Kurzweil Forte^® 4.10 Update

07/19/21

Past Release Notes

Version 4.10 Release Notes

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• In Program and Multi Mode, Improved the speed of switching between views when pressing the VIEW soft button.
• FX Edit: Fixed panning for FX preset boxes 366 and 367. Previously, signals panned to the right were not heard.
• FX Edit: Added dB meter graphics to some FX boxes (compressors, envelope filters, etc) to assist with setting parameter values.
• FX Edit: Fixed a crash that could occur when adding or removing FX boxes from a Chain.
• Fixed a problem where Note Off messages from the Arpeggiator were going to all MIDI Destinations. Now they only go to the selected Global MIDI Destination.
• In Program and Multi Mode, fixed a problem where the Favorites Bank name could be obscured when selecting Favorites view with the VIEW soft button.
• Fixed a problem that could cause invalid Program or Multi ID numbers to be selected after exiting the FX editor.
• Fixed a problem that could cause pressing the PANIC double button press in Multi Mode to make Programs sound incorrect when returning to Program Mode.

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• Main 1 Page: Added the Audio In Gate parameter. The rear panel AUDIO IN jack has a noise gate that prevents low level system noise from being heard in some cases (such as when nothing is plugged into the jack, or when something is plugged in but not being used). In previous OS versions, the noise gate was always enabled. The Audio In Gate parameter can be used to turn the noise gate On or Off. Setting Audio In Gate to Off is useful for monitoring signals with a wide dynamic range (such as guitar). For example, when Audio In Gate is set to On, guitar notes may be muted before the note has fully decayed to silence. To prevent the unwanted muting of low level signals, set Audio In Gate to Off. If the AUDIO IN jack is not being used for low level signals, set Audio In Gate to On to prevent extra system noise. Note: When loading a backup file of user objects containing a Master Table created with a previous software release, the Audio In Gate parameter will be set to Off. If the AUDIO IN jack is not being used, set Audio In Gate to On to prevent extra system noise.
• MIDI Page: Added the Receive Transport and Xmit Transport parameters (replacing the Receive MMC parameter). Use these parameters to enable or disable receiving and sending of System Real-Time and MMC (MIDI Machine Control) Play and Stop transport messages to/from the Forte's MIDI or USB ports. This allows you to use an external sequencer sending System Real-Time or MMC messages to start or stop the currently selected song in Forte's Song Mode, or to use the Forte's PLAY and STOP soft buttons in Song Mode to start or stop an external sequencer (if it is able to receive these messages).
• MIDI Page: Added the Xmit Velocity Map parameter. The Xmit Velocity Map parameter allows you to select a velocity map for MIDI notes transmitted from the USB or MIDI Out ports. This is useful for adjusting the overall velocity sensitivity for MIDI notes sent to external MIDI instruments. Different maps generate different MIDI velocity values for the same physical key strike velocity. The default map (Linear) provides the widest range of velocity expression. The Light and Hard maps make it increasingly easier or harder to produce high MIDI velocity values for the same key strike velocity (with Light3 being the easiest, Hard3 being the hardest). See the Forte Musician's Guide for a description of each map.
• Samples Page: When the Global Mode Main 1 page User Type parameter is set to Advanced, the JOIN soft button now appears on the Global Mode Samples page. The JOIN function can be used to combine multiple User Sample roots into a single multi-sample object. This is useful for reducing the number of User Sample objects in the system when using groups of many User Sample roots for one instrument sound. Multi-sample objects contain multiple Sample roots, but use only one object ID number. After joining Samples, you are presented with an option to automatically relink all Keymaps which use the Samples, so that the Keymaps will use the new joined sample ID.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Main 1 Page: Tune: Improved the way that Samples in Keymaps are selected for playback when changing tuning in cents from the Global MAIN 1 Tune parameter. The system is now more likely to change the tuning of a sample in a key range, rather than selecting a different sample in the Keymap. This fixes a problem where small changes in tuning could cause the sample selection to change unnecessarily. For pitched programs, tuning changes will sound more natural. For drum programs, this prevents a problem where small tuning changes could cause a different drum sample to play.
• Main 1 Page: Audio In FX Chain: CHAIN EDIT: Fixed a problem that could prevent editing FX box parameters. In some cases parameters could show FXMOD when no FXMODs were applied.
• Main 2 Page: Tuning changes from the Intonation Map are now properly applied to VAST programs which use oscillators selected on the ALG page, and VAST programs which use FM layers.
• Objects Page: FAVORITES: Fixed a problem that was causing renamed Favorites Banks to revert to their default names after storing additional Favorites.
• Objects Page: FAVORITES: The SAVE button now works properly for saving a User Favorites Bank to a different ID.
• Objects Page: MOVE: Fixed a problem that was preventing the Favorites buttons from selecting each object type on this page.
• Fixed a problem that could cause a crash when receiving external Bank and Program Change messages when the Global Mode MIDI Page PrgChangeMode parameter was set to Favorites.
• Fixed a crash that could happen in Global Mode when pressing a Switch Pedal that has Override set to Favorite Inc/Dec.

