Two options in REAPER really help me get musical ideas out faster: Step Input and Input Quantize.
Step input will insert notes into a MIDI item one-at-a-time (notes or chords), using the grid setting for length. Many classic hardware sequencers worked a bit like this.
MIDI Input Quantize will apply Quantize to whatever you play, so you’re always in time. This is non-destructive and can be undone in the editor Quantize window.
Step Input
1 – Insert an empty MIDI item by drawing (cmd/ctrl drag) or from Insert Menu
2 – Double-click to open editor
3 – Open action list to find action “Options: MIDI inputs as step input mode” (add this to toolbar for quick access)
4 – Input on MIDI keys will place notes in the item at the edit cursor. Only note number and velocity are used.
5 – change grid size for note length
6 – Move cursor using arrow keys to add rests. (action – “Edit: Move edit cursor right by grid”)
Input Quantize
1 – Right-click track record arm
2 – Track recording settings (MIDI quantize, file format/path) (add this to a toolbar for quick access)
3 – Enable input quantize, choose resolution and strength
4 – after recording quantize can be adjusted in MIDI editor. Input Quantize is non-destructive and can be reset to original input.
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