Cubasis LE 3 by Steinberg

Cubasis LE 3 by Steinberg

Cubasis LE 3 brings the power of Steinberg’s acclaimed Cubasis DAW to mobile devices in a lightweight, free package, making it one of the best iOS music apps for on-the-go creation. As an iOS DAW, it supports multi-track recording, virtual instruments, and effects, allowing users to sketch ideas or build full songs in a user-friendly interface optimized for touch. For those learning how to make music on iPad, its simplicity shines, with unlimited audio and MIDI tracks (limited to 4 in LE mode), time-stretch, pitch-shift, and basic mixing tools. The app runs exclusively on iPhone and iPad as a standalone tool, with no AUv3 host support in the LE version but excellent integration for MIDI iPad setups using external controllers.

In the realm of iPhone beat making and iPad music production, Cubasis LE 3 stands out with its MicroSonic instruments, Micrologue synthesizer, and MiniSampler for custom sound design. The free version includes essential features like the mixer with insert/send effects, automation, and export to various formats, encouraging experimentation in best iOS music apps workflows. Upgrading via in-app purchases unlocks the full Cubasis 3 experience, adding Waves plugins, more tracks, and advanced editing—perfect for transitioning from casual to professional mobile production. Its cloud sync via Dropbox or iCloud ensures seamless project transfer, enhancing collaboration in Logic Pro iPad alternatives.

For producers building a mobile music studio, Cubasis LE 3 offers a solid foundation with its intuitive piano roll, chord pads, and sample editor, supporting AUv3 plugins (limited in LE). Whether recording vocals, layering synths, or arranging beats, it empowers creativity without overwhelming complexity, making it a staple for iOS DAW enthusiasts. The app’s regular updates keep it relevant, with the latest focusing on stability and iOS compatibility.

Key features include:

• Unlimited audio and MIDI tracks (limited to 4 in LE mode)
• MicroSonic instruments, Micrologue ARP synthesizer, and MiniSampler for sound creation
• Mixer with insert/send effects, automation, and real-time time-stretch/pitch-shift
• Chord pads, piano roll editor, and sample editor for intuitive composition
• Support for external MIDI controllers and AUv3 plugins (limited in LE)
• Export to WAV, MIDI, or Cubasis project files
• Cloud integration with Dropbox, iCloud, and external drives
• Built-in effects like reverb, delay, EQ, and compressor

App price: Free.
In-app purchases: Full Unlock (Cubasis 3) – $49.99; Waves Plugin Pack – $19.99; FX Pack 1 – $6.99; FX Pack 2 – $6.99; Classic Machines – $6.99.