Reaper for MIDI editing?

Have others here used Reaper? Do you like it?

I currently use Logic to create MIDI sequences. I host everything in Gig Performer. When the sequence is mature, I export a MIDI file from Logic, import it into Gig Performer, press Play, and my backing tracks and automation all come to life.

I use MIDI, rather than audio tracks because I might play a bit of bass or drums live, I might loop it, and I might then transition to a backing sequence. By playing the plugins in the moment, the sounds are always based on my most current Gig, not an audio render from last year.

My favorite feature in Logic is the ability to automatically create a sync’d beat track to a song I’m covering. I’ll probably continue to use Logic for that feature.

Where Logic is weak is MIDI editing. For about a decade, I created soundtracks using Sonar and orchestral plugins. After moving to the Mac, I went with Logic and figured that I’d get used to it. I can get the job done, but it presents a lot of friction. I edit notes, velocity, timing, and CC values and curves.

Is Reaper better for MIDI editing?

Even just exporting MIDI from Logic is a pain. You have to Join regions, deal with aliases and events, then export. I still haven’t memorized the process.

Also, I’ve read that Reaper can create custom plugins with scripts and export them. Wild, if true.

I’ll probably evaluate and buy it, and I’m interested to know if it’s likely to be a winner, or a temporary distraction. Thanks!

Reaper is very versatile, and decent for MIDI editing.
There are a ton of options—to a fault, as it becomes difficult to learn about and even find all of them at times. Still, for the price it is a winner for sure.

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I fully agree with @edm.

I think you mean rea-jsfx. You don’t need to buy Reaper for that. It’s a free plugin. Downside is that it’s abandoned. For a while there’s ysfx that uses the same scripts, but my guess is that the maintainer of that repo is no longer with us (speculation!)

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Reaper has been my favourite DAW for years now. The licence is only around 60,- for two major releases (that would be the current version 7.xx and the following 8.xx) and you can evaluate it forever without any limitations. Updates are often and regular.
As mentioned before, it is very flexible and there are lots of tutorials online. Plus the included FX are really good and there are all sorts. Do not let the simple UI of them fool you.
It is very resource-friendly as well.

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