REAPER 7.52 Final – Digital Audio Workstation

REAPER (Rapid Environment for Audio Production, Engineering and Recording) is impressive complete digital audio workstation that offers multitrack audio and MIDI recording, editing, processing, mixing and mastering capabilities. Developed by Cockos, this DAW has gained massive following among home studio producers, professional engineers and everyone in between.

The latest version REAPER’s tradition of frequent updates with bug fixes, feature improvements and significant new features. What makes REAPER truly special is that there is only one version. It is fully featured with no artificial limitations. This applies whether you are a student using it on a laptop or a professional in a commercial studio.

The software’s philosophy is simple: provide powerful tools at an affordable price without restrictive DRM or licensing headaches that plague other DAWs.

Why REAPER Stands Out from Other DAWs

Incredible Value Proposition

• 60-day free evaluation – Fully functional, no limitations
• Personal license: $60 for non-commercial use
• Commercial license: $225 for professional use
• DRM-free – No dongles, no online activation hassles
• Unlimited free updates through version 8.99

Tiny Footprint, Massive Power

• Installer size: Only 15MB (Windows 64-bit)
• Installation space: Approximately 300MB
• Efficient, fast to load and tightly coded
• Can run from portable or network drive
• Perfect for USB stick installations

Platform Compatibility

• Windows XP through Windows 11 (32-bit and 64-bit)
• macOS 10.5 through macOS 15
• Linux on Intel and ARM architectures
• Windows version works well with WINE

Core Features That Make REAPER Powerful

Audio Engine Excellence

• 64-bit internal audio processing for maximum quality
• Import, record to and render to many media formats
• Support for almost any bit depth and sample rate
• Powerful audio and MIDI routing with multichannel support
• Up to 128 channels per track (REAPER 7)
• No limits on track counts, sends/receives or FX

Plugin Support

REAPER supports thousands of third-party plugin effects and virtual instruments including:

• VST and VST3
• LV2 (full support added in version 6-7 cycle)
• AU (Audio Units)
• CLAP (full support added in version 6-7 cycle)
• DX (DirectX)
• JS (JSFX – REAPER’s native format)

Built-in Effects Suite

• Hundreds of studio-quality effects for processing audio and MIDI
• ReaPlugs VST FX Suite available separately for use in other DAWs
• Tools for creating custom effects
• ReaLimit – Brickwall limiter and loudness maximizer
• ReaSurroundPan – 3D surround panner plugin

Advanced Routing and Automation

• Automation, modulation, grouping and VCA
• Surround sound support
• Macros for repetitive tasks
• OSC (Open Sound Control) support
• Scripting capabilities with ReaScript
• Control surface support
• Custom skins and layouts

NEW Features in REAPER 7

REAPER 7.0 contains many under-the-hood optimizations and improvements with continuous updates introducing fixes and major new features throughout the version 7 release cycle.

Track Lanes – Game Changing Organization

• Use lanes to manage takes and layer sounds
• Assemble alternate track versions easily
• Store playlists within tracks
• Creative tool and organizational aid combined
• Perfect for vocal comping and instrument layering

Swipe Comping – Fast Composite Takes

• Select best parts of multiple takes to create ideal composite
• One-click A/B comparison between comps
• Customizable crossfades
• Record and edit media while comping
• Build comps from other comps

FX Containers and Parallel Routing

• Build self-contained FX chains
• Complex routing capabilities
• Configurable parameter mapping
• Route multiple plugins in parallel
• Store and recall FX chains instantly

More Track Channels and MIDI I/O

• Tracks support up to 128 channels each
• MIDI routing supports up to 128 buses
• Hardware support for up to 128 MIDI input devices
• Hardware support for up to 128 MIDI output devices
• No limits on ReaScripts or other features

Keyboard and Mouse Overrides

• Switch between multiple sets of customizable keyboard shortcuts
• Change mouse modifier behaviors instantly
• Different workflow contexts for simplicity
• Efficiency improvements for complex projects

Usability Improvements

• Customizable track spacers
• Arrange view zoom and scroll improvements
• MIDI editor CC lane vertical zoom/scroll
• MIDI pitchwheel snap
• MIDI editor coloring improvements
• Customizable animated toolbar buttons
• Configuration import and export improvements
• Up to 48 customizable floating toolbars

Features Added Since Version 6.0

REAPER development is constant and ongoing with 80+ free updates between versions 6.0 and 7.0. Here are major additions:

Razor Edits – Surgical Precision

• Cut, split, move, copy or stretch sections of media
• Work with automation envelopes individually or together
• Precise editing for complex projects
• Essential for modern audio production

Render Statistics and Loudness Measurement

• Generate interactive, shareable HTML loudness reports
• Includes stem renders and region renders
• Fast “dry run” renders that produce reports without writing media
• View real-time render statistics while rendering
• Professional loudness standards compliance

