Music & Audio

Clear REAPER Cache on Mac

Clearing the REAPER cache means removing the leftover .reapeaks waveform files that sit next to your old recordings. Those files can be rebuilt, so removing them frees space without touching your projects or settings.

Last updated: October 31, 20262 min read

Clear the REAPER cache without guessing

REAPER data usually takes 500 MB – 20 GB on a Mac. The free scan shows the exact size on your Mac before you change anything.

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Free scan · No account · Nothing is deleted without your OK · Moves to the Trash first · macOS 14+

Application: REAPER
Typical data size: 500 MB – 20 GB
Category: Music & Audio
File Location: ~/Library/Application Support/REAPER

REAPER cache folders you can clear

REAPER has no separate cache folder. Its folders hold settings and your own data, so there is nothing to clear safely by hand.

What the REAPER cache holds and when clearing helps

Specific to REAPER

REAPER builds peak files ending in .reapeaks so waveforms draw quickly. They sit next to your media, and by default your projects and recordings are kept in ~/Documents/REAPER Media. Clearing helps when leftover peak files take up noticeable space beside recordings you no longer use. Your configuration, scripts and license are kept in a separate resource folder in Application Support, which holds your own data and is not part of the cache.

What happens after you clear the REAPER cache

REAPER rebuilds peak files when it next needs a waveform, so opening projects with long recordings may take a little longer at first. Your projects, recordings, settings and license stay where they are, so you should not need to sign in again. Nothing removed is lost, because the files can be rebuilt. The cache will start filling again as you work.

If the app offers a cache option, use it while it is open.Quit the app before removing any files from its folders.Delete only the .reapeaks files, never recordings or projects.Open one project and check that waveforms display normally.

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After the free trial, Pro costs $39.99 per year in your country's App Store; cancel any time.

Frequently asked questions

Yes.

Will I need to sign in again after clearing?

No. The license key is stored in the resource folder, which clearing the cache does not touch, so it stays in place.

Can I move the peak files to the Trash first?

Yes. Items in the Trash can be restored until the Trash is emptied, so you can wait a few days before emptying it.