Frequently Asked Questions

Does Cubase 13 support VST2 plug-ins?

Yes, Cubase 13 supports VST2 plug-ins on Windows and Intel Macs. Apple Silicon Macs only support VST2 in Rosetta 2, not in the native mode.

Are their educational discounts available for Cubase 13?

Yes, we offer discounts for students, teacher and educational institutions. Please visit our Education Shop for details.

Does Cubase 13 support hybrid CPUs?

Yes, Cubase 13 supports CPUs with hybrid architecture on both Windows and macOS.

Do I need to download the Cubase installer from within the Steinberg Download Assistant?

The Steinberg Download Assistant offers multiple advantages, but you can also download the Cubase installers from our Help center.

How many systems can I install Cubase 13 on?

You are allowed to install our products on multiple computers, but you can only activate a product on three computers at any one time. A single-user license is intended for a single person, so it is not permitted to use the software on more than one computer simultaneously. If you run out of activations, you can deactivate a license from one of your computers before activating it on a new one.

What is the difference between an update and an upgrade?

Updates will get you from a previous generation of Cubase to the latest generation within the same version. For example, if you want to go from Cubase Pro 12 to Cubase Pro 13, you will need an update. It’s the same if you want to go from Cubase Elements 12 to Cubase Elements 13.

If you want to switch to a more advanced version of Cubase, you will need an upgrade. For example, if you want to go from Cubase Elements 13 to Cubase Pro 13 you will need an upgrade. Upgrades also allow you to go from a previous generation to the latest, like if you want to go from Cubase Artist 11 to Cubase Pro 13 you will need the right upgrade.

There are several updates and upgrade paths available at our online shop, so please make sure that you choose the right one.

Do you need to be connected to the internet to use Cubase?

An internet connection is only required once for activation. After activation, you can disconnect from the internet if necessary, and run your software indefinitely without reconnecting.

Where can I find the release notes for Cubase 13?

You can find the release notes at https://www.steinberg.net/cubase/release-notes/

I’m in the grace period, how do I get my update code?

All license activations for Cubase after August 22, 2023 will result in a free Download Access Code for Cubase 13. Please find it in your MySteinberg account under ‘Vouchers’. If you have just activated an older Cubase license, please allow up to 30 minutes for the new Download Access Code to appear.

Do I need an eLicenser USB dongle to use Cubase?

No, the eLicenser USB dongle is no longer required to use Steinberg software. Cubase 13 makes use of Steinberg Licensing, which is an identity-based license management system and provides greater convenience and more flexibility, as well as enabling you to use your Steinberg software in more powerful ways. For example, single-user licenses can be activated on three computers, so you can easily run your software in your studio and on the road.

What are the system requirements for Cubase 13?

Cubase 13 supports both Windows and macOS. You can find the detailed system requirements here: System Requirements

Can I open any previous Cubase version with my Cubase 13 license?

With your Cubase 13 license you can open Cubase 12, but no Cubase generation before that as these were activated using the eLicenser license management system. Of course you can use Cubase 13 to open projects created in previous versions.