STORAGE MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Load Page: When a MIDI file is selected, the OPEN soft button is now hidden. MIDI files can be loaded with the FILL soft button.

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• Multi Edit: ARP: Added the Sync To parameter, which allows selecting a specific Riff, Song or Arp to sync to.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Riffs that have Trigger Range and Release Range set to the same key range can now be played with legato fingering, which is useful for Riffs that have Transpose set to On. For example, if you were to hold down the A key to play a Riff, then hold down the B key to transpose the Riff, then release the A key, previously releasing the A key would stop the transposed Riff being played by the B key. Now with these settings a transposed Riff will continue to play until the last key that triggered it is released.
• Fixed a problem that could cause the Sustain pedal to become stuck on when using a Continuous Switch (Half Damper) Sustain pedal.
• Zone Info: When the Global Mode Show Zone Info parameter is set to Yes, Zone Info in Multi Mode now updates the Zone “On” indicator when changing Zone Status (Muted/Active) from a pedal assignment.
• Zone Info: When the Global Mode Show Zone Info parameter is set to Yes, Zone Info in Multi Mode now properly displays 4 digit Program ID numbers in all cases. Previously, some 4 digit numbers could be cut off.
• Multi Edit: Overview Page: Fixed a problem that could cause Zone 15 to show parameters in the wrong order.
• Multi Edit: Overview Page: Fixed a problem with navigation when Exit Values are being displayed on the Overview page.
• Multi Edit: FX: Chain Edit: Added dB meter graphics to some FX boxes (compressors, envelope filters, etc) to assist with setting parameter values.
• Multi Edit: FX: Chain Edit: Fixed a crash that could occur when adding or removing FX boxes from a Chain.
• Multi Edit: ARP: Fixed a problem that could cause the Arpeggiator Classic Mode Shift Amount parameter to apply to Step Sequencer Mode.
• Multi Edit: ARP and CC SEQ: Fixed a problem that could cause edited Arpeggiator and CC Sequencer presets to show the name as "0 Not Found".
• Multi Edit: CC SEQ: Editing CC Sequencer User Patterns now lights up the Save button LED to show that the Multi has been edited.
• Multi Edit: Fixed a problem that could cause controls to become unresponsive when changing pages while holding the ENTER button.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Fixed a problem that could cause the Sustain pedal to become stuck on when using a Continuous Switch (Half Damper) Sustain pedal.
• KB3 Programs: Fixed a problem introduced in the 4.00 release that caused the Key Click feature for KB3 Organ programs to sound incorrect. The noise source stopped working, which made Key Click sound much more subtle. KB3 Key Click may now be more noticeable on some programs.
• Fixed a problem where KB3 Drawbar graphics could be shown for VAST Programs after deleting a KB3 Program.
• Fixed a rare problem that could cause the FM icon to appear on non-FM programs.
• Program Edit: KB3: Drawbars Page: When viewing the Drawbars page and moving a slider, the Vol parameter now gets updated in real time.
• Program Edit: COMMON: Intonation Map and Tuning Map: Improved the way that Samples in Keymaps are selected for playback when changing tuning in cents using the Intonation Map or Tuning Map. The system is now more likely to change the tuning of a sample in a key range, rather than selecting a different sample in the Keymap. This fixes a problem where small changes in tuning could cause the sample selection to change unnecessarily. For pitched programs, tuning changes will sound more natural. For drum programs, this prevents a problem where small tuning changes could cause a different drum sample to play.
