How to Record Multiple Tracks at Once in REAPER

What Multitrack Recording Means in REAPER

Multitrack recording in REAPER means capturing separate audio inputs, such as a microphone and a guitar, to separate tracks at the same time. This keeps each source on its own track so you can edit, mix, and process them independently later. It is different from recording a single stereo or mono file that mixes everything together.

Check Your Audio Device and Inputs

Before you can record multiple tracks, REAPER must see all the inputs you want to use. Open Preferences from the Options menu, go to Audio, and then Device. Confirm that your audio interface is selected and that its available input range includes every input you plan to record. If an input is missing, check the connection to your interface and its driver settings outside REAPER.

Create and Arm Your Tracks

Create one track for each source you want to record. For example, add one track for a microphone and another for an instrument. On each track, open the input selector and pick the exact hardware input for that source. Then click the track's record arm button. A track must be armed for REAPER to record onto it.

Confirm Each Track Is Receiving a Signal

With the tracks armed, play or speak into each source. Watch the track meters. Each armed track should show movement only for its assigned input. If a meter stays flat, check the input assignment, the microphone or instrument connection, and any gain controls on your interface. Seeing meter activity does not guarantee the sound is clean; listen for clipping or distortion before you commit to a take.

Record All Armed Tracks Together

Click the main Record button in the transport bar. REAPER will record every armed track simultaneously, each to its own file. When you stop, you will see separate items on the separate tracks, ready for individual editing.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• No signal on one track: confirm the input is assigned correctly and that the source is not muted.
• Multiple inputs showing on one track: check the input range in Preferences and the track's input selector.
• Clicks or dropouts: raise the buffer size in the audio device settings and test again.
• Recorded items are empty: verify that the track was armed before the main Record button was pressed.