixConsole or effect parameter. When you create your final mix, Cubase can adjust this particular parameter control. Recording your Actions If the settings in your current project are crucial, you may not want to experiment with automation until you know more about how it all fits together. If so, you can create a new project for the following example.
Automation Static Value Line Static Value Line When you open an automation track for the first time, it does not contain any automation events. This is reflected in the event display as a dotted horizontal line, the static value line. This line represents the current parameter setting.
Automation Writing Automation Data Automatic Writing of Automation Data Every action that you perform is automatically recorded on automation tracks which you can later open for viewing and editing. PROCEDURE 1. In the track list, click Show/Hide Automation for a track to open its automation track. 2. Click W to enable the writing of automation data on this track. 3. Start playback. 4. Adjust the parameters in the MixConsole, in the Channel Settings window, or on the effect control panel.
Automation Writing Automation Data RESULT The automated parameter changes with the automation curve, and the corresponding fader in the MixConsole moves accordingly. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK Repeat the procedure if you are not happy with the result. If you draw over existing events, a new curve is created. Tools for Drawing Automation Data Apart from the Draw tool, you can use the Object Selection tool and the Line tool to draw automation events.
Automation Editing Automation Events Editing Automation Events Automation events can be edited much like other events. NOTE If you move an event or part on a track and you want the automation events to follow automatically, select Edit > Automation Follows Events. Any automation events at the new position are overwritten. ● You can use the tools on the Project window toolbar to edit automation events. ● You can use the automation event editor to edit selected automation events on ramp automation curves.
Automation Editing Automation Events AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK For even more precise editing, add new automation events to your bézier curve segment. This creates new segments that you can smoothen. Selecting Automation Events ● To select an automation event, click it with the Object Selection tool. ● To select multiple events, drag a selection rectangle with the Object Selection tool or Shift click the events.
Automation Editing Automation Events 1 Tilt Left If you click in the upper left corner of the editor, you can tilt the left part of the curve. This allows you to tilt the event values at the start of the curve upwards or downwards. 2 Compress Left If you Alt/Opt -click in the upper left corner of the editor, you can compress or expand the left part of the curve. This allows you to compress or expand the event values at the start of the curve.
Automation Editing Automation Events NOTE If you select automation events using the Range Selection tool, additional automation events are automatically created at the start and the end of the selection. This ensures that the entire selection is edited. RELATED LINKS Automation Curves on page 442 Quick Vertical Scaling of Automation Events You can scale the curve segment between two automation events vertically without any need to select the events first. PROCEDURE 1.
Automation Automation Tracks NOTE If you press Esc while dragging the selection rectangle, the selection jumps back to its original position. RELATED LINKS Selecting Automation Events on page 447 Removing Automation Events ● To remove an automation event, click on it with the Erase tool. ● To remove multiple automation events, select them and press Backspace or Delete or select Edit > Delete.
Automation Automation Tracks Assigning a Parameter to an Automation Track Parameters are already assigned to automation tracks when you open them, according to their order in the parameter list. PROCEDURE 1. Open an automation track and click on the automation parameter name. A parameter list is shown. The content depends on the track type. 2.
VST Instruments VST instruments are software synthesizers or other sound sources that are contained within Cubase. They are played internally via MIDI. You can add effects or EQ to VST instruments. Cubase allows you to make use of VST instruments in the following ways: ● By adding a VST instrument and assigning one or several MIDI tracks to it. ● By creating an instrument track. This is a combination of a VST instrument, an instrument channel, and a MIDI track.
VST Instruments VST Instrument Control Panel VST Instrument Control Panel The VST instrument control panel allows you to set up the parameters of the selected instrument. The contents, design, and layout of the control panel depend on the selected instrument. The following controls are available: 1 Activate Instrument Activates/Deactivates the instrument. 2 Read Automation/Write Automation Allows you to read/write automation for the instrument parameter settings.
VST Instruments VST Instrument Control Panel Adds a picture of the VST plug-in to the Media rack. This is only available for plug-ins of other vendors. 10 VST Instrument context menu Opens a context menu with specific functions and settings. 11 Show/Hide VST Quick Controls Shows/hides the quick controls. 12 Focus Quick Controls Lock State: Locked/Unlocked Allows you to lock the focus of the quick control to the plug-in window.
VST Instruments VST Instrument Selector RESULT The control panels are closed. RELATED LINKS VST Instrument Control Panel on page 453 VST Instrument Selector The VST instrument selector allows you to select VST instruments of the active collection. To open the VST instrument selector, do one of the following: ● Select Studio > VST Instruments, and click Add Rack Instrument. ● Select Studio > VST Instruments, click Add Track Instrument, and open the Instrument pop-up menu.
VST Instruments VSTi Rack in the Right Zone VSTi Rack in the Right Zone The VSTi rack in the right zone of the Project window allow you to add VST instruments for MIDI and instrument tracks. All instruments that are used in your project are shown. You can access up to 8 quick controls for each added instrument. To open the VSTi rack in the right zone, click Show/Hide Right Zone on the Project window toolbar, and at the top of the right zone, click the VSTi tab.
VST Instruments VST Instruments Window Toolbar VST Instruments Window Toolbar The VST Instruments window toolbar contains controls that allow you to add and set up VST instruments and VST Quick Controls. Add Track Instrument Opens the Add Track dialog that allows you to select an instrument and to add an instrument track that is associated with this instrument. Find Instruments Opens a selector that allows you to find a loaded instrument.
VST Instruments VST Instrument Controls 3 Freeze Instrument Freezes the instrument. This allows you to save CPU power. 4 Instrument selector Allows you to select another instrument. Double-click to rename the instrument. The name is shown in the window in the Output Routing pop-up menu for MIDI tracks. This is useful when you work with several instances of the same instrument. 5 Preset Browser Allows you to load or save an instrument preset.
VST Instruments Presets for Instruments Default Preset Allows you to define and save a default preset. Switch to A Setting/Switch to B Setting Switches to setting B when setting A is active, and to setting A when setting B is active. Apply Current Settings to A/Apply Current Settings to B Copies the instrument parameters of instrument setting A to instrument setting B, and vice versa. Activate Outputs Allows you to activate one or more outputs for the instrument.
VST Instruments Presets for Instruments 2. ● Select the track that contains the VST instrument, and in the Inspector, click the Programs field. ● In the VST Instruments window, click Preset Browser for the instrument, and select Load Preset. ● In the control panel for the VST instrument, click Preset Browser, and select Load Preset. In the preset browser, select a preset from the list and double-click it to load it. RESULT The preset is applied.
VST Instruments Playing Back VST Instruments VST presets for instruments can be divided into the following groups: Presets Presets contain the settings of the entire plug-in. For multitimbral instruments, this includes the settings for all sound slots as well as the global settings. Programs Programs contain only the settings for one program. For multitimbral instruments, this includes only the settings for one sound slot.
VST Instruments Playing Back VST Instruments VST Instruments and Processor Load VST instruments can consume a lot of CPU power. The more instruments you add, the more likely you will run out of processor power during playback. If the Processing Overload indicator in the Audio Performance window lights up or you get crackling sounds, you have the following options: ● Activate Freeze Instrument Channel. This renders the instrument into an audio file and unloads it.
VST Instruments Playing Back VST Instruments RELATED LINKS Freezing Multiple Tracks on page 138 Freeze Channel Options Dialog for Instruments on page 463 Unfreeze Channel Options Dialog for Instruments on page 463 Freeze Channel Options Dialog for Instruments The Freeze Channel Options allows you to specify exactly what should happen if you freeze an instrument.
VST Instruments Latency Delete Freeze Files Deletes the freeze files.
VST Instruments Import and Export Options ● For VST 3 plug-ins that feature a Live button, and for third-party VST 3 plug-ins that feature a low latency mode, activating Constrain Delay Compensation will activate the Live button or the low latency mode for that plug-in. For details about which plug-ins feature a Live button, see the separate document Plug-in Reference. ● For VST plug-ins that have no low latency mode, activating Constrain Delay Compensation will turn off that plug-in.
VST Instruments Import and Export Options NOTE You can also drag MIDI loops onto existing instrument or MIDI tracks. However, this only imports the part information. This means this part only contains the MIDI data (notes, controllers) that is saved in the MIDI loop, but no Inspector settings or instrument parameters.
VST Instruments Import and Export Options RESULT The instrument track is exported as standard MIDI file. As there is no MIDI patch information in an instrument track, this information is missing in the resulting MIDI file. RELATED LINKS Exporting MIDI Tracks as Standard MIDI Files on page 131 467 Cubase AI 12.0.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Cubase supports the VST 2 and VST 3 plug-in standards. You can install effects and instruments that comply with these formats. NOTE Cubase only supports 64-bit plug-ins. A plug-in is a piece of software that adds a specific functionality to Cubase. The audio effects and instruments that are used in Cubase are VST plug-ins. VST effect or VST instrument plug-ins normally have their own installation application.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Plug-ins and Collections VST Plug-in Manager Window You can manage VST effects and VST instruments in the VST Plug-in Manager window. ● To open the VST Plug-in Manager window, select Studio > VST Plug-in Manager. The VST Plug-in Manager is divided into the following sections: VST Effects Lists all VST effects that are loaded in Cubase. To sort the list by a specific attribute, click the corresponding column header.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Plug-ins and Collections RELATED LINKS Plug-ins and Collections on page 468 Audio System Page on page 16 VST Plug-in Manager Toolbar on page 470 VST 2 Plug-in Path Settings on page 471 Hiding Plug-ins on page 472 Reactivating Plug-ins from the Blocklist on page 473 VST Plug-in Manager Toolbar Shows tools and shortcuts for functions in the VST Plug-in Manager. ● To open the VST Plug-in Manager window, select Studio > VST Plug-in Manager.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Adding New Plug-in Collections ● Sort By Category sorts the collection by category. NOTE This option is only available for the Default collection. ● Sort By Vendor sorts the collection by vendor. NOTE This option is only available for the Default collection. VST 2 Plug-in Path Settings Shows information about the selected VST 2 plug-in path. ● To open the VST 2 Plug-in Path Settings, select Studio > VST Plug-in Manager, and click VST 2 Plug-in Path Settings.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Hiding Plug-ins 2. In the New Collection dialog, enter a name for the new collection and click OK. 3. Optional: Click New Folder. You can then move your plug-ins into these folders to organize them by categories, for example. 4. Enter a name for the new folder and click OK. 5. On the VST Effects tab or the VST Instruments tab, select the plug-ins that you want to add to the collection, and drag them in the new collection.
Installing and Managing VST Plug-ins Reactivating Plug-ins from the Blocklist Reactivating Plug-ins from the Blocklist You can reactivate 64-bit plug-ins that are on the blocklist. PROCEDURE 1. On the Blocklist tab, select the plug-ins that you want to reactivate. NOTE You cannot reactivate 32-bit plug-ins, because they are not supported. 2. Click Reactivate. RESULT Cubase rescans the plug-in and removes it from the blocklist.
Track Quick Controls Cubase allows you to set up 8 different track parameters or settings as Track Quick Controls for quick access. Track Quick Controls are available for the following track types: ● Audio ● MIDI ● Instrument ● FX Channel ● Group Channel For instrument tracks and for MIDI tracks for which you assigned a VST instrument on creation, that is, that you created by loading a rack instrument, Track Quick Controls are automatically assigned to the Quick Controls of the VST instrument.
Track Quick Controls Parameter Assignment Parameter Assignment You can assign track, effect, and instrument parameters to Quick Controls. For the parameter assignment, you can use the Inspector. You can assign parameters manually, use the QC Learn Mode, or load an assignment preset.
Track Quick Controls Parameter Assignment Assigning Effect Parameters to Quick Controls You can assign effect parameters to Quick Control slots directly from within plug-in panels. NOTE This is only available for VST 3 plug-ins that support this function. PROCEDURE ● In the effect plug-in panel, right-click the parameter. ● Select Add “x” to Quick Controls (where x is the name of the parameter) to assign the parameter to the next empty slot.
Track Quick Controls Parameter Assignment Removing Parameter Assignments You can remove parameter assignments for individual Quick Controls or for all Quick Controls at once. PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● To remove a parameter from a slot, click in the corresponding slot and select No parameter from the pop-up menu. NOTE You can also double-click the parameter name, press Delete or Backspace , and confirm with Return .
Track Quick Controls Controlling Automatable Parameters 2. In the Quick Controls section, click Preset Management 3. Select one of the presets in the upper list of the menu. . RESULT The preset is loaded and allows you to access the channel parameters. Controlling Automatable Parameters You can use Quick Controls to control all automatable parameters. This allows you to control parameters on other tracks using Quick Controls.
Track Quick Controls Controlling Automatable Parameters 3. In the Quick Controls section, click Preset Management 4. Select Show Automated QC Assignments. . RESULT The automation tracks of the automated Quick Control parameters open for the selected track. NOTE ● If Volume is assigned as a Quick Control parameter, it is always shown as automated, independent of whether it is automated or not. 479 Cubase AI 12.0.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote allows you to integrate and use third party MIDI controllers in Cubase. The MIDI Remote concept is based on dedicated scripts for specific MIDI controllers. These scripts establish a connection between a specific MIDI controller and Cubase, and include factory mappings to parameters. The layout and functions of MIDI controllers with a script can be shown on the MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Tab The MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window The following elements are available: 1 Info line The MIDI Remote info line. 2 MIDI controller surface Shows which Cubase functions are mapped to which controls on your MIDI controller. You can use multiple MIDI controllers simultaneously. All available supported MIDI controllers are shown in the overview.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Tab MIDI Controller Go to Previous Controller If you have connected more than one MIDI controller, this allows you to go to the previous MIDI controller. MIDI Controller Shows the name of the MIDI controller that is currently shown on the MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window. Incoming MIDI Data from Other Controller If you have connected more than one MIDI controller, this shows the activity of the controller that is currently not selected.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Tab Activates the next mapping page for the current controller. Open Mapping Assistant Opens the MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant. Quick Control Focus Quick Control Focus Shows the name of the item that has the quick control focus, that is, either the track name or the plug-in name. Focus Quick Controls Lock State: Locked/Unlocked Allows you to lock the focus of the quick controls. Focus Quick Controls Indicator Displays which quick controls have the focus.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Tab Last Hovered Control Last Hovered Control Shows the control that you last hovered with the mouse on the controller surface, the host parameter that the control is assigned to, and its last value. Scripting Tools Reload Scripts Allows you to reload the scripts. Open MIDI Remote Script Console Opens the MIDI Remote Script Console with script messages. Open Script Folder Opens the location of the scripts folder.
MIDI Remote Using Supported MIDI Controllers with MIDI Remote Using Supported MIDI Controllers with MIDI Remote The layout and the functions of supported MIDI controllers, that is, controllers with a script, are shown on the MIDI Remote tab in the lower zone of the Project window.
MIDI Remote Other MIDI Controllers and MIDI Remote Mapping Controls on MIDI Controllers to Cubase Functions on page 488 MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant on page 496 MIDI Remote API on page 510 Adding MIDI Controller Surfaces If you want to use a MIDI controller that is not yet supported and, for this reason, has no script, you must first add a new MIDI controller surface for it.
MIDI Remote Other MIDI Controllers and MIDI Remote PROCEDURE 1. In the MIDI Controller Surface Editor, follow the instructions on the message board to create a surface that corresponds to the layout of your MIDI controller. When you touch the hardware controls of your MIDI controller, Cubase detects the incoming MIDI messages and associates them with a control in the MIDI Controller Surface Editor. 2.
MIDI Remote Other MIDI Controllers and MIDI Remote RELATED LINKS Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog on page 490 MIDI Remote Manager Window on page 504 MIDI Controller Settings Pane on page 496 Mapping Controls on MIDI Controllers to Cubase Functions You can map controls on your MIDI controller to Cubase functions. PREREQUISITE You have connected a MIDI controller to your computer, and its controller surface is shown on the MIDI Remote tab, in the lower zone of the Project window. PROCEDURE 1. 2.
