The Grim Reaper

We chose to work with a computer based DAW for the current two projects. In the past we've also used digital stand-alone multitracks as well as tape multitracks. The main advantages of using a computer based DAW is the low cost of the media and the simplicity of moving media across platforms.

I've used ProTools, Logic, Cubase, Tracktion, Samplitude and, since a year back, Reaper. They all have their strengths and weaknesses but since I started using Reaper I feel no need to switch back to any of the other. Here are a few reasons why:

• It is a very well designed program. The layout is simple and straight-forward but advanced features are available not too many clicks away. The installer is very small and fast and there is no dongle.
• It is very robust and has not crashed on me yet (knock on wood).
• It has great navigation features (similar to Emagic Logic).
• The full commercial license of Reaper is priced along the lines of "home" or "light" versions of many other DAWs.
• New features and bugfixes are very frequent (maybe a little too frequent).
• There's a big online community with helpful people answering questions.

The drawbacks of Reaper are mainly in the MIDI department where I think both Logic and Cubase still have a distinct advantage.

The program is free to download and try out.

DISCLAIMER: I'm not affiliated with Reaper in any way. I just think it's a great program.