It’s the first full version since 2011.

While most of the world uses Ableton, FL Studio, Logic or any of the more mainstream solutions for creating music digitally, there’s a hardcore contingent for whom Reaper has become an essential tool. Since its release in 2006 it’s developed something of a cult following among professionals and amateurs alike, for its power, stability and very low price.

The software has just released its fifth version, which comes with a host of improvements and new features. As well as improvements for video support, automation and multi-channel audio, the workstation has has vastly improved aesthetics. For those who go deeper with code, Reaper now has an integrated development environment built in too.

Reaper 5.0 is available now at $60 for a discounted license or $225 for a commercial license from the Reaper website.  It also offers a very generous two-month trial, but as we highlighted in our list of the best free music production software, it works for longer than you’d expect.