What's your first Bitwig version? 10y of Bitwig (Patreon)

In this video, im revisiting an older version of Bitwig Studio, version 1.3.16 from 2017, offering a tutorial and insights into its features and limitations compared to the initial release and subsequent updates. Here are the key points covered:

Bitwig Studio's Evolution: Bitwig Studio, initially released in March 2014, went through significant updates from version 1.0 to 1.3 over three years, introducing numerous features and improvements.

Initial Limitations: The earliest versions lacked many conveniences, such as a pop-up browser for VSTs/effects (introduced around version 1.76) and track grouping (added in version 1.2), requiring more cumbersome workflows for adding instruments and effects, or creating bus tracks.

Group Tracks and Buses: Before grouping was introduced, users had to repurpose audio tracks as buses for multiple instruments, a workaround made obsolete by the grouping feature in version 1.2.

Plugin Sandboxing: A notable innovation was the introduction of sandboxing, isolating plugin crashes to prevent them from taking down the entire session, a major advancement over other DAWs at the time.

Feature Limitations and Workarounds: The video illustrates various limitations of version 1.3.16, such as the lack of a spectrum analyzer in EQs, the process of adding extra LFOs through a separate device, and the initial absence of a hardware FX routing option.

Sampler and Synth Restrictions: Demonstrates the sampler's simplicity, lacking advanced modes and features found in later versions, and explores the use of synthesizers and modulators to create music within these constraints.

Music Production Workflow: The creator walks through the process of making a track with the available tools, adjusting settings, and employing creative workarounds to overcome the version's limitations.

Reflection on Progress: Reflects on the evolution of Bitwig Studio, highlighting the importance of revisiting older software to appreciate advancements and how past limitations influenced creative problem-solving.

The tutorial offers a nostalgic look at Bitwig Studio's early days, showcasing how users adapted to its limitations and the significant improvements made over the years.