any tips on updating?? I keep getting "error checking for new version!" message. and "is an internet connection present?" if I go to the cockos website to update, do I download a whole new program? will it just overwrite the 2.55?? any replies greatly appreciated.

Can't comment on the error message as I have never used that feature. If you go here: you will see the latest release listed. Download the installer .exe file - when you run it will will replace your current installation, or you could choose to install into a different folder. On Windows your Preferences, config settings etc are retained (those files are in a different folder) - not sure about Macs. HTH

Reaper is checking for updates on startup. You can turn that off: Updating means installing a complete new version over the old one, that works fine and keeps your settings. Backing up your user folder before doing that is a good idea anyway.

thanks alot you guys.