Step Recording MIDI in Cubase Tutorial

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of using the step record feature in Cubase's Key Editor. This powerful tool allows you to create MIDI recordings with precision and can significantly enhance your music production capabilities, especially if you're not confident in your piano skills.

Step 1: Open the Key Editor

• Launch Cubase and open your desired project.
• Select the MIDI track you want to work on.
• Double-click the MIDI part to open the Key Editor.

Step 2: Enable Step Recording

• In the Key Editor, locate the toolbar at the top.
• Find and click on the "Step Recording" button to activate the feature.
• Familiarize yourself with the step recording settings, which may include options for note duration and quantization.

Step 3: Set Your Preferences

• Adjust the quantization settings to match your desired timing. This will help align your notes to the grid.
• Choose the note duration that you want to input (e.g., eighth notes, quarter notes).
• Make sure your MIDI input device (e.g., MIDI keyboard) is connected and recognized by Cubase.

Step 4: Input Notes Step by Step

• Use your MIDI keyboard or computer keyboard to start inputting notes.
• Play the first note, and it will be recorded according to your settings.
• Continue inputting notes one by one, following the rhythm and duration you’ve set.

Step 5: Review and Edit Your MIDI

• After inputting your notes, play back the MIDI track to hear your recording.
• Use the editing tools in the Key Editor to adjust note positions, velocities, and lengths as needed.
• You can also delete any unwanted notes by selecting them and pressing the delete key.

Step 6: Save Your Work

• Once you are satisfied with your MIDI recording, ensure you save your project.
• Go to File in the menu and select Save or use the shortcut Ctrl + S (Cmd + S on Mac).

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the step recording feature in Cubase to enhance your MIDI compositions. This technique allows for precise input and can help you create music that sounds polished, even if you're still mastering the piano. For next steps, consider exploring additional features in Cubase, such as adding effects or layering tracks, to further develop your music.