Finding the ideal Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is a challenge for a lot of up-and-coming sound engineers due to the fact that the best programs costs a lot. This is where Reaper shines. What is Reaper, you ask? Well, Reaper is an open-source DAW for Windows and OS X that does the same things Pro Tools and other famous DAWs do – record, mix and master.
The beauty about Reaper is that it is available for everyone to try and explore… for 60 days. Unlike other trial programs though, Reaper will allow you to customize every function the program allows for. Is this DAW capable of replacing industry giants such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live and Reason? We will put Reaper to the test and see what this workstation can offer.
Reaper Digital Audio Workstation – Function and Feature Highlights
Just like any other Digital Audio Workstations, Reaper has its own flavor of recording, mixing and mastering. However, the beauty of open-source programs is that it is highly customizable. As of December 13th, 2017, the latest version of Reaper is 5.70 and here are its key features so far:
• 64-Bit Internal Audio Processing for compatibility of various audio sample rates
• Wider support for VST, VST3, VSTi, AU, DX and JS extensions. Already compatible to hundreds of VST plugins
• Over 100 studio-quality effects and plugins for post audio processing and mixing
• Highly-Customizable – from basic appearance to creating custom templates for modulation, automation and more
• More efficient to operate. Can be installed on portable media devices for unlimited recording potential
• MIDI routing and multichannel support for a wide variety of MIDI devices
• More powerful MIDI editor. Now with more options for editing recorded MIDI files
• Amazing hardware and software support for both x86 and x64 applications (Windows)
Thanks to Reaper’s amazing features and customization capabilities, this DAW is a perfect stepping stone for aspiring music producers and audio engineers.
Another very notable feature of Reaper is the user-friendly interface. Casual music producers won’t have a hard time navigating through the basics of this workstation. And if you want to learn a bit more, you can always check the advanced options available within the program.
Another great feature of Reaper is its desire to become better over time. Expect constant updates every 2 months or so. While it is totally up to you to stick to a certain version, using the most updated version is always highly recommended for almost any DAW out there.
The Good
– Long Evaluation Period
– Budget-Friendly
– Feature-Packed
– Amazing VST Support
– API and Scripting Capability
– FX Automation Options
– Video Editing
Right out of the bat, Reaper is the DAW people should get if you want to learn about how these programs work. We believe it’s safe to say that Reaper is just as capable as Garage Band, or even Pro Tools, when it comes to recording and mixing tracks. Thanks to the wide array of VSTs, finding a great plugin to work within the DAW has never been easier.
With over hundreds of built-in effects and VST instruments, Reaper will give you the opportunity to learn to operate a complete digital audio workstation. For the price of $60 for a personal license and $225 for a commercial one, Reaper is definitely a good DAW for people who are looking to start small. Again, you have almost two months of evaluation period to get yourself accustomed to it. Take all the time you need.
The Bad
– High Learning Curve
– User Interface seems too basic compared to Pro Tools
– Scripting can be a pain to master
– FX Parameter Automations can do some improvements
– Basic Graphic User Interface customizations
– Making beats for starters can be quite tricky
– Video Editing is a nightmare
– Built-In Effects pale in comparison to other DAWs
Not everything is great about Reaper. Then again, that’s normal to expect for a DAW that costs as cheap as 60 bucks. Don’t get us wrong, Reaper is one of the most complete DAWs out there – it’s just not pretty to look at. Fortunately for these folks, changing the skin of the program is as easy as changing your computer’s wallpaper.
Unlike other DAWs though, Reaper has one feature that most doesn’t – video editing capabilities! Well, that is if you don’t have Adobe Premier or Final Cut Pro in your computer. If you do, trust me, look elsewhere. While it’s a good idea that this is possible, it’s not worth checking into especially if you have other means of editing videos.
Another important factor to note is that Reaper is one of those DAWs that is easy to learn, but very hard to master. If you are looking for a seamless transition from beginner to professional, look elsewhere. Reaper might give you moments where you would just become frustrated.
The Verdict
Again, for the price between 60 and 225 bucks, you will get what you pay for. However, if you ask other people about their purchase, most will say – including me – that you’ll get your money’s worth with this amazing digital audio workstation. In my opinion, this DAW is more than capable even for professional applications.
Granted that it might not have the best built-in effects within the program. But if you are resourceful enough, you will find other suitable alternatives for your needs. There are over thousands of free effects and plugins available for DAWs. If you are patient enough, you will find truly amazing plugins out there.
I guess the bottom line here is if you’re looking for a digital audio workstation so you can bridge all your VST plugins into one program, Reaper is definitely a great option. However, if you are solely looking to produce beats (especially for hip hop), I believe there are better options for music productions.
I use Reaper for recording live instruments. After recording, I also use Reaper for editing, mixing and mastering my tracks. It is such a great tool especially if you get accustomed to it. Remember, you have 60 days to know the product, take the time to learn about it. You’ll love what it can do!
Download reaper at http://www.reaper.fm/
Thank you for reading my article. This one in particular was posted on my old music blog http://www.nocturne-music.com which I have stopped working on. I will be continuing to write new music articles here on Steemit, please upvote, comment, and follow to keep the content flowing.
© 2017 PEDRO TORRES ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Pictures provided by http://www.reaper.fm/