Cubase AI vs Elements: A Comparison of the Two Music Production Workstations

When it comes to music production, one of the most popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) is Cubase. Developed by Steinberg, Cubase offers a range of features and tools that cater to different levels of musicianship, from beginners to professionals. Among its various versions, Cubase AI and Elements are two of the most widely used variants. But what exactly sets them apart? In this article, we'll explore the key differences between Cubase AI vs Elements.

Audio Editing Capabilities

Both Cubase AI and Elements offer robust audio editing capabilities. Users can mix tracks down into a stereo format, allowing for greater control over their music productions. Additionally, both versions provide a range of editing tools, including piano rolls, drum editors, score editors, and filterable lists of MIDI events.

MIDI Editing Features

Cubase AI and Elements also share similar MIDI editing features. Users can create warp markers straight from hitpoints, apply quantization to entire arrangements or single audio loops non-destructively, and edit MIDI parts using a piano roll or score editor.

One area where Cubase AI stands out is its Key Editor Inspector feature. This provides precise control over chord drawing, chord inversions, quantization, transpositions, scale correction, note lengths, and legato. This feature overcomes one of the limitations of MIDI, allowing users to apply controllers like pitch bend and volume to specific notes rather than entire channels.

Expression Maps

Cubase Elements also offers Expression Maps, which allow users to define changes to an instrument's articulations and dynamics. Chords can be entered manually or detected automatically, making it easier to compose and arrange music.

Chord Tracks

Another feature unique to Cubase Elements is its Chord Tracks tool. This helps users keep track of chord changes and can be used to harmonize audio and MIDI tracks automatically, as well as trigger arpeggios and chords with basic voicings or voicings for piano and guitar.

Upgrading

One significant difference between Cubase AI and Elements is the ability to upgrade to a more advanced version. Cubase AI users can upgrade to a more advanced version at a discount, while Cubase Elements users may need to purchase a separate license to access additional features.

Compatibility

Both Cubase AI and Elements are compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and macOS. They also support VST instruments and effects, allowing users to integrate external plugins into their productions.

In conclusion, both Cubase AI and Elements offer robust music production capabilities, but they cater to different levels of musicianship. Cubase AI is ideal for beginners or hobbyists who want to produce high-quality music without breaking the bank. On the other hand, Cubase Elements offers more advanced features like Chord Tracks and Expression Maps that are perfect for professional producers looking to take their music to the next level.

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Cubase ai vs elements