Ableton Live vs. Cubase

Ableton Live and Cubase are digital audio workstations (DAWs), designed to help musicians and sound designers create audio. Cubase has a traditional timeline-based approach to its interface. Ableton Live, by contrast, is optimized for creators interested in iterating on looping audio samples. Both products are primarily used by small businesses, likely because independent artists and freelancers are more likely to be creating custom audio tracks. Medium-to-large companies are more likely to purchase stock music or work with contractors for their marketing and internal audio needs.

Features

Although both Ableton Live and Cubase are capable of producing professional-level music and audio tracks, their layout and key features set them apart from each other.

Cubase is focused on track-based audio design, and is usually easier for new users to learn. It supports video import, making it a popular tool for musicians creating video scores. It has a lower price point than Ableton Live, making it somewhat more attractive for budget-focused users. Some users also prefer Cubase’s traditional window-based interface and organization, especially for multi-monitor setups.

Ableton Live, by contrast, shines in loop-based music composition. Its workflow is optimized for creating looping audio samples and then experimenting and iterating on them, making it especially popular with live DJs and electronic music producers. Experienced users praise Ableton Live’s many shortcut tools for helping them optimize their workflow. Some users also find its tab-based interface more intuitive and less cluttered than window-based alternatives.

Limitations

Ableton Live and Cubase aren’t perfect, however. Each product has important limitations to consider before purchasing.

Ableton Live may be popular with experienced DAW users, but users new to the field may be intimidated by its layout and extensive functionality. Some users find Ableton Live’s audio recording function to be tedious, especially when recording multiple takes. It’s also slightly pricier than Cubase.

Cubase, on the other hand, may be frustrating for some experienced users. Its shortcuts and workflow are optimized for linear editing as opposed to loop-based creative experimentation. Cubase can also be taxing on computer resources, and users may experience sudden slowdowns and unexpected bugs. 

Pricing

Cubase uses a tiered one-time licensing model for pricing. Cubase Elements is $99.99 and includes basic functionality and a selection of virtual instruments and effects. Cubase Artist is $309.99 and includes more instruments and effects, increases the number of tracks per project, and includes additional features such as tools for merging multiple takes of an audio recording. Cubase Pro is $559.99 includes additional effects, unlimited tracks per project, and additional tools for pitch correction and recording studio setup. For first-time purchasers, Cubase Artist and Cubase Pro also require a USB-eLicenser for an additional $27.99.

Ableton Live uses a tiered one-time licensing model as well, with an optional 6-month payment plan. Ableton Live Intro is $99.00, includes a basic set of stock sounds, software instruments, and audio effects, and supports 16 tracks and 8 input channels per project. Ableton Live Standard is $449.00 and includes an expanded library of sounds, instruments, and effects, as well as supporting unlimited tracks and 256 input channels. Ableton Live Suite is $749.00 and greatly expands the available library of sounds, instruments, and effects, as well as adding tools for live performances and custom-built digital instruments.