Cubase Vs Reaper: An In-Depth Comparison Of The Best DAWs 2024

Are you looking for the best DAW to use in your music production? Look no further!

In this article, we dive deep into two of the most popular DAWs – Cubase and Reaper.

We'll compare features, functionality, user experiences and more – so that you can make an educated decision about which is right for you.

So grab a cup of coffee and let's get started on our comparison of Cubase vs Reaper!

Cubase Vs Reaper: An In-Depth Comparison Of The Best DAWs 2024

What We Know About Cubase

cubase

Workflow

Cubase is a popular DAW used by musicians, producers, and audio engineers all around the world. One of the main reasons for its popularity is its intuitive and efficient workflow.

The interface is user-friendly and allows users to easily navigate between different project elements such as tracks, virtual instruments, and audio effects.

It also includes a range of features such as audio editing tools, automation, and MIDI editing, which make it easier for users to create and arrange their music.

Virtual Instruments

Cubase comes with a range of virtual instruments that allow users to create and record music without the need for physical instruments. These include drum machines, synthesizers, pianos, and more.

Users can also access a vast library of sounds and samples to use in their projects, or they can create their own custom sounds using the built-in synthesizers and effects.

Effects and Plug-ins

Cubase offers a wide range of audio effects and plug-ins to help users shape and enhance the sound of their tracks. These include EQ, compression, reverb, and more.

Users can also use third-party plug-ins to further expand their sound design capabilities.

Mixing and Mastering

Cubase includes a range of tools and features that make it easy for users to mix and master their tracks. These include a channel strip for each track, as well as dedicated mixing and mastering plug-ins.

Users can also use automation to fine-tune the levels and effects of their tracks, and they can use the built-in spectral analyzer to ensure that their mix is balanced and transparent.

Collaboration

Cubase includes a range of features that make it easy for users to collaborate on music projects. These include the ability to share projects with other users, as well as the ability to track changes made by different users.

This makes it easier for users to work on music projects with others remotely, even if they are not in the same physical location.

Compatibility

Cubase is compatible with a wide range of hardware and software, including MIDI controllers, audio interfaces, and other DAWs. This makes it easy for users to integrate it into their existing setup and work with other music production tools.

Cubase Price: $99-$599

Cubase Specs: 

  • Cubase works on Windows and macOS
  • Offers audio recording, editing, mixing, and virtual instruments/effects
  • Supports WAV, AIFF, MP3, and MIDI
  • Includes virtual instruments such as HALion Sonic SE and Groove Agent SE
  • Features a variety of audio and MIDI editing tools, including the Score Editor for creating sheet music
  • Includes the VST3 plug-in format for use with third-party virtual instruments and effects
  • Integrates with Steinberg's Nuendo software for post-production work
  • Available in several versions: Cubase Elements, Cubase Artist, and Cubase Pro
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on Windows:
    • Intel Core i5 processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • Windows 10 64-bit
    • ASIO-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card
  • Minimum system requirements for Cubase on macOS:
    • Intel Core 2 Duo processor or higher
    • 8 GB RAM
    • 40 GB free hard drive space
    • macOS 10.13 (High Sierra) or higher
    • Core Audio-compatible audio interface or built-in sound card

Cubase Official Site / Where To Download:  Cubase Official Website

They have many useful tutorials over on the  Cubase Official Youtube Channel


What We Know About Reaper

Reaper-2

Reaper is a popular music software that allows users to create, edit, and produce audio files. It has many features that make it easy for musicians and audio professionals to work with.

One of the main features of Reaper is its ability to record and edit audio tracks. You can use it to record your own music or sounds using a microphone or other audio input device.

You can then use the software's editing tools to trim, cut, and arrange the audio to your liking.

Reaper also has a wide range of virtual instruments and effects that you can use to create and shape your sound.

These include synthesizers, drum machines, and effects like reverb and delay. You can use these to add depth and complexity to your music, or to create entirely new sounds.

Another useful feature of Reaper is its ability to mix and master audio tracks. You can use the software's mixing tools to adjust the volume and panning of each track, and apply effects like EQ and compression to shape the overall sound.

You can then use the mastering tools to create a final version of your audio that is ready for distribution.

Reaper is a popular music software that allows users to create, edit, and produce audio files. It has many features that make it easy for musicians and audio professionals to work with.

