However, the real-time peak meter fell from a highly volatile reading in version 7.5, with regular overloads, to a steady reading of around 15% in version 8. In both version 7.5 and version 8, the average load meter hovered at around 50%. The software has a performance monitor with three meters for average load, real-time peak and disk. Loading the same project into Cubase 8 Pro saw the glitches disappear completely. This project was already prone to drop-outs in version 7.5, but we added some extra effects and virtual instruments for good measure to guarantee lots of playback glitches. We loaded a project in version 7.5 that used lots of virtual instruments and demanding effects, with a mixture of Steinberg plugins and and third-party ones. Testing such performance claims is tricky, since there are so many contributing factors, but Steinberg’s assertions proved well-founded in our investigations.

There’s also better buffering of virtual instruments that use disk streaming. Apparently, lower latency is only used on tracks that demand it, such as those that are being recorded.

Steinberg cites a “massive engine rebuild”, with faster load times and the ability to run more plugins and lower latency settings. The headline feature for version 8 is a significant boost to performance. Steinberg Cubase Pro 8 review: performance boost It’s a niche feature, but it could be useful for flipping between processing chains. A new Direct Routing module allows mixer channels to be sent to up to eight destinations and switched quickly between them. The redesigned plugin manager allows multiple custom lists of plugins, perfect for picking out subsets of favourites for specific tasks. EQ frequencies are now shown as note values, helping to tune resonant frequencies more musically. The new Workspaces menu makes it easy to save and recall interface layouts, while a docked Racks panel houses virtual instruments and media assets more neatly.

In version 8, there are welcome cosmetic and workflow improvements. There’s still a persistent problem whereby the Help command can’t locate the PDF manuals – if ever an application needs a manual, it’s this one – but the PDFs aren’t too tricky to find on the hard disk, and they’re mostly well written. The flagship version is now known as Cubase Pro, giving it a clearer distinction from Cubase Artist and Cubase Elements.

Steinberg cubase pro 8 retail