For blind musicians and music producers, choosing the right recording software is essential to maximizing their creativity and productivity. Among the many options available, Reaper stands out as one of the best recording software, thanks to its accessibility powered by tools like OSARA and NVDA. Here is an overview of the recording solutions most suitable for blind users.
Reaper
Reaper is a very powerful and flexible audio production and recording software, known for its exceptional accessibility. In combination with OSARA and the NVDA screen reader, Reaper provides a smooth and efficient user experience for blind musicians.
- OSARA: OSARA (Open Source Accessibility for the REAPER Application) is a plugin that considerably improves the accessibility of Reaper. It allows users to easily navigate the interface, edit tracks, and control parameters via screen readers. You can download OSARA here.
- NVDA: NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA) is a free and open source screen reader for Windows that works seamlessly with Reaper and OSARA to provide verbal descriptions of on-screen elements. Download NVDA here.
- Price: Reaper is available at a very affordable price, with a personal license for $60 and a commercial license for $225. The software can be downloaded here.
Logic Pro
Logic Pro is another choice for blind musicians, but it's only available on Mac. Using VoiceOver, macOS's built-in screen reader, Logic Pro provides good accessibility for blind users. Musicians can navigate the interface, edit tracks, and use virtual instruments and effects.
Pro Tools
Pro Tools is audio production and recording software widely used in the music industry. The software is partially accessible to blind users through PTAccess.PTAccess is a set of scripts that improves the accessibility of Pro Tools for screen reader users. It's important to note that accessibility is optimized with VoiceOver on Mac.