MIDI Remote Other MIDI Controllers and MIDI Remote RESULT The hardware controls on your controller are now mapped to Cubase functions. TIP To quickly apply mappings, you can also try one of the following: ● Select a control on your MIDI controller so that it is shown in the Mapping Assistant, and double-click a Cubase function in the Functions Browser to map it.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog Editing MIDI Controller Surfaces on page 486 Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog The Add MIDI Controller Surface dialog allows you to add a surface that corresponds to the layout of your MIDI controller. ● To open the Add MIDI Controller Surface dialog, click Add MIDI Controller Surface on the MIDI Remote tab.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog NOTE Special characters are not allowed. Input Port Allows you to select the MIDI input port of your MIDI controller. NOTE Make sure that you select the MIDI port of your MIDI controller. Otherwise, your surface script does not work as expected. Output Port Allows you to select the MIDI output port of your MIDI controller. NOTE Make sure that you select the MIDI port of your MIDI controller. Otherwise, your surface script does not work as expected.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog Info line Contains buttons for Undo, Redo, and Open Mapping Assistant. It also shows the information that you entered when you added the MIDI controller surface. Message board Shows if you are in Learn Mode or in Edit Mode and provides information about the steps that you can perform. Control types Allows you to select the type of control that you want to add. You can add knobs, horizontal or vertical faders, buttons, and trigger pads.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog Learn Mode and Edit Mode The different steps to take when creating a new surface for your MIDI controller in the MIDI Controller Surface Editor are divided into two modes: Learn Mode and Edit Mode. Learn Mode Learn Mode allows you to add controls to the surface display by sending MIDI messages from your MIDI controller to Cubase. In order to do so, move the corresponding hardware controls. In Learn Mode, the cursor is red.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog Edit Mode Edit Mode allows you to edit the selected control. In Edit Mode, the selected control is displayed in blue. ● To change the dimensions of the control, drag the control handles. ● To move a control, click and drag or use Up Arrow , Down Arrow , Left Arrow , or Right Arrow . ● To select multiple controls, hold down Shift . ● To remove a control, click the trash icon.
MIDI Remote Add MIDI Controller Surface Dialog The following properties are available: Message/Command Shows the MIDI message type that is assigned to the control, for example, control change, program change, etc. Channel Shows the MIDI channel that is assigned to the control. CC # Shows the MIDI controller number that is assigned to the control. CC Mode/Resolution Allows you to set the resolution of the controls of your MIDI controller: Standard, 14 Bit, or 14 Bit NRPN.
MIDI Remote MIDI Controller Settings Pane MIDI Controller Settings Pane The MIDI Controller Settings pane allows you to access the most important controller settings. ● To open the MIDI Controller Settings for the selected MIDI controller, click MIDI Controller Settings to the top right of the corresponding MIDI controller surface. Open MIDI Remote Manager Opens the MIDI Remote Manager, which shows information about the connected MIDI controllers and the installed scripts.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant ● On the MIDI controller surface, double-click a control. ● On the info line of the MIDI Remote tab, click Open Mapping Assistant. ● On the toolbar of the Project window, click Open MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant. ● On the info line of the MIDI Controller Surface Editor, click Open Mapping Assistant. The following sections are available: Mapping Assistant Show/Hide Functions Browser Opens/closes the Functions Browser in the right zone.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant A control on your MIDI controller and a Cubase function selected for mapping The Mapping Assistant guides you through the mapping process. It allows you to select a control on your MIDI controller and a Cubase function for mapping. Bypass MIDI Controller Learn Mode ● If this is deactivated, you can touch a control on your MIDI controller or click a control in the controller surface to select it for mapping.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant Mappings Mapping Page Shows the active mapping page. Mapping Page Settings Opens a menu that allows you to delete, rename, or duplicate the selected mapping page. Add Mapping Page Opens a dialog that allows you to add a new, empty mapping page. Mapping List To sort the list by a specific attribute, click the corresponding column header. ● Mapping Page Type Indicates whether the mapping is saved as a Factory mapping or as a User mapping.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant ● Jump Sends a new value to the Cubase function, as soon as you move the control on your MIDI controller. This can result in abrupt value changes. ● Pickup Picks up on the value of the Cubase function, as soon as the control that you move on your MIDI controller reaches that value. This results in smooth value changes but requires you to estimate the pickup value.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant Reset Filter Allows you to reset the search filter. Expand All Expands all entries. Collapse All Collapses all entries. RELATED LINKS Mapping Pages and Mapping Scopes on page 501 Mapping Controls on MIDI Controllers to Cubase Functions on page 488 Adding MIDI Controller Surfaces on page 486 Mapping Pages and Mapping Scopes Mapping Pages All mappings of Cubase functions and controls on your MIDI controller are saved on mapping pages.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant Focus Quick Controls Focus Quick Controls are focus-dependent quick controls. This means that the active window focus determines which parameters respond to your MIDI controller. Focus Quick Controls are the most versatile form of quick controls. You can set them up in the Functions Browser of the MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant. To set up the focus behavior for the focus quick controls, activate one of the options in the Quick Control Focus Setup.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant RESULT The Focus Quick Controls are now mapped to your MIDI controller.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Manager Window RELATED LINKS Setting up Focus Quick Controls in the MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant on page 502 Quick Control Focus Setup Panel on page 503 VST Instrument Control Panel on page 453 Effect Control Panel on page 315 Quick Control Focus on page 483 MIDI Remote Manager Window The MIDI Remote Manager window displays information about the connected MIDI controllers and the installed scripts.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Manager Window Search The search field allows you to search for specific controllers and scripts on the MIDI Controllers tab and on the Scripts tab by typing in their name. Reload Scripts Allows you to reload the scripts.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Manager Window Output Port Shows the MIDI output port of your MIDI controller. Show Script Info Opens the Scripts tab for the selected MIDI controller. Remove Controller Surface Removes the selected controller surface. NOTE This is only available for controller surfaces that are currently disconnected.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Manager Window Disable Controller Script/Enable Controller Script Disables/enables the selected controller script. Delete Script Deletes the selected controller script. Model The model of the selected MIDI controller. Vendor The vendor of the selected MIDI controller. Script Creator The script creator of the selected MIDI controller. Instances The number of instances of the selected MIDI controller.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Manager Window Export Script Opens a file dialog that allows you to export the selected script. RELATED LINKS MIDI Controller Surface Editor on page 491 Deleting Unused MIDI Controller Scripts on page 508 Deleting Unused MIDI Controller Scripts You can delete MIDI controller scripts that you no longer need. However, you can only delete scripts that you have created by adding your own MIDI controller surfaces. PROCEDURE 1.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote Script Console MIDI Remote Script Console The MIDI Remote Console displays script messages. To open the MIDI Remote Script Console, activate Scripting Tools in the MIDI Remote info line context menu, and click Open MIDI Remote Script Console. Reload Scripts Allows you to reload the scripts that are displayed in the MIDI Remote Script Console. Clear All Messages Clears all messages from the message display. All Messages Shows all messages in the message display.
MIDI Remote MIDI Remote API MIDI Output Ports Shows information about the currently used MIDI output ports. MIDI Remote API The application programming interface MIDI Remote API allows you to develop a script, that is, a device driver for dedicated MIDI controllers. Scripts describe the layout and the order of the controls of a specific MIDI controller. They include factory mappings to Cubase parameters. Cubase comes with scripts for a number of MIDI controllers.
Remote Controlling Cubase You can control Cubase via MIDI with a connected MIDI device. The supported devices are described in the separate document Remote Control Devices. You can also use a generic MIDI controller to remote-control Cubase. NOTE Most remote-control devices are able to control both MIDI and audio channels in Cubase, but the parameter setup may be different. Audio-specific controls such as EQ are disregarded when controlling MIDI channels.
Remote Controlling Cubase Setting up Remote Devices 4. Click OK. RESULT The remote unit input is removed from the All MIDI Inputs group. RELATED LINKS MIDI Port Setup Page on page 24 Setting up Remote Devices PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2. Click Add in the top left corner and select a remote device from the pop-up menu to add it to the Devices list. NOTE If your device is not available in the pop-up menu, select Generic Remote. 3. In the Devices list, select the device.
Remote Controlling Cubase Setting up Remote Devices You can open a panel for the added device by selecting Studio > More Options. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK Depending on your external MIDI control device, you might need to configure the parameters. Resetting Remote Devices Sometimes you must reset remote devices, because the communication between Cubase and a remote device was interrupted or the handshaking protocol fails to create a connection. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2.
Remote Controlling Cubase Remote Devices and Automation Global Options for Remote Controllers On the page for your remote device, global functions may be available. MIDI Input Allows you to select a MIDI input. MIDI Output Allows you to select a MIDI output. User Commands Lists the controls or buttons of your remote device. Smart Switch Delay Allows you to specify a delay for the smart switch function. Functions that support the smart switch behavior are activated for as long as the button is pressed.
Remote Controlling Cubase Assigning Commands to Remote Devices This way, all data for the corresponding parameter is replaced from the position where you moved the control, up to the position where you stop playback. Assigning Commands to Remote Devices You can assign any Cubase command to which a key command can be assigned to remote devices. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2. In the Devices list, select your remote device.
Remote Controlling Cubase Track Quick Controls Track Quick Controls If you have an external remote control device, you can set it up to control up to 8 parameters of each audio track, MIDI track or instrument track, using the Track Quick Controls feature in Cubase. To show the Track Quick Controls for a specific track, select the track in the track list, and in the Inspector, open the Quick Controls section.
Remote Controlling Cubase VST Quick Controls Activating Pick-up Mode for Hardware Controls (Legacy) Pick-up Mode allows you to change configured Quick Control parameters without accidentally modifying the previous values. This is useful if you want the control to pick up the parameter at the value to which it was last set. If you move a hardware control, the parameter only changes once the control reaches the previous value. NOTE This only applies to hardware controllers whose controls use specific ranges.
Remote Controlling Cubase Generic Remote Page (Legacy) NOTE The number of VST Quick Controls that are shown depends on the size of the VST Instruments window. 3 Set Remote-Control Focus for VST Quick Controls Allows you to activate the VST Quick Controls to remote-control the instrument. Generic Remote Page (Legacy) You can use a generic MIDI controller to remote-control almost any function in Cubase.
Remote Controlling Cubase Generic Remote Page (Legacy) Cubase Control Assignment Section on page 520 MIDI Remote Control Configuration Section The MIDI remote-control configuration section is shown in the upper table of the Generic Remote setup page. ● To open the Generic Remote settings, select Studio > Studio Setup, and from the Devices list, select Generic Remote.
Remote Controlling Cubase Generic Remote Page (Legacy) Import Allows you to import saved remote setup files. Export Allows you to export the current setup with the file extension .xml. Add Adds controls to the bottom of the table. Delete Deletes the selected control from the table. Learn Allows you to assign MIDI messages by learning. Cubase Control Assignment Section You can specify the Cubase control assignment section in the lower table of the Generic Remote setup page.
Remote Controlling Cubase Generic Remote Page (Legacy) You can combine Push Button and Toggle for remote controls which do not latch the state of a button. This is useful if you want to control the mute status with a device on which pressing the mute button turns it on, and releasing the mute button turns it off. ● Not Automated Activate this if the parameter value should not be automated. The buttons to the right of the table have the following function: Bank pop-up menu Allows you to switch banks.
Remote Controlling Cubase Generic Remote Page (Legacy) VST Mixer Allows you to control MixConsole functions. If you select one of the available channels or Selected in the Channel/Category column, and one of the options in the Value/ Action column, you can control that function of that specific channel or of the selected channel using your MIDI device. NOTE You can also control all VST Instruments that you added in the Project window, and that are listed in the Device column.
MIDI Realtime Parameters MIDI realtime means that you can change or transform MIDI events on MIDI or instrument tracks before they are sent to the MIDI outputs. This allows you to change the way MIDI data is played back. The actual MIDI events on the track are not affected. Therefore, MIDI realtime changes are not reflected in any MIDI editor.
MIDI Realtime Parameters MIDI Modifiers NOTE For live playing, select and record-enable the track, and activate MIDI Thru Active in the Preferences dialog (MIDI page). MIDI Modifiers Section ● To open the MIDI Modifiers section, select a MIDI track, and in the Inspector, click MIDI Modifiers. NOTE If you want to compare the result of your modifier settings with the unprocessed MIDI, you can use the bypass button in the MIDI modifiers section.
MIDI Realtime Parameters MIDI Modifiers NOTE Combine this setting with the Velocity Shift parameter. Random 1/Random 2 Allows you to introduce random variations to various properties of MIDI notes. Range 1/Range 2 Allows you to specify a pitch or velocity range and either force all notes to fit within this range, or exclude all notes outside this range from playback.
MIDI Realtime Parameters MIDI Modifiers NOTE You can make independent settings for the two Range sections. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK To deactivate the function, open the Range Target pop-up menu and select Off. Range Modes On the Range Target pop-up menu, you can select different range modes. Values are shown as numbers, from 0 to 127, for the velocity modes and as note numbers, from C-2 to G8, for the pitch modes. Vel.
MIDI Realtime Parameters Transpose and Velocity on the Info Line Transpose and Velocity on the Info Line You can edit the transposition and the velocity for selected MIDI parts on the info line. This only affects the notes in playback. ● Use the Transpose field to transpose the selected parts in semitone steps. The value is added to the transposition set for the whole track. ● Use the Velocity field to offset the velocity for the selected parts.
Using MIDI Devices The MIDI Device Manager allows you to work with MIDI devices, that is, representations of external MIDI hardware. You can install preset MIDI devices or define new ones. This is useful for global control and patch selection. Program Change Messages and Bank Select Messages To select a patch, that is, a sound in your MIDI device you must send a program change message to that device. Program Change Messages You can record program change messages, or enter them in a MIDI part.
Using MIDI Devices Patch Banks Patch Banks The Patch Banks list can have two or more main banks, depending on the selected device. This is due to the fact that different types of patches are handled differently in the instruments. Patches, for example, typically are regular programs that you play one at a time. Performances, however, may be combinations of programs, which could be split across the keyboard, layered, or used for multitimbral playback, and so on.
Using MIDI Devices MIDI Device Manager Installed Devices list Lists the connected MIDI devices and the imported device setups. Install Device Allows you to install a preset device. These presets are simple patch name scripts that do not include any device mapping of parameters and controls and no graphic panels. For more information about patch name scripts, see the separate document MIDI Devices. Remove Device Removes the selected device. Export Setup Exports the MIDI device setup as XML file.
Using MIDI Devices MIDI Device Manager Commands Allows you to edit the selected device. The patch structure for the selected device is shown to the left. MIDI Messages Shows which MIDI messages are sent out to select the patch that is highlighted in the list to the left. Commands for Patches In the MIDI Device Manager, patches can be structured in banks, folders, and presets. NOTE Activate Enable Edit to use the commands pop-up menu for the selected device.
Using MIDI Devices MIDI Device Manager Add Multiple Presets Allows you to set up a range of presets and add them to the selected bank or folder. NOTE You can remove banks, folders, and presets by selecting them and pressing Backspace . IMPORTANT For details on which MIDI events are used for selecting patches in the MIDI device, consult its documentation.
Using MIDI Devices MIDI Device Manager Installing Preset MIDI Devices You can install preset MIDI devices, that is, patch name scripts that do not include device mapping. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > More Options > MIDI Device Manager. 2. Click Install Device. 3. In the Add MIDI Device dialog, do one of the following: ● Select the script of the device in the list.
Using MIDI Devices MIDI Device Manager 4. Select an entry in the list. RESULT The corresponding MIDI message is sent to the device. Renaming Patches in Devices If you have replaced some of the factory presets with your own patches, you can modify the device so that the patch name list matches the actual device. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > More Options > MIDI Device Manager. 2. Select the device in the Installed Devices list. Make sure that the Patch Banks tab is selected. 3. Activate Enable Edit.
