What is Reaper?

REAPER is a digital audio workstation developed by Cockos Incorporated, built for recording, arranging, editing, and mixing audio and MIDI. It runs on Windows and macOS, supports unlimited tracks with flexible routing up to 128 channels, and works with VST, VST3, AU, and CLAP plugins. Its interface, toolbars, and actions list are fully customizable, and the ReaScript engine lets users automate tasks in Lua, Python, or EEL2.

REAPER is not free but is sold at a fraction of the price of other professional DAWs, with a 60-day full-featured evaluation period before purchase. It appeals to musicians, podcasters, and audio engineers who want a lightweight, highly customizable tool without a subscription. Its small install size and low system requirements make it popular for both home studios and professional post-production work.

Key Features of Reaper

Here are the powerful features that make Reaper stand out from the competition. Packed with innovative tools and advanced functionalities, this software offers a range of benefits.

  • Unlimited audio and MIDI tracks with flexible routing up to 128 channels per track
  • ReaScript engine for automation and custom tools in Lua, Python, or EEL2
  • Support for VST, VST3, AU, CLAP, and JS effect plugins
  • Fully customizable interface, themes, toolbars, and keyboard shortcuts
  • Extensive built-in effects, virtual instruments, and a scriptable actions list with macros
  • Multichannel and surround sound mixing and rendering
  • Small, fast installer with a lightweight system footprint
  • Basic video track support alongside audio editing

Reaper Pricing

Here are the pricing plans for Reaper. Choose the plan that best fits your requirements and budget.

Discounted License

$60

Individuals for personal use, businesses/individuals under $20,000/year revenue, or education/nonprofit

One-time purchase, includes free upgrades through REAPER version 8.99

Commercial License

$225

Businesses or individuals with over $20,000/year revenue

One-time purchase, includes free upgrades through REAPER version 8.99

Evaluation

Free

60 days

Full-featured evaluation period before purchase, no license required

Reaper Specifications

Get a closer look at the technical specifications and system requirements for Reaper. Find out if it's compatible with your operating system and other software.

Software Tagline :
Fast, flexible, low-cost DAW for recording, editing, and mixing audio and MIDI
Deployment :
  • on premises
Subscription Plan :
onetime
Desktop Platforms :
  • windows
  • macos
Mobile Platforms :
Language Support :
english
Target Audience :
  • freelancers
  • startups
  • smes
Available Support :
  • email
Integrations :
VST, VST3, AU, CLAP, ReWire, JS plugins, ReaScript (Lua, Python, EEL2), MIDI controllers
Product Url :
API Available :
No
Free Trial Available :
Yes
Run On Mobile Browser :
No
Free Plan Available :
No
Customization Available :
Yes

Reaper Videos

Reaper Screenshots

Overall Reaper Reviews

Here's our unbiased review of Reaper. Discover how our team of experts rates its features, ease of use, customer support, and other aspects that contribute to its overall appeal.

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Reaper Pros and Cons

Reaper FAQs

No, REAPER requires a paid license after a 60-day evaluation period, though it is priced well below most competing DAWs.

The discounted $60 license is for personal use, small businesses under $20,000 in annual revenue, or education and nonprofit use. The $225 commercial license is for businesses above that revenue threshold. Both unlock the same features.

Yes, REAPER supports VST, VST3, Audio Unit, and CLAP plugin formats along with its own JS effects.

Yes, REAPER includes the ReaScript engine, which allows users to write custom scripts and tools in Lua, Python, or EEL2.

REAPER runs on Windows and macOS; there is no official native mobile app.