Reason 13 is the latest version of the Reason DAW, featuring a redesigned browser with tagging, a split sequencer with a new Edit Area, updated interface, new patches and samples, plus the Polytone synth and Ripley space delay devices.
Sound Discovery and Organization
Reason 13 introduces a unified Browser that brings all patches, samples, and loops into one place. You can filter by name, kind, category, or tags, and typing a search term provides suggestions for faster navigation. This centralizes content access across all sound banks and devices, simplifying the workflow of finding the right sound for a project.
All included content—from Reason Studios devices to Sound Packs—is now categorized and tagged, drawing on over 20 years of sound design. Users can also tag their own content, enabling personalized organization. This system makes exploring the extensive library more intuitive, whether you are searching for a specific drum loop or a vintage synth patch.
Enhanced Sequencer and Interface
The sequencer has been split into two parts, with a new Edit Area that allows for detailed editing without losing sight of the overall arrangement. Workflow improvements include better zooming, layout changes, and easier access to editing tools. This redesign is aimed at making the editing process more efficient and less disruptive to your creative flow.
The entire Reason interface has been visually updated to match the sequencer’s new look. While this does not directly improve audio quality, it does make navigation clearer and more organized. The refreshed interface helps users locate tools and functions more easily, reducing time spent searching and increasing time spent making music.
New Sound Library Content
Reason 13 updates the built-in sound bank with new patches, samples, REX loops, demo songs, and song starter templates. This additional content is designed to provide fresh starting points for your own productions, whether you need a quick drum pattern, a melodic hook, or a full arrangement template to build upon.
The new content spans a variety of genres and styles, giving you more raw material to work with. By mixing these new sounds with the existing library, you can craft unique tracks without starting from scratch. The demo songs and templates are particularly useful for learning the software’s capabilities or as jumping-off points for new compositions.
New Devices: Polytone and Ripley
Polytone is a dual-layer synthesizer inspired by vintage analog hardware, designed to recreate warm, classic sounds. Unlike a mere replica, it allows two layers to be stacked or morphed, creating thick, evolving textures. This gives you flexibility to blend traditional analog character with modern sound design possibilities.
Ripley is a space delay that combines delay and reverb with filtering, noise, and distortion. Extensive modulation options let you shape everything from clean, subtle echoes to lo-fi chirps and washed-out ambiences. This device is suited for adding depth, character, and movement to your mix, making it a versatile tool for creative effect.
Key features
- New unified Browser with search and filtering by name, kind, category, or tags
- All content pre-categorized and tagged, with user tagging support
- Split sequencer with new Edit Area for focused detailed editing
- Updated interface for easier navigation and clearer layout
- Fresh sound bank with new patches, samples, REX loops, demo songs, and templates
- Polytone dual-layer analog-style synthesizer with stacking/morphing layers
- Ripley space delay combining delay, reverb, filtering, noise, distortion, and modulation
Best for
Best for electronic music producers and sound designers who want a streamlined DAW with fast sound discovery. The new browser and tagging make it easy to navigate large libraries, while Polytone and Ripley add creative synthesis and effects. Suitable for users expanding their Reason setup with fresh content and workflow improvements.