Would an old Cubase LE activation code still be valid for recent version?

Cubase
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1

I have an old “Zoom HD16” multitrack recorder that I bought 15ish years ago. It came bundled with Cubase LE. I only did a rough set-up back then, but never used it, and I’m not sure whether or not I even activated the software.

I pulled the recorder back out of storage and I’m looking to play around with it a bit, but I’m worried about the software. It’s intended for Windows XP, and I’m running Windows 11. I can try to get the program off the CD, but would the activation code allow me to use a more recent version?

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Hi and welcome to the forum,

From this, I would expect, your activated it. You couldn’t start it without an activation.

If this is the case, reactivate it to the current Soft-eLicenser. And then ask your local Steinberg support for the update to the current Cubase LE 13, which is for free.

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3

Thanks, I’ll try that.

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@Matthias_Quellmann OP wants to update his Cubase LE.

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I tried to reactivate it, but the “Authorization Number” I have wasn’t accepted.

Just tried to install from the disk. It’s Cubase LE 1.0.10. It seemed to install properly and accepted the Auth # - icon on the desktop and all - but it got hung up on the registration process afterward, and it won’t properly load from the shortcut.

BTW, my machine may be overqualified… :smile: The requirements in the documentation on the disk are:
“A 500 MHz Pentium III with 256 MB of RAM or an equivalent AMD
processor.
Recommended configuration for optimum performance: 1 GHz or faster PIII/Athlon with
512 MB RAM.”

6

Hi,

There is no Authorization Number in Steinberg. There is either an Activation Code or the Download Access Code.

Please, follow the Reactivation steps.

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I have an OEM disk with Cubase LE 1.0.10 on it, and there was a sticker on the outside sleeve that said " “Authorization Number” with a 10 digit number under that. During the installation, the program asked for that number, after which it continued on in the installation. So yeah, maybe they don’t have them now, but 18 years ago when this version was built (Feb 20, 2006), they did.

So I double clicked the desktop icon and the initialization window popped up, but there it stays, still “initializing” 45 minutes later. While it seemed to install correctly, I’m guessing that it won’t actually run on Windows 11.

So, back to my original question… Since I am a legitimate owner of this license, is there a way to update it to a version I can use?

I’m guessing I’ll have to contact the official Support line and explain it to them.

8

Hi,

I can see updates and upgrades from Cubase LE 4 and higher only, on the Steinberg’s web page. I’m afraid your version is too old.

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9

Yes, versions from that era did indeed use a simple 10-digit serial number.

One possible way to get a modern Cubase LE would be to purchase an OEM product that provides a free copy (e.g. most Zoom products come with both Cubase LE and WaveLab LE download access codes).

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Maybe if I can find some old stock. According to Zoom, they stopped bundling a couple of years ago

11

Well I got my answer…
“Thanks for your email. Unfortunately, Cubase LE 1 is not eligible for upgrades nor migrations. You will need to purchase Cubase Elements 13 if you would like to use Cubase on your Windows 11 system. It can be purchased here for $99.99: Cubase: Music Production Software - DAW | Steinberg”

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I have been using Elements since 2020 and can say it’s a very complete package for the price you pay.

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Hi,

I would also put the money rather to Cubase (if you want to use case) than to some hardware (you will not use) to get Cubase free. That means, I would buy Cubase Elements.

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14

Yeah, that was my thought as well.

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I didn’t know Zoom had stopped bundling Cubase LE … the download access codes would still work though, should one be found in a drawer somewhere :-|.

I remember LE 1 and I can tell you, you will be blown away by what Elements can do these days. It’s a pity, but I think you just missed a half-price sale.

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Fortunately, I am a music student (part of the reason I pulled out the recorder in the first place) so I sent a copy of my school ID and qualified for student pricing. I’ll take care of that today.

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