MIDI Functions MIDI functions allow you to permanently edit MIDI events or MIDI parts in the Project window or from within a MIDI editor. Which events are affected when you use a MIDI function depends on the function, the active window, and the current selection: ● In the Project window, the MIDI functions apply to all selected parts, affecting all events of the relevant types in them. ● In the MIDI editors, MIDI functions apply to all selected events.
MIDI Functions Merging MIDI Events into a New Part ● Select a root note and a scale type for the current scale in the Current Scale pop-up menus. ● Select a root note and a scale type for the new scale in the New Scale pop-up menus. NOTE If the new root note differs from the current root note, this leads to an entirely different key. Keep Notes in Range Limits the transposition of notes to the note values that you specify with the Highest Note and Lowest Note settings.
MIDI Functions Dissolve Part Dialog MIDI Merge Options Dialog ● To open the MIDI Merge Options dialog, select a MIDI part, and select MIDI > Merge MIDI in Loop. The following options are available: Include Inserts Applies MIDI modifiers. Erase Destination Deletes MIDI data between the left and right locators on the destination track. Include Chase Includes events placed outside the selected part but relating to it in the processing, for example, a program change right before the left locator.
MIDI Functions Dissolve Part Dialog The following settings are available: Separate Channels Separates MIDI events according to their channel. This is useful for MIDI parts on MIDI channel Any that contain events on different MIDI channels. Separate Pitches Separates MIDI events according to their pitch. This is useful for drum and percussion tracks, where different pitches usually correspond to separate drum sounds. Dissolve to Lanes Dissolves the part to lanes.
MIDI Functions Repeating MIDI Events of Independent Track Loops You may for example have a MIDI keyboard with several keyboard zones, where each zone sends MIDI on a separate channel. Setting the channel to Any allows you to play back the recording with different sounds for each zone (since the different MIDI notes play back on separate MIDI channels). ● When you have imported a MIDI file of Type 0. MIDI files of Type 0 contain only one track, with notes on up to 16 different MIDI channels.
MIDI Functions Extending MIDI Notes Extending MIDI Notes You can extend MIDI notes so that they reach the next notes. PREREQUISITE A MIDI part with some note events is open in the Key Editor. PROCEDURE 1. Select the note events that you want to extend to the next notes. 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Legato. RESULT The selected note events are extended to the start of the next notes.
MIDI Functions Rendering Sustain Pedal Data to Note Lengths PROCEDURE 1. On the Key Editor toolbar, open the Set up Insert Velocities pop-up menu and select a velocity value. 2. Select the note events that you want to fix. 3. Select MIDI > Functions > Fixed Velocity. RESULT The selected note events are set to the specified Note Insert Velocity value.
MIDI Functions Deleting Overlaps PROCEDURE 1. Select the note events. 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Pedals to Note Length. RESULT The selected notes are lengthened to match the sustain pedal off position, and the sustain controller on/off events are removed. Deleting Overlaps You can delete overlaps of notes that have the same or different pitches. This is useful if your MIDI instruments cannot handle overlapping events. PROCEDURE 1. Select the note events. 2.
MIDI Functions Deleting Double Notes Add/Subtract Adds the specified value to the velocity value. You can enter positive or negative values. Compress/Expand Compresses or expands the dynamic range of MIDI notes by the specified value. You can enter values from 0 to 300 %). A factor higher than 1 (over 100 %) expands the differences between velocity values, while using a factor lower than 1 (under 100 %) compresses them. ● To compress the dynamic range, use ratio values below 100 %.
MIDI Functions Deleting Controller Data 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Delete Doubles. RESULT The double notes are automatically deleted. Deleting Controller Data You can delete controller data from selected MIDI parts. PROCEDURE 1. Select the MIDI parts that contain the controller data. 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Delete Controllers. RESULT The controller data is automatically deleted. Deleting Continuous Controller Data You can delete continuous controller data from selected MIDI parts.
MIDI Functions Thinning Out Controller Data Thinning Out Controller Data You can thin out controller data in selected MIDI parts. Use this to ease the load on your external MIDI devices if you have recorded very dense controller curves. PROCEDURE 1. Select the MIDI parts that contain the controllers that you want to thin out. 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Thin Out Data. RESULT The controller data is thinned out.
MIDI Functions Inverting the Order of Selected MIDI Events Inverting the Order of Selected MIDI Events This function inverts the order of the selected events, or of all events in the selected parts, graphically. Technically, this function turns a note-on message into a note-off message and vice versa, which can lead to rhythmic inaccuracies if the note-off position of a note has not been quantized. PROCEDURE 1. Select the MIDI events or the MIDI part. 2. Select MIDI > Functions > Mirror.
MIDI Editors There are several ways to edit MIDI in Cubase. You can use the tools and functions in the Project window for large-scale editing or the functions on the MIDI menu to process MIDI parts in various ways. To manually edit your MIDI data on a graphical interface, you can use the MIDI editors. ● The Key Editor presents notes graphically in a piano roll-style grid. The Key Editor also allows for detailed editing of non-note events such as MIDI controllers.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions ● The Zoom tool. ● The Zoom submenu in the Edit menu. When you use the Zoom tool for zooming, you can determine if you want to zoom horizontal only or horizontal and vertical at a time. ● To activate/deactivate the corresponding option, activate/deactivate Zoom Tool Standard Mode: Horizontal Zooming Only in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Tools page).
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions Voice The note events get different colors depending on their voice (soprano, alto, tenor, etc.). Scale/Chords The note events get different colors depending on whether they match the current chord, scale, or both. For all of the options except Part and Sound Slot, the pop-up menu also contains a Setup option. This option opens a dialog in which you can specify the colors that are associated with velocities, pitches, or channels.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions Pitch Colors Setup You can set up Cubase to color events depending on their pitch. The color scheme is defined in the Pitch Colors setup dialog. ● To open the event Pitch Colors setup dialog, open the Event Colors pop-up menu in the Key Editor toolbar, activate Pitch and then select Setup. The following options are available: Color fields Click a field to open the Color Picker that allows you to specify a new color.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions The following options are available: Color fields Click a field to open the Color Picker that allows you to specify a new color. Description Shows further information about the usage of the color. OK Applies your changes and closes the dialog. RELATED LINKS Event Colors Menu on page 548 Color Picker on page 80 Selecting Note Events The selected MIDI editor determines which of the following methods apply.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions NOTE If you select the notes in the event display, the note event is shown in black and only its outline is shown in color. On the keyboard display, the keys that correspond to the note pitches of the selected notes are also shown in color. RELATED LINKS Event Colors Menu on page 548 Select Submenu for Note Events on page 552 Editing on page 743 Select Submenu for Note Events The Select submenu offers you several options to select note events.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions RELATED LINKS Deleting Note Events on page 553 Muting Note Events You can mute individual note events in a MIDI editor. Muting individual notes allows you to exclude note events from playback. Do one of the following: ● Click on a note event with the Mute tool. ● Drag a rectangle with the Mute tool, enclosing all note events that you want to mute. ● Select the note events and select Edit > Mute.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions you click the field to the right of the graphical length display the scale for the display changes. You can set it to 1/4 bar, one bar, two bars or four bars. Minimum Velocity Allows you to set a minimum note velocity. Notes with a lower velocity than the set value are deleted. Remove when under This option is only available if Minimum Velocity and Minimum Length are both activated.
MIDI Editors Common MIDI Editor Functions You can also press Alt/Opt and drag the right edge of the note events to the right to create copies of the note events. Finding Exact Positions with Snap The Snap function restricts horizontal movement and positioning to certain positions. This helps you find exact positions in the note display when editing note events in a MIDI editor. Affected operations include moving, duplicating, drawing, sizing, etc. ● To activate/deactivate snap, click Snap.
MIDI Editors Controller Display ● To restrict editing operations to the active part, activate Edit Active Part in the Part Editing Mode pop-up menu. ● To change the size of the part, drag the part borders. The part borders display the name of the active part. NOTE If the part that you open for editing is a shared copy, any editing that you perform affects all shared copies of this part. In the Project window, shared copies are indicated by an equal sign in the top right corner of the part.
MIDI Editors Controller Display The following options are available: 1 Note display Contains a grid in which MIDI notes are displayed as boxes. 2 Controller Selection and Functions menu Allows you to select which controller type is displayed, and contains editing functions for controller lanes and events. 3 Divider Drag the divider between the note display and the controller display to resize the display areas. 4 Controller display Shows one or multiple controller lanes.
MIDI Editors Controller Display 7 ● Velocity ● Pitchbend ● Aftertouch ● Poly Pressure ● Program Change ● SysEx (System Exclusive) events ● Continuous Controllers Controller Lane Setup Contains setup functions for controller lanes, and allows you to add and organize presets. Controller Lane Setup Menu The Controller Lane Setup pop-up menu allows you to add lanes and select which event type is displayed.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Controller Lane Context Menu ● To open the controller lane context menu, right-click in the left area of the controller display. The following options are available: Create Controller Lane Creates a controller lane. Remove This Lane Removes the current controller lane. Select All Events on Lane Selects all controller events on the current lane. Cut Cuts the selected events. Copy Copies the selected events to the clipboard.
MIDI Editors Controller Display The following options are available: Controller event types Lists the event types that you can display on the controller lanes. If automation data already exists for a controller, this is indicated by a rhombus that is displayed to the left of the controller name. Select All Events on Lane Selects all controller events on the current lane. Remove This Lane Hides the current controller lane from view.
MIDI Editors Controller Display The following options are available: Controller event types Lists the event types that you can display on the controller lanes. If automation data already exists for a controller, this is indicated by a rhombus that is displayed to the left of the controller name. Select an event type to add the corresponding controller lane to the controller display. Show Used Controllers Opens all controller lanes that have controller events.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Setting up Available Continuous Controllers on page 562 Displaying a Different Controller Event Type You can select which event type to display on a controller lane. Each controller lane shows one event type at a time. PROCEDURE ● Open the Controller Selection and Functions pop-up menu and select a different event type.
MIDI Editors Controller Display RESULT The corresponding continuous controllers are now available for selection. NOTE The MIDI Controller Setup dialog is available in different areas of the program. The settings are global, that is, the setup you choose here affects all areas of the program where MIDI controllers can be selected.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Saving Controller Lane Presets You can save a controller lane setup as a controller lane preset. This way, you can have a preset with one velocity lane and another preset with a combination of several controller lanes, such as velocity, pitchbend, or modulation. PREREQUISITE You have added at least one controller lane and selected a controller event type for display. PROCEDURE 1. Click Controller Lane Setup. 2. Select Add Preset. 3.
MIDI Editors Controller Display NOTE If there is more than one note at the same position, their velocity bars overlap. To edit the velocity of only one of these notes, select the note in the note display. If no note is selected, all velocity events get the same velocity value. RESULT The velocity values change according to your edits.
MIDI Editors Controller Display RELATED LINKS Adding Controller Lanes on page 561 Line Tool Modes on page 573 Controller Selection and Functions Menu on page 559 Pitchbend Controller Lanes Pitchbend controller lanes allow you to add and edit pitchbend controller events. ● To add a pitchbend controller lane, open the Controller Selection and Functions menu, and select Pitchbend. 1 Curve Type field Shows the controller curve type. You can set this to Step or to Ramp/Curve.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Displays the pitchbend value at the project cursor position. What exactly is shown depends on the Show Semitones Grid setting in the Grid Settings pane: 3 ● If Show Semitones Grid is activated, this value shows the semitones value at the project cursor position. The range goes from +96 semitones to -96 semitones. The value is shown in semitones and cents. ● If Show Semitones Grid is deactivated, this value shows the pitchbend MIDI value at the project cursor position.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Show Semitones Grid The semitones grid shows the semitone values that the events snap to. The amount of grid lines and their width depends on the settings for Pitchbend Range: Down and Pitchbend Range: Up. NOTE The grid is a visual help that allows you to find exact semitone positions for pitchbends easier. Changing the grid does not change the values of pitchbend events. Pitchbend Range: Up Allows you to specify a value between 1 and 96 semitones for the upper grid.
MIDI Editors Controller Display 3. Optional: Activate Snap Pitchbend Events to snap the pitchbend controller events to the set grid. 4. Select the Draw tool and click in the controller display to enter as many pitchbend events as you need. RESULT The pitchbend controller events are added.
MIDI Editors Controller Display A Poly Pressure controller lane is added. It shows a note number value field to the left of the controller display. 3. Do one of the following: ● Select a note event in the note display to set the note number for the corresponding pitch. This only works for the topmost of several poly pressure controller lanes.
MIDI Editors Controller Display 2. Select the Draw tool or the Line tool. 3. Do one of the following: ● To add a single event, click in the controller display. ● To add a multiple events, click and drag in the controller display. ● To add a Modulation (CC 1) event, copy note events from the Key Editor note display and paste them on a controller lane in the controller display.
MIDI Editors Controller Display 2. In the Key Editor, open the Create Controller Lane menu, and select Show Used Controllers. The controller lanes for all controller events that you have recorded are shown in the controller display. 3. Locate the controller lane of the continuous controller that you want to edit, and select a controller event. The info line of the Key Editor displays information about the selected controller event, such as Type, Start position, Value, Channel, and Curve Type. 4.
MIDI Editors Controller Display MIDI controller data from the automation track is also displayed on the controller lane. However, you cannot edit this data on the controller lane. On the controller lane, you can also see the controller curve that is applied before the part starts. This tells you which controller value is being used at the starting point of the part so that you can choose the start value accordingly. RELATED LINKS Extracting MIDI Automation on page 545 MIDI Part Data vs.
MIDI Editors Controller Display You can use modifier keys to determine the shape of the parabola curve. ● To reverse the parabola curve, press Ctrl/Cmd . ● To change the position of the whole curve, press Alt/Opt . ● To increase or decrease the exponent, press Shift . NOTE If Snap is activated, the Length Quantize value determines the density of created controller curves. For very smooth curves, use a small Length Quantize value or deactivate Snap.
MIDI Editors Controller Display Controller Event Editor The controller event editor allows you to perform additional scaling operations for selection ranges on existing controller curves. ● To open the controller event editor, activate the Object Selection tool and drag a selection rectangle on the controller lane.
MIDI Editors Key Editor If you Alt/Opt -click in the middle right border of the editor, you can scale the curve relative to its center. This allows you to raise or lower the event values horizontally around the center of the editor. Auto Select Controllers Auto Select Controllers automatically selects controller data of the selected MIDI notes. This is useful as selected controllers for notes will be moved when you move the corresponding notes.
MIDI Editors Key Editor To open a MIDI part in the Key Editor, do one of the following: ● Double-click a MIDI part in the Project window. ● Select a MIDI part in the Project window and press Return or Ctrl/Cmd - E . ● Select a MIDI part in the Project window and select MIDI > Open Key Editor. ● In the Key Commands dialog in the Editors category, assign a key command for Open Key Editor. Select a MIDI part in the Project window and use the key command.
