When working with multiple audio and MIDI sources in Cubase, switching between inputs can be crucial for capturing and routing signals. Whether you’re connecting a new instrument, microphone, or audio interface, knowing how to change the input in Cubase effortlessly can streamline your workflow and optimize your recordings. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of changing input in Cubase, ensuring a seamless audio experience.
Firstly, let’s understand why changing input in Cubase is important. When you connect an external device to Cubase, its input signal needs to be routed to a specific track within the software. By assigning the correct input, you can capture the audio or MIDI data from the desired source. Additionally, changing the input can be necessary when troubleshooting audio issues, such as unexpected latency or signal dropout.
The process of changing input in Cubase is straightforward and can be achieved through the Channel Settings menu. To access this menu, right-click on the track you want to change the input for and select “Open Channel Settings.” In the “Input” section, you’ll find a drop-down list of available input options. These options may include your audio interface, external MIDI devices, or built-in inputs. By selecting the desired input, you establish the connection between the external device and the Cubase track. Once you’ve made your selection, click “OK” to save the changes and begin recording or monitoring the input signal.
Navigating the Input Selection Menu
Navigating the Input Selection Menu in Cubase is an essential skill for managing and assigning audio signals to tracks. The Input Selection Menu provides a comprehensive list of available input sources, including physical audio inputs, MIDI inputs, and virtual instruments. To access the Input Selection Menu, follow these steps:
- Open the Track Inspector by clicking on the “e” button at the bottom left of the Track List.
- Expand the Input section of the Inspector by clicking on the arrow next to “Input”.
The Input Selection Menu will appear, displaying a list of available input channels. By default, Cubase will display the input channels associated with the active audio interface. To switch between available audio interfaces, click on the “Input Device” drop-down menu and select the desired interface.
Each input channel in the menu represents a physical or virtual source of audio. The channels will be labeled based on the name of the audio interface or MIDI device, followed by the channel number. For example, “Audio In 1-2” would represent the first two input channels of the active audio interface.
By clicking on an input channel in the menu, you can assign it to the selected track. Multiple input channels can be assigned to a single track, allowing for complex audio setups and routing.
Selecting Input Channels
To select an input channel, simply click on the desired channel in the Input Selection Menu. The channel will be highlighted in blue, indicating that it is now assigned to the track. You can also use the keyboard shortcut “Alt + Click” to select multiple channels at once.
To deselect a channel, click on it again or press “Alt + Click” while holding the “Ctrl” key.
Input Channel Options
In addition to selecting input channels, the Input Selection Menu also provides several options for configuring the input signal. These options include:
- **Input Gain:** Adjust the gain of the input signal.
- **Phantom Power:** Enable or disable phantom power for the input channel, which is required for condenser microphones.
- **Invert Phase:** Invert the phase of the input signal.
- **Mute:** Mute the input signal.
Identifying Input Devices
To change the input in Cubase, you first need to identify your input devices. There are two ways to do this:
- Device Setup: Open the Device Setup window by going to Studio > Device Setup. Here, you’ll see a list of all the input and output devices that are connected to your computer. Select the input device you want to use from the ‘Input Devices’ tab.
- Input Bus: If you’re only using one input device, you can also set the input bus in the project window. Right-click on an empty space in the project window and select ‘Preferences > VST Connections’. In the ‘Input Buses’ section, select the bus you want to use from the ‘Device’ menu.
Input Ports and Channels
Once you’ve identified your input device, you need to specify which port and channel you want to use.
Ports: Most input devices have multiple ports, which allow you to connect multiple instruments or microphones. In Cubase, you can select the port you want to use from the ‘Port’ menu in the Device Setup window or the Input Bus settings.