• Program Edit: COMMON: Tuning changes from the Tuning Map are now properly applied to oscillators selected on the ALG page, and to FM layers.
• Program Edit: ARP: Fixed a problem that could cause the Arpeggiator Classic Mode Shift Amount parameter to apply to Step Sequencer Mode.
• Program Edit: ARP and CC SEQ: Fixed a problem that could cause edited Arpeggiator and CC Sequencer presets to show the name as "0 Not Found".
• Program Edit: Editing CC Sequencer User Patterns now lights up the Save button LED to show that the Program has been edited.
• Program Edit: The SAVE button LED now lights when a Layer is imported.
• Program Edit: Fixed a crash that could occur when deleting a Layer used as an Alt Input for another Layer.
• Program Edit: FM Layer: On the FM Operator page, the Break Point parameter can now be set with intuitive entry (hold ENTER then press a key). Previously this would select the wrong key.
• Program Edit: FM Layer: On the FM Operator page, fixed a problem where the Left Depth parameter would have no effect if Left Curve was set to -Linear or -Exponential, and Break Point was set to B8 or above.
• Program Edit: FM Layer: Amp Envelope Page: FM Layers are now limited to User Envelope Mode. FM Layers are not compatible with Natural Envelope Mode.
• Program Edit: FM Layer: FM INPUT: Fixed a crash that could occur when using a higher numbered FM layer as the Src Layer for a lower numbered FM layer.
• Program Edit: FM Layer: FM INPUT: Fixed a problem that was causing the FM INPUT Src Layer to be higher volume than expected. User Programs made with previous OS versions may need to be adjusted to compensate (FM Layers which use a Src Layer on the FM INPUT page should be edited to increase the Alt Input Source/Level Adjust parameter by 12 dB).
• Program Edit: FM Layer: FM INPUT: Fixed a problem that could cause the FM INPUT Src Layer to receive the wrong signal in some cases.
• Program Edit: Fixed the background image for Programs set to Category: Clav, Sub Category: Celeste. The Sub Category parameter can only be accessed in the SoundTower Editor App.

SONG MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• In Song Mode, when a track destination is set to USB or MIDI, Volume/Pans CCs are now properly sent to the selected USB/MIDI destination when changing Volume/Pan values on the song MAIN or MIXER page. Previously these CCs were only transmitted locally.
• Fixed a problem when using the RETRY soft button on the Song Save Changes page. Previously, after using RETRY then saving the song you could be brought to Global Mode, now you will be returned to the Song Main page.
• Fixed a problem that could occur after selecting a Track in Song Mode and exiting to Program Mode, pressing the SAVE button could save the wrong Program.
• Track Page: The Copy function has been renamed to Copy-Paste for clarity.

Past Release Notes

Version 4.00 - 11/12/19

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• OBJECTS - New Object Utilities (this page replaces the DELETE page). User objects can now be selected by type and ID range. Selected User objects can be deleted or moved to a new ID range.
• OBJECTS / OPTIONS / MAP - New Object Map. The Object Map can be used to view which IDs are used by each object type. This is useful for organizing Objects when deleting, moving, or loading user objects.
• OBJECTS / FAVORITES - New Favorites Bank Utilities. User Favorites Banks can now be renamed, duplicated, deleted, or moved to a new ID range.