MIDI Editors Key Editor 7 Note display Contains a grid in which MIDI notes are displayed as boxes. 8 Controller display The area below the note display consists of one or multiple controller lanes. NOTE You can activate/deactivate the status line, the info line, and the controller lanes by clicking Set up Window Layout on the toolbar and activating/deactivating the corresponding options.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Auto-Scroll Auto-Scroll Keeps the project cursor visible during playback. Select Auto-Scroll Settings Allows you to activate Page Scroll or Stationary Cursor and to activate Suspend Auto-Scroll When Editing. Acoustic Feedback Acoustic Feedback Automatically plays back events when you move or transpose them, or when you create them by drawing. Tool Buttons Object Selection Selects events and parts. Draw Draws events. Erase Deletes events. Trim Trims events. Split Splits events.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Auto Select Controllers Auto Select Controllers Automatically selects controller data of the selected MIDI notes. Independent Track Loop Independent Track Loop Activates/Deactivates the independent track loop. Insert Velocity Note Insert Velocity Allows you to specify a velocity value for new notes. Nudge Nudge Start Left Increases the length of the selected event by moving its start to the left.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Move Up More Transposes the selected event up by an octave. Move Down More Transposes the selected event down by an octave. Snap Snap On/Off Activates/Deactivates the Snap function. Snap Type Allows you to select one of the following snap types: ● Grid snaps events to the grid that is selected in the Quantize Presets pop-up menu. ● Grid Relative keeps the relative positions when snapping events to the grid. ● Events snaps events to the start or end of other events.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Activates/Deactivates soft quantize. Open Quantize Panel Opens the Quantize Panel. Length Quantize Length Quantize Allows you to set a value for quantizing event lengths. Multiple Part Controls Show Part Borders Shows/Hides part borders for the active MIDI part within the left and right locators. Part Editing Mode Sets the editing mode for parts. ● Edit All Parts allows you to edit all parts that are opened in the Editor at the same time.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Record NoteOn Velocity Includes the NoteOn velocity when you insert notes. Record NoteOff Velocity Includes the NoteOff velocity when you insert notes. Event Colors Event Colors Allows you to select event colors. Right Divider Right Divider Allows you to use the right divider. Tools that are placed to the right of the divider are always shown. Window Zone Controls Open in Separate Window This button is available in the Editor tab in the lower zone.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Mouse Time Position Displays the exact time position of the mouse pointer, depending on the selected ruler display format. This lets you edit or insert notes at exact positions. Mouse Value Displays the exact pitch of the mouse pointer position in the event display. This facilitates finding the right pitch when entering or transposing notes. If you move the mouse in the controller display, the controller event value at the mouse cursor position is displayed.
MIDI Editors Key Editor ● To change the length of the selected MIDI events or all events of the active part if no events are selected, use the Scale Length/Scale Legato slider. At the maximum value the notes reach the beginning of the next note. ● To make the new length settings permanent, click Freeze MIDI Lengths. ● To fine-tune the distance between consecutive notes, use the Overlap slider. At 0 Ticks, the Scale Length/Scale Legato slider extends each note so that it reaches the next note exactly.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Depending on the zoom factor, the note events show the note names. NOTE You can change the naming format and the note names of the pitches in the Pitch Notation section of the Preferences dialog (Event Display—Chords&Pitches page). RELATED LINKS Key Editor Piano Keyboard Display on page 586 Zooming in MIDI Editors on page 547 Pitch Notation on page 751 Key Editor Piano Keyboard Display The piano keyboard display is shown to the left of the note display in the Key Editor.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations NOTE You can use the Event Colors menu in the Key Editor toolbar to select a color scheme. If you move the mouse pointer in the event display, the corresponding pitch position on the piano keyboard display is highlighted. RELATED LINKS Note Display on page 585 Key Editor on page 576 Pitch Notation on page 751 Event Colors Menu on page 548 Key Editor Operations This section describes the principal editing operations within the Key Editor.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations Drawing Note Events with the Draw Tool The Draw tool allows you to insert single note events in the note display. When you move the cursor inside the note display, its position is indicated on the status line. Its pitch is indicated both on the status line and on the piano keyboard to the left. ● To draw a note, click in the note display. The note event has the length that is set on the Length Quantize pop-up menu.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations ● To restrict movement to horizontal, press Ctrl/Cmd and drag. The notes have the same pitch. If Snap is activated, the note events and controller events are positioned and sized according to the Quantize and Length Quantize values. RELATED LINKS Line Tool Modes on page 589 Line Tool Modes The Line tool allows you to create a series of contiguous note events along different line shapes. You can also edit multiple controller events simultaneously.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations ● To transpose note events in steps of one octave, press Shift and use the Up Arrow / Down Arrow keys. NOTE ● When you move selected note events to a different position, any selected controllers for these note events move accordingly. ● You can also adjust the position of note events by quantizing.
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations By default, the Trim tool cuts off the end of notes. To trim the beginning of notes, press Alt while dragging. When dragged across several notes, a line is displayed. The notes are trimmed along this line. If you press Ctrl/Cmd while dragging, you get a vertical trim line, allowing you to set the same start or end time for all edited notes. You can change the Trim tool key commands in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Tool Modifiers page).
MIDI Editors Key Editor Operations You can enable editing of pitch, note-on and/or note-off velocity. For example, you can get the pitch and velocity values of the notes input via MIDI, but the note-off velocities remain as they are. 4. Play a note on your MIDI instrument. RESULT The selected note gets the pitch, note-on velocity and/or note-off velocity of the played note. The next note in the edited part is automatically selected to allow quick editing of a series of notes.
MIDI Editors Score Editor NOTE If Move Insert Mode is activated, all note events to the right of the step input position are moved to make room for the inserted note event or chord. 6. Continue in the same way with the rest of the note events or chords. You can adjust the Quantize or Length Quantize values to change the timing or note event lengths. You can also move the step input position manually by clicking anywhere in the note display. To insert a rest, press the Right Arrow key.
MIDI Editors Score Editor The Score Editor is divided into several sections: 1 Toolbar Contains tools and settings. 2 Status line Informs about the mouse time position, the mouse value, and the current chord. 3 Info line Displays note event information about a selected MIDI note. 4 Extended toolbar Contains note value buttons and enharmonic shift buttons. ● To open one or several parts in the Score Editor, select one or several tracks or any number of parts, and select MIDI > Open Score Editor.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Edit Solo Solo Editor Solos the editor during playback if the editor has the focus. Record in Editor Enables the recording of MIDI data in the editor if the editor has the focus. NOTE This only works if MIDI Record Mode is set to Merge or Replace. Retrospective Record Insert MIDI Retrospective Recording in Editor Allows you to recover MIDI notes that you played in stop mode or during playback.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Splits events. Glue Glues together events of the same pitch. Insert Text Inserts text. Insert Velocity Note Insert Velocity Allows you to specify a velocity value for new notes. Snap Snap Type Allows you to select one of the following snap types: ● Grid snaps events to the grid that is selected in the Quantize Presets pop-up menu. ● Grid Relative keeps the relative positions when snapping events to the grid. Quantize Apply Quantize Applies the quantize settings.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Activates/Deactivates computer keyboard input. Step Input Activates/Deactivates MIDI step input. MIDI Input Activates/Deactivates MIDI input and note expression MIDI input. Move Insert Mode Moves all note events to the right of the step input position to the right to make room for the inserted event when you insert notes. NOTE This only works if Step Input is activated. Record Pitch Includes the pitch when you insert notes.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Allows you to set up the window layout. Set up Toolbar Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which toolbar elements are visible. Status Line The status line is displayed below the toolbar. It shows important information about the mouse position and the chord display. Select the notes that form (compose) the chord to make the status line appear in the Current Chord Display.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Note Value Buttons Allows you to select a note value for input. The dotted note values. and options are for triplet and The selected note value is displayed in the Length value field on the info line. To resize all selected notes to the same note value, press Ctrl/Cmd and click one of the note value buttons. Enharmonic Shift Allows you to manually select whether a note is displayed with flat or sharp accidentals. The Off button resets the notes to original display.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations Score Editor Operations This section describes the principal editing operations within the Score Editor. Improving the Score Display When you open the Score Editor for a part that was recorded in real time, the score may not look as legible as you expect. The Score Editor can ignore the minor time variances in performance and make a neater score. To achieve this, the Staff Settings dialog provides settings that determine how the program displays the music.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations IMPORTANT These display values are only used for the graphical display in the Score Editor. They do not affect the playback. Notes Determines the smallest note value to be displayed and the smallest position to be recognized and properly displayed. Set this to the smallest significant note position used in your music. For example, if you have notes on odd 16th note positions, set this value to 16. The T values are for triplet note values.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations Display Transpose In this section, you can specify a separate display transpose setting for each staff (track). This transposes the notes in the score without affecting how the notes are played back. This allows you to record and play back a multi staff arrangement and still score each instrument according to its own transposition. Semitones Allows you to manually set a display transpose value. Instrument Allows you to select the instrument for which you are scoring.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations It is recommended to set the quantize value to the smallest note value in the piece. This does not stop you from inputting notes at coarser positions. However, if you set the quantize value to a too small note value, it is easier to make mistakes. With the quantize value set to 1/8, you can only input notes at 8th note positions. You can also use the Quantize Panel to create other quantize values, irregular grids, etc.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations RELATED LINKS Setting Velocity Values on page 555 Display Quantize on page 600 Moving and Transposing Notes PROCEDURE 1. Open the Quantize Presets pop-up menu on the toolbar and select a quantize value. 2. If you want to hear the pitch of the note while moving, activate Acoustic Feedback on the toolbar. 3. Select the notes that you want to move. 4. Click one of the selected notes and drag it to a new position and/or pitch.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations Enharmonic Shift You can perform an enharmonic shift on notes that are not displayed with the accidentals you wish. PROCEDURE 1. Select the notes that you want to shift. 2. Click one of the enharmonic shift buttons on the extended toolbar. RELATED LINKS Score Editor Extended Toolbar on page 598 Flipping Stems The direction of the note stems is automatically selected according to the note pitches. However, you can change this manually. PROCEDURE 1.
MIDI Editors Score Editor Operations Changing the Text Font, Size, and Style You can change the font, size, and style of the text that you have added to the score display. PROCEDURE 1. Do one of the following: ● To change the settings for a specific text block, click on the text with the Object Selection tool. ● To set the default settings for all new text blocks, unselect any selected text block and change the settings. 2. Select MIDI > Scores > Set Font. 3.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor 2. Select File > Page Setup and make sure that all your printer settings are correct. IMPORTANT If you change your setting for paper size, scale, and margins now, the score may change its look. 3. Click OK. 4. Select File > Print. 5. In the Print dialog, make your changes. 6. Click Print. Drum Editor The Drum Editor is the editor to use when you are editing drum or percussion parts.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor The Drum Editor is divided into several sections: 1 Toolbar Contains tools and settings. 2 Status line Informs about the mouse time position and the mouse value. 3 Info line Displays information about the selected event. 4 Drum Editor Inspector Contains tools and functions for working with MIDI data. 5 Drum sound list Lists all drum sounds. 6 Ruler Displays the time line. 7 Note display Contains a grid in which notes are displayed.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Drum Editor Toolbar The toolbar contains tools and various settings for the Drum Editor. ● To show or hide the toolbar elements, right-click the toolbar and activate or deactivate the elements. Retrospective Record Insert MIDI Retrospective Recording in Editor Allows you to recover MIDI notes that you played in stop mode or during playback. Left Divider Left Divider Allows you to use the left divider. Tools that are placed to the left of the divider are always shown.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Automatically plays back events when you move or transpose them, or when you create them by drawing. Tool Buttons Object Selection Selects events and parts. Drumstick Draws drum events. Erase Deletes events. Mute Mutes events. Zoom Zooms in. Hold Alt/Opt and click to zoom out. Line Creates a series of contiguous events. Auto Select Controllers Auto Select Controllers Automatically selects controller data of the selected MIDI notes.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Moves the selected event to the left. Move Right Moves the selected event to the right. Nudge End Left Decreases the length of the selected event by moving its end to the left. Nudge End Right Increases the length of the selected event by moving its end to the right. Transpose Palette Move Up Transposes the selected event up by a half note. Move Down Transposes the selected event down by a half note. Move Up More Transposes the selected event up by an octave.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Snap Type Allows you to select one of the following snap types: ● Grid snaps events to the grid that is selected in the Quantize Presets pop-up menu. ● Grid Relative keeps the relative positions when snapping events to the grid. ● Events snaps events to the start or end of other events. ● Shuffle changes the order of events if you drag one event to the left or right of other events. ● Cursor snaps events to the cursor position.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Part Editing Mode Sets the editing mode for parts. ● Edit All Parts allows you to edit all parts that are opened in the Editor at the same time. ● Edit Active Part restricts editing operations to the part that is selected in the Activate Part for Editing pop-up menu. Activate Part for Editing Lists all parts that were selected when you opened the editor, and allows you to activate a part. Event Colors Event Colors Allows you to select event colors.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Right Divider Right Divider Allows you to use the right divider. Tools that are placed to the right of the divider are always shown. Window Zone Controls Open in Separate Window This button is available in the Editor tab in the lower zone. It opens the editor in a separate window. Open in Lower Zone This button is available in the editor window. It opens the Editor tab in the lower zone of the Project window. Show/Hide Left Zone Shows/Hides the left zone.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor If you move the mouse in the controller display, the controller event value at the mouse cursor position is displayed. Track Loop Start/Track Loop End If Independent Track Loop is activated on the toolbar and you set up a loop, the start/end position is displayed. RELATED LINKS Drum Editor Toolbar on page 609 Info Line The info line shows values and properties of the selected events. If several notes are selected, the values for the first note are displayed in color.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor ● To use the Legato function or slider to extend a note until the next selected note, activate Extend to Next Selected. This is identical with activating the Legato Mode: Between Selected Notes Only option in the Preferences dialog. Setup Allows you to open a dialog to edit the Drum Editor Inspector settings. Click Setup Inspector, and from the pop-up menu, select Setup.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Drum Sound List The drum sound list lists all drum sounds by name and allows you to adjust and manipulate the drum sound setup in various ways. NOTE The number of columns in the list depends on whether a drum map is selected for the track or not. Pitch Note number of the drum sound. Instrument Name of the drum sound. Snap This is used when entering and editing notes. Mute Allows you to mute drum sounds. I-Note Input note for the drum sound.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Operations RELATED LINKS Muting Notes and Drum Sounds on page 621 Drum Maps on page 621 Select Pitch Visibility Options Menu The Select Pitch Visibility Options pop-up menu on the drum editor toolbar allows you to determine which drum sounds are shown in the drum sound list. ● Activate Pitch Visibility On/Off, and click Select Pitch Visibility Options on the toolbar.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Operations PROCEDURE ● Perform one of the following actions: ● Select the Object Selection tool and double-click in the event display. ● Select the Drumstick tool and click in the event display. NOTE To temporarily switch from the Object Selection tool to the Drumstick tool, hold down Alt/Opt . RESULT A note event is inserted. Inserting Multiple Drum Note Events You can insert multiple note events of the same pitch with the Object Selection tool or the Drumstick tool.
MIDI Editors Drum Editor Operations NOTE If you want to edit the note length in the Drum Editor, you must deactivate Snap and activate Show Note Length On/Off. Otherwise, the note is repeated. ● To edit the time position, hold down Shift and drag to the left or to the right. NOTE You can activate/deactivate Snap temporarily by holding down Ctrl/Cmd . Changing the Note Length You can change the note length in the drum editor with the Object Selection tool or with the Drumstick tool.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps PROCEDURE ● Do one of the following: ● On the toolbar, select the Object Selection tool, double-click the first event you want to delete, and drag to the right. ● On the toolbar, select the Drumstick tool, click the first event you want to delete, and drag to the right. RESULT The note events are deleted. Muting Notes and Drum Sounds IMPORTANT The mute state for drum sounds is part of the drum map. All other tracks using this map are affected.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps If you want to have the same drum maps included in your projects, you can load these into the template. NOTE Drum maps are saved with the project files. If you have created or modified a drum map, use the Save function to save it as a separate XML file to make it available for loading into other projects. RELATED LINKS Saving a Project Template File on page 87 Drum Map Setup Dialog This dialog allows you to load, create, modify, and save drum maps.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps New Map Adds a new drum map to the project. The drum sounds are named “Sound 1, Sound 2, etc.” and have all parameters set to default values. The map is named “Empty Map”. To rename the drum map, click the name in the list and type in a new name. New Copy Adds a copy of the selected drum map to create a new drum map. You can then change the drum sound settings of the copy and rename the drum map in the list. Remove Removes the selected drum map from the project.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps 2. In the Inspector for the track, open the Drum Maps pop-up menu and select Create Drum Map from Instrument. The drum map is created for the kit that is assigned to the MIDI port and channel selected in the Inspector. 3. Open the Drum Maps pop-up menu again and select Drum Map Setup. 4. In the list on the left, select the kit that you have loaded in the instrument. RESULT The sounds and settings of the instrument are displayed in the Drum Map Setup.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps on your MIDI controller, and once when a note is sent from the program to the MIDI sound device. The following example shows a modified drum map with a bass drum sound that has different pitch, I-note, and O-note values. I-Notes (Input Notes) When you play a note on your MIDI instrument, the program looks for this note number among the I-notes in the drum map. If you play the note A1, the program finds that this is the I-note of the bass drum sound.
