Preface: I recently updated from C12 to C14 (skipped 13). I remember reading here that several people back then were highly critical of the new UI changes, but I was really shocked how bad it really was. I know that application looks are highly subjective and that several people also like the new lo…

Flat design is so old that it’s already out of fashion again, and I don’t understand why Steinberg is so keen to use this design in Cubase. Ableton Live and Bitwig pursue slightly different concepts and a different workflow. Instead of investing so much time in changing the GUI, they should rather…

[image] Realist: Flat design is so old that it’s already out of fashion again, and I don’t understand why Steinberg is so keen to use this design in Cubase. First, I agree that there is plenty that could be done to make Cubase easier to see, but I’m not sure that ‘flatness’ has much to do wit…

Hi Brian, I understand your point of view. Cubase is a complex programme with different levels and functions. This makes it all the more difficult to implement a single concept. In the case of the list editor, I would also prefer the Cubase version to the Dorico version. However, I do not see a…

[image] Realist: Lack of depth and visual cues can make user interfaces less intuitive. Reduced intuitiveness: The absence of shadows, depth, and other realistic visual cues (called affordances) makes it difficult for users to understand what is clickable or interactive. This is all accurate…

Thanks for the screenshots. I have to agree with you, OP. Smaller fonts suck for old eyes.

I have to agree! It is getting too much flatness. The new Sequencers look more like a Max4Live device now. Why not have encoders, buttons, sliders with some gradient and shadow? Especially while other new Cubase plugins use gradient/3D elements. And I must say, I like their design and look. But it i…

Improvements in this area in Cubase 15? Regards

It seems Steinberg hasn’t done much to “return” to its previous state. While it’s true that it “looks” a bit better, more refined, it retains the same weaknesses as before. I encourage you to try the C15 demo.

in C15 more functions are hidden in tiny, barely noticeable icons. They look more like UI graphical ornaments, rather than functional buttons.

Cubase 14 GUI design regressions

Cubase

SugarFree November 9, 2025, 9:05pm 597

Subtle UI changes in Cubase 15 that can add up to great change