Fixes/Improvements:

• TOOLS / MIXER - Fixed a problem that could cause changes to Mixer settings to be lost.

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• Favorites Bank names are now shown in Multi Mode when Favorites View is selected.
• EDIT / CC SEQ - New CC Sequencer per Zone. The CC Sequencer allows you to rhythmically modulate up to 4 Program parameters based on preset or user patterns. This is useful for adding modulation to Program parameters such as filter frequency, panning, and various effects parameters.
• EDIT / MAIN - New Zone Names. Each Zone can be named on the Multi Edit Main page using the Zone Name parameter (press the Favorites 1 button to edit the name). When Show Zone Info is set to Yes on the Global Mode Main 1 page, the Zone Name is shown in Multi Mode (if the Multi has less than 9 Zones, and if List View is not selected).

Fixes/Improvements:

• When Favorites View is selected, a double button press of the Channel/Zone Up/Down buttons selects Favorites Bank 1.
• SPLIT / LAYER - Fixed a problem that could cause the Split/Layer page to be blank.
• EDIT / ARP - Fixed a problem where after saving Arp Presets they were not appearing as selected.
• EDIT / - Fixed a rare crash that would sometimes occur after editing the FX chain of a KB3 program from within multi mode.

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• Favorites Bank names are now shown in Program Mode when Favorites View is selected.
• KB3 Programs now display their drawbar settings in Program Mode when Large View is selected.
• EDIT / CC SEQ - New CC Sequencer per Program. The CC Sequencer allows you to rhythmically modulate up to 4 Program parameters based on preset or user patterns. This is useful for adding modulation to Program parameters such as filter frequency, panning, and various effects parameters.
• EDIT / NEW FM - New VAST FM layers (up to 8 per Program). Load preset FM sounds from SYX files used by classic 6 Operator FM synthesizers. Access FM algorithms, operators, envelopes, and modulation parameters for custom sound programming. Combine 6 Operator FM synthesis with keymaps, samples, and additional VAST modulation sources, all within a single VAST Program layer. VAST FM layers can also be layered and combined with other VAST layers, and signals can be routed in and out of each layer, perfect for processing classic FM presets through additional layers of filters and effects, or for using VAST oscillators and samples as FM modulator signals.
• EDIT / ALG - New FM Oscillators. 2 Block FM Sine, FM Saw, and FM Triangle VAST Oscillators for use in classic VAST Program layers. Combine FM synthesis with keymaps, samples, and VAST modulation sources.
• EDIT / COMMON / Tuning Map - New Program Tuning Maps. Program tuning maps can be selected and edited for each Program, to set tuning offsets for each key in cents. Program tuning maps can be used to emulate stretched tuning techniques which are commonly used for acoustic pianos and other acoustic keyboard instruments. Three tuning maps are included, Railsback (a common stretched tuning), E.Piano (based on a common electric piano service manual), and Grand Eight (based on a grand piano). Note: Most of the Forte's factory piano samples and keymaps use stretched tuning by default, therefore when editing Forte factory piano Programs, tuning maps are useful for changing tuning to equal temperament, rather than applying stretched tunings. A few keymaps which include "440" in their name are tuned to equal temperament.
• EDIT / DSP CTL / Osc. Key Sync - New Oscillator Key Sync setting for all VAST oscillators. Oscillator waveforms can now reset their phase each time a note is played, or operate in Free Running mode (useful for emulating analog synth sounds).

