State of Bitwig 2025 (Patreon)

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!