Low Cost Daw Users

I'm new to the forums and this site and am really digging the discussion and lesson content. There seems to be something for everyone here!

My question to everyone: As individual practicing musicians, what Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software are you using and why? Many audio interfaces are bundled with limited versions of popular DAWs which is great. To me, the quality and capability of the software is just as important as the quality of the hardware it is bundled with.

FYI, I just purchased a Scarlet 18i8 interface and use it with Reaper software. I like Reaper because it is very efficiently designed allowing it to run on lower powered laptops and older computers yet has all the features I was using in Cubase. The install routine is only 9 MB in size! That in itself isn't important but is a testament to the incredibly tight coding. The software launches in 3 seconds on an i5. Cubase took 45 seconds in comparison. I also like that tracks can be set to record directly in ogg-vorbis, mp3, or several other formats to save disk space when recording live 4 hour gigs. The trial version has no limits and doesn't time out....and its 60 bucks to license for non-commercial (not making a profit) use.The more I use it, the more I apreciate the quality and pure efficiency of Reaper. My mobile rig is Reaper and my home studio is still Cubase but probably not for long.

Anyways, I'm sure there are other great options I'd love to hear about!

bd