Fixes/Improvements:

• In Program Mode, when Favorites View is selected, a double button press of the Channel/Zone Up/Down buttons selects Favorites Bank 1.
• EDIT / IMP LYR - Improved Layer Import page with graphic display of available layers and active key ranges.
• SPLIT / LAYER - Fixed a problem that could cause the Split/Layer page to be blank.
• EDIT / FAVORITES 2 (Compare) - Fixed problems with the Compare function for KB3 Programs.
• EDIT / FX - Fixed a problem that could give FX Chains the wrong name when saving.
• EDIT / ALG - Improved XFADE Alg. Fixed a problem where Input2 could still be heard when XFade param is set to 100%.
• EDIT / ALG - Fix of a rare crash when layers are cascading into each other with active solo.
• EDIT / LFO+ - Fixed a crash that could occur with FUN Function warp2(a,b).
• Program 1 Rich 9ft Grand - Improved sustain pedal for Variation Pad layer (released notes no longer sustain).
• Program 19 Legacy Grand - Fixed a problem that could cause damper reverb to be stuck on, removed noise from Variation Pad layer.
• Program 53 FM EP 1 - Fixed a problem that could cause note attacks to sound wrong below C4.
• Program 54 FM EP 2 - Fixed a problem that could cause note attacks to sound wrong below C4.
• Program 99 Mr Smith - Improved settings of the Rotary Brake button so that LED on = Enabled.

STORAGE MODE:

Features:

• LOAD - Import SYX files. The Forte can load .SYX files containing FM Programs from classic 6 operator FM synthesizers. Imported FM Programs can be edited in Program Mode and combined with additional layers, VAST synthesis features and FX. Imported .SYX files appear as new Programs in Program Mode.

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD - Fixed a problem that could cause Aux 1 FX to become disabled after loading a backup file.
• STORE - Fixed a problem that could cause dependent Arpeggiator Shift patterns to be excluded when saving Programs or Multis with dependent objects.

Version 3.01 - 7/2/18

MULTI MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Some object names have been changed.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Fixed: When using the SoundTower PlugSE with some DAWs, controllers could become temporarily unresponsive until pressing Panic.
• Some object names have been changed.

Version 3.00 - 3/29/18

GLOBAL:

Features:

• SONG - NEW - 16 track sequencer featuring Track and Event Editing, a dedicated Mixer, and the ability to import PC3 and .MID files.
• 200+ Factory Drum Grooves (starting at ID 512).
• TOOLS - NEW - MIXER page facilitates managing the mix settings of all 16 internal MIDI channels.
• MAIN1 - "LED Ladders" mode, offers the choice of 'Complete' (normal full LED display) or 'Partial' (single LED display).
• MAIN1 - "Song Rechannel" parameter: set the sequencer mode in Multi mode automatically when trying to record a song in Multi mode directly.
• MAIN2 - "S.Buttons 1-2" parameter now offers a 'Record/Play' option.
• MAIN2 - "Default Song" parameter: set a Song of your choice to use as a template for new recordings.
• MIDI - "Clock Source" , "Output Clock" and "Receive MMC" (Start/Continue/Stop) parameters added.

Fixes/Improvements:

• MAIN 2 - Overrides - Previous(-) and Next(+) double-button presses now reset the value to None.

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• RIFFs - New RIFF generators built into Multi mode permitting the triggering of sequences (from Song mode) via keys, switches, pedals etc.
• New RIFF-based controller destinations: Riff Duration (165), Riff Velocity (166) and Riff Delay (165) for manipulating RIFFs in real-time.
• ARP - You can now import a Program arpeggiator into a Multi without the need to save it as an arpeggiator preset. Favorite 4 button in Advanced mode.

Fixes/Improvements:

• When a zone is Solo'ed, the rest of the zones no longer transmit MIDI CCs.
• Split/Layer - Save - Rename and cancel the rename was changing the default multi name.
• EDIT - A fix was implemented for crashes that could occur when changing zone channels and using higher numbered channels.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT - Using MIDI CC 17 as a mod was not working properly when using as a virtual parameter.
• EDIT / FX - Chain Edit - Bypass (Favorite 5) is observed even when navigating inside the Preset (Box).
• EDIT / FX - Chain Edit - When coming back from the Preset (Box) Edit pages or other Chain Edit pages, the box that was being edited remains selected.
• EDIT / FX - A fix was implemented to address occasional issues with the Aux Reverb.
• EDIT / KEYMAP - Replaced keymap #305 Bsn/Ehrn/Oboe, which had a few sample ranges pointing to 'not Founds' with a revised version. This did not have an effect on any factory programs.
• EDIT / ALG - improved cursor navigation.

