Steinberg Cubase Pro 14: Learning the Basics (macOS Edition)
8 May 2025
The Not So Obvious Stuff
Cursor / Playhead
Effects (FX)
Components of Cubase (Files & Settings)
What’s What and Where’s It Stored?
Project Files *
A project file (extension *.cpr) is the central document in Cubase. It contains references to the media data that is used in your project.
A project folder is any folder (created/stored anywhere) that contains the project file along with the subfolders: Audio, Edits, Images, Track Pictures, and Auto Saves.
The Project Setup * dialog allows you to make general settings for your project.
Preference Files *
Preference files are settings that aren’t stored with each project. Store a backup of preference files on an external drive for safe keeping.
/Users/<user name>/Library/Preferences/Cubase 14
You can save a preference preset: Preferences > Save (right of Preference Presets) > Name > Ok
Preference presets are stored here: /Users/<user name>/Library/Preferences/Cubase 14/Presets/Configurations
Template Files *
Templates are projects where you save your settings. Template projects are not saved in project folders.
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Profiles *
Profiles allow you to save customized program settings and preferences.
Setup for Beginners
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Preferences *
Editing > Use Up/Down Navigation Commands for Selecting Tracks only [ DISABLE ]
Event Display > Audio > Event Volume Curve and Fades > Show Event Volume Curve. [ ALWAYS ]
General > Run Setup on Create New Project
General > Show New In Hub [ DISABLE ]
Transport > Clicking Locator Range in Upper Part of the ruler Activates Cycle [ DISABLE ]
User Interface > Track Type Default Colors [ setup your preferences if wanted ]
Project Setup
Project Setup > Record File Format > Sample Rate: 48, Bit Depth: 32bit float, Record File Type: Wave
Shortcuts (Critical)
| A C T I O N | K E Y (S) |
|---|---|
| Project Start (Go to…) | return |
| Key Commands* | / |
| Audio Connections* | ^ + A |
| Studio Setup* | ^ + S |
| MixConsole* | ^ + 3 |
| Track (Add…) | T |
| Grid (Toggle…) | J |
| Track (Delete…) | Shift + Del Fwd |
| Zoom Height Full* | ^ + F |
| Zoom Height Minimum* | ^ + V |
| Zoom Selection | Option + S |
| Zoom Full Horizontal | Shift + F |
| Delete (Time/Ripple…) | Shift + Delete |
| Locators (Match Selection & Cycle) | Option + P |
| Locators (Match Selection) | P |
| Column 1 Value 16 | Column 2 Value 16 |
*Custom Key Command
Interface (Project Window)
5 Sections (Channel + 4 Zones)
Roadmap
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Up Next…
- Preferences > Metering > Appearance [ set colors to match your range ]
- Tempo find/match
Please note, I am not affiliated with Steinberg, Yamaha Corporation, or any intermediary organizations in any way. I do not receive any compensation or support, nor do I have any personal connections within those companies. This Cubase tutorial page is created purely for my own learning journey and to share that experience with a close friend who wishes to join me in exploring the software. Any content here represents my personal insights and is created on my own accord, without any intention of seeking official affiliation