Channels: Each port has one or more channels, which are the individual audio inputs. In Cubase, you can select the channel you want to use from the ‘Channel’ menu in the Device Setup window or the Input Bus settings.
| Input Device | Ports | Channels |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | XLR | 1 (mono) |
| Audio Interface | TRS, XLR, MIDI | 2 (stereo), 4 (mono), 1 (MIDI) |
| MIDI Keyboard | MIDI | 1 (MIDI) |
Assigning Inputs to Tracks
In Cubase, you can assign inputs to tracks to specify the audio input device and channel that will be recorded or played back on the track. This allows you to connect external audio sources, such as microphones, instruments, or MIDI keyboards, to your recording system and control their audio input settings.
Assigning Inputs to Audio Tracks
To assign an input to an audio track, follow these steps:
- Select the audio track you want to assign an input to.
- Open the Track Inspector by clicking the “i” icon in the top right corner of the track.
- In the “Input” section of the Track Inspector, click the “Input” drop-down menu.
- Choose the audio input device that you want to use.
- Choose the input channel that you want to use.
- Click the “OK” button to save your changes.
Input Options for Audio Tracks
When assigning inputs to audio tracks, you have the following options:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Mono | Assigns a mono input channel. |
| Stereo | Assigns a stereo input channel. |
| Multiple Mono | Assigns multiple mono input channels, such as for surround sound setups. |
Selecting Mono or Stereo Inputs
In Cubase, you can choose between mono and stereo inputs for your audio tracks. Mono inputs are used for single-channel audio signals, while stereo inputs are used for two-channel audio signals (left and right channels). The type of input you need will depend on the type of audio signal you are recording or importing.
To select the input type for an audio track, right-click on the track in the Project window and select “Input” from the menu. In the Input section of the track inspector, you can select the input type from the “Channel Type” drop-down menu. The input type you need will depend on the type of audio signal you are recording or importing.
Here is a table that summarizes the different input types and their uses:
| Input Type | Use |
|---|---|
| Mono | Single-channel audio signals |
| Stereo | Two-channel audio signals (left and right channels) |
Once you have selected the input type, you can connect your audio source to the input. If you are recording a microphone, you will need to connect the microphone to the microphone input on your audio interface. If you are importing an audio file, you will need to import the file into Cubase and then assign it to the desired track.
Checking Input Levels
Before you start recording, it’s important to check your input levels. This will ensure that you’re not clipping the signal and that you’re getting a good, clean sound. To check your input levels, do the following:
- Select the track you want to record on.
- Click on the “Input” tab.
- In the “Meter” section, you’ll see a VU meter that shows you the level of the input signal.
- Play something into your microphone or instrument.
- Adjust the “Gain” knob until the VU meter is peaking at around -12 dBFS. This will give you a good, strong signal without clipping.
Looking for Clipping
When you’re checking your input levels, it’s important to listen for clipping. Clipping occurs when the signal is too loud and it causes the waveform to distort. This can result in a harsh, unpleasant sound. To avoid clipping, make sure that the VU meter never peaks above 0 dBFS.
Using the Peak Hold Function
Cubase has a Peak Hold function that can help you to avoid clipping. When the Peak Hold function is enabled, the VU meter will hold the highest peak level that it has reached. This can be helpful for identifying passages that are clipping, even if they only occur for a brief moment. To enable the Peak Hold function, click on the “Peak Hold” button in the Meter section.
Adjusting the Input Gain
If you’re getting a weak signal, you can increase the input gain. However, be careful not to increase the gain too much, as this can lead to clipping. To adjust the input gain, use the “Gain” knob in the Meter section.
Using the Input Trim
If you’re getting a strong signal, you can use the Input Trim to reduce the level. This can be helpful for preventing clipping. To adjust the Input Trim, use the “Trim” knob in the Meter section.
Troubleshooting Input Issues
If you’re having trouble getting audio input into Cubase, there are a few things you can check:
1. Make sure your audio interface is properly connected
Your audio interface should be connected to your computer via a USB or Firewire cable. Check that the cable is securely plugged into both your computer and the audio interface.
2. Select the correct input in Cubase
In the Cubase Audio Connections window, select the correct input channel for your audio interface. You can find this setting under the “Inputs” tab.
