 How to record automation in Cubase. You can either work with automation of a parameter of a VST instrument or audio track. For example, you might want to automate the filter cutoff of a virtual synth. Or record automation of the volume of an audio track. Both cases are entirely possible in Cubase.
In this lesson, we will see how to record and edit automation from audio tracks.
- For learning purposes, I’m opening a project with a single audio track. Notice that there are two FX tracks as well:
There are two basic ways of recording automation: by adding automation points or in real time (while the track is playing). Let’s first learn how to record automation in real time. In this case, I will record volume automation.
2. Enable automation by clicking on the ‘W’ button in the track:
Clicking on the W button will also enable the R button. ‘W’ is for write, while ‘R’ is for read. When W is selected, it will be possible to modify the parameter in real time, and Cubase will save every move you make.
3. To select the parameter to automate, let’s click on the hidden button at the lower left of the track:
It will open the automation track:
4. Let’s choose ‘Volume’ from the list of parameters:
5. Now that we selected the Volume parameter, let’s start playing the track by hitting the space key:
6. For this tutorial, we will use the Volume control in the Inspector column to make changes in the track volume. Cubase will write all the movements in the automation track:
You can also edit the automation by adding, removing, or moving up and down any automation point. Remember that you can record automation of other parameters, such as pan, EQ, effects and more.
Let’s learn how to add automation to a track in the ‘R’ (read) mode.
- Click on the ‘W’ button to deselect it – notice that now only the ‘R’ button is active:
2. Click on the gray horizontal line in the automation track to create an automation point:
The automation line then becomes blue. You can add more points and draw the automation line as you wish.
3. You can move the line up or down by clicking and holding any automation point:
That’s it! Automation is a useful resource in any DAW and can make a huge difference in your mix.
Happy productions!
