Tutorial Overview
SWA Complete Groove Agent SE 6 is a complete, step-by-step guide to Steinberg’s Groove Agent SE drum instrument included with Cubase. Presented by Chris Hawkins, this tutorial walks you through the instrument from initial setup and interface navigation to advanced pattern creation, mixing, and automation.
You’ll learn how Groove Agent SE is structured, how the Beat Agent SE and Acoustic Agent SE differ, and how to build kits, create patterns, and integrate Groove Agent seamlessly into your Cubase workflow. Designed for Cubase users of all experience levels, this course focuses on practical workflows that help you work faster, stay organized, and get better results with the tools you already own.
Chapter 1 — Installation, Interface, and What’s New
- Installing Groove Agent SE 6 and verifying content
- Understanding the redesigned, scalable user interface
- Touring the Browser, Pads, Edit page, and unified Mixer
- Setting up audio and multiple outputs in Cubase or standalone mode
Chapter 2 — Core Concepts and Kit Management
- Understanding Beat Agent SE vs. Acoustic Agent SE
- Kit Pads vs. Player Pads and how they work together
- Loading, building, saving, importing, and exporting Kits
- Managing presets, legacy content, and missing samples
Chapter 3 — Beat Agent SE Deep Dive
- Building electronic and custom drum kits from samples
- Pad setup, MIDI assignment, and controller integration
- Sample layering, envelopes, filters, pitch, and modulation
- Routing pads and preparing kits for detailed mixing
Chapter 4 — Acoustic Agent SE
- Working with realistic, multi-sampled acoustic drum kits
- Tuning drums and managing articulations
- Understanding mic layers and SE content limitations
- Shaping acoustic kits using the Mixer and built-in effects
Chapter 5 — Pattern Creation and Workflow
- Using Player Pads to trigger grooves and fills
- Working with the Style Player, MIDI Player, and Pattern Player
- Creating custom patterns with the step sequencer
- Dragging patterns directly into Cubase as editable MIDI
Chapter 6 — Mixing, Effects, and Outputs
- Using the Agent, AUX, and Master Mixers
- Applying EQ, compression, saturation, and creative effects
- Creating shared effects with auxiliary sends
- Routing individual drums to Cubase for advanced mixing
Chapter 7 — Advanced Control and Automation
- Automating Groove Agent parameters inside Cubase
- Using per-step Parameter Lanes inside patterns
- Mapping MIDI controllers for hands-on performance
- Working efficiently with the standalone version