MIDI Editors Drum Maps RELATED LINKS Exporting MIDI Tracks as Standard MIDI Files on page 131 626 Cubase AI 12.0.
Chord Functions The chord functions provide you with many possibilities for working with chords. The chord functions allow you to: ● Build chord progressions by adding chord events to the chord track. ● Convert chord events to MIDI. ● Use the chord track to control MIDI playback. ● Use the chord track voicing to change the pitches of your MIDI. ● Extract chord events from MIDI data to get an overview of the harmonic structure of a MIDI file. ● Extract chord events from audio events.
Chord Functions Chord Events Chord Events Chord events are representations of chords that allow you to control or transpose playback on MIDI and instrument tracks. Chord events alter the pitches of MIDI notes if their track is set up to follow the chord track. Chord events have a specific start position. Their end, however, is determined by the start of the next chord event. They can have a root note, a type, a tension, and a bass note.
Chord Functions Chord Events Go to Previous Chord/Go to Next Chord Allow you to select the previous/next chord on the chord track for editing. Add Chord Adds a new undefined chord event on the chord track. NOTE This works only if the last chord event on the chord track is selected. Chord definition buttons Activate these buttons to define a root note, a chord type, a tension, and a bass note for your chord event.
Chord Functions Chord Events ● Define a root note, for example, C, D, E. ● Define accidentals, for example, # or b. ● Define the chord type, for example maj, min, dim, sus, or aug. ● Define a chord extension, for example, 7, 9, or 13. NOTE If you have activated Solfège in the Note Name pop-up menu in the Preferences dialog (Event Display—Chords&Pitches page), you can also enter chords in this format. You must capitalize the first letter and write “Re” instead of “re”, for example.
Chord Functions Chord Events ● The roman numerals mark the chords of the current key with their scale degree. You can use these chords to create typical chord progressions or you can use the other chords for more creative results. ● To play a chord and assign it to the selected chord event, click it. The last 3 chords that you clicked are shown in bold. ● To define a new key, right-click the chord in the Chord Assistant and select Use as Origin, or use the Rotate Left/Rotate Right controls.
Chord Functions Scale Events RESULT The chord events on the chord track now trigger the sound of the assigned instrument on the MIDI or instrument track. RELATED LINKS Chord Track on page 125 Add Track Dialog – Instrument on page 108 Changing How Chord Events Are Displayed You can change how chord events are displayed. This is useful if chord events overlap each other at low zoom levels or if you do not like the font type. PROCEDURE 1. On the chord track, activate Resolve Display Conflicts. 2.
Chord Functions Voicings A scale event is shown on the scale lane. 3. Do one of the following: ● Click the first scale event on the chord track, and on the info line, select a Root Key and Type. ● Double-click the scale event, and in the keyboard that appears, select a Root Key and Type of the scale. The keys that correspond to the scale are highlighted. Voicings Voicings determine how chord events are set up.
Chord Functions Voicings Voicing library subset NOTE This is only available if Guitar or Piano is set as voicing library. Allows you to select a preset voicing library subset. Set up Voicing Opens the Custom Voicing panel that allows you to configure your own voicing parameters for a specific voicing scheme. Adaptive Voicings Activate this to let Cubase set the voicings automatically. This prevents the individual voices from jumping too much.
Chord Functions Voicings In the Style section for Piano voicings, you can set up the following parameters: Triads Sets a triad. Chords with more than 3 notes are not changed. Triads with maj9 Sets a triad with a major ninth, but without root note. Chords with more than 3 notes are not changed. Triads with maj9 and min9 Sets a triad with a major and a minor ninth, but without root note. Chords with more than 3 notes are not changed. 4-Note Chords Sets a 4-note chord without root note.
Chord Functions Converting Chord Events to MIDI Fatten up Duplicates the tenor. In the Voicing Range section for Piano voicings, you can set up the following parameters: Lowest Root Note Sets the limit for the lowest root note. Lowest Note Sets the limit for the lowest note, except the root note. Highest Note Sets the limit for the highest note, except the root note. In the Style section for Guitar voicings, you can set up the following parameters: Triads Sets a triad with 4, 5 or 6 voices.
Chord Functions Controlling MIDI Playback Using the Chord Track RESULT A new MIDI part is created on the selected instrument or MIDI track. It contains the chords as MIDI events. RELATED LINKS Add Track Dialog – Instrument on page 108 Add Track Dialog – MIDI on page 111 Assigning Chord Events to HALion Sonic SE Pads PREREQUISITE Create a chord progression on the chord track and add an instrument track with HALion Sonic SE as VST instrument to your project. PROCEDURE 1.
Chord Functions Controlling MIDI Playback Using the Chord Track Live Input Allows you to transpose the MIDI input live to a chord progression on the chord track. RELATED LINKS Using Follow Chord Track on page 638 Follow Chord Track Modes on page 639 Using Live Input on page 638 Chord Pads Zone on page 644 Player Setup on page 655 Using Live Input Live Input allows you to transpose the MIDI input live to a chord progression on the chord track.
Chord Functions Controlling MIDI Playback Using the Chord Track NOTE If you matched your MIDI track to the chord track, some of the original MIDI notes may be muted. To hide these notes in the editors, activate Hide Muted Notes in Editors in the Preferences dialog (Editing—Chords page). RELATED LINKS Follow Chord Track Dialog on page 640 Follow Chord Track Modes on page 639 Follow Chord Track Modes This section of the Inspector allows you to determine how your track follows the chord track.
Chord Functions Controlling MIDI Playback Using the Chord Track RELATED LINKS Assigning Voices to Notes on page 641 Follow Chord Track Dialog This dialog opens the first time that you select an option from the Follow Chord Track pop-up menu on the Chords section of the Inspector. Follow Directly Activate this if your MIDI notes are already in accordance with the chord track.
Chord Functions Assigning Voices to Notes RELATED LINKS Follow Chord Track Modes on page 639 Assigning Voices to Notes You can transpose MIDI notes to match the voices of a selected voicing library. PROCEDURE ● Select Project > Chord Track > Assign Voices to Notes. RESULT The note pitches now match the voicing of the chord track and you can still edit the MIDI notes. If you now select a note in the Key Editor, you see that Voice on the info line is assigned.
Chord Functions Recording Chord Events with a MIDI Keyboard RESULT The chord events are added to the chord track. RELATED LINKS Create Chord Events Dialog on page 642 Create Chord Events Dialog This dialog allows you to determine, which MIDI data should be taken into account when creating chord events from MIDI. Include Bass Notes Activate this if you want your chord events to contain a bass note. Include Tensions Activate this if you want your chord events to contain tensions.
Chord Functions Recording Chord Events with a MIDI Keyboard RESULT All recognized chords are recorded as chord events on the chord track. NOTE The chord track uses its own voicing settings. The recorded chord events may therefore sound different. RELATED LINKS Adding Chord Events on page 628 643 Cubase AI 12.0.
Chord Pads Chord pads allow you to play with chords, and to change their voicings and tensions. In terms of harmonies and rhythms, they allow for a more playful and spontaneous approach to composition than the chord track functions. You can: ● Perform with chords in real time via a MIDI keyboard. ● Record your performance as MIDI events on a MIDI or instrument track or even on the chord track. NOTE We assume that you have a MIDI keyboard connected and set up.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Zone NOTE If Record-Enable allows MIDI Thru is deactivated in the Preferences dialog (Record—MIDI page), you must activate Monitor to use the chord pads. 2 Current Player Shows the selected player and opens a pop-up menu where you can select another player. 3 Current Mode Shows the selected player mode and opens a pop-up menu where you can select another player mode. 4 Chord Pad Each chord pad can contain a chord symbol.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Zone 1 Open Editor Opens the Chord Editor that allows you to select a chord for the chord pad. 2 Voicing indicators Shows the voicing used for the chord. Voicing indicators can only be displayed if the horizontal zoom level for the chord pads is high enough. 3 Adaptive Voicing Reference/Use X as Origin for Chord Assistant When the active chord pad is set as adaptive voicing reference, its borders are shown in yellow.
Chord Pads Functions Menu Unassign Pad Removes the chord assignment from the current pad. Functions Menu ● To open the functions menu, click Functions Menu. Show Voicing Indicators Allows you to activate/deactivate the voicing indicators that can be displayed at the bottom of each chord pad. Assign Pads from Chord Track Assigns the chord events from the chord track to the chord pads in the same order as they appear on the chord track.
Chord Pads Chord Assistant You must define an origin chord as follows: ● Right-click the chord pad with the chord you want to use as origin and select Use X as Origin for Chord Assistant. The Chord Assistant window shows suggestions for follow-on chords that you can assign to the chord pads. Chord Assistant – Circle of Fifths The Circle of Fifths shows the chords in an interactive visualization of the circle of fifths.
Chord Pads Chord Assignment The last 3 chords that you clicked are shown in bold. ● To assign a chord to the next unassigned chord pad, right-click the suggested chord and select Assign to Pad. You can also drag the suggested chord and drop it on a chord pad. ● To assign a suggestion to the next unassigned chord pad and use this chord as origin, right-click the chord and select Assign to Pad and Use as Origin. NOTE The Circle of Fifths is also available in the Chord Assistant window for the chord track.
Chord Pads Chord Assignment The Chord Assistant window opens, and the borders of the chord pad change their color to indicate that the assigned chord is now used as origin. The origin chord is displayed in the center, and the chords that belong to the scale are shown above it. The numerals indicate the scale degree of the chords. These help you to create chord progressions. 2. In the Chord Assistant window, click the chord symbols to trigger the corresponding chords. 3.
Chord Pads Swapping Chord Assignments RELATED LINKS Adaptive Voicing on page 656 Assigning Chords from the Chord Track You can assign the chord events from the chord track to the chord pads. PREREQUISITE You have added a chord track with chord events to your project. PROCEDURE ● To the left of the chord pads, click the Functions Menu button, and select Assign Pads from Chord Track.
Chord Pads Playing Back and Recording Chords RESULT When you drop the pad on another, the first pad’s assignment is copied to the destination chord pad together with its settings, except for the Adaptive Voicing Reference. Playing Back and Recording Chords You can play back and record chords that are assigned to chord pads using MIDI or instrument tracks.
Chord Pads Playing Back and Recording Chords NOTE If Record-Enable allows MIDI Thru is deactivated in the Preferences dialog (Record—MIDI page), you must activate Monitor to use the chord pads. 6. Select Project > Chord Pads > Show/Hide Chord Pads to open the Chord Pads. 7. Activate Chord Pad Output Mode. 8. Press some keys on your MIDI keyboard to trigger the chords that are assigned to the chord pads.
Chord Pads Playing Back and Recording Chords NOTE On the Chord Pads page of the Studio Setup dialog, you can select your connected MIDI keyboard from the MIDI Input pop-up menu. This is useful if you want to use a specific MIDI keyboard exclusively for triggering the chord pads. Recording Chords on Instrument Tracks You can record chords that are triggered by chord pads on MIDI or instrument tracks.
Chord Pads Player Setup The chord track is added to the track list. 3. In the Inspector for the chord track, click Record Enable. 4. On the Transport panel, activate Record. 5. On your MIDI keyboard, press the keys that trigger the chord pads. RESULT The chord events are recorded on the chord track. NOTE The recorded chord events may sound different from the chord pad playback. This is because the voicing settings for the chord track differ from the chord pad voicings.
Chord Pads Player Setup Player Modes ● Plain Chords triggers all notes of a chord simultaneously. ● Pattern plays an arpeggio that is based on the notes of the pattern. RELATED LINKS Players and Voicings on page 656 Voicings on page 633 Player Setup on page 655 Players and Voicings Different types of instruments and styles have different voicing libraries. These determine how the chords are played back, and which pitches are played. These voicings are referred to as players.
Chord Pads Player Setup Overlaps Allows you to select what happens with the notes of the first chord when you play a chord without releasing the previous chord. ● Hold First holds the notes of the first chord. No note-off message is sent. If the chords have common notes, these are not triggered again. ● Legato releases the notes of the first chord, except for the common notes. These are held and not triggered again. ● Stop First releases the notes of the first chord including the common notes.
Chord Pads Player Setup Using the Pattern Player You can play back the pattern of a MIDI loop or a MIDI part with chord pads. This plays back the pattern with the notes that make up the chord. PROCEDURE 1. To the left of the chord pads, activate Show/Hide Player Setup. 2. In the Selected Player Settings section, open the Player Modes pop-up menu, and select Pattern. 3. Perform one of the following actions: ● Click Import MIDI Loop to select a MIDI loop that you want to use as a pattern.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Setup Dialog For example, select a piano sound and activate Piano Player. NOTE When setting up the player for a track, make sure that Record Enable or Monitor is only active for this particular track. 10. Select the second instrument track, select a sound for the VST instrument, and set up another player. For example, select a guitar sound and activate Guitar Player. 11. Select the next instrument track, and proceed as for the other 2 tracks.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Setup Dialog Pad Remote Control Allows you to specify a range of remote keys that trigger the chords that are assigned to the chord pads. Here, you can also set up chord modifiers that allow you to specify how the chords are played back. Pad Layout Allows you to change the layout that is used for the chord pads.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Setup Dialog In the Chord Pad Triggers section, the following options are available: Latch Chords Activate this if you want the chord pad to play back until it is triggered again. Pads Remote Range Start Allows you to set the start note for the remote range. By default, this is set to C1. Pads Remote Range End Allows you to set the end note for the remote range. By default, this is set to B1.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Setup Dialog Next Voicing Plays back the next voicing of the last played chord. Previous Voicing Plays back the previous voicing of the last played chord. Modify All Pad Voicings Allows you to set the voicings for all chord pads using one of the following modifiers: ● No Modifier ● Aftertouch ● Pitchbend ● Controller If you select Controller, you can set the controller number in the Controller Number field.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Setup Dialog If you select Controller, you can set the controller number in the Controller Number field. MIDI Learn Activates/Deactivates the MIDI Learn function to assign MIDI input to the parameters for changing transpose. Changing the Pads Remote Range You can widen the pads remote range to access more chord pads. If you want to use a wider key range on your MIDI keyboard for regular playing, you can narrow the pads remote range. PROCEDURE 1. Click Set up Chord Pads. 2.
Chord Pads Chord Pads Presets In Grid mode, you can select the number of rows that you want to display. Start Note In Keyboard mode, you can select the start note for the first chord pad. Number of Columns In Grid mode, you can select the number of columns that you want to display. Chord Pads Presets Chord Pads Presets are templates that can be applied to newly created or to existing chord pads.