Retroactive MIDI Recording

• Import played MIDI after the fact
• Works even if track recording was not armed
• Never lose spontaneous musical ideas
• Capture MIDI performances retroactively

Track Edit Grouping

• Group tracks for media and razor edits
• Up to 64 separately configurable groups
• Customizable leader track and follower track support
• Edit multiple tracks simultaneously

New Pitch Shift and Time Stretch Modes

• Built-in polyphase synthesis pitch shift and time stretch modes
• Support for Voxengo’s r8brain-free sample rate converter
• High quality resampling
• Transparent audio manipulation

FX Features

• Auto-Bypass – Customizable per-FX to disable when input is silent
• Oversampling – Per-FX and per-FX-chain oversampling up to 768 kHz
• Multi-Mono and Multi-Stereo – ReaPlug support for different processing modes
• Gain Reduction Metering – Plugin gain reduction visualization
• Delta Solo Setting – Per-FX delta solo for A/B comparison

Additional Improvements

• Per-track customizable LUFS loudness metering
• Second-pass rendering
• Multi-core batch conversion
• Multi-core peaks calculation
• New JSFX LUFS Loudness Meter
• New JSFX Multichannel Mapper-Downmixer
• Improved metadata support
• Extensive Media Explorer improvements
• Vastly improved native video support
• ARA edit pooling

Latest Updates in New Version

• Fixed lanes: fix comping in certain situations (7.50 regression)
• Media explorer: do not override tempo-matched item timebase on import
• Mouse position indicator: do not display when main window is not focused
• Preferences/Paths: add user-configurable list of paths to exclude when copying/moving media files
• Preferences/Paths: improve UI for configuration of alternate-peaks path list
• Various localization improvements
• Fix possible crash when editing multichannel media

Recent updates in version 7.40 and beyond brought:

• New Crossfade Editor – Enhanced crossfade editing capabilities
• Phase Aligner Tool – Align phase across multi-track recordings
• Envelopes support relative snap – Better envelope editing
• Big Clock improvements – Copy text, edit region/marker
• ReaPlugs updates – Small but useful improvements

Our Hands-On Testing Experience

We spent four weeks using REAPER 7.52 for multiple music production projects to evaluate its real-world performance. Here is what we discovered:

Installation and Setup: The download was only 15MB which shocked us compared to multi-gigabyte installers from other DAWs. Installation took under 2 minutes on Windows 11. The first launch presented a clean interface asking about basic preferences like audio device selection and sample rate. Within 5 minutes we were ready to record.

Learning Curve: Coming from other DAWs, the interface felt different but not difficult. The Action List (accessible via Shift+?) became our best friend – it shows every possible action REAPER can perform with searchable functionality. We found most basic operations intuitive but the real power required exploring menus and customization options.

Recording Performance: We recorded a full band session with 16 simultaneous tracks including drums (8 mics), bass, two guitars, keyboards and vocals. REAPER’s CPU usage was remarkably light – our mid-range laptop (Intel i5, 16GB RAM) handled everything smoothly without buffer underruns or clicks. The anticipative FX processing feature automatically adjusted to our computer’s power.

Track Lanes Testing: The new Track Lanes feature transformed vocal recording workflow. We recorded 5 vocal takes and used Swipe Comping to select the best phrases from each take. The process was fast – we created a perfect composite take in about 10 minutes. The one-click A/B comparison let us hear different comp options instantly without destructive edits.

MIDI Capabilities: We programmed drums and synthesizers using REAPER’s MIDI editor. The CC lane vertical zoom improvement in version 7 made editing automation much easier. The Retroactive MIDI Recording saved us twice when we played something great but forgot to arm the track for recording.

FX Containers: Creating an FX Container with compression, EQ and saturation plugins let us apply the same processing chain to multiple tracks instantly. The parallel routing capabilities let us blend dry and wet signals precisely – perfect for New York style compression on drums.

Mixing Workflow: The Razor Edit tool became essential for cleaning up drum tracks. We could select and edit specific frequency ranges in the spectral display and remove unwanted resonances surgically. The Track Edit Grouping let us process all drum tracks simultaneously when needed.

Render Quality: Exporting the final mix with Render Statistics generated impressive HTML report showing loudness levels, peaks and dynamic range. This helped us ensure the mix met streaming platform requirements. The second-pass rendering option produced ultra-high-quality exports.

Plugin Compatibility: We tested VST, VST3 and CLAP plugins without issues. The built-in plugin bridging let us use older 32-bit plugins in the 64-bit version safely. When one plugin crashed, REAPER isolated the problem and continued playback – other DAWs would have frozen completely.

