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.
REAPER
REAPER is a complete digital audio workstation for computers, offering a full multitrack audio and MIDI recording, editing, processing, mixing, and mastering environment for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | NoiseGator | REAPER |
|---|---|---|
| Website | noisegator.com | reaper.fm |
| Pricing Model | Free | One_time |
| Starting Price | Free | $??/month |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 60 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2014 | 2004 |
| Headquarters | null | San Francisco, USA |
Overview
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.
REAPER
REAPER provides you with a complete digital audio production environment without the bloat of traditional workstations. You can record, edit, mix, and master audio and MIDI using a highly flexible interface that adapts to your specific workflow. Whether you are tracking a full band, scoring a film, or editing a podcast, the software handles complex routing and high track counts with remarkable stability and low CPU usage.
You get a fully functional environment that supports a vast range of hardware and plug-in formats, including VST, AU, and DX. Because the entire application is less than 20MB, you can run it from a USB drive or install it on almost any system. It is a favorite for engineers who value deep customization, as you can script your own actions and skin the interface to match your personal aesthetic.
Overview
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.
REAPER Features
- Multitrack Recording. Record many tracks of audio or MIDI simultaneously to create professional-grade songs, podcasts, or cinematic soundscapes.
- Drag-and-Drop Routing. Route any track to any other track or hardware output with a simple drag-and-drop patch bay interface.
- Real-time FX Processing. Apply thousands of third-party plug-in effects or use built-in tools to shape your sound without lagging your system.
- Non-Destructive Editing. Slice, dice, and crossfade your audio clips freely knowing your original source files remain completely untouched and safe.
- Customizable Interface. Change the entire look and feel of your workspace with community-made themes or create your own custom layouts.
- Automation and Scripting. Automate every parameter in your mix and write custom scripts to perform complex tasks with a single keystroke.
Pricing Comparison
NoiseGator Pricing
- Full software access
- Real-time audio gating
- Unlimited usage
- Source code access
- Cross-platform support
REAPER Pricing
- One-time $60 purchase
- For personal use only
- For businesses earning <$20k/year
- Full software functionality
- Free updates through version 8.99
- No dongle or phone-home DRM
- One-time $225 purchase
- For professional commercial use
- Required if earning >$20k/year
- Full software functionality
- Free updates through version 8.99
- Install on multiple computers
Pros & Cons
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
REAPER
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and fast to load
- Unmatched stability even with high track counts
- Very affordable one-time purchase price
- Deep customization options for advanced users
- Generous 60-day fully functional trial period
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Lacks a large built-in instrument library
- Interface looks dated without custom themes