Chord Pads Creating Chord Events from Chord Pads Creating Chord Events from Chord Pads You can use the chords assigned to the chord pads to create chord events in the Project window. PROCEDURE ● Click a chord pad, and drag it on the chord track. RESULT A chord event is created. RELATED LINKS Recording Chord Events with a MIDI Keyboard on page 642 Creating MIDI Parts from Chord Pads You can use the chords assigned to the chord pads to create MIDI parts in the Project window.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature You can set up a tempo and time signature for your project. By default, the tempo is set to 120 bpm, and the time signature to 4/4. Project Tempo Modes For every project you can set a tempo mode, depending on whether your music has a fixed tempo or if it changes throughout the project.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Tempo Track Editor The Tempo Track Editor is divided into several sections: 1 Tempo scale Shows the tempo scale in BPM. 2 Toolbar Contains tools for selecting, adding, and changing tempo and time signature events. 3 Info line Shows information about the selected tempo or time signature event. 4 Ruler Shows the timeline and the display format of the project. 5 Time signature display Shows the time signature events in the project.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Tempo Track Editor Auto-Scroll Auto-Scroll Keeps the project cursor visible during playback. Select Auto-Scroll Settings Allows you to activate Page Scroll or Stationary Cursor and to activate Suspend Auto-Scroll When Editing. Tool Buttons Object Selection Selects events. Draw Draws events. Erase Deletes events. Zoom Zoom in. Hold Alt/Opt and click to zoom out. New Tempo Type Type of New Tempo Points Allows you to select the type of new tempo points.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Tempo Changes for Projects Right Divider Right Divider Tools that are placed to the right of the divider are always shown. Show Info Line Show/Hide Info Opens/Closes the info line. Set up Toolbar Set up Toolbar Opens a pop-up menu where you can set up which toolbar elements are visible. Tempo Changes for Projects If the tempo track is activated, you can set up tempo changes for your project.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Setting up a Fixed Project Tempo Setting up a Tempo Track by Adding Tempo Changes PROCEDURE 1. Select Project > Add Track > Tempo. The tempo track is added to the track list. 2. On the tempo track, open the Type of New Tempo Points pop-up menu and select an option. 3. Do one of the following: ● On the toolbar, select the Object Selection tool and click the tempo curve. ● On the toolbar, select the Draw tool, and click and draw in the tempo curve display.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Setting up a Fixed Project Tempo If you know the tempo of your music, you can adjust the tempo value in the following areas: ● Tempo field on the Transport panel ● Current Tempo field on the Tempo Track Editor toolbar If you do not know the tempo of your music, use one of the following tools to calculate and set it: ● Beat Calculator ● Set Project Tempo from Loop RELATED LINKS Setting the Project Tempo from a Recording on page 671 Setting the Project Tempo from an Au
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Beat Calculator 4. Use Space to tap the tempo of the recording that is played back. In the BPM field, the calculated tempo is updated each time you tap. 5. Click OK to close the window. The tapped tempo is shown in the BPM field of the Beat Calculator. 6. Click one of the buttons in the Insert Tempo into Tempo Track section to insert the calculated tempo into the tempo track. RESULT The project tempo is set to the tapped tempo.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Set Definition from Tempo Dialog Beats Allows you to enter the number of beats for the selected section of your recording. BPM Shows the tempo calculated for the selection. Tap Tempo Opens a window where you can specify a tempo by tapping. At Tempo Track Start If your project is in tempo track mode, the calculated tempo is set as the first tempo curve point. If your project is in fixed tempo mode, the calculated tempo is set for the entire project.
Editing Tempo and Time Signature Time Signature Events Adjusting the Audio Tempo to the Project Tempo You can adjust the tempo of freely recorded audio material to the project tempo. PROCEDURE 1. Select the audio events that you want to adjust to the project tempo. 2. Select Audio > Advanced > Set Definition from Tempo. 3. Optional: Adjust the settings. 4. Click OK. RESULT The tempo information is copied to the audio and the tracks are set to musical time base.
Export Audio Mixdown The Export Audio Mixdown function allows you to mix down and export all audio that is contained between the left and right locators of a project. ● To open the Export Audio Mixdown dialog, select File > Export > Audio Mixdown. Export Audio Mixdown Dialog The Export Audio Mixdown dialog allows you to set up how audio is mixed down and exported. ● To open the Export Audio Mixdown dialog, select File > Export > Audio Mixdown.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog Export Channel In the Export Channel pop-up menu, you can select an output channel for export. File Location In the File Location section, the following options are available: Name Allows you to specify the name of the mixdown file. Click File Name Options to open a pop-up menu with naming options: ● Set to Project Name inserts the project name into the Name field.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog The Mixdown folder is automatically created in your project folder. It is used by default if no export path information is available, that is, if you create a new empty project, or if you load or create a project from a template. ● Recent Paths allows you to select recently selected file locations. The Mixdown folder is not added to the list of Recent Paths. ● Clear Recent Paths allows you to delete all recently selected file locations.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog Allows you to downmix the 2 channels of a stereo bus to a single mono file. Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk (Wave, AIFF) Activates the embedding of additional file information in Broadcast Wave format. NOTE By activating this option, you create a Broadcast Wave file. Some applications may not be able to handle these files. If you get problems using the file in another application, deactivate Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk and export the file again.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog Creates a new project that contains an audio track for each of the exported channels, as well as the signature and tempo track of the original project. The tracks will have the corresponding mixdown file as audio event. The track names will be identical with the export channel names. The new project will be the active project. Activating this option disables the Insert to Pool and Create Audio Track options.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog Scheme Allows you to save and delete naming schemes. Attributes Holds the following naming scheme attributes: ● Name Adds the name to the resulting file name. ● Free Text Allows you to enter free text. ● Channel Number Adds the channel number to the resulting file name. ● Channel Type Adds the channel type to the resulting file name. ● Channel Name Adds the channel name to the resulting file name.
Export Audio Mixdown Export Audio Mixdown Dialog Defining Naming Schemes You can define a naming scheme by combining attributes that determine the structure of the file names for the exported audio files. PROCEDURE 1. In the Naming Scheme dialog, drag up to 5 attributes into the Result section. You can also double-click an attribute to add it to the Result section. 2. Optional: In the Settings section, double-click the Separator text field to change the separator.
Export Audio Mixdown Mixing Down to Audio Files 6. Click OK. RESULT The text that you entered is added to the file name scheme and will be applied on export. Mixing Down to Audio Files You can mix selected channels down to audio files. PREREQUISITE ● You have set up the left and right locators so that they encompass the range that you want to mix down. ● You have set up your tracks so that they play back the way you want.
Export Audio Mixdown File Formats MPEG 1 Layer 3 file This is a family of standards used for encoding audio-visual information, such as movies, video, and music in a digital compressed format. Cubase can read MPEG Layer 2 and MPEG Layer 3. MP3 files are highly compressed files that still provide good audio quality. The file extension is .mp3. FLAC file This is an open source format that reduces the size of audio files by 50 % to 60 %, compared to regular Wave files. The file extension is .flac.
Export Audio Mixdown File Formats Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk Activates the embedding of additional file information in Broadcast Wave format. NOTE By activating this option, you create a Broadcast Wave file. Some applications may not be able to handle these files. If you get problems using the file in another application, deactivate Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk and export the file again. Set up Broadcast Wave Chunk Opens the Broadcast Wave Chunk dialog where you can enter information.
Export Audio Mixdown File Formats Allows you to downmix the 2 channels of a stereo bus to a single mono file. Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk Activates the embedding of additional file information in Broadcast Wave format. NOTE By activating this option, you create a Broadcast Wave file. Some applications may not be able to handle these files. If you get problems using the file in another application, deactivate Insert Broadcast Wave Chunk and export the file again.
Export Audio Mixdown File Formats Edit ID3 Tag Opens the Setup ID3 Tag dialog that allows you to enter information about the file. This information is embedded in the file and can be displayed by most MP3 playback applications. FLAC Files Free Lossless Audio Codec files are audio files that are typically 50 % to 60 % smaller than regular Wave files. ● To open the settings for FLAC files, select FLAC in the File Type pop-up menu. Sample Rate Sets the sample rate for the mixdown file.
Export Audio Mixdown File Formats Export as Allows you to select a channel mode for the mixdown file: ● Interleaved Allows you to export to an interleaved file. ● Split Channels Allows you to export the 2 channels of a stereo bus as separate mono files. ● Mono Downmix Allows you to downmix the 2 channels of a stereo bus to a single mono file. 687 Cubase AI 12.0.
Synchronization Synchronization is the process of getting 2 or more devices to play back together at the same speed, position, and phase. These devices can range from audio and video tape machines to digital audio workstations, MIDI sequencers, synchronization controllers, and digital video devices. If you know the position and speed for the master device, you can resolve the speed and position of the slave device to it, so that the 2 devices play in perfect sync with one another.
Synchronization Timecode Formats Any device receiving the timecode and synchronizing or locking to it. Timecode Formats The position of any device is most often described using timecode. Timecode represents time using hours, minutes, seconds, and frames to provide a location for each device. Each frame represents a visual film or video frame. The following timecode formats are supported: ● LTC Longitudinal timecode or LTC is an analog signal that can be recorded on tape.
Synchronization Clock Sources Frame rate (speed) Regardless of the frame counting system, the actual speed at which frames of video go by in real time is the true frame rate. Cubase supports the following frame rates: 24 fps This is the true speed of standard film cameras. 25 fps This is the frame rate of PAL video. 29.97 fps/29.97 dfps This is the frame rate of NTSC video. The count can be either non-drop or drop-frame.
Synchronization Project Synchronization Setup Dialog AES/SPDIF Digital Audio An audio clock source is embedded within AES and SPDIF digital audio signals. This clock source can be used as a speed reference. Preferably, the signal itself does not contain any actual audio (digital black), but any digital audio source can be used if necessary. ADAT Lightpipe ADAT Lightpipe, the 8-channel digital audio protocol developed by Alesis, also contains audio clock and can be used as a speed reference.
Synchronization Project Synchronization Setup Dialog RELATED LINKS Sources Page on page 693 Destinations Page on page 695 692 Cubase AI 12.0.
Synchronization Project Synchronization Setup Dialog Sources Page The Sources page allows you to set up the synchronization inputs, and to determine which external signals enter the application. In the topmost section, the following options are available: Activate External Sync Activates/Deactivates the external synchronization. Timecode Source The Timecode Source section allows you to determine whether Cubase is acting as timecode master or slave.
Synchronization Project Synchronization Setup Dialog VST System Link Sets VST System Link as timecode source. This allows for all aspects of sampleaccurate synchronization between different computers that are connected via VST System Link. NOTE Discrepancies between the Project Frame Rate and the incoming timecode can cause problems during postproduction, even if Cubase is able to lock to that timecode.
Synchronization Project Synchronization Setup Dialog Destinations Page The Destinations page allows you to set up the synchronization outputs, and to determine which external signals leave the application. MIDI Clock Destinations In the MIDI Clock Destinations section, you can select any MIDI ports that you want to output MIDI clock. Some MIDI devices, such as drum machines, can match their tempo and location to incoming MIDI clock.
Synchronization External Synchronization NOTE Some MIDI interfaces send MTC over all ports by default. If this is the case, only select one port of the interface for the MTC. MIDI Timecode Preferences In the MIDI Timecode Preferences section, the following options are available: MIDI Timecode Follows Project Time Ensures that the MIDI output always follows the time position of Cubase.
VST System Link VST System Link is a digital audio network system that allows you to link several computers using digital audio hardware and cables. Linking up 2 or more computers allows you to split different tasks and different tracks between different computers. You can run CPU-intensive processes, such as send effect plug-ins or VST instruments on one computer, and record audio tracks on another one.
VST System Link Setting up VST System Link Active Activates VST System Link. Online Puts the computer online. ASIO Input Allows you to define the networking input channel. ASIO Output Allows you to define the networking output channel. Use Selected ASIO Ports for Data only Activate this if you want to devote more bandwidth to MIDI, and send VST System Link information on the entire channel. This channel is then no longer available for audio transfer.
VST System Link Setting up VST System Link Self test Allows you to test the network. Receiving Lights up if the computer is active. Sending Lights up if the computer is active. List Shows the name of each computer. Setting up a Network You can set up a network by connecting computers. PROCEDURE 1. Use a digital audio cable to connect the digital output of computer 1 to the digital input of computer 2. If you have more than 2 computers, add the others one by one. 2.
VST System Link Setting up VST System Link However, if you use an external clock from a digital mixing desk or a special word clock synchronizer, for example, you must leave all your ASIO cards in clock slave or AutoSync mode and make sure that each of them is listening for the signal coming from the synchronizer. This signal is usually passed through your ADAT cables or word clock connectors in a daisy chain fashion.
VST System Link Setting up VST System Link ● Digital signal processing, such as pan or effects, must be turned off for the VST System Link signal. ● For RME Audio Hammerfall DSP audio hardware, select the default or plain preset for the Totalmix function. Otherwise signal loops might occur and VST System Link cannot work. Setting up Sample Rates All projects on all computer must be set up to the same sample rate. PROCEDURE 1. Select Project > Project Setup. 2.
VST System Link Activating VST System Link The audio that is played back should now appear in the application running on computer 2, and the input bus level meters should move. RESULT You have now verified that the digital connection works as it should. You can reverse this procedure so that computer 2 plays back and computer 1 listens. Activating VST System Link You must activate VST System Link on all network computers to be able to work with VST System Link. PROCEDURE 1.
VST System Link Activating VST System Link 5. Activate Active at the top left of the VST System Link setup. 6. Repeat the steps for each computer in the network. RESULT The sending and receiving indicators on each active computer flash, and the name of each computer appears in the list in the Self test section of the dialog. Each computer is assigned a random number. The name will be shown in the VST System Link window of every computer on the network.
VST System Link Application Examples Activating MIDI Ports for VST System Link You can activate MIDI input and output ports for VST System Link. This allows you to route MIDI tracks to VST instruments running on another computer. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Studio Setup. 2. In the Devices list, select VST System Link. 3. Specify the number of MIDI ports you need using the MIDI Inputs and MIDI Outputs value fields. 4. Create a MIDI track.
VST System Link Application Examples 2. On computer 2, route each of the 2 audio tracks to a separate output bus connected to the digital outputs, bus 1 and 2, for example. 3. Route the FX channel track to another VST System Link bus, bus 3, for example. 4. Route the VST instrument channel to yet another bus, bus 4, for example. 5. On computer 1, check the corresponding 4 VST System Link input busses. If you start playback on computer 2, the audio should appear on the input busses on computer 1.
VST System Link Application Examples 3. On computer 2, open the VST Instruments window and assign an instrument to the first slot in the rack. 4. Route the VST instrument channel to the desired output bus. If you are using computer 1 as your main mixing computer, this would be one of the VST System Link output busses, connected to computer 1. 5. Create a new MIDI track in the Project window of computer 2 and assign the MIDI output of the track to the VST instrument you created. 6.
VST System Link Application Examples Recording Tracks on Other Computers You can record tracks on another computer. This is useful if the hard drive on one computer is not fast enough to run as many audio tracks as you need. PROCEDURE ● Add tracks on another computer and record on them. RESULT This creates a virtual RAID system, with several disks all operating together. All tracks will remain locked together just as tightly as if they were all running on the same machine.
Video Cubase allows you to work with video content. You can play back video files in various formats and via different output devices from within Cubase, extract the audio material from a video file, and edit your music to the video. IMPORTANT Videos are exported with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 px (Full HD). Video files with a lower or higher resolution than Full HD are upscaled or downscaled on export.
Video Frame Rates AVI This is a multimedia container format introduced by Microsoft. Codecs Codecs are methods of data compression used to make video and audio files smaller and more manageable for computers. For further details, refer to the support area at steinberg.net. Frame Rates Cubase supports different video and film frame rates. Frame rate (speed) Regardless of the frame counting system, the actual speed at which frames of video go by in real time is the true frame rate.
Video Preparations for Creating Video Projects IMPORTANT ● You must install the appropriate driver for the video device and set the video card output to the video file resolution used in your project. ● Video output via FireWire is not supported. RELATED LINKS Video Player Page on page 712 Preparations for Creating Video Projects Before you can start working with video in Cubase, some basic preparations must be made.
