Tutorial Overview
Mix a full rock track using only Cubase’s built-in tools — from raw stems to final bounce.
This Kickstarter tutorial walks you through the complete mixing process inside Cubase Pro 14, using nothing but the stock plugins and features.
The session starts with raw, unprocessed tracks in a classic rock band arrangement — drums, bass, guitars, and vocals. You’ll learn how to organize the project, set gain structure, and build a clean, balanced static mix before moving on to EQ, compression, creative FX, automation, and final mix bus processing.
Every move is explained with practical reasoning — from carving space with EQ to using SuperVision for proper gain staging and loudness. You’ll also explore parallel processing, FX routing, mix bus saturation, and export best practices.
This course is ideal for those who are new to mixing or just getting comfortable inside Cubase… but there are also plenty of workflow tips and techniques that intermediate users will appreciate.
While this tutorial was created in Cubase Pro 14, many of the techniques shown — including routing, EQ strategy, compression, and FX — can still be applied in other versions of Cubase with similar tools.
If you’re ready to improve your mixes and sharpen your Cubase skills, this is the perfect place to start.
Chapter 1: Introduction
- Course goals and included materials
- Overview of the rough mix
- Assumed knowledge and reference to SWA Complete Cubase Pro
- Listening to the raw multitrack session
Chapter 2: Session Setup and Organization
- Track naming, colors, and folder structure
- Routing instruments to groups
- Setting up FX channels for later use
- Building a reusable template
Chapter 3: Gain Staging and Balancing
- Using the Pre section in the MixConsole
- Setting input gain with K-14 metering
- Soloing tracks to monitor levels on the mix bus
- Resetting all faders and creating a static mix with pan and level
Chapter 4: EQ Essentials
- High-pass filtering for clarity
- Using Channel EQ and Frequency plugin
- Subtractive EQ and frequency sweep technique
- EQing in context, including on busses and FX
Chapter 5: Compression Techniques
- Basic compression on vocals, drums, and guitars
- Multiband compression on bass
- Serial compression to smooth dynamics
- Envelope Shaper for transient control
- Parallel compression techniques
Chapter 6: Creative FX
- Setting up additional FX channels
- Reverb on vocals using REVelation
- Slapback delay for vocal thickness
- StereoDelay on snare for rhythmic movement
- Using modulation FX like Chorus, Flanger, and AutoPan
- Sidechaining reverb for dynamic space
Chapter 7: Automation and Dynamics
- Volume and panning automation
- Automating reverb and delay sends
- Dynamic EQ with sidechaining
- Using the Automation Panel to manage moves
Chapter 8: Bus Processing & Final Mix Bus
- Group bus compression and EQ
- Saturation with Magneto II and Tape plugin
- Mix bus compression and loudness control
- Using SuperVision on the stereo out (post-fader)
Chapter 9: Exporting Your Mix
- Export format, bit depth, and sample rate settings
- File naming and versioning
- Real-time vs. offline bounce
- Preparing the mix for mastering in WaveLab
Chapter 10: Wrap-Up & Bonus Tips
- Creating clean session templates
- Using a mix checklist
- Listening tips for mix translation across devices