TwelveTake-Studios/reaper-mcp
reaper-mcp is an open-source MCP (Model Context Protocol) server that enables AI assistants (like Claude, GPT, etc.) to control REAPER, a professional digital audio workstation (DAW). It provides a comprehensive bridge between natural language AI interactions and REAPER's extensive API, allowing users to automate mixing, mastering, MIDI composition, and entire music production workflows. The server exposes 129 MCP tools that abstract complex REAPER actions, from basic transport controls to intricate effects chains and project analysis. Communication is file-based, ensuring reliability without network dependencies. The server is written in Python and includes Lua bridge scripts that interface directly with REAPER, making it cross-platform on Windows, macOS, and Linux. By integrating with REAPER, the MCP server allows AI assistants to perform tasks such as creating and modifying tracks, adding and adjusting effects, automating parameters, generating and editing MIDI items, setting up routing, and even building entire mastering chains. It supports sophisticated workflows like sidechain compression, multi-track mixing, and real-time project summarization. The server is designed for both technical users who can extend its capabilities and music producers who want to leverage AI to accelerate their creative process. Key features include a file-based communication layer that avoids network configuration issues, Python and Lua scripts that interact with REAPER's backend, and a growing set of tools that cover everything from basic editing to advanced production techniques. The tool includes a `get_project_summary()` function that returns comprehensive project state, including tracks, FX, markers, regions, tempo, and time signature, enabling AI to gain context quickly. With active development and community contributions, reaper-mcp aims to become the standard bridge between AI assistants and professional music production environments.
- Category
- Developer Tools
- Pricing
- Open Source
Problem solved
Music producers, mixing engineers, and composers who use REAPER often want to leverage AI assistants to speed up workflows, generate ideas, or handle routine tasks, but traditional AI tools cannot directly interact with DAWs. reaper-mcp solves this by providing an MCP server that translates AI commands into REAPER actions, enabling natural language control of the entire production process. This eliminates manual repetition, reduces technical barriers for complex operations, and allows creative professionals to focus on artistic decisions while AI handles the mechanics.
Use cases
- Setting up a sidechain compression routing between a kick drum and bass track using a simple AI prompt.
- Generating a MIDI drum pattern based on a textual description and inserting it into the project.
- Creating a full mastering chain on the master bus with EQ, multiband compression, and limiting upon request.
- Automating mixing by having the AI adjust volumes, panning, and apply effects across multiple tracks to balance the mix.
- Retrieving a detailed project summary (tracks, effects, markers, regions, tempo) for analysis or documentation.
- Controlling transport functions (play, stop, record, loop) via voice or text commands during recording sessions.
Audience
- Developers
- Content Creators
- Hobbyists
Pros
- Extensive toolset with 129 MCP tools covering nearly all REAPER functions.
- File-based communication ensures robustness and no network configuration.
- Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Enables AI-driven automation of complex music production tasks.
- Open source and actively maintained with regular updates.
Cons
- Requires REAPER DAW and some technical setup (Python, Lua bridge installation).
- Limited to REAPER only; not compatible with other DAWs.
- Relatively new project with a small community, which may mean fewer tutorials and support.
Official website: https://github.com/TwelveTake-Studios/reaper-mcp
Canonical LambdaBase page: https://www.lambdabase.com/tools/twelvetake-studios-reaper-mcp