What is a Loop?
A loop, in audio terms, is an audio file or chunk that is repeated. Typically, a loop will exhibit a pattern of “beats” that when looped, maintain a sense of regularity and motion. As an example, even you just repeating, “1, 2, 3, 4” repeatedly, at a consistent tempo or speed, creates a rhythmic repeating loop.
We have explored how to use audio samples and files to create non-rhythmic soundscape pieces. However, it is also common practice for producers, creators, and artists to utilize audio samples/files in time-based, rhythmic, or more “traditional music” practices.
Reaper on Loop Based Production
As with the First MIDI Song, the Cockos team, with the help of Kenny Gioia has created a series of wonderful tutorial videos on creating a song in Reaper using loop-based audio material. I want you to watch and (optionally) follow along, to Kenny teaching the use of Loop-Based production in Reaper. Again, I am choosing to have you watch this, as they do a remarkable job of also showing you Reaper specific techniques along the way.
I am embedding these videos below via YouTube, so that there are the options for CC. But you can also watch these videos (as well as many more) directly on the Reaper website.