State of Bitwig 2025

In this video, I reflected on Bitwig Studio's development, sharing my thoughts on recent updates, personal frustrations, and suggestions for future improvements. It's not a rant—just honest feedback from a long-time user who loves the software but sees room for improvement.

Recap of 2024:

• Bitwig Studio 5.2 introduced new devices like the Compressor, Sculpt, Focus, Tilt, and Over.

• While they sound great, they weren't features I personally needed. I still reach for the old compressor because it's simpler and more intuitive for me.

• The graphical engine upgrade to GPU rendering was a big improvement, making the software smoother and freeing up CPU for audio tasks.

• The undo function for VST plugins was also a significant step forward.

Bitwig's Two Worlds Problem:

I discussed a recurring issue where Bitwig splits functionality across separate systems without allowing them to interact fully:

• Stepwise vs. The Grid:

  • Stepwise has a great UI but limited features.

  • The Grid is feature-rich but lacks the intuitive UI of Stepwise.

  • No way to merge both worlds for advanced sequencing with an easy interface.

• Sampler vs. Grid Recorder:

  • Sampler offers advanced features like grain size and playback control but can't record audio live.

  • Grid Recorder allows live recording but lacks granular playback controls.

👉 Solution Idea: Combine both or allow data sharing between the two devices.

Grid Frustrations and Ideas:

• Trigger Module:

  • Can't be modulated directly.

  • Would be great to have trigger as a modulation target.

• Voice Handling:

  • Voice stacking is limited to 16 voices. Why not more?

  • No way to separate polyphonic voices effectively inside the Note Grid.

• Audio and Note Inputs:

  • No way to route MIDI notes from external channels into the grid.

  • Audio sidechaining exists, but note routing would unlock so many creative possibilities.

Interface Limitations:

• No Customizable Grid Interfaces:

  • Creating complex patches can be overwhelming for users.

  • I suggested an interface builder where you could choose which controls to expose, like Polymer’s simplified layout.

• Piano Roll Improvements Needed:

  • Many want a scale highlighter, but I think Bitwig could push further.

  • What about inversion visualization, chord guides, or even a modular piano roll with scripting for custom note handling?

Comping and Recording Issues:

• Comping Can't Be Disabled:

  • Loop recording always creates comp lanes, even when I don't need them.

  • I suggested a global toggle to revert to the old behavior.

• Audio Pitching Limitations:

  • Re-Pitch Mode doesn't allow direct pitch adjustments for samples.

  • The slice mode workaround is inconsistent and confusing for simple drum editing tasks.

Final Thoughts and Suggestions:

• Bitwig Studio remains a modular powerhouse with innovative ideas.

• But there are gaps where separate systems don't connect well enough.

• I hope future updates focus on bridging these gaps, polishing existing tools, and making the modular experience more cohesive.

What do you think? Let me know in the comments:

• What features do you want next?

• Do you agree with these frustrations?

Let me know your thoughts and wishes for 2025!