Reaper Signal Flow Explained

If you're new to Cockos Reaper, or just want to learn more on the art of routing and signal flow, this title is a must have. Multi-Platinum Producer / Mixer Kenny Gioia shows you what you need to know about both basic and advanced signal flow and routing in Reaper, making your time spent in Reaper more efficient and creative.

Introduction
Introduction (02:00) - In this title, we go thru the basics of Signal Flow. Using pictures and diagrams we describe how signal flows and is routed throughout Reaper.
The Routing Matrix (18:34) - Next we dive into the Routing Matrix and how all signal flows through this virtual patch bay. We break each section down, based on inputs, outputs and routing tracks into one another.
Channel Signal Flow
Input FX (03:47) - The first place to add FX in the chain is in using the Input FX. In this video, we go thru how to set up this feature that applies FX and plugins on the way in and prints the effect.
Track FX (02:19) - The next stop is the Track FX or the FX that's placed right on the channel. In this tutorial, we run thru how this works and the benefit of this approach.
Sends (04:35) - One of the powerful features in Reaper is it's ability to route signal almost anywhere. In this video, we break down how to get audio from point A to Point B using Reaper's sends. Post fader, Pre-fader and Pre FX sends are explained.
Pans, Master Parent & Review (01:46) - And at the end of the channel, we have our pans and our master parent send. In this video, we explain how to deal with output from each channel and review with pictures and diagrams how the channel signal flows.
Item FX (07:07) - One of the more unique features in Reaper is the ability to add FX directly to our media items. In this tutorial we explain this approach and the benefit of utilizing this place in the chain to place our FX.
Tracks
Mono, Stereo, MIDI & Video (05:34) - Next we go thru what can each track be used for. We start with the basics. Mono and stereo audio along with Midi and even Video files.
Busses (08:28) - Another use for tracks in Reaper is the ability to use them as busses. To both combine similar tracks together for processing along with sub-mixing is all touched upon.
Folders (03:59) - One of the more useful tools for organization is the ability to use tracks as folders that can nest other tracks and give both audio control and visual preferences. In this tutorial, we run thru the benefit of folders.
Record Setup
Naming Tracks (03:23) - In the first video of this section, we begin to prepare to record audio. We start off with simply naming tracks and how important that can be.
Inputs, Colors, Record Enabled, Keystroke & Selecting Tracks (05:42) - Next we tackle setting up inputs, Colors, Enabling Record, setting up a keystroke using Actions and Selecting tracks.
Recording Levels (04:10) - One of the most important aspects of recording audio is proper recording levels and gain staging. In this video, we cover the proper way of getting levels to avoid distorting both in the DAW and using our analog front end.
Recording Modes (12:30) - Next we tackle the varying recording modes in Reaper and how each one can be used to maximize efficiency for the task at hand. All modes are explained including using takes, punching in and creating layers to achieve finished performances.
Monitoring Modes (10:25) - Finally we run through the different Monitoring Modes in Reaper and how important it is to utilize each one depending on your set up. Each one is described in great detail.
MIDI
Setup & Click (05:31) - The next step is run through recording Midi data. We start by explaining the setup and move on to setting up a proper click track to stay in tempo with out projects.
Recording MIDI (06:12) - We then move on to recording midi thru an external keyboard and editing the data using separate midi items.
Recording in Items (10:29) - Another option for recording Midi is to punch right into existing items. We again go over editing midi data and go over such advanced modes like overdubbing and auto touch recording.
Input Quantize (02:22) - Many times we know ahead of time that we want our performance to bee right on the grid. Rather than processing our midi data after the fact, Reaper allows you to quantize on the way in. Saving an extra step along with valuable time.
Loop Recording Drums (03:31) - One of the more useful way to record programmed drums is thru Loop mode and building a performance or pattern. In this video, we explain how to set this up including automatically fixing the performance on the fly.
Track Uses
Hardware Inputs (07:39) - Next we dive in to the more advanced uses for tracks. We start off with using tracks as just hardware inputs for things like drum machines, synthesizers and hardware outboard FX units. Disabling recording is featured in this video.
Software FX Returns (10:16) - Another important use for tracks is as FX returns for combining similar FX and saving CPU processing power. In this tutorial, we explain exactly how to set this up along with some great tips like Auto Color and Auto Icon.
Parallel Compression (08:34) - One of the advanced uses for tracks is as a Parallel Compressor. Being able to combine processed signal with unprocessed versions opens up greater possibilities along with precise control.
Headphone Mixes (10:11) - Finally we run through the steps involved in setting up proper Headphone mixes. First setting up quick post fader sends and then going thru the process of setting up completely separate mixes for each artist using Pre- Fader sends.
Final Output
Rendering Mixes & Queue (14:03) - No DAW is useful if you can't output a final mix for others to hear. The Rendering features in Reaper are first rate and are explained in great depth in this final but important video. Not only does Kenny show you how to create mixes and output stems, but he runs through the powerful process of automating it all using the Render Queue function.