The latest version of Steinberg’s hugely popular DAW software has just launched, bringing with it an array of new features that promise to set a new standard for music-production software. Cubase 15 includes new tools aimed at everyone from beginners to blockbuster composers, and as always, comes in three versions that cater to a wide range of use cases and budgets.
What’s New?
Standout features of the latest version include an update to the DAW’s Expression Maps system, which now boasts deeper integration with the Key Editor and Score Editor, as well as benefitting from improved performance realism thanks to per-articulation attack compensation. The Pattern Editor, meanwhile, has been kitted out with a new pattern sequencer with monophonic and polyphonic modes, while the collection of Modulators introduced in Cubase 14 has been expanded to include new tools.
The Pattern Sequencer kits Cubase 15 out with a built-in monophonic/polyphonic step sequencer.
Starting a new project is said to be smoother than ever courtesy of a redesigned Hub that includes resizeable sections, audio setup and project preview along with some powerful search and filter tools. Collaboration has also been improved with the DAWproject format now able to share sessions across all editions of Cubase, Cubasis and other supported DAWs, without losing any of a project’s structure.
Remixing, rebalancing and creative sampling have been enhanced with AI-powered separation tools, and new automation shortcuts automatically show and prioritise the last-touched parameter, adding a simplified menu for quick access and editing, while volume and pan can be added directly to the Track Controls Area. There’s also a new quick export options that offer a quicker way to export bounces mid-session.
New effects include UltraShaper, which is said to take dynamics processing to a new level with a combination of transient shaping, clip limiting and EQ, while Omnivocal (currently in beta) uses Yamaha’s cutting-edge vocal synthesis to create expressive, human-like singing voices. There’s also PitchShifter, which features real-time creative and corrective pitch-shifting, formant preservation, saturation modes, stereo unlinking and a ±24 semitone range. All of the DAW’s stock plug-ins now support GUI scaling, and some additional content has been added to the likes of Drum Machine and Writing Room Synths.
Other Improvements
Alongside the headline features, Cubase 15 also includes a selection of more minor additions and improvements. These include an updated Score Editor with new tools for faster, more inspiring notation; the ability to instantly replace samples in the Sampler Track via MediaBay with filter-based browsing shortcuts; and macOS support for native full-screen mode and pinch-to-zoom gestures on compatible devices.
“We worked closely with our community to refine what matters most, turning valuable feedback into meaningful improvements that make everyday workflows smoother and more intuitive. This release builds naturally on the foundation of the previous version — it feels like the perfect evolution, marking a major leap forward for Cubase.” - Matthias Quellmann, Senior Marketing Manager, Steinberg
Compatibility
Cubase 15 is supported on PCs running Windows 10 or higher, and Macs running macOS 15 and above.
Pricing & Availability
Cubase 15 is available now, with pricing as follows:
- Cubase Pro 15: $579.99£481 / €579.
- Cubase Artist 15: $329.99£273 / €329.
- Cubase Elements 15: $99.99£83 / €99.99.
GBP prices include VAT.
A range of crossgrade and upgrade discounts are available. More information can be found on the Steinberg website.
