Is there PC computer hardware that doesn't play well with Cubase?

[alexis]

Hi -

I've learned a lot about computers over the past 20 years or so as a Cubase user (I started in the days when "IRQ interrupts" were something I had to read and learn about), but as time has gone on, and things have gotten a little more transparent for the user like me, I've become pretty much out of touch with hardware issues since.

Now that I'm getting a new DAW computer built I'm remembering not-so-long-ago threads of the sort, “Don’t get Motherboard XYZ if you want to run Cubase- they don't play well together at all!”. I've been able to skip over threads like that, but I don't have that luxury now, I know.

So, can someone guide me please in terms of “do not get Computer component ‘XXX’ in your new build to run Cubase!”? I've already posted in the Cubase forum just now, but I know there are some experts here in terms of both computers and Cubase, so whatever knowledge/guidance that can be thrown my way would be much appreciated!

Specifically, I’m looking at getting the system described below from studiocat - are there details missing in the description that could be critical in terms of problems running Cubase Pro? (Or even maybe certain VSTs, etc.)?

I notice that motherboard info is missing ... should that be something I enquire about (I've asked the builder so many questions already, I don't want to ask about something unnecessarily ...)?

Thank you!

OPTION 2: Studiocat http://www.studiocat.com/
StudioCat Pro Studio (15th Gen)
Power Supply:
850w ultra quiet
CPU:
Intel Core Ultra CPU: Core Ultra 7 265k (5.5GHz)
RAM:
32GB DDR5/6000 (2x16GB)
OS drive:
1TB M.2 (3500MB/Sec)
Audio drive:
2TB M.2 SSD (3500MB/Sec)
Samples drive 1:
4TB M.2 (3500MB/Sec)
Video:
Intel Graphics
Operating System:
Win11 x64 Pro
Probably no DVD/Blu-Ray

[RichardT]

Hi Alexis,

I can't speak to Windows PCs and Cubase compatibility.

I think, though, if you choose any reputable brand of audio interface there are unlikely to be problems.

[Pete Kaine]

Some of the DAW packages still haven't received optimization for the latest Intel P/E chip design, but Steinberg on the other hand has been putting the legwork in and tweaking away for it. I'd advise being on C14 for the best experience, but they did a lot of work on it during the C13 life cycle as well.

[alexis]

Some of the DAW packages still haven't received optimization for the latest Intel P/E chip design, but Steinberg on the other hand has been putting the legwork in and tweaking away for it. I'd advise being on C14 for the best experience, but they did a lot of work on it during the C13 life cycle as well.

Perfect, thank you, Pete!

C14 Pro here, looking at 15th Gen Intel 265 chip.

Exposing my ignorance here ... it sounds like "Motherboard problems/incompatibility" isn't really a thing to be concerned about (I don't have any details about the motherboard that would be supplied)?

[Pete Kaine]

Can be in a few instances on AMD, but Intel is generally fine. Older interfaces can sometimes be fussy with newer USB variants, but if you've something from the last 10 years it's likely all fine.

[The Elf]

Alexis, by now you're seeing why I go to Pete for my PCs...

[alexis]

Alexis, by now you're seeing why I go to Pete for my PCs...

Yes, The Elf ... Pete Kaine/Scan was one of the first people I contacted when I determined to finally pull the trigger on a new system, given what I know about him as a fellow forum member for years, and reading testimonials like yours over the same period, here and elsewhere.

Alas, potential transportation issues across the waters (including for the unlikely but non-zero chance the rig had to be shipped back) helped force my hand to look domestically.

[Matt Houghton]

Hi Alexis. I would definitely want to know which motherboard was going in my machine, but largely to be sure what features/connectivity it has. Eg I wanted a PCIe slot in the last one I had built (by Scan), or the number of built in USB ports of certain types, or how expandable it is in terms of RAM etc. That stuff may/may not be so important to you but I thought it worth mentioning!

[alexis]

Can be in a few instances on AMD, but Intel is generally fine. Older interfaces can sometimes be fussy with newer USB variants, but if you've something from the last 10 years it's likely all fine.

Thanks, Pete!

Going with Intel, almost certainly.

My interface is highly beloved, but old, with USB 2.0 (B connector at the interface, A at the computer), Steinberg UR28M.

I know it's not the bees knees, but I'd like to keep it, if reasonably possible!

[alexis]

Hi Alexis. I would definitely want to know which motherboard was going in my machine, but largely to be sure what features/connectivity it has. Eg I wanted a PCIe slot in the last one I had built (by Scan), or the number of built in USB ports of certain types, or how expandable it is in terms of RAM etc. That stuff may/may not be so important to you but I thought it worth mentioning!

Hi Matt!

The builder told me this:

• The machine will have a single Thunderbolt-4 port… so you also have the option of a Thunderbolt audio interface.
  With the right audio interface, Thunderbolt will yield PCIe level performance.

• Yes, the machine will have three PCIe slots. UAD2 card/s will be fine

As you suggest, I'll ask him for more info, in terms of how many USB connectors, what types, how exapandable in terms of RAM (though from what I'm hearing, 32GB ought to be something quite future proof for a low intensity user like me), printer connectors (?), etc.

Thank you!

[Pete Kaine]

As you note, an older model but it still has driver support for current OS builds and Steinberg units are in general one brand where I've never really come across any compatibility issues. I would hazard that it should keep on working fine for you.

[alexis]

Thank you, Pete!