Propellerhead Reason 7 review

PLUG IT IN

Rack Extensions, a new plug-in format that allows third-party developers to create rack devices exclusively for Reason, first appeared in Reason 6.5. With the VST format already so well established, it initially seemed an odd decision to launch a competing platform, but there are significant benefits. Rack Extensions are sold and managed exclusively through the Propellerhead website and are linked to the user’s existing account. Managing VST plug-ins is a real chore, especially when upgrading the host software, your operating system or your hardware, so the ability to manage everything in one place, including access to 30-day trials, is extremely attractive.

Rack Extensions introduce a huge number of new instruments, effects and modulation utilities – this is just a small selection

The Rack Extension format also delivers the tightest possible integration with Reason. Individual Rack Extensions are designed to fit the rack, and have flamboyant front panels and virtual sockets on the back for both audio and modulation signals. Support for Reason’s modulation routing means that the plug-ins aren’t just limited to instruments and effects, there are various modulation utilities too. We had great fun creating wandering undulations with the BZR-1 Chaotic Signal Generator, and using a live drum recording to trigger synth bass filter sweeps with the Audio to CV (control voltage) device. Pop and dance music producers are always searching for new sounds, and there are rich pickings to be found here.

There are currently 112 Rack Extensions available, with prices between €7.50 and €149. With big names such as Korg, Softube and FXpansion getting involved, the future looks promising for this format. Our only disappointment is that six of these Rack Extensions have been developed by Propellerhead, with prices from €39 to €79, and these would probably have been included as standard in previous updates of Reason. There is one free tool, though, and that’s the new Audiomatic effect, which provides 16 presets for adding retro grunge to sounds. The editing potential is unusually light, but its tone is up to Reason’s usual lofty standards.

Propellerhead Reason 7 isn’t the most efficient or polished music-production software around, but it’s still fun, will take most tasks in its stride and still has plenty of charisma and charm.