Cockos REAPER
REAPER is a complete digital audio production application for Windows, macOS, and Linux, offering full multitrack audio and MIDI recording, editing, processing, mixing, and mastering tools for professional results.
Mixxx
Mixxx is a free, open-source DJ software providing professional tools like beatmatching, master sync, and hardware controller support to help you create live music performances on any computer.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cockos REAPER | Mixxx |
|---|---|---|
| Website | cockos.com | mixxx.org |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Free |
| Starting Price | $??/month | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 60 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2004 | 2001 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | null |
Overview
Cockos REAPER
REAPER gives you a complete digital audio workstation environment where you can record, edit, mix, and master audio and MIDI projects. You can import any audio or MIDI file, synthesize, sample, compose, and arrange your tracks with a fast-loading, highly efficient engine. Whether you are recording a solo podcast or mixing a complex orchestral arrangement, the software handles high track counts and heavy processing without slowing down your creative flow.
You can customize every part of your workspace, from the visual theme to the keyboard shortcuts and menus. It supports a vast range of hardware and plug-in formats, allowing you to use your favorite VST, AU, or DX effects. Because the entire application is less than 150MB, you can run it from a USB drive and take your entire studio setup with you to any computer.
Mixxx
Mixxx is a comprehensive open-source DJ platform that gives you everything needed to perform live sets. Whether you are a bedroom hobbyist or a professional club DJ, you can mix tracks with high-fidelity audio, adjust pitch and tempo, and trigger loops or hotcues. It eliminates the need for expensive proprietary software by providing a full suite of performance tools for free.
You can manage your entire music library, create crates, and use the integrated Auto DJ feature for seamless transitions during breaks. The software supports a massive range of MIDI and HID controllers, allowing you to use your favorite hardware right out of the box. It runs natively on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it one of the most accessible professional audio tools available today.
Overview
Cockos REAPER Features
- Multitrack Recording Record multiple audio or MIDI inputs simultaneously to separate tracks for professional-grade studio sessions and live performances.
- Non-Destructive Editing Drag and drop your media to trim, loop, or fade clips without ever permanently altering your original source files.
- Extensive Plugin Support Run thousands of third-party VST, VST3, AU, and JSFX effects to shape your sound exactly how you want.
- Customizable Interface Change the entire look and feel of your workspace with user-made themes and custom toolbars that match your workflow.
- Real-time FX Processing Apply effects to tracks or individual clips in real-time and hear the results instantly without waiting for long renders.
- Automation and Routing Create complex signal chains and automate any parameter with a flexible routing matrix that handles any audio challenge.
Mixxx Features
- Four-Deck Mixing. Mix up to four tracks simultaneously with dedicated controls for each deck to create complex, layered performances.
- Master Sync. Lock the tempo and phase of multiple decks together so your transitions stay perfectly in time automatically.
- Hardware Controller Support. Connect your favorite DJ controllers with built-in mappings for over 100 different MIDI and HID hardware devices.
- Integrated Effects. Add flavor to your sets by chaining multiple audio effects like reverb, echo, and bitcrushing to any deck.
- Vinyl Emulation. Control your digital music files using real turntables and timecoded vinyl for a traditional hands-on scratching feel.
- Live Broadcasting. Stream your sets live to your audience using Shoutcast or Icecast servers without needing extra external software.
Pricing Comparison
Cockos REAPER Pricing
- Full software functionality
- For personal or non-profit use
- For businesses earning <$20k/year
- Includes free updates through v7.99
- One-time purchase price of $60
- Full software functionality
- For professional/commercial use
- Required if earning >$20k/year
- Includes free updates through v7.99
- One-time purchase price of $225
Mixxx Pricing
- Full professional feature set
- Unlimited library size
- All hardware mappings included
- Free software updates forever
- Open-source source code access
Pros & Cons
Cockos REAPER
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and fast performance on older hardware
- Unmatched customization of menus and keyboard shortcuts
- Very affordable one-time pricing compared to competitors
- Generous 60-day trial with no feature limitations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complexity
- Stock plugins have very basic visual interfaces
- Does not include a large built-in virtual instrument library
Mixxx
Pros
- Completely free with no hidden subscription costs
- Excellent support for a wide range of hardware
- Runs smoothly on Linux, Windows, and macOS
- Highly customizable interface through community-made skins
Cons
- Interface can feel cluttered for absolute beginners
- Lacks native integration with major streaming services
- Library management is less polished than paid rivals