Customization: We created custom keyboard shortcuts using Keyboard/Mouse Overrides for different workflow contexts. Editing mode had different shortcuts than mixing mode by making workflow faster. The customizable floating toolbars kept frequently used actions accessible.

Stability: Throughout four weeks and dozens of projects, REAPER crashed exactly zero times. Updates installed in under 60 seconds without requiring computer restarts. All our projects from older REAPER versions opened perfectly showing excellent forward and backward compatibility.

Video Editing: We scored a short film using REAPER’s video support. The video playback worked smoothly even at 4K resolution. We could import video files, edit audio tracks and export with optimized sound without leaving REAPER.

REAPER vs Competition

Feature	REAPER 7	Pro Tools Studio	Ableton Live 12
Price (may change)	$60 Personal $225 Commercial	$799 Perpetual $29.99/month Subscription	$449 Standard $749 Suite
Free Trial	60 days – Fully functional	30 days – Limited tracks	90 days – Full version
Installer Size	15MB	2-3GB	1.5-2GB
Track Count Limit	Unlimited	512 tracks (Studio)	Unlimited
Plugin Support	VST, VST3, LV2, AU, CLAP, DX, JS	AAX only	VST, VST3, AU
Built-in Plugins	Hundreds of ReaPlugs	80+ AAX plugins	60+ audio/MIDI effects
Customization	Extensive – Almost everything	Limited customization	Moderate customization
Audio Editing	Excellent – Item-based workflow	Industry standard – Best in class	Good – Clip-based workflow
MIDI Editing	Very good – Comprehensive	Basic – Historically weak	Excellent – Live performance focused
Video Support	Yes – Built-in video editing	Yes – Post-production features	Yes – Video playback
Scripting/Macros	ReaScript (Python, Lua, EEL2)	Limited automation	Max for Live
Live Performance	Good – With setup	Not designed for live use	Excellent – Session View
Learning Curve	Moderate – Highly customizable	Moderate – Industry standard	Easy – Intuitive interface
Update Frequency	Every few weeks – Free	Few times per year	Major updates annually
Platform	Windows, macOS, Linux	Windows, macOS	Windows, macOS
Best For	Budget-conscious power users	Professional studios, post-production	Electronic music, live performance

Winner by Category:

• Best Value: REAPER – Unbeatable price-to-feature ratio
• Best Audio Editing: Pro Tools – Industry standard for a reason
• Best for Electronic Music: Ableton Live – Session View is unmatched
• Best Customization: REAPER – Configure everything to your workflow
• Best for Live Performance: Ableton Live – Purpose-built for stage
• Most Affordable: REAPER – $60 gets you everything

Advanced Features for Power Users

Scripting with ReaScript

• Write custom scripts in Python, Lua or EEL2
• Automate complex tasks
• Create custom actions and tools
• Active user community shares scripts
• Available through ReaPack Package Manager

SWS Extension

• Community-developed extension pack
• Adds hundreds of additional actions
• Advanced track management
• Enhanced mixing features
• Groove tools and more

Custom Actions and Macros

• Combine multiple actions into one keystroke
• Conditional actions based on project state
• Loop through selected items
• Save time on repetitive tasks

Control Surface Support

• Support for major control surfaces
• Mackie Control protocol
• OSC (Open Sound Control)
• MIDI learn for any parameter
• Customizable control mapping

Theme Customization

• Default 7 theme with Theme Adjuster
• Hundreds of user-created themes
• Customize colors, icons and layout
• Match your visual preferences
• Save and share custom themes

Portable Installation

• Run REAPER from USB stick
• Take your DAW anywhere
• All settings and plugins travel with you
• Perfect for mobile recording
• No installation required on host computer

Recording and Production Workflows

Multi-Track Recording

• Record unlimited simultaneous tracks
• Low latency monitoring
• Input FX for recording with effects
• Punch-in/punch-out recording
• Take management and comping

MIDI Production

• Piano roll editor with grid snapping
• Velocity and CC editing
• MIDI filtering and processing
• Arpeggiator and chord tools
• MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) support

Mixing Features

• Unlimited sends and receives per track
• Flexible routing matrix
• Folder tracks for organization
• Bus compression and parallel processing
• Automation lanes for every parameter

Mastering Tools

• Loudness metering (LUFS)
• Dither and noise shaping
• Sample rate conversion
• Batch processing for multiple files
• Master bus processing

Video and Post-Production Capabilities

Video Editing Features

• Import video files in many formats
• Edit audio tracks for video
• Video item processing
• Render video with optimized audio
• Support for up to 4K resolution

Post-Production Workflow

• Frame-accurate editing
• Timecode support
• Region markers for scenes
• Export stems for mixing
• Professional loudness standards

Extensibility and Community

Active Development

Updates are typically released every few weeks including bug fixes, feature improvements and significant new features – all free.