3. Enable the input channel
Make sure that the input channel is enabled in the Audio Connections window. You can do this by clicking on the “Enable” button next to the input channel.
4. Set the input level
Set the input level so that it is not too low or too high. You can do this by adjusting the “Gain” knob on your audio interface.
5. Check your audio interface’s settings
Open the settings panel for your audio interface and make sure that the input settings are correct. You may need to select the correct input source and adjust the input gain.
6. Contact Steinberg Support
If you’ve tried all of the above and you’re still having trouble getting audio input into Cubase, you can contact Steinberg Support for help.
| Support Option | Contact Information |
|—|—|
| Phone | 1-800-257-9642 |
| Email | support@steinberg.net |
| Web | [Steinberg Support Website](https://www.steinberg.net/en/support.html) |
Creating Custom Input Presets
To create a custom input preset, you will need to:
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1. Open the Input Transformer window
Click on the “Input Transformer” icon in the toolbar.
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2. Select the input device
From the “Input Device” dropdown menu, select the input device you want to create a preset for.
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3. Define the input channels
In the “Input Channels” section, you can define which input channels will be used by the preset.
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4. Set the input gains
In the “Input Gains” section, you can set the input gains for each channel.
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5. Apply any input processing
In the “Input Processing” section, you can apply any input processing you want to the signal, such as EQ, compression, or reverb.
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6. Name the preset
Once you have finished creating your preset, give it a name.
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7. Save the preset
Click on the “Save” button to save the preset. You can then access it from the “Input Presets” menu.
| Input Channel | Input Gain | Input Processing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0 dB | None |
| 2 | -6 dB | EQ: High-pass filter (100 Hz) |
| 3 | -3 dB | Compression: Threshold ( -10 dB), Ratio (4:1) |
Managing Multiple Input Sources
Cubase allows you to work with multiple input sources simultaneously, providing flexibility for recording and playback. Below are the steps involved:
1. Open the Input Routing Panel
Click on the “Input Routing” tab in the lower right corner of the main window.
2. Create a New Input Channel
Click on the “+” button at the bottom of the Input Routing Panel to add a new input channel.
3. Select Input Type
From the “Type” drop-down menu in the newly created channel, choose the input source for the channel, such as MIDI, Audio, or Instrument.
4. Configure Input Settings
Depending on the input type selected, you can configure specific settings for the channel, such as audio device, MIDI port, etc.
5. Arm the Input Channel for Recording
Click on the “Arm” button for the input channel to enable recording on that channel.
6. Monitor the Input Signal
Click on the “Monitor” button for the input channel to hear the incoming signal in your headphones or speakers.
7. Adjust Input Gain
Use the “Gain” knob in the input channel to adjust the volume of the incoming signal.
8. Name and Color-Code the Input Channels
To facilitate organization and visual distinction, you can rename the input channels and assign them different colors. To do this:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Right-click on the input channel | Access the context menu |
| Select “Rename” | Enter a custom name |
| Select “Properties” | Open the channel properties |
| Click on the “Color” tab | Choose a color |
Optimizing Input Signal Quality
Ensuring a clean and optimal input signal is crucial for achieving high-quality recordings. Here are some tips to enhance the signal quality:
1. Use High-Quality Cables
Invest in professional-grade cables with low resistance and proper shielding to minimize noise and distortion.
2. Set Proper Gain Levels
Adjust the input gain to prevent clipping (distortion) while maintaining a healthy signal-to-noise ratio.
3. Position Microphones Carefully
Experiment with microphone placement to capture the desired sound. Consider the proximity effect and off-axis response.
4. Use Isolation Techniques
Minimize bleed from other sources by using isolation shields, headphones, and sound-absorbing materials.
5. Pay Attention to Acoustics
Consider the acoustic environment of the recording space. Treat reflections and resonances with blankets, panels, and diffusers.
