When Steinberg made the Cubase 4.1 update available around this time last year, we were surprised at just how much extra functionality it added. By the time you read this (sic!), Cubase 4.5 should be available, and it is also a fairly comprehensive shot in the arm for their ever-popular DAW.

The update supports the upcoming MR816 Advanced Integration DSP Studio interfaces and the CC121 Advanced Integration Controller, which we hope to review in the next issue. Compatibility with the Yamaha Motif XS workstation and the Kx USB Music Studio has also improved.

The updated DAW includes 45 brand new acoustic instruments for HALion One, including the original Yamaha S90ES Grand, and adds 250 drum beats and loops, prepared exclusively for this release by Big Fish Audio. Sequel 2 project compatibility is now on board, enabling users to import, edit and mix any project saved in the entry-level music creation app. Cubase users can now also access Sequel content sets."