Steinberg has announced the impending release of Cubase 5, the latest version of its professional music production suite. The software incorporates a number of new features, such as the LoopMash virtual instrument, and the Beat Designer drum pattern tool. Vocal editing and pitch correction tools have been integrated, along with a central automation panel, and a VST3-based convolution reverb processor.

The program also includes the VST Expression tool for handling multiple instrument articulations, and two new track types, Signature and Tempo. Steinberg notes that the code for the software has been completely converted from Carbon to Cocoa, and should allow for a future 64-bit version of Cubase. Cubase 5 is due in February 2009, along with the scaled-back Cubase Studio 5; Studio diminishes the number of physical and VST inputs supported, and removes components such the VariAudio vocal editing tool.

Coming sometime in the second quarter of 2009 will be a companion app for the iPhone and iPod touch, Cubase RC. The title will be distributed free through the iTunes Store, and allow functions like remote recording activation and live song remixing. Cubase 5 will be required.

Steinberg lastly notes that any Europeans who buy Cubase 4 or Cubase Studio 4 between December 1st 2008 and March 31st 2009 will be eligible for a discounted upgrade. Many variants of the software will be eligible, but the company is specifically excluding Cubase Essential 4, Cubase AI 4 and Cubase LE 4. American and Japanese upgrade plans have yet to be announced.