I am quite happy with Cubase. I have a few annoyances which I wish would change but in general there is no other DAW that gives me what Cubase does. Specifically the way of editing MIDI and expression maps. Cubase is a very robust and complete DAW. IMHO probably the best. But this is a very relative thing, everyone has their own workflow and preferences. I haven’t had any major issues with Cubase 7, 7.5, 8 or 8.5. I don’t know but I never have major issues with my computers (PC and MAC) even after using many versions of all kinds of software.
Years ago I would use pirated software. I had all kinds of issues. Now, every single piece of software, samples, instruments, plugins on my computer has been legally purchased and I rarely have major issues. In fact, I can’t even remember when was the last time I had a major issue. I upgraded to 8.5 as soon as I saw the news. I upgraded to 8 two weeks into the announcement. I haven’t even had anti-virus for 2 years. I’m not saying every person that has an issue has pirated software or is on porn sites. I am aware that everyone has a different setup and issues can arise from the slightest difference in setup but I can’t help but wonder if some (many) of the issues some users have are because of illegally downloaded software. Not necessarily Cubase, but any software.
If you don’t have any pirated software, then I feel for you and I hope your issues get fixed soon so you can continue making great music. But if you do have any pirated software, you really can’t expect to have a smooth running setup and have no right to complain about issues.
Now, when it comes to features and workflow, ultimately the product is for us. They should listen to us very closely. It’s just smart business. Give the customers what they want and they will keep coming back and even be glad to pay for point updates because we get what we need and want.
I am not defending Steinberg at all but I think sometimes some users go too far in their complaining. Major complaining about every tiny thing. Sometimes I think people just complain because that’s all they know. Steinberg could address every single issue everyone has ever brought up and some people will still find something to complain about.
However, I do agree that Steinberg should listen to and address our concerns much more than they currently seem to do.
Just to be clear, I’m not accusing everyone who has an issue of pirating software. I can’t know who is and who isn’t. I just see things based on my experience and other people I know.