How to Build Your Own REAPER
Replace REAPER with a custom build. Audio Production Without Limits
Build Difficulty: 4/5
A few focused days to build a solid replacement
Estimated Timeline
Based on 71 features at Few Days difficulty, expect about 3-5 days with AI-assisted development.
Recommended Tech Stack
Full-stack React framework with API routes and server components
PostgreSQL database, auth, and real-time subscriptions
Utility-first styling for rapid UI development
Key Features to Replicate
Top features across 8 categories. See all 71 features
Effects(10 features)
Hundreds of studio-quality effects for processing audio and MIDI
Customizable per-FX auto-bypass to disable processing when input is silent
Build, store, and recall self-contained FX chains with complex routing and configurable parameter mapping
JSFX compile-time macros and configurable parameters
Built-in JSFX LUFS Loudness Meter effect
+5 more in this category
Processing(8 features)
64-bit internal audio processing for professional quality output
Multi-core batch conversion for efficient file format conversion
Multi-core peaks calculation for faster waveform processing
ReaPlug support for multi-mono processing mode
ReaPlug support for multi-stereo processing mode
+3 more in this category
Organization(6 features)
Lock media items with preferences for region edits, dialog edits, and copy prevention
Extensive Media Explorer improvements for file browsing and organization
Manage regions and markers with filtering and ruler lane assignment options
Support for ruler lanes with different timebases and locking capabilities
Group tracks for media/razor edits with up to 64 separately configurable groups
+1 more in this category
MIDI(5 features)
MIDI routing supports up to 128 buses with hardware support for up to 128 MIDI input and 128 MIDI output devices
Enhanced MIDI editor CC lane vertical zoom and scroll with pitchwheel snap
Improved MIDI editor coloring options
Complete MIDI recording and editing with thorough hardware and software support
Import played MIDI after the fact, even if track recording was not set up or armed
UI/UX(5 features)
Customizable animated toolbar buttons
Improved arrange view zoom and scroll capabilities
Customizable skins and layouts for personalized interface
Up to 48 customizable floating toolbars
Configure track spacing for improved organization
Licensing(4 features)
Evaluate REAPER in full for 60 days at no cost
Affordable, DRM-free licensing model
Single version fully featured with no artificial limitations across all use cases
New REAPER 7 license includes unlimited free updates through REAPER version 8.99
Metering(4 features)
Per-FX delta solo setting for comparing with/without effects
Per-track customizable LUFS loudness metering
Visual metering for plug-in gain reduction
Generate interactive, shareable, graphical HTML render loudness and clipping reports with real-time render statistics
Mixing(4 features)
Comprehensive automation capabilities for tracks and parameters
Modulation capabilities for dynamic parameter control
Full surround sound support with multichannel panning
VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) support for mixing control
Cost Calculator
Pricing data not available for REAPER. Check their website for current pricing.