Video Preparations for Creating Video Projects Adopting the Project Frame Rate To ensure that the time display of Cubase corresponds to the actual frames in the video, you must set the project frame rate to the frame rate of the imported video file. PREREQUISITE The frame rate of the imported video file differs from the project frame rate. PROCEDURE 1. Select Project > Project Setup. 2. In the Project Setup dialog, click Get Frame Rate from Video. 3. Click OK.
Video Preparations for Video Playback NOTE You can only refresh already existing thumbnail cache files from within the Pool. RESULT The thumbnail cache file is generated in the background so that you can continue working with Cubase. Preparations for Video Playback You can play back imported video files from within Cubase by using the transport controls. For this to work, you must activate and set up a video output device. IMPORTANT Your graphics card must support OpenGL 2.0 or higher.
Video Preparations for Video Playback Offset If the video image does not match the audio, you can enter an offset value in milliseconds to specify how much earlier the video should be delivered. This compensates for the display delay. The offset is only used during playback. It is saved globally for each output device and is independent of the project. Active Allows you to activate the device that you want to use for playing back video. Activating a Video Output Device PROCEDURE 1.
Video Preparations for Video Playback Fullscreen Mode Sets the window to full screen mode. To exit full screen mode, open the context menu and select Exit Fullscreen Mode or press Esc . Quarter Size Reduces the window to a quarter of the actual size. Half Size Reduces the window to half the actual size. Actual Size Sets the window to the size of the video. Double Size Enlarges the window to twice the actual size. Aspect Ratio You can also drag the borders of the Video Player window to resize it.
Video Editing Video Scrubbing Video You can scrub video events, that is, play them back forwards or backwards. PROCEDURE 1. Select Studio > Video Player. 2. Do one of the following: ● Click in the Video Player window and move the mouse to the left or to the right. ● Use a jog wheel on a remote controller. Editing Video Video events are created automatically when you import a video file.
Key Commands Key commands are assigned to most main menus and functions in Cubase. They are stored as Preferences that are used for all your projects. You can view and add key commands in the Key Commands dialog. Key command assignments are also shown in the tooltips. Tooltips that show an exclamation mark at the end have no key command assigned yet. You can save key commands settings as a key commands file, which is stored separately and can be imported into any project.
Key Commands Key Commands Dialog The following options are available: + All Expands all folders. - All Reduces all folders. Search Allows you to search for Cubase functions. This is useful if you want to know which key command is assigned to a specific function. Reset Current Key Command Allows you to reset the selected key command back to the default setting. Commands list Shows the Cubase functions for that you can assign key commands arranged in category folders.
Key Commands Assigning Key Commands Assigning Key Commands You can add key commands in the Key Commands dialog. PROCEDURE 1. Select Edit > Key Commands. 2. Do one of the following: ● In the Commands list, click the plus sign to open a category folder, and select the function to which you want to assign a key command. ● In the search field, enter the name of the function to which you want to assign a key command.
Key Commands Removing Key Commands Removing Key Commands PROCEDURE 1. Select Edit > Key Commands. 2. In the Commands list, click the plus sign to open a category folder, and select the function for which you want to remove a key command. 3. Select the key command in the Keys list and click Delete selected key command. 4. Click Remove to remove the selected key command. 5. Click OK. Saving Key Commands Presets You can save key commands settings as presets.
Key Commands Default Key Commands RESULT The key commands are reset. IMPORTANT Any changes made to the default key commands are lost. If you want to be able to revert to these settings again, make sure to save them first. Default Key Commands The default key commands are arranged in categories. NOTE When the On-Screen Keyboard is displayed, the usual key commands are blocked because they are reserved for the On-Screen Keyboard.
Key Commands Default Key Commands Chords Category Option Key command Show/Hide Chord Pads Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - C Devices (Studio) Category Option Key command Audio Connections F4 Audio Performance F12 MixConsole F3 MixConsole in Project Window Alt/Opt - F3 On-Screen Keyboard Alt/Opt - K Video Player F8 VST Instruments F11 Direct Offline Processing Category Option Key command Direct Offline Processing F7 Edit Category Option Key command Activate/Deactivate Focused Object Alt/Opt - A
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Delete Delete or Backspace Delete Time Shift - Backspace Duplicate Ctrl/Cmd - D Expand/Reduce Alt/Opt - E Insert Silence Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - E Invert Alt/Opt - F Invert Selection Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - I Left Selection Side to Cursor E Move Event Starts to Cursor Ctrl/Cmd - L Move Events to Front U Mute M Mute Events Shift - M Mute/Unmute Objects Alt/Opt - M Open Ctrl/Cmd - E Paste Ctrl/Cmd - V Paste at Origin Alt/Opt - V P
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Secondary Parameter: Decrease Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - Left Arrow Secondary Parameter: Increase Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - Right Arrow Select All Ctrl/Cmd - A Select None Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - A Snap On/Off J Solo S Split At Cursor Alt/Opt - X Split Range Shift - X Stationary Cursor Alt/Opt - C Undo Ctrl/Cmd - Z Unmute Events Shift - U Write W Editors Category Option Key command Open Score Editor Ctrl/Cmd - R Open/Close Editor Return File
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Save As Ctrl/Cmd - Shift - S Save New Version Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - S Media Category Option Key command Open MediaBay F5 Open/Close Favorites Ctrl - Alt/Opt - Num 8 Open/Close File Browser Ctrl - Alt/Opt - Num 4 Open/Close Filters Ctrl - Alt/Opt - Num 5 Open/Close Previewer Ctrl - Alt/Opt - Num 2 Preview Cycle On/Off Shift - Num / Preview Start Shift - Enter Preview Stop Shift - Num 0 Search MediaBay Shift - F5 MIDI Category Opti
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Add Left: Shift - Left Arrow Expand/Undo selection in the Project window/Key Editor to the left Add Right: Shift - Right Arrow Expand/Undo selection in the Project window/Key Editor to the right Add Up: Shift - Up Arrow Expand/Undo selection in the Project window to the top/Move selected event in the Key Editor up one octave Bottom: End Select bottom track in the track list Down: Down Arrow Select next in the Project window/Move selected even
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Right Ctrl/Cmd - Right Arrow Nudge Bottom Down Alt/Opt - Down Arrow Nudge Bottom Up Alt/Opt - Shift - Up Arrow Nudge End Left Alt/Opt - Shift - Left Arrow Nudge End Right Alt/Opt - Right Arrow Nudge Start Left Alt/Opt - Left Arrow Nudge Start Right Alt/Opt - Shift - Right Arrow Nudge Top Down Alt/Opt - Shift - Down Arrow Nudge Top Up Alt/Opt - Up Arrow Project Category Option Key command Colors Alt/Opt - Shift - S Open Markers Ct
Key Commands Default Key Commands Set Insert Length Category Option Key command 1/1 Alt/Opt - 1 1/2 Alt/Opt - 2 1/4 Alt/Opt - 3 1/8 Alt/Opt - 4 1/16 Alt/Opt - 5 1/32 Alt/Opt - 6 1/64 Alt/Opt - 7 1/128 Alt/Opt - 8 Toggle Dotted Alt/Opt - .
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Split Tool 3 Zoom Tool 6 Transport Category Option Key command Activate External Sync Alt/Opt - Shift - T Activate Metronome C Activate Punch In I Activate Punch Out O Cycle Num / Enter Left Locator Shift - L Enter Locator Range Duration Shift - D Enter Project Cursor Position Shift - P Enter Right Locator Shift - R Enter Tempo Shift - T Enter Time Signature Shift - C Exchange Time Formats .
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Locate Next Event N Locate Next Hitpoint Alt/Opt - N Locate Next Marker Shift - N Locate Previous Event B Locate Previous Hitpoint Alt/Opt - B Locate Previous Marker Shift - B Locate Selection Start L Locators to Selection P Loop Selection Alt/Opt - P MIDI Retrospective Record: Insert from All MIDI Inputs Shift - Num - - * Nudge Cursor Left Ctrl/Cmd - Num - Nudge Cursor Right Ctrl/Cmd - Num + Panel (Transport panel) F2 Play Se
Key Commands Default Key Commands Option Key command Start/Stop Space Stop Num 0 To Marker 1 Shift - 1 To Marker 2 Shift - 2 To Marker 3 to 9 Num 3 to Num 9 or Shift - 3 to 9 Window Zones Category Option Key command Show/Hide Left Zone Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - L ; Alt/Opt - I Show/Hide Right Zone Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - R Show/Hide Upper Zone Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - U Show/Hide Lower Zone Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - E or Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt B Show/Hide Transport Bar Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt - T Show Previo
Key Commands Setting up Tool Modifier Keys Option Key command Zoom In On Waveform Vertically Alt/Opt - H Zoom In Tracks Ctrl/Cmd - Down Arrow Zoom In Vertically Shift - H Zoom Out G Zoom Out Of Waveform Vertically Alt/Opt - G Zoom Out Tracks Ctrl/Cmd - Up Arrow Zoom Out Vertically Shift - G Zoom to Event Shift - E Zoom to Selection Alt/Opt - S Zoom Tracks Exclusive Z Setting up Tool Modifier Keys You can set up tool modifier keys that allow you to get an alternative function when usin
Customizing In Cubase you can set up the appearance of specific elements. RELATED LINKS Setup Options on page 732 Setup Options You can customize the appearance of the following elements: ● Transport panel ● Status line ● Info line ● Toolbars ● Inspector Setup Context Menus Setup context menus are available for the Transport panel, the toolbars, the info lines, or the Inspector. ● To open the setup context menus, right-click the corresponding element.
Customizing Setup Options The info line setup context menu Setup Dialog The setup dialog allows you to specify which elements are visible/hidden and in what order they are shown. You can save and recall setup presets. ● To open a setup dialog, right-click the element that you want to set up, and select Setup. Hidden Items Lists the elements that are hidden. Visible Items Lists the elements that are visible. Add Select an item in the list of Hidden Items, and click Add to make it visible.
Customizing Windows Dialog Move Up Select an item in the list of Visible Items, and click Move Up to reorder the items. Move Down Select an item in the list of Visible Items, and click Move Down to reorder the items. Store Allows you to name the current configuration and save it as a preset. Delete Remove a selected preset. Reset All Reverts to the default configuration. Windows Dialog The Windows dialog allows you to manage open windows in Cubase. ● To open the Windows dialog, select Window > Windows.
Customizing Where are the Settings Stored? Restore Restores the selected or all windows. Close Windows Closes the selected or all windows. Reset Layout Resets the layout of the selected window. Where are the Settings Stored? There is a large number of ways in which you can customize Cubase. While some of the settings you make are stored with each project, others are stored in separate preference files.
Customizing Safe Mode Dialog The following options are available in the Plug-Ins section: Deactivate all third-party plug-ins Temporarily disables all third-party plug-ins. After startup, only Steinberg plug-ins are available. The following options are available in the Preferences section: Use current program preferences Opens the program with the current preference settings. Disable program preferences Disables the current preferences and opens the program with the factory default settings instead.
Customizing Safe Mode Dialog Disables the current preferences, and opens the program with the factory default settings instead. ● Delete program preferences Deletes the preferences and opens the program with the factory default settings instead. This process cannot be undone. Note that this affects all versions of Cubase installed on your computer. 4. Click OK. AFTER COMPLETING THIS TASK If the program works fine with disabled preferences, consider deleting and re-initializing the preferences.
Optimizing Audio Performance To get the most out of your Cubase system, performance-wise, you can optimize specific settings. NOTE For details and current information on system requirements and hardware properties refer to the Steinberg web site. Performance Aspects Tracks and Effects The faster your computer, the more tracks, effects, and EQs you are able to play. Exactly what constitutes a fast computer is almost a science in itself, but some hints are given below.
Optimizing Audio Performance Settings That Affect Performance ● Under macOS, audio hardware with properly written macOS (Core Audio) drivers can be very efficient and produce very low latency times. However, there are additional features only available with ASIO drivers, such as the ASIO Positioning Protocol. Settings That Affect Performance Audio Buffer Settings Audio buffers affect how audio is sent to and from the audio hardware.
Optimizing Audio Performance ASIO-Guard Realtime Shows the average load of all audio realtime processes. ASIO-Guard Shows the average load of processes that can be preprocessed. NOTE Preprocessing only takes place if you activate Activate ASIO-Guard on the Audio System page of the Studio Setup dialog. Peak Shows the processing load in the real-time path of the audio engine. The higher this value, the higher the risk that dropouts occur.
Optimizing Audio Performance ASIO-Guard ASIO-Guard Latency High ASIO-Guard levels lead to an increased ASIO-Guard latency. When you adjust a volume fader, for example, you will hear the parameter changes with a slight delay. The ASIO-Guard latency, in contrast to the latency of the audio hardware, is independent from live input.
Preferences The Preferences dialog provides options and settings that control the global behavior of the program. Preferences Dialog The Preferences dialog is divided into a navigation list and a settings page. Clicking one of the entries in the navigation list opens a settings page. ● To open the Preferences dialog, select Edit > Preferences. In addition to the settings, the dialog provides the following options: Preference Presets Allows you to select a saved preference preset.
Preferences Editing OK Applies any changes that you have made and closes the dialog. Cancel Closes the dialog without saving any changes. Saving Preference Presets You can save complete or partial preference settings as presets. PROCEDURE 1. In the Preferences dialog, make your changes. 2. Click Store in the lower left section of the dialog. 3. Enter a preset name and click OK. RESULT Your settings are now available on the Preference Presets pop-up menu.
Preferences Editing Auto Select Events under Cursor Automatically selects all events in the Project window or in an editor that are under the project cursor. Cycle Follows Range Selection Sets the left locator to the range start position and the right locator to the range end position of a range selection. Delete Overlaps Deletes overlapped, that is, hidden, sections of overlapping events. Hold Shift while moving events to override this setting.
Preferences Editing ● Positioning the mouse in the left half of the event moves the end point of the fade in. ● Positioning the mouse in the right half of the event moves the start point of the fade out. On Import Audio Files Determines what happens when you import an audio file. ● Open Options Dialog Opens a dialog where you can select whether you want to copy the file to the audio folder and/or convert it to the project settings. ● Use Settings Uses the default settings for importing audio.
Preferences Editing Clicking opens a value box for editing. ● Increment/Decrement on Left/Right-Click Clicking decreases the value, right-clicking increases the value. Double-clicking allows you to enter values manually. ● Increment/Decrement on Left-Click and Drag Clicking and dragging up or down adjusts the value. Double-clicking allows you to enter values manually. Knob Mode Allows you to select your preferred way of controlling knobs.
Preferences Editing Split MIDI Events Splits MIDI events when you split a MIDI part in the Project window, and the split position intersects the MIDI events. This also creates new notes at the beginning of the second part. Split MIDI Controllers Splits MIDI controllers when you split a MIDI part in the Project window, and the part contains a controller.
Preferences Editing Categories Action Modifiers Drag & Drop Constraint Direction Ctrl/Cmd Copy Alt/Opt Shared Copy Alt/Opt - Shift Erase Tool Delete later events Alt/Opt Glue Tool Glue All Following Events Alt/Opt Info Line All Events Same Value Ctrl/Cmd Range Tool Exclude Row Ctrl/Cmd Select Full Vertical Ctrl/Cmd - Shift Edit Velocity Ctrl/Cmd - Shift Set Position Alt/Opt - Shift Slip Event Content Ctrl/Cmd - Alt/Opt Split Event Alt/Opt Common Position no default assignme
Preferences Editors Editing - Tools Show Toolbox on Right-Click Opens a toolbox when you right-click in the event display and editors. To open the context menu instead of the toolbox, press any modifier key when right-clicking. Cross-Hair Cursor Allows you to set up the colors for the line and the mask of the cross-hair cursor, as well as its width. Zoom Tool Standard Mode: Horizontal Zooming Only Zooms the window horizontally without changing the track height when you zoom with the Zoom tool.
