Cubase Elements 8 is the latest version of the Elements series, Elements 8 exapnds on features of the previous version and now includes 'chord pads' which is an expansion of 'chord tracks'. Chord pads enable you to experiment with chord patterns and creatively compose harmonic tracks using an intuitive visual layout. The circle of 5th chord view featured in the chord assistant is coherent and helps users to gain a further understanding of harmony based music theory with a visual representation of how chords are linked. Elements 8 allows you to jam with chords in real time and control multiple parameters to punch in chords on the fly, creating a smooth workflow that is free from endless step time programming.

Cubase Elements 8 features a range of studio-grade effects updated from the previous version. HALion Sonic SE 2 delivers a range of new sounds and instruments for Cubase Elements plus a totally new synth. Groove Agent SE 4 has over 120 drum kits and an easy to use, smart user interface for creating beats and hits. Cubase Elements 8 comes with 40+ audio effect processors, including Pitch Correct for vocal intonation correction, MorphFilter and the extraordinary VST Amp Rack guitar tone suite.

Cubase Elements 8 makes working with instruments easier, quicker and more transparent: Instrument tracks now features multiple audio outputs for any instrument, and can also be fed by any MIDI track on any channel. Inserting a new instrument into the rack is reflected within the Project window by creating the corresponding instrument track automatically and vice versa. The new Instrument Rack introduces VST Quick Controls for each instrument, letting you modify instruments and sounds without even opening the GUI.