Open Reason by double-clicking the icon. If it's the first time, it will ask you a series of questions about language, sound card, Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) control device and the MIDI input that's being used. Choose the appropriate one in each step that applies to your particular setup. When you get to the end, click "Finish." The main rack interface pops onto the screen.
Click the "Play" button at the bottom of the interface, which is right next to the red "Record" button, and listen to the demo. To stop, press the square button next to it. To fast forward, click the double arrow button that points to the right. To rewind, press the double arrow button pointing to the left.
Click on one of the tabs under the Devices at the bottom on the left side. These are the instruments that are loaded currently. They have a colored tip on the left side for easy recognition. Play notes on your MIDI controller keyboard. You should hear the instrument being played. If you click on another tab, that instrument's sound will now be heard.
Close the demo and open a "New" song in the drop-down menu under File by clicking it. The mixing board appears at the top and under Devices. Also, the tool window will pop up on the right side. This holds your instruments and effects. To add one to Devices, highlight the particular instrument and then click the "Create" button at the bottom of the Tool window or double-click the instrument.
Load a different sound or patch by clicking on the small folder icon on the left side of the instrument.
Record by choosing the instrument and pressing the "Record" button or the asterisk key on the number pad. If you want a pre-count to start you off with the metronome, click the "Pre" button at the bottom left section of the user interface. If you want a full metronome to stay on beat, press the "Click" button.