One of the main features of Reaper is its ability to record and edit audio tracks. You can use it to record your own music or sounds using a microphone or other audio input device.

You can then use the software's editing tools to trim, cut, and arrange the audio to your liking.

Reaper also has a wide range of virtual instruments and effects that you can use to create and shape your sound. These include synthesizers, drum machines, and effects like reverb and delay.

You can use these to add depth and complexity to your music, or to create entirely new sounds.

Another useful feature of Reaper is its ability to mix and master audio tracks. You can use the software's mixing tools to adjust the volume and panning of each track, and apply effects like EQ and compression to shape the overall sound.

You can then use the mastering tools to create a final version of your audio that is ready for distribution.

Reaper Price: $60

Specs: 

  • REAPER allows users to import and edit audio and MIDI, synthesize and sample, and mix and master songs or other audio projects.
  • It is suitable for recording a wide range of audio, from soloists to orchestras, and is used by both home hobbyists and professional studios.
  • Users can record and overdub audio and MIDI, and record directly to a variety of audio formats and sample rates.
  • REAPER allows users to drag and drop to import, arrange, and render audio and media, and offers a range of tools for editing and manipulating audio and MIDI.
  • It supports almost any third-party audio or MIDI plug-in, including VST, VST3, VSTi, LV2, LV2i, DX/DXi (Windows only), AU/AUi (macOS only), and JSFX.
  • REAPER also offers real-time network FX processing, ReWire support, automatic plug-in delay compensation, and real-time pitch shifting and time stretch.
  • Users can customize REAPER's appearance and configure the layout to their liking, and can trigger almost any action within REAPER using customizable actions and macros.
  • REAPER is compatible with Windows and macOS and offers support for multiple languages.
  • Reaper Official Site / Where To Download:  Reaper Official Website

    They have many useful tutorials over on the  Reaper Official Youtube Channel


    Cubase vs Reaper: What's The Difference?

    Similarities:

    • Both Cubase and Reaper support the use of virtual studio technology (VST) plugins to add effects and other features to audio tracks.
    • Both programs offer a wide range of features for recording, editing, and mixing audio tracks.
    • Both programs offer support for automation, allowing users to automate changes to audio tracks over time.

    Differences:

    • Cubase only runs on Windows and macOS, while Reaper can also run on Linux.
    • Reaper can be installed as a portable application or on a network, while Cubase can only be installed locally.
    • Reaper is generally considered to be a lighter, less CPU-intensive program than Cubase, which may be more suitable for users with lower-end hardware.
    • Cubase supports only VST plugins, while Reaper also supports audio unit (AU) plugins.
    • Reaper has a faster track editor than Cubase, which may be more suitable for users who need to work quickly and efficiently.
    • Cubase comes with a wider range of basic plugins than Reaper, which may make it more suitable for users who want to use a larger number of effects and features out of the box.

    Pros and cons:

    • Cubase:
      • Pros: Popular among composers, wide range of basic plugins, good for MIDI editing.
      • Cons: Only runs on Windows and macOS, more CPU-intensive than Reaper, only supports VST plugins.
    • Reaper:
      • Pros: Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, lighter and less CPU-intensive, supports AU plugins in addition to VST plugins.
      • Cons: Fewer basic plugins than Cubase full versions, faster track editor may not be suitable for all users.

    Which is better for a specific use case:

    Ultimately, the choice between Cubase and Reaper will depend on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

    If you need a program that is more resource-efficient and can run on multiple operating systems, Reaper may be a better choice.

    If you need a program with a wider range of basic plugins and are primarily interested in MIDI editing, Cubase may be a better choice.

    It's always a good idea to try out both programs and see which one works best for you.


    If you found this comparison useful, but are still undecided on what tool is best for you, you might want to check out my other Cubase comparison articles. A DAW isn't a small investment, so take your time and make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck!

    About Author

    Arielle P

    Arielle P

    Songwriter | Music Producer | Engineer.

    With a background in music production and a strong passion for education, Arielle is dedicated to helping emerging artists navigate the music industry. She has worked with a diverse range of artists, from indie rock bands to well-known hip-hop and grime artists. Arielle's unique approach to teaching focuses on empowering artists to take control of their brand, ensuring they retain creative ownership throughout their journey. In her free time, she enjoys experimenting with new sounds in her home studio and sharing her insights through music production tutorials and workshops.

    📧 Email Arielle