Pro Tools vs Cubase: A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing The Best DAW 2024

Are you considering taking the plunge into recording and producing music?

With so many DAW options on the market, it can be daunting to choose one that fits your needs.

Pro Tools and Cubase are two of the most popular DAWs out there, but which is right for you?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what makes each program unique and how they stack up against each other in terms of features and usability.

By the end of it, you’ll have all the information necessary to make an informed decision about which DAW

Pro Tools vs Cubase: A Comprehensive Guide To Choosing The Best DAW 2024
Table Of Contents
  1. What We Know About Pro Tools
  2. What We Know About Cubase
  3. Pro Tools vs Cubase: What's The Difference?
  4. Don't Have It Yet? Download Avid Pro Tools

What We Know About Pro Tools

PRO TOOLS

Musicians, sound engineers, and other audio professionals use Pro Tools, a DAW, to compose, record, edit, and mix audio.

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It is high-end software designed for professionals that provides a variety of features and tools for working with audio, including the capacity to record and edit multiple tracks, add effects and processing, mix, and master audio.

Pro Tools is a widely used DAW that is used in a variety of locations, including recording studios, post-production facilities, and live sound environments. It is widely regarded as one of the industry standards.

It can be used with a variety of audio file formats and is compatible with a wide range of audio hardware, such as microphones, interfaces, and control surfaces.

You will need a computer with a supported operating system and the necessary hardware, such as a compatible audio interface, in order to use Pro Tools.

Additionally, you will need to buy a licence for the software, which is offered in a variety of versions based on your requirements and financial situation.

You can start making and editing audio as soon as Pro Tools is set up and installed.
The software offers a range of tools and features for recording, editing, and mixing audio, including the ability to work with virtual instruments, apply effects, and collaborate with other users.

MIDI tracks can be created, edited, and integrated with other programmes and hardware using Pro Tools.

Pro Tools is a robust and adaptable DAW that is frequently used by experts in the audio industry. It is compatible with a range of hardware and software and provides a number of features and tools for creating and working with audio.

Pro Tools is a fantastic option to take into consideration if you're a musician, sound engineer, or other audio professional looking for a professional-grade DAW.

Pro Tools Price: $29.99/month or $599

Don't Have It Yet? Download Avid Pro Tools

Pro Tools Specs: 

  • Pro Tools works on Windows and macOS
  • Offers audio recording, editing, mixing, and virtual instruments/effects
  • Supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, and MIDI
  • Uses non-destructive audio editing system
  • Includes Xpand!2, AIR virtual instrument suite, and Avid Channel Strip plug-in
  • Integrates with Avid Video Engine and Avid S6 control surface
  • Available in three versions: Pro Tools First (free), Pro Tools, and Pro Tools Ultimate
  • Minimum system requirements for Pro Tools on Windows:
    • Intel Core i5 processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 15 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 10 64-bit
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Pro Tools on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 15 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.14 (Mojave) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

Pro Tools Official Site / Where To Download:  Pro Tools Official Website

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Pro Tools Official Youtube Channel

What We Know About Cubase

cubase

Workflow

Cubase is a DAW that lets you make music on your computer and produce it. It has a clean, easy-to-use interface that makes it simple to find your way around and work with audio files.

The software has a number of tools and features, such as audio editing, sequencing, and MIDI editing, that make your work easier.

Virtual instruments

You can use the variety of virtual instruments included with Cubase, such as synthesisers, drum machines, and pianos, to produce your own distinctive sounds.

The software allows you to record live instruments like guitars and vocals and then edit and process the audio to your specifications.

Effects and plug-ins

Cubase has a range of built-in effects and plug-ins that you can use to shape and enhance your audio. These include EQs, compressors, reverb, and delay, among others. You can also use third-party plug-ins to further expand your audio processing options.

Mixing and mastering

Once you've recorded and edited all of your audio tracks, Cubase can be used to mix and master your music.

The software comes equipped with various mixing and mastering tools like a mixer, equaliser, and compressor, which can be used to fine-tune the audio.

Collaboration

Cubase enables you to work in real-time with other producers and musicians even if you are not physically together.

Collaboration and music creation are made simple by the ability to share your projects and work on them together.

Compatibility

Cubase is compatible with a range of audio formats and devices, making it easy to integrate into your existing setup.

It also supports a variety of hardware controllers and keyboards, so you can use your preferred equipment to control the software.

Cubase Price: $99-$599

Specs: 

  • Cubase works on Windows and macOS
  • Offers audio recording, editing, mixing, and virtual instruments/effects
  • Supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, and MIDI
  • Includes virtual instruments such as HALion Sonic SE and Groove Agent SE
  • Features a variety of audio and MIDI editing tools, including the Score Editor for creating sheet music
  • Includes the VST3 plug-in format for use with third-party virtual instruments and effects
  • Integrates with Steinberg's Nuendo software for post-production work
  • Available in several versions: Cubase Elements, Cubase Artist, and Cubase Pro
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on Windows:
    • Intel Core i5 processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 10 64-bit
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

Cubase Official Site / Where To Download:  Cubase Official Website

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Cubase Official Youtube Channel

Pro Tools vs Cubase: What's The Difference?

FeaturePro ToolsCubase
DAW typeDigital audio workstationDigital audio workstation
PlatformMac, WindowsMac, Windows, Linux
PricingSubscription-based, starting at $29.99/monthOne-time purchase, starting at $99
Audio editingOffers advanced audio editing features, such as Elastic Time and Elastic PitchOffers basic audio editing features, such as time-stretching and pitch-shifting
MIDI editingOffers advanced MIDI editing capabilities, including step sequencing and score editingOffers basic MIDI editing capabilities, including piano roll and event list editing
PluginsOffers a wide range of virtual instruments and effects pluginsOffers a moderate range of virtual instruments and effects plugins
CollaborationOffers collaboration features, such as track sharing and cloud integrationOffers basic collaboration features, such as project sharing and cloud integration
InterfaceStraightforward interface with a traditional layoutCustomizable interface with a modern layout

Both Pro Tools and Cubase are used in the production, recording, and editing of music. However, there are some significant differences between the two.

To begin, Pro Tools requires an annual subscription, whereas Cubase requires a one-time payment.

This means that with Pro Tools, you must pay a fee every year to continue using the software, whereas with Cubase, you pay a one-time fee and have unlimited access to the software.

Second, Pro Tools is well-known for its professional audio editing features as well as high-quality sound recording and playback.

While Cubase has advanced audio editing capabilities, Pro Tools is widely regarded as the industry standard for professional audio editing.

Overall, Pro Tools and Cubase are both capable DAWs that can be used for a wide range of music production tasks.

Pro Tools, on the other hand, is widely regarded as the more professional option, with advanced audio editing capabilities and high-quality sound recording and playback. So, which one is the best fit for you really depends on your needs and budget.

If you found this comparison useful, but are still undecided on what tool is best for you, you might want to check out my other Pro Tools comparison articles. A DAW isn't a small investment, so take your time and make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck!

About Author

Arielle P

Arielle P

Songwriter | Music Producer | Engineer.

With a background in music production and a strong passion for education, Arielle is dedicated to helping emerging artists navigate the music industry. She has worked with a diverse range of artists, from indie rock bands to well-known hip-hop and grime artists. Arielle's unique approach to teaching focuses on empowering artists to take control of their brand, ensuring they retain creative ownership throughout their journey. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new sounds in her home studio and sharing her insights through music production tutorials and workshops.

📧 Email Arielle