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.
StaffPad
StaffPad is a music notation application designed for pen and touch that transforms your handwritten musical shorthand into a professional typeset score for immediate playback and editing.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cockos REAPER | StaffPad |
|---|---|---|
| Website | cockos.com | staffpad.net |
| Pricing Model | One_time | One_time |
| Starting Price | $??/month | $99/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 60 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✘ No product demo | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2004 | 2015 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, USA | London, UK |
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.
StaffPad
StaffPad is a specialized music notation app built from the ground up for pen and touch input. You can write music naturally with a digital pen, and the software instantly converts your handwriting into a beautiful, professional typeset score. This eliminates the friction of traditional mouse-and-keyboard entry, letting you focus entirely on the creative process of composing and arranging.
You can hear your compositions come to life immediately with a high-quality orchestral sample library. The app is designed for composers, arrangers, and students who want a tactile, paper-like experience combined with the power of digital playback and sharing. Whether you are scoring for a full orchestra or a solo instrument, you can manage complex scores with ease on your tablet.
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.
StaffPad Features
- Handwriting Recognition. Write notes, expressions, and articulations with your digital pen and watch them instantly turn into professional typeset notation.
- Realistic Playback. Hear your music performed by a bespoke symphonic orchestra recorded at Abbey Road Studios for incredible sonic detail.
- StaffPad Reader. Connect multiple devices over Wi-Fi to sync your score with performers in real-time for digital rehearsals and performances.
- Score Assistant. Use voice commands to add instruments, change keys, or set tempos without ever putting down your digital pen.
- Automation Drawing. Draw volume, pan, and effect curves directly onto the staff to fine-tune the dynamics and expression of your performance.
- Version Management. Create multiple versions of your score within a single file to experiment with different arrangements safely.
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
StaffPad Pricing
- Advanced handwriting recognition
- Full orchestral sample library
- Unlimited staves and bars
- Free Reader app compatibility
- iCloud and OneDrive sync
- Video import and sync
- Everything in Full Version, plus:
- Premium Spitfire Audio libraries
- Orchestral Tools expansions
- Cinesamples library access
- Specialized instrument packs
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
StaffPad
Pros
- Most natural handwriting recognition available today
- Stunning playback quality with included samples
- Clean interface stays out of your way
- Excellent for composing away from a desk
- One-time purchase avoids annoying subscription fees
Cons
- Requires specific hardware like a digital pen
- Steep learning curve for specific gestures
- No free trial to test recognition accuracy
- Limited engraving customization compared to Sibelius