Hi Dome,
Quote:

I know BiaB / Real Band comes with a DAW of some kind, but I have read exceptional things about Reaper. I would like to give this a try. It only cost $60 but apparently is still up there with the bigger names like Cubase, Logic etc. but at a much cheaper price.


The DAW in the BIAB/RB partnership is Realband. It's unique in that it works exclusively with BIAB-created files and offers a nearly seamless integration with BIAB.

The above being said, I'm a Reaper user, too. My workflow practice is
  • Create the song in BIAB.
  • Find the best assortment of tracks to use in RB.
  • Add instrumental fill-ins in RB.
  • Finish off in Reaper (I love the ease of cutting / pasting as well as the extensive envelope control of just about every function that Reaper offers).

While Reaper is $60, you do not need to buy it up-front to use it. It comes as a trial and will still work even when the trial period is up. What it does is to remind you that you are past the trial date; it doesn't stop working or lose any functionality.

Just thought I'd share the above with you for what it's worth.

All the best,
Noel

P.S. My personal favorite is the UltraPlusPAK. I've found that this package provides just about everything one can get for BIAB/RB (i.e. Realdrums, Realtracks, Styles). I keep upgrading to this level and it does me just right.