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.
NoiseGator
NoiseGator is a lightweight open-source noise gate application that filters out background noise from your microphone or speakers in real-time to ensure clear audio during your voice calls.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cockos REAPER | NoiseGator |
|---|---|---|
| Website | cockos.com | noisegator.com |
| 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 | 2014 |
| 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.
NoiseGator
NoiseGator is a nimble, Java-based noise gate tool designed to clean up your audio feed by cutting out unwanted background hiss and hum. You can use it to suppress the sound of your keyboard clicking or your computer fans whirring while you are on a call or recording a podcast. It works by analyzing audio levels in real-time and muting the input when the volume drops below a threshold you define.
You can route your audio through virtual cables to integrate it with apps like Skype, Discord, or OBS. Because it is open-source and runs on Java, you can use it across Windows, Mac, and Linux systems without worrying about heavy resource consumption. It is a straightforward solution for anyone needing a professional audio bypass without investing in expensive hardware processors.
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.
NoiseGator Features
- Real-time Noise Gating. Filter out background noise instantly as you speak by setting a custom volume threshold for your microphone.
- Virtual Audio Routing. Connect your filtered audio to any application like Discord or Skype using virtual audio cable drivers.
- Adjustable Attack and Release. Fine-tune how quickly the gate opens and closes to ensure your voice isn't clipped during natural pauses.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility. Run the software on Windows, Mac, or Linux thanks to its lightweight Java-based architecture.
- Input and Output Selection. Choose exactly which device you want to gate, whether it is your primary microphone or your system speakers.
- Visual Level Monitoring. Monitor your audio levels visually to accurately set your noise floor and avoid accidental muting.
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
NoiseGator Pricing
- Full software access
- Real-time audio gating
- Unlimited usage
- Source code access
- Cross-platform support
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
NoiseGator
Pros
- Completely free and open-source software
- Extremely lightweight on system resources
- Works effectively for removing constant background hiss
- Simple interface is easy to navigate
- No installation required for the portable version
Cons
- Requires Java to be installed on your system
- Requires separate virtual audio cable software
- Interface looks dated compared to modern apps