Cubase 9.5 Tutorial - Time Stretching

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the time stretching capabilities of Cubase 9.5. This feature allows you to manipulate audio clips without altering their pitch, making it a powerful tool for music production. You will learn how to use different time stretching algorithms effectively, preserving the integrity of your audio as you stretch or compress it, similar to how an old-school tape machine operates.

Step 1: Understanding Time Stretching Algorithms

Cubase 9.5 offers several time stretching algorithms, each suited for different types of audio material. Familiarize yourself with the following:

• Audio Warp: Ideal for rhythmic material, such as drums or loops, allowing you to stretch or compress audio flexibly.
• Sonic Time Stretch: Best for preserving the natural sound of musical instruments, ensuring minimal tonal alteration.
• Elastique Pro: Excellent for complex audio sources, providing high-quality results even when significantly altering the length.

Practical Tip

Experiment with each algorithm on a small audio clip to hear how they impact the sound differently.

Step 2: Applying Time Stretching to an Audio Clip

To start time stretching in Cubase 9.5, follow these steps:

1. Import Your Audio: Drag and drop the audio file into your project.
2. Select the Audio Clip: Click on the clip you wish to stretch.
3. Activate the Audio Warp Tool:
   • Go to the top menu and select “Audio.”
   • Click on “Advanced” and choose “Time Stretch.”
4. Choose Your Algorithm:
   • In the inspector panel on the left, find the "Time Stretch" section.
   • Select your desired algorithm from the dropdown menu.

Common Pitfall to Avoid

Ensure that you are working with a clip that has a defined tempo; otherwise, the time stretching may not yield the expected results.

Step 3: Stretching the Audio

Now that you've set your desired algorithm, you can stretch the audio:

1. Click and Drag: Hover over the edge of the audio clip until the cursor changes to a time-stretching icon.
2. Adjust the Length: Click and drag the edge to stretch or compress the audio clip.
3. Monitor Changes: As you stretch, keep an ear on the audio playback to ensure it sounds good.

Real-World Application

This technique is especially useful for matching the tempo of different audio clips in your project or creatively altering sounds for unique effects.

Step 4: Preserving Pitch While Stretching

To maintain the pitch of your audio while stretching it:

1. Enable Pitch Preservation: In the inspector panel, ensure that the “Preserve Pitch” option is checked.
2. Stretch the Clip: Follow the same stretching method as in Step 3, and the pitch will remain unaffected while you change the duration.

Practical Tip

This feature is ideal when working with vocal tracks or melodic instruments, ensuring they retain their tonal quality during manipulation.

Conclusion

Time stretching in Cubase 9.5 is a powerful technique that allows for flexible audio manipulation while preserving sound quality. By understanding the different algorithms and how to apply them, you can enhance your music production process significantly. As a next step, try using these techniques in a project to see how they can transform your audio clips and improve your workflow. Happy producing!