REAPER
A cross-platform digital audio workstation for multitrack audio and MIDI recording, non-destructive editing, routing, automation, plugins, mixing, mastering, video audio and scripting.
What REAPER does
REAPER is a compact, highly configurable digital audio workstation for multitrack recording, MIDI arranging, podcast and voice work, mixing, mastering, live playback and audio for light video projects. It combines flexible routing with non-destructive editing, automation, plugin hosting, ReaScript and JSFX extensions.
Projects, plugins and licensing
A project file may reference external media, plugins, scripts and sound libraries. Moving only the project file can create offline items. Third-party plugins and scripts run with the current user's permissions and have separate compatibility and license terms. The program offers a complete 60-day evaluation; continued use requires the appropriate license.
Maintenance note
This page reviews REAPER 7.78, platform architectures, audio-device setup, project backups, plugin paths, rendering and the 60-day evaluation and license boundary. Content review date: 2026-08-23.
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REAPER 7.78 audio setup and first multitrack project guide
Install the matching 7.78 build, create an isolated project and backup folder, configure the driver, sample rate and buffer, then verify recording, editing and rendering with short test material.
Before you start
- Confirm the Windows, macOS or Linux architecture and test Windows ARM64 beta builds with non-critical projects before relying on plugins.
- Prepare an audio interface, headphones or monitors, stable drivers and enough disk space; record the target sample rate, bit depth and latency.
- Create separate folders for media, projects, automatic backups and renders, and save existing configuration and plugin inventories.
Installation steps
- 01
Install or choose portable mode
Use a standard or portable Windows installation, the matching macOS build or a user-level Linux setup, and avoid importing many extensions during the first launch.
- 02
Configure the audio system
Select the correct driver, inputs, outputs, sample rate and buffer, then test monitoring and playback at a safe level before recording.
- 03
Set project and backup paths
Enable timed and versioned backups, choose the recording and missing-media behavior, save a project template, and then scan trusted plugin paths.
Quick start
- 01
Record two test tracks
Add audio and MIDI tracks, choose inputs, arm recording, watch levels and record short takes without clipping; confirm media is stored in the project folder.
- 02
Edit and mix non-destructively
Practice splits, fades, crossfades, routing, EQ, compression and automation while keeping the original takes available for recovery.
- 03
Render and read back
Set the time range, sample rate, bit depth and format, render to a separate folder, import the result into a blank track and check peaks, loudness, channels and tails.
Usage tips
- Performance depends on buffer, sample rate, CPU, GPU, plugin latency, context and concurrency; one benchmark does not describe every project.
- Use copy or move-media-to-project workflows when migrating an arrangement instead of copying only the project file.
- VST, CLAP, LV2, AU, JSFX and scripts can execute local code or process sensitive audio; install trusted extensions and keep a clean configuration backup.
- Evaluation and license conditions can change; commercial work should be matched to the current individual, educational or business terms.
Troubleshooting and uninstall
Why do recordings crackle or have high latency?
Confirm the driver and sample rate, close competing audio applications, increase the buffer gradually and bypass high-latency plugins while separating monitoring from render problems.
Why are media or plugins missing when a project opens?
Inspect the missing-media and plugin names, restore the original paths or backup, confirm architecture and scan paths, and save a recovery copy before replacing anything.
- Export projects and configurationConsolidate media, save project copies, templates, shortcuts, themes, effect chains, plugin inventories and license records, and test a backup on another environment.
- Remove the program and optional assetsUninstall the standard build or remove the portable folder; treat plugins, sound libraries, license managers and project media as separate assets.
Frequently asked questions
Is REAPER free forever?
It provides a full-feature 60-day evaluation without registration. Continued use after the evaluation requires the applicable individual, educational, non-profit or commercial license.
Can one license be installed on multiple computers?
The license terms generally allow the same holder to install it on personal computers, while simultaneous team, classroom or multi-user use needs the matching licensing arrangement.
Does REAPER include a large commercial sound library?
It includes a broad set of native effects and instruments, but third-party plugins, samples and sound libraries have separate system, data and licensing requirements.