Which version should I buy

[firemillerman]

Which version should I buy??

Looking for some input on which Cubase version to buy. Anybody got any input?

I am totally new and learning a lot about home recording. I'm pretty sure I've settled on buying Cubase software since I use windows pc and an Echo Layla 24/96 for hardware (which uses busses). My intent for this studio is purely for songwriting demo's (mostly acoustic) using an average of 4 tracks and probably never more than 12. I really don't think I'll be using midi or many effects either. Probably just the basics like reverb, pitch correct, etc. I haven't had much luck finding the differences between Essential, Studio and Cubase 5. I want to stay on a budget for this small studio. Any input is appreciated!

Thanks for your time!

 

[dintymoore]

I have been using Cubase daily since 1989. In 1999 I bought Cubase VST/24 and have used that since.

This week is my first upgrade since 1999. I bought Cubase SX3 with an upgrade to Cubase 4 for $200 off of eBay. If I was to get Cubase 5 I'd have to get a new computer.

I have Cubase LE that came with a Lexicon Omega. It's actually very powerful and I wouldn't rule it out. You should be able to find it for free, $20 or maybe a bit more. I can't imagine it would cost $50. For most people I would think it would be fine.

Note though, I don't use any VST's because I've yet to hear any I like. I use a Roland SC-8850 module for most of my synth sounds so that takes a huge weight off of the computer compared to using VST instruments.

There have been no "improvements" in Cubase in the last 10 years that I need. All the stuff they keep adding is, to me, 100% nonsense.

A few days ago I listened with a friend of mine to Cubase LE's onboard sounds - drums and synths. I'd never heard them before and they were unbelievably bad. Just absolute garbage - way worse than the Quicktime Roland SoundCanvas built into every Mac I own (that no one knows about!). The compressors on Cubase LE are fantastic, and so is the eq and automation. The delay fx are useable, but the reverb is pathetic so I use an outboard reverb.

The reason I'm upgrading is because I'm tired of going to OS 9 to use the old version of Cubase I had. Other than that, the 1999 was fine. The main "special" thing I need from Cubase (because I'm a Midiot!) is Logical Edit, and not all versions have it. Most people won't need it much.

If you Google "cubase version comparison" there's some good info.

 

[wim van p]

To start just buy Cubase essential 5 and start to learn how it works.

In two years time you have learned enough that you might want to upgrade to studio.

Please also realise that you need an audio interface.

Cheers

Wim

 

[dintymoore]

I just bought Cubase SX3 and an upgrade to Cubase 4 for $200 off of eBay. It's great because I can import my old VST/24 songs into SX3 and then save them as .cpr files that Cubase 4 will read.

 

[gilchrease]

biggest difference between studio (4 or 5) and just cubase 4 or 5.. is studio does not have input adjustments... no big deal