User Forum

• Active, enthusiastic and helpful community
• Get answers quickly from experienced users
• Share tips, tricks and workflows
• Report bugs directly to developers
• Feature request discussions

Resources Available

• Comprehensive User Guide (over 400 pages)
• Video tutorials
• Quick Start Guide
• Troubleshooting Guide
• ReaEffects Guide
• Language packs for multiple languages
• The (unofficial) REAPER Blog

Third-Party Extensions

• ReaPack – Package manager for scripts and extensions
• SWS Extension – Essential enhancement pack
• REAPER Stash – Community resources
• Custom scripts and tools
• Theme repository

System Requirements and Performance

Minimum Requirements:

• Windows XP or later / macOS 10.5 or later / Linux
• 128MB RAM (though more recommended)
• 300MB disk space
• Any modern processor

Recommended Specs:

• Windows 10/11 or macOS 11+ or modern Linux distro
• 8GB+ RAM for large projects
• SSD for faster project loading
• Multi-core processor for plugin processing
• Dedicated audio interface for low latency

Performance Characteristics:

• Extremely efficient CPU usage
• Low RAM footprint compared to competitors
• Fast project loading times
• Stable even with hundreds of tracks
• Scales well with computer power

Who Should Use REAPER?

Perfect For:

• Budget-Conscious Producers – Get professional features for $60
• Home Studio Owners – Full featured DAW without breaking bank
• Audio Engineers – Flexible routing and editing capabilities
• Podcast Producers – Excellent audio editing and processing
• Film Scorers – Video support and scoring tools
• Metal and Rock Producers – Surgical editing and routing
• Customization Enthusiasts – Configure everything to your needs
• Linux Users – Full DAW support on Linux platform

Less Ideal For:

• Complete Beginners – Steeper learning curve than GarageBand
• Electronic Music Producers – Ableton’s Session View better for loops
• Users Wanting Preset Everything – Requires some configuration
• Studio Collaborators Using Pro Tools – Industry compatibility issues
• Those Needing Massive Sample Libraries – Doesn’t include huge content library

Common Use Cases

Music Production

• Multi-track recording for bands
• Home recording and mixing
• Beat making and hip-hop production
• Singer-songwriter projects
• Orchestral composition

Audio Editing

• Podcast editing and production
• Audiobook creation
• Sound design for games
• Noise reduction and cleanup
• Audio restoration

Scoring and Post

• Film scoring
• Video game music
• Trailer music production
• Foley and SFX editing
• ADR and dialogue editing

Broadcasting

• Radio production
• Streaming audio processing
• Live sound recording
• Voiceover recording
• Jingle production

Tips for Getting Started with REAPER

1. Take Advantage of the 60-Day Trial

• Test all features fully
• Try different workflows
• Import existing projects from other DAWs
• Evaluate if REAPER fits your needs

2. Learn the Action List

• Press Shift+? to open Action List
• Search for any function
• Assign custom keyboard shortcuts
• Create custom actions

3. Explore Default Settings

• Go through Preferences methodically
• Set up audio device correctly
• Configure MIDI devices
• Adjust buffer size for your needs

4. Install SWS Extension

• Download from sws-extension.org
• Adds hundreds of useful actions
• Essential for most REAPER users
• Free and regularly updated

5. Watch Tutorial Videos

• REAPER Mania YouTube channel
• REAPERBlog tutorials
• Official REAPER videos
• Community tutorials

6. Join the Forum

• Ask questions at forum.cockos.com
• Search existing threads for answers
• Learn from experienced users
• Share your own discoveries

7. Start Simple

• Don’t customize everything immediately
• Learn basic workflows first
• Add complexity as needed
• Save presets for common tasks

8. Use Templates

• Create templates for common projects
• Save track setups with FX chains
• Use default project template
• Share templates with collaborators

Licensing and Business Model

Personal License – $60

• For personal, home, not-for-profit or small business use
• Valid for gross revenue less than $20,000 per year
• Includes all features
• Updates through version 8.99
• DRM-free perpetual license

Commercial License – $225

• For business, corporate or commercial use
• No revenue restrictions
• Includes all features
• Updates through version 8.99
• DRM-free perpetual license
• Volume licensing available

Educational Discounts

• Discounts available for educational institutions
• Contact Cockos for pricing
• Site licenses available
• Training and support options

Fair Business Model

• No subscription required
• No online activation
• No hardware dongle
• Install on multiple computers you own
• Honest pricing focused on user experience

Frequently Asked Questions

License – Trial

Homepage

Download

Size: 15 MB

Windows x64

Windows 32-bit

Windows 11/arm64ec BETA

macOS Universal

macOS 64-bit Intel

macOS 32-bit Intel

Linux x86-64/AMD64 64-bit

Linux i686

Linux aarch64

Linux armv7l