RosegardenLinux
vs
Steinberg CubaseWindows
Rosegarden as a Linux alternative to Steinberg Cubase
Updated
Our verdict
Rosegarden can replace Steinberg Cubase for basic MIDI sequencing, score editing, and small‑scale audio projects, especially for hobbyists or educators who need a free, Linux‑native tool. It lacks the advanced mixing, automation, and extensive VST support that professional Cubase users rely on, so it is not a full substitute for high‑end production work.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 26.06 (June 3, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- MIDI sequencing and editing
- Audio import/export (WAV, AIFF)
- Plugin support (LADSPA in Rosegarden, VST in Cubase)
- Project file management
- Score editing with LilyPond integration
What is different
- No native VST/VST3 hosting, limiting virtual instrument use
- Limited mixing and mastering tools compared to Cubase’s advanced mixer
- No advanced automation lanes or side‑chain routing
- Missing comprehensive hardware control surface integration
- No native project file compatibility with Cubase (.cpr)
Opening your Steinberg Cubase files
Rosegarden does not open Cubase project files directly. Users can export MIDI or audio from Cubase and import those into Rosegarden, but full project data (mix settings, plugin chains) will be lost. Exporting from Rosegarden to Cubase is also unsupported; only basic MIDI or audio files can be transferred.
Switching from Steinberg Cubase to Rosegarden, step by step
- Export all MIDI tracks from Cubase as Standard MIDI Files (SMF).
- Export each audio track as WAV or AIFF.
- Create a new Rosegarden project and import the MIDI files into separate tracks.
- Import the audio files into Rosegarden’s audio tracks.
- Re‑assign virtual instruments in Rosegarden using LADSPA plugins or external synths.
- Re‑create mix settings manually in Rosegarden’s mixer panel.
- Save the Rosegarden project for future editing.
Key features of Rosegarden
- MIDI sequencing and recording
- Score editing with LilyPond integration
- Audio import/export (WAV, AIFF)
- Multiple file format support (MIDI, MusicXML, RTF)
- Customizable shortcuts
- Plugin support via LADSPA
- Real‑time playback
- Project file management
How to install Rosegarden on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.rosegardenmusic.rosegardensudo apt install rosegardensudo apt install rosegardensudo dnf install rosegarden4sudo pacman -S rosegardensudo zypper install rosegardenFrequently asked questions
Does Rosegarden support VST plugins?
No, Rosegarden uses LADSPA plugins. If you need VSTs, you must run a VST host or use a bridge like Carla.
Can I use a hardware MIDI controller with Rosegarden?
Yes, Rosegarden supports standard MIDI input and can be mapped via its MIDI mapping dialog.
Is there a way to keep my Cubase project intact when moving to Rosegarden?
Only the raw MIDI and audio can be transferred; mix, automation, and plugin settings will need to be recreated manually.