6. Use a Preamp for Active Microphones
For microphones requiring phantom power (e.g., condenser mics), use a high-quality preamp to boost the signal and reduce noise.
7. Experiment with Different Input Sources
Explore alternative signal sources, such as direct injection (DI) boxes for electric guitars and bass, or line-level inputs for keyboards.
8. Use Input Inserts
Insert processors, such as EQ or compression, directly into the input channel to shape the signal before it enters the DAW.
9. Advanced Signal Processing Techniques
Explore advanced signal processing techniques, such as spectral editing, noise reduction, and de-essing, to refine the input signal and achieve optimal audio clarity. Examples of noise reduction plugins include:
| Plugin Name | Description |
|---|---|
| iZotope RX | Comprehensive noise reduction suite |
| Waves X-Noise | Versatile noise reduction with adaptive algorithms |
| FabFilter Pro-Q 3 | Precision EQ with surgical noise reduction capabilities |
Best Practices for Input Management
To ensure seamless input management in Cubase, follow these best practices:
1. Organize Input Channels
Create separate input channels for each sound source, labeling them clearly for easy identification.
2. Use Color Coding
Assign different colors to input channels to visually distinguish between them, enhancing workflow.
3. Configure Input Devices
Ensure your audio interface is properly connected and configured within Cubase’s Studio Setup.
4. Set Input Levels
Adjust input levels to prevent clipping and maintain optimal signal-to-noise ratio.
5. Monitor Input Signals
Utilize Cubase’s Control Room for real-time monitoring of input signals, ensuring proper levels and potential issues.
6. Use Direct Monitoring
Enable direct monitoring to avoid latency issues when recording.
7. Record Arm Tracks
Record only the desired inputs by arming the corresponding tracks.
8. Assign Inputs to Instrument Tracks
Connect input channels to instrument tracks to route audio signals into Cubase’s virtual instruments.
9. Use External Effects
Incorporate external effects into your input chain by creating send tracks and connecting them to the desired inputs.
10. Additional Best Practices
| Practice | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Name Input Channels | Enhances organization and project clarity. |
| Use Input Fold | Hides unused input channels, improving visual workflow. |
| Mute Unused Inputs | Prevents unnecessary noise and CPU usage. |
| Use Input Transformers | Adjusts input impedance for optimal signal matching. |
| Utilize Input Splitter | Distributes input signals to multiple channels for processing. |
How To Change Input In Cubase
Changing the input in Cubase is a simple process that can be done in a few steps. First, open the VST Connections window by clicking on the “Devices” menu and selecting “VST Connections”. In the VST Connections window, you will see a list of all of the inputs and outputs that are available on your system. To change the input for a particular track, simply click on the input selector for that track and select the desired input from the list. You can also change the input for all of the tracks in a project by clicking on the “All Tracks” button and selecting the desired input from the list.
People Also Ask About How To Change Input In Cubase
How do I change the input for a specific track in Cubase?
To change the input for a specific track in Cubase, open the VST Connections window by clicking on the “Devices” menu and selecting “VST Connections”. In the VST Connections window, select the track you want to change the input for from the list of tracks. Then, click on the input selector for that track and select the desired input from the list.
How do I change the input for all of the tracks in a project in Cubase?
To change the input for all of the tracks in a project in Cubase, open the VST Connections window by clicking on the “Devices” menu and selecting “VST Connections”. Then, click on the “All Tracks” button and select the desired input from the list.
How do I add a new input to Cubase?
To add a new input to Cubase, open the VST Connections window by clicking on the “Devices” menu and selecting “VST Connections”. Then, click on the “Add Input” button and select the desired input type from the list. The new input will be added to the list of inputs in the VST Connections window.
How do I remove an input from Cubase?
To remove an input from Cubase, open the VST Connections window by clicking on the “Devices” menu and selecting “VST Connections”. Then, select the input you want to remove from the list of inputs. Then, click on the “Remove Input” button. The input will be removed from the list of inputs in the VST Connections window.