Preferences Event Display Show Overlaps Determines how overlapping events are displayed. Grid Overlay Intensity Sets the overlay intensity of the displayed grid lines. Event Handling Opacity Sets the opacity of overlying events when you move them. Event Opacity Sets the opacity of the event background. NOTE ● If you reduce the event opacity, it might be helpful to increase the Waveform Brightness for audio events or the Note Brightness for MIDI events.
Preferences Event Display Event Display - Chords & Pitches Pitch Notation ● Note Name Allows you to select how chord symbols are displayed. You can choose English, German, or Solfège. ● Naming Format Allows you to determine how MIDI note names are displayed in editors, etc. ● Display ‘Bb’ as ‘B’ Displays ‘B’ as a pitch name. This is only available if you selected English in the Note Name pop-up menu. ● Display ‘B’ as ‘H’ Displays ‘H’ as a pitch name.
Preferences Event Display ● The Remove Custom Chord button allows you to remove the custom chord symbol that is selected in the list. EXAMPLE To change the appearance of all minor chords from Xmin to X-, click New Custom Chord, activate 5 and min3/#9 to define the chord type, and change the symbol in the Type column from min to -. Event Display - Folders Show Event Details Displays event details instead of data blocks. This setting depends on the Show Data on Folder Tracks setting.
Preferences General General The General page contains general settings that affect the program user interface. Set these according to your preferred work methods. Enable HiDPI (Windows only) Enables the appropriate resolution to render Cubase user interface sharp and precise on high resolution displays with supported scaling factors of 100 %, 125 %, 150 %, 175 %, and 200 %. NOTE Other scaling factors, such as 133 %, are not supported.
Preferences MIDI Run Setup on Create New Project Opens the Project Setup dialog every time you create a new project. Use Hub Opens the Hub when you start Cubase or create a new project using the File menu. RELATED LINKS VST Instrument Context Menu on page 458 General - Personalization Default Author Name Allows you to specify an author name that is used by default for new projects. This is included as metadata when exporting audio files with an iXML chunk.
Preferences MIDI as well as on all the parts to the left of it. Deactivate this for very large projects, as it slows down processes such as positioning and soloing. MIDI Display Resolution Allows you to set the display resolution for viewing and editing MIDI data. Extend Playback Range of Notes that start before the Part Extends the playback range of MIDI notes that start before the part in ticks. This is useful if MIDI events start shortly before the start of the MIDI part.
Preferences MIDI Export as Type 0 Exports a type 0 MIDI file with all data on a single track, but on different MIDI channels. If you deactivate this option, a type 1 MIDI file with data on separate tracks is exported. Export Resolution Allows you to set a MIDI resolution between 24 and 960 for the MIDI file. The resolution is the number of pulses, or ticks, per quarter note (PPQ) and determines the precision with which you will be able to view and edit the MIDI data.
Preferences MediaBay Auto Dissolve Format 0 Automatically dissolves imported MIDI files of type 0. Each embedded MIDI channel in the file is placed on a separate track in the Project window. Destination Allows you to specify what happens when you drag a MIDI file into the project. ● MIDI Tracks creates MIDI tracks for the imported file. ● Instrument Tracks creates instrument tracks for each MIDI channel in the MIDI file and causes the program to automatically load appropriate presets.
Preferences Metering NOTE During playback or recording no folder scans are performed. Scan Unknown File Types Scans all file types. Metering Map Input Bus Metering to Audio Track (in Direct Monitoring) Maps the input bus metering to monitor-enabled audio tracks, giving you the opportunity to watch the input levels of your audio tracks when working in the Project window. For this to work, activate Direct Monitoring in the Studio Setup dialog.
Preferences Record Record - Audio Audio Pre-Record Seconds Sets for how many seconds any incoming audio you play is captured in buffer memory during playback or in stop mode. When Recording Wave Files Larger than 4 GB Determines what happens if you record wave files that are larger than 4 GB. ● To split the wave file, select Split Files. Use this if you work on a FAT32 file system that supports only file sizes up to 4 GB. ● To save the wave file as an RF64 file, select Use RF64 Format.
Preferences Transport early. By activating this option, all recorded events are moved by the current latency, and playback sounds like during the recording situation. Add Latency to MIDI-Thru Processing If you set the audio buffer size to a high value, and you play an arpeggiator in real time, for example, the MIDI notes are output with an increased latency. If you consequently adapt your playing to the output latency, the notes are recorded even later.
Preferences User Interface If you press Shift while fast forwarding or rewinding, the wind speed will increase. The increase in speed is a multiple of the Speed Factor. Meaning that if you set the Fast Wind Factor to 2, the wind speed will be twice as fast. If you set it to 4, the wind speed will be 4 times as fast, etc. You can set a value between 2 and 50. Cursor Width Adjusts the width of the project cursor line.
Preferences User Interface Customizing the User Interface Colors You can change the color of the Cubase desktop, the track types, the Project window, and the editor elements. PROCEDURE 1. In the Preferences dialog, select User Interface > Color Schemes. 2. Do one of the following: ● Activate a default color scheme by clicking on it. ● Click Custom Color Scheme and in the Color Picker, select a new color. RESULT The color scheme is instantly applied.
Preferences VST Selected Channel Brightness Allows you to adjust the brightness of the selected MixConsole channel. Show Color for Selected Channel Colorizes the selected channel and gives it more color strength instead of displaying it in gray. VST This page contains settings for the VST audio engine. Warn if realtime mixdown is required in order to include external plug-in Shows a warning if a realtime mixdown is required.
Preferences VST Auto Monitoring Determines how Cubase handles monitoring. The following options are available: ● Manual Turns input monitoring on or off when you click Monitor. ● While Record-Enabled Connects the audio source to the channel input when you click Record Enable. ● While Record Running Switches to input monitoring only during recording. ● Tapemachine Style Activates input monitoring in stop mode and during recording, but not during playback.
Preferences Video NOTE We recommend to leave this option deactivated. Plug-in Editors “Always on Top” Always shows the control panels for effect plug-ins and VST instruments on top of other windows. Video Extract Audio on Import Video File Extracts and saves the audio data of imported video files as a separate audio clip. Thumbnail Memory Cache Size Allows you to set the size of the thumbnail cache. 765 Cubase AI 12.0.
Index A Audio clock Synchronization 690 Audio Connections 28 Editing 32 Presets 31 Audio events 146 Auditioning 151 Audio Events Inverting phase 166 Audio files Previewing in MediaBay 429 Audio Files Inverting phase 166 Audio Functions 340 Detect Silence 340 Spectrum Analyzer 344 Statistics 346 Audio hardware Connections 14 Externally clocked 20 Audio Part Editor Lower zone 55 Toolbar 380 Audio parts Auditioning 151 Creating 150 Audio performance Optimizing 738 Audio Pre-Record Seconds 759 Audio processing
Index Beat Calculator 671, 672 Bézier curves Automation 446 Continuous controllers 571 Bounce Selection 147 Broadcast Wave files 683 Broadcast Wave Files Embedded information 759 Buffer Settings 739 Busses Adding 30 Removing 32 Bypass EQs Track Control 101 Bypass Inserts Track Control 101 Bypass Sends Track Control 101 Auto fades Global settings 253 Track settings 253 Auto Monitoring Manual 763 Tapemachine Style 763 Auto Save 93, 753 Auto Save Internal 753 Auto Select Controllers 576 Auto Select Events un
Index Chord events (continued) Chord type 628 Converting to MIDI 636 Creating from MIDI 641 Editing 628 Resolving Display Conflicts 632 Tension 628 Voicings 633 Chord Font 751 Chord Pad Controls 645 Chord Pads 644–647 Adaptive voicing 656 Assigning chords 649–651 Context menu 646 Controls 647 Copying Assignments 651 Creating chord events 665 Creating MIDI parts 665 Functions menu 647 Multiple tracks 658 Pad Remote Control 660 Pads remote range 663 Pattern player 658 Player Modes 655–657 Player Setup 655 Pl
Index Crossfades (continued) Equal Gain 249 Equal Power 249 Presets 249 Simple Crossfade Editor 249 Symmetric Fades 249 Cursor Width 760 Custom Chord Symbols 751 Customizing Colors 80 Info line 732 Inspector 732 Meter Colors 279 Toolbars 732 Transport panel 732 User Interface Colors 762 Cycle Track Control 101 Cycle Follows Range Selection 743 Cycle markers 254 Editing with tools 255 Using 255 Zooming 67, 255 Cycle recording 206 Direct Offline Processing (continued) Key Commands 336 Modifying 330 Normaliz
Index Events (continued) Pasting 163 Removing 154 Renaming 158 Repeating 164 Resizing 158, 160 Resizing with Object Selection 158, 159 Resizing with Scrub 161 Size with Fade 158 Sizing Applies Time Stretch 159 Sizing Moves Contents 159 Splitting 162 Splitting repeatedly 163 Export Audio Mixdown 675, 682 AIFF files 684 Broadcast Wave files 683 File Formats 682 Flac files 686 MP3 files 685 Ogg Vorbis files 686 Wave files 683 Exporting MIDI files 131 Extending the Process Range Direct Offline Processing 330 E
Index Group Channels - Mute Sources as well 763 FLAC files Importing 226 Focus Quick Controls Focus lock 503 Focus setup 503 Setting up 502 Folder parts 151 Folder tracks 122 Add Track dialog 123 Displaying events 140 Inspector 124 Modifying event display 140 Track controls 124 Follow Chord Track 639 Auto 639 Chords 639 Directly 640 Scale events 640 Single Voice 639 Synchronizing Track Data 640 Using 638 Frame count 689 Frame rates Mismatch 711 Synchronization 689 Video 711 Freeze Multiple tracks 138 VST
Index Language (Preferences) 753 Latency MixConsole 292 Optimizing 738 VST System Link 700 Left locator Setting 191 Left Locator 190 Left zone 47 Inspector 48 MixConsole 267 Legato 540 Legato Mode - Between Selected Notes Only 746 Legato Overlap 746 Length Adjustment 754 Level meters (MixConsole) 280 Line tool 589 Drawing note events 588 Editing controller display events 573 Link groups 274 Q-Link 275 Link to Grid Nudge Settings 156 Link to Primary Time Format Nudge Settings 156 Live input Chord track 638
Index MediaBay (continued) Volume databases 438, 440 Window 419 MediaBay results Managing media files 425 Resetting 429 Setting up 425 Shuffling 426 Merge MIDI in Loop 536, 537 Metadata Author Name 754 Company Name 754 Meter Colors 279 Meter peak options 279 Hold forever 279 Hold peaks 279 Meter position options 279 Input 279 Post-Fader 279 Post-Panner 279 Meters Settings 279 Meters’ Fallback 758 Meters’ Peak Hold Time 758 Metronome 196, 198, 199 Setup window 196 Metronome Setup 196 Click Sounds 199 Genera
Index MIDI Remote (continued) MIDI Controller Surface Editor 491, 493, 494 Parameter Mapping 488 Quick Control Focus 503 Script files 487 Scripting 510 Using Other MIDI Controllers 485 Using Supported MIDI Controllers 485 MIDI Remote Manager 504 MIDI controllers 505 Scripts 506 MIDI Remote Mapping Assistant 488 MIDI Remote Script Console 509 MIDI Retrospective Recording 220 MIDI Thru Active 754 Monitoring 210 MIDI track delay MIDI track parameters 523 MIDI track parameters 523 MIDI tracks 111 Add Track dia
Index Monitoring (continued) MIDI 210 Via Cubase 208 Mouse Wheel for Event Volume and Fades 744 Move Vertically Automation Event Editor 447 Moving Events 154 Moving tracks 133 MP3 files 685 Importing 226 MPEG files Importing 226 Multi processing 739 Musical Mode 378 Mute MixConsole 278 Track Control 101 Mute Automation Track Control 101 Mute Pre-Send when Mute 763 Muting events 167 Note lengths Changing 604 Note stems Flipping the direction 605 Note values Setting 603 Notepad MixConsole 291 Nudge Move Lef
Index Paste at Origin 163 Paste Relative to Cursor 163 Patch Banks 529 Pattern Chord Pads 655 Pedals To note length 541 Performance Aspects 738 Audio performance 739 Optimizing 738 Piano keyboard display Key Editor 586 Piano voicings 633 Pick-up Mode 517 Pictures 135 MixConsole 291 Track list 134 Pitch Notation 751 Pitchbend Controller lanes 566 Plain Chords Chord Pads 655 Playback Disable Acoustic Feedback 745 Excluding note events 553 Playback Toggle triggers Local Preview 336, 760 Player Modes Pattern 6
Index Projects Activating 91 Back up 94 Creating new 82, 83 Hub 82 Location 93 Missing ports 92 Opening 91 Opening recent 92 Prepare archive 94 Project Assistant 83 Project files 84 Revert 93 Saving 92 Saving templates 87 Setting up 88 Template files 85 Templates 85 Punch In 196 On Stop 758 Punch In/Out Common Record Modes 207 Punch Out 196, 206 Stop after automatic 758 Punch Points 196 Re-Record Activating 207 Common Record Modes 207 Read automation 443 Read Automation Track Control 101 Recent projects 9
Index Repeat Loop 539 Replace Recording in Editors 759 Resample Direct Offline Processing 334 Reset on Stop 754 Resizing events 158 Resolve Display Conflicts Track Control 101 Retrospective MIDI Recording 221, 222 Empty Buffer 223 Insert from All MIDI Inputs 221 Retrospective Record 759 Retrospective Record Buffer 220 Retrospective Recording Buffer 220 MIDI 220 Return to Start Position on Stop 760 Reverse Audio 334 Direct Offline Processing 334 MIDI 545 REX/REX2 files Importing 230 Right locator Setting 19
Index Send effects 303, 311 Adding FX channel tracks 312 Adding to selected channels 313 Setting level 315 Send Level 763 Sends MixConsole 290 Setting Event Colors to Track Colors 76 Shared Copies Convert to Real Copy 165 Creating 165 Show Scales 632 Track Control 101 Silence Detecting 340 Direct Offline Processing 334 Inserting 173 Removing 343 Simple Crossfade Editor 249 Single Voice Follow Chord Track 639 Size with Fade 158 Slices 366 Close gaps 372 Delete overlaps 373 Slider Mode 745 Slip Event Content
Index Track Presets (continued) Previewing in MediaBay 431 VST Presets 143 Track Quick Controls 474, 516, 517 Assigning effect parameters 476 Assigning instrument parameters 476 Assigning parameters 475 Automatable Parameters 478 Connecting with Remote Controllers 516 Inspector 475 Loading presets 477 Parameter assignment 475 QC Learn Mode 476 Removing assignments 477 Saving assignments as presets 477 Showing automated assignments 478 Track Selection follows Event Selection 743 Track Versions Inspector Sec
Index Volume databases Creating in the MediaBay 438 Mounting in the MediaBay 440 Removing from the MediaBay 440 Unmounting in the MediaBay 440 VST Input ports 21 Output ports 21 VST 2 304 VST 3 304 VST 3 Suspend plug-in processing 462 VST effect selector 310 VST instrument selector 455 VST instruments Context menu 458 Control panel 453 Freeze Channel Options Dialog 463 Freezing 138, 462 Functions menu 458 Presets 459 Saving presets 460 Setting up 452 VST Plug-in collection Adding 471 VST Plug-in control pa
Index Waveform Outline Intensity 750 Waveforms Showing 750 When Recording Wave Files larger than 4 GB 759 Wind Speed Options 760 Windows Dialog 734 Windows Media Audio files Importing 226 Word clock Synchronization 690 Working with MIDI data Tools and functions for 615 Write Automation Track Control 101 Writing automation 443 Automatically 443, 444 Manually 443, 444 Tools 445 Z Zones Keyboard focus 63 Lower zone 52 Project zone 35 Right zone 58 Zoom Adapt Grid to Zoom 64 Audio Contents 65 Cycle Markers 67
