So this isn’t really a full post – really just a comment I left over on Synthtopia (which everyone should read btw) about Reaper.  But I spent so much time on the comment, I figured I’d just go ahead and post it here too.

My comment:

Got to say, Reaper is a fun change of pace from Logic and Pro Tools which I’ve used for years. I can understand getting frustrated with it, as it handles a lot of tasks different than some other DAW’s but if any new software is a TIME INVESTMENT.

It’s great when things just turn on and do what we want, but tuning a technical tool to meet the needs of a creative process requires flexibility – not pre-programmed functionality. Reaper’s Action List lets you see all sorts of key commands, even customize the keystrokes.

Beyond that it helps you build entire workflows. You can combine actions and commands in to larger macros that operate on at the touch of a button.

Example: Sure Reaper doesnt have an “export region” function as such. But if you’re thoughtful about it, then it’s pretty simple. Here’s one custom action to accomplish exporting regions (exporting audio on just one track of a multi-track project):

1) Track: Unmute All Tracks
2) Track: Unsolo All Tracks
3) Track: Toggle Solo for Last Touched Track
4) File->Render project to disk…

I setup this action on “E” and now to do quick audio edits and export i just have to make my edits, select a region by clicking or dragging and hit E.

The Render window opens up and i choose “render time selection” and all the other tracks are already muted.

Seriously – if Reaper doesnt do something you wish it did…there’s probably a way to get it done. Just have to look hard. OH and i’m still on evaluation license because i’m trying to determine if it will really work for me (they let you demo it for as long as you need).

anyway, one my writers (i’m the lead editor for AskASoundGuy.com) has some videos and other stuff about Reaper in action.

Extra Stuff:

If you’re really interested in Reaper, there are some other awesome characteristics going for it.

It works with a ton of file formats and lets you export/import in all of them.

The application itself is SMALL – I’ve got it on a flash SD card on my Hp Mini and it runs fine – with 40 stereo tracks.  That’s pretty spectacular. If you’re looking for a small DAW to take with you on the road, etc.  it’s a good choice.

Lastly – to actually edit Actions head over to “Actions>Show Action List” in the menus or just type “Shift /”  (which is listed as ?) in the menu.

Then hit the button that says “New” in the “Custom Actions” section of the popup window.

Now you can search for, drag over and combine actions from the List on the Left into your “custom action” on the right.  BTW: Actions in Reaper are the kind of functions you might assign to key commands.  Things like copy, paste, cut, split, etc.  But you can COMBINE them – putting a bunch in order to create larger functions.

Don’t forget to assign keystrokes to your custom actions.  Once you’re done creating it hit “OK” and then choose your action from the “Actions” list window that should still be open.

Next, in the bottom left, you can click “Add” to create a new key-command shortcut for your action.  Easy as pie.