Don't Fear the Reaper

Some of you may have heard of Reaper software. It's a "free" download that they ask you pay for ($60) if you decide to keep it. Seemed like a fair deal, so I installed it last Christmas.

You know what? It's easy to use, fairly intuitive, and recordings I've done using Reaper sound as good as my limited technique and hardware will allow. No latency issues, and problems I've had have been easy to figure out and fix. I think once I get a better recording mic, a genuine studio, and some real guitar skills I'll be even happier.

No affiliation...just my 2 cents...check it out.

Used it several years ago. Seemed fine to me. You may want to do a search. It's been the topic of many threads for years.

It's what I've used for the past few years, I'm very happy with it.

Tim

Is it easier to use than GarageBand? Not that I know how to use GarageBand, but I want to start learning a computer music program and I wonder if Reaper might be a better choice.

That's what I use. Love it!

does it work on mac?

I've used it and generally liked the interface, etc. It's easy to get around in.

The only problem I've had is it seems to be more resource intensive than Cubase. When I've recorded and worked with Reaper I get 'hiccups' on playback, especially when I add in VST effects. These hiccups even happen with fairly "simple" plug-ins like EQs. The hiccups don't seem to be in the file as when I open the file in another program, the file plays smoothly. It's a pain trying to mix, etc. with hiccups.

I don't have the same hiccups with Cubase on my Powerbook G4. Some of the problem might be with the hardware I'm using, but hey, that's what I'm using.

I don't think I'm proficient enough to comment on your concerns, electricbody. I don't know how to use VSTs (at least, I think I don't!). There have been a few inconsistencies from time to time, but nothing serious.

*Easier than garageband? My brother has garageband but doesn't use it very much. GB is a product for Macs and I've got a PC, so I really can't say.

*According to the forums ( http://forum.cockos.com/forumdisplay.php?f=20 ) there is a Mac version, but it's newer and still being debugged.

Cheers

I don't think I'm proficient enough to comment on your concerns, electricbody.
*According to the forums ( http://forum.cockos.com/forumdisplay.php?f=20 ) there is a Mac version, but it's newer and still being debugged.
Cheers

This might be my problem here. I'm a Mac user. The one time I used Reaper on my Windows machine, it seemed to work ok.

I've heard nothing but good comments describing Reaper on many recording forums.

I think if I wasn't so heavily invested in Sonar software at this time, I would be using Reaper. When I started, Reaper wasn't even on the radar. It certainly looks very capable and seems to be getting better with every release.

I'm a mac user and I use Reaper. I'd say it is as easy to use as Garageband, and much more powerful. The Mac version is still in beta, but I have had no problems with it. I save often just to be sure! On occasion it has crashed when trying to use some FX, but I have never lost anything. I just do basic tracking, with a few FX (namely the included EQ and Comp), and very rarely do I attempt midi.

I'd love to get familiar with Reaper rather than Audacity but I've been using Audacity for 5+ years. I know it inside out and when I attempt to record with Reaper I just find I don't have the patience to use any new software. I plan to really buckle down and switch to Reaper soon though.