STORAGE:

Features:

• Advanced - Always treats the highlighted item as 'selected'.

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD - If OPENing a non-.FOR file, Overwrite is no longer available as a load method. FILL is the sole option.
• LOAD - Importing Multis from the PC3 could have had some invalid FX settings, this could have caused crashes - now fixed.
• LOAD - Merge: some issues with Favorite banks in certain ids were resolved.

Version 2.20 - 12/5/17/17

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• Increased font size used in Favorites View (exception: If Global/Main 'Show Zone Info' is set to Yes then the font size remains the same).
• EDIT - Favorite 3 will now Solo/Un-Solo the current zone ("User Type" must be set to 'Advanced' in Global mode).

Fixes/Improvements:

• Improved switching for a few cases where playing notes while changing Multis could cause glitches.
• Reduced effects loading time; now there is less delay between switching Multis.
• Fixed a rare problem where KB3 programs could load without their effects.
• EDIT / MAIN - When setting Velocity Mode to Fixed, default velocity is now 96.
• EDIT / ARP - When Arp Mode is set to Classic, the Arp Shift Amount parameter now shifts all notes the correct amount.
• EDIT / ARP - The Arpeggiator now turns off properly if notes are playing while setting the Arpeggiator Mode parameter to Off.
• EDIT / ARP - Fixed a problem where selecting a user Arp Preset could set ClockSource to External.
• EDIT / FX - Bug fixed where a MOD on reverb time (for many reverbs) could potentially overflow into a different reverb room type, and give a very short reverb time instead of a long one.
• EDIT / FX - Fixed a problem that could cause a crash or other unexpected behavior when scrolling through FX Chains.

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• List view now shows a small category icon.
• Increased font size used in Favorites View (exception: If Global/Main 'Show Zone Info' is set to Yes then the font size remains the same).

Fixes/Improvements:

• Improvements made to the mapping and velocity transitions for some piano programs.
• Improved switching for a few cases where playing notes while changing Programs could cause glitches.
• Reduced effects loading time; now there is less delay between switching Programs.
• Fixed a problem related to string resonance getting stuck on when changing MIDI channels.
• EDIT / PARAMS - Fixed a problem for sustain/sostenuto pedal in KB3 mode where these were sometimes unpredictable.
• EDIT / PARAMS - Fixed a problem where an extra Parameter could be created when assigning a controller to a Mod source.
• EDIT / FX - If an FX Chain has a reverb alg with the Infinite Decay parameter set to On, the infinite reverb now fades out when selecting a new Program.
• EDIT / FX - If an FX Chain has a flanger preset (applies to #232, 233, 234, 245) with the "Noise Gain" parameter set to On, the noise now fades out when selecting a new Program.
• EDIT / FX - Bug fixed where a MOD on reverb time (for many reverbs) could potentially overflow into a different reverb room type, and give a very short reverb time instead of a long one.
• EDIT / FX - Fixed a problem that could cause a crash or other unexpected behavior when scrolling through FX Chains.
• EDIT / KEYMAP - Fixed a problem that could cause the values of the Alt Method and String Resonance parameters to become linked.
• EDIT / LAYER - Fixed a problem where sustain On2 mode was not working in some situations.
• EDIT / DELLYR - Fixed problem when deleting layers.
• EDIT / TONEWHL - For KB3 Programs, fixed problems when changing the "NumToneWheels" parameter.
• EDIT / ARP - When Arp Mode is set to Classic, the Arp Shift Amount parameter now shifts all notes the correct amount.
• EDIT - Previously, audio could sound choppy when changing parameter values. This has been improved.
• EDIT - When User Type = Advanced (Global), the currently viewed soft buttons no longer change when using the functions assigned to Favorites buttons (Layer Solo, Layer Mute, Compare and FX Bypass).
• EDIT - Fixed a problem where the Compare function was sometimes not working.

GLOBAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• MAIN 1 - "Audio Input" parameters have been moved to the MAIN 1 page.
• MAIN 1 - The parameters layout has been adjusted slightly.
• MAIN 1 - When User Type = Advanced, fixed a problem where the "Sound Selection" parameter could display an incorrect value after loading a backup file.
• MAIN 2 - Key Velocity Map / Edit / RENAME page now allows character entry via buttons.

STORAGE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD - When importing PC3-family multis (setups), Aux FX send levels are now properly converted.
• LOAD / OPEN / FILL - Fixed a problem where, in certain cases, selecting "Fill" would load files using Overwrite instead of actual Fill.

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Some previously abbreviated parameter names now use more characters for clarity (i.e. VelMode is now Velocity Mode).
• Improved stability when edited via external editor.

Version 2.10 - 4/11/17

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• New Global Parameter: Show Zone Info (See Global notes below for details).

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT / OVERVIEW - Favorite 2 button will now toggle between Entry and Exit values for Volume and Pan (described in the HELP page).

  In our efforts to keep facilitating the smoothest transitions between multis, we now allow users to tweak the Exit Volume and Exit Pan for each zone in your multis, like it was available in PC3-family products. By default they are set to 127 and 64 respectively in all factory multis but you can now tweak it as needed.

• EDIT / OVERVIEW: Even if a zone is muted, we now continue to show the Program name and key-range.
• EDIT / OVERVIEW - When Editing a Program from within a Multi, Import program layer was returning to the wrong page. This has been fixed.
• EDIT / CONTROLS - Controller Mode's set to OFF are now properly observed. Previously, in some instances, Destination assignments were still active.
• EDIT / CONTROLS - Destination now shows a series of Arpeggiator options (destinations #150-160 and #170-178).
• EDIT / ARP - Editing of Arp patterns is now working properly.
• EDIT / ARP - Arp Velocity modes "MIDI 109" and "Fixed" could slow the UI or make it temporarily unresponsive. This has been fixed.
• EDIT / ARP - Arp Shift Pattern Editor now shows Direction in header.
• EDIT / IMPZN - When importing a zone, the overview page now properly shows zone information in all cases.
• EDIT - Delete button functionality improved (Advanced mode).
• On the Multi Select page, with Show Controllers enabled (Global) when a physical controller is triggering several destinations, they are now all shows, one by one.
• Fix implemented for some instances of inconsistent volume when switching multis.
• When selecting Multi Mode, after having cancelled a split or layer originated in Program Mode, the last multi is now properly recalled.
• KB3 programs could get extra loud. This has been fixed.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT / ARP - Editing of Arp patterns is now working properly.
• EDIT / ARP - Arp Velocity modes "MIDI 109" and "Fixed" could slow the UI or make it temporarily unresponsive. This has been fixed.
• EDIT / ARP - Arp Shift Pattern Editor now shows Direction in header.
• EDIT / AMPENV - You can now control the Attack time with a mod even when the time is 0s. Previously only non-zero attack time values could be controlled via a mod.
• EDIT - Delete button functionality improved (Advanced mode).
• EDIT - Intuitive Entry icon is more consistent in operation.
• Program Entry values are now properly applied when transitioning from Multi to Program Mode.
• Fix implemented for some instances of inconsistent volume when switching programs.
• Program 238 Boutique 12 Str - several parameters updated.

GLOBAL:

Features:

• MAIN 1 - New Parameter: Show Zone Info.

  When set to Yes and on the Multi Select Page (not in List view) a new region will appear on screen offering vital zone information (mute/solo status, program, vol., destination and output routing). Depending on the number of zones in the multi the data displayed will be dynamically adjusted to fit.

Fixes/Improvements:

• MAIN 1: Show Controllers - Now has 3 values: No, Yes and Yes (incl. pedals). This last option is new and it also displays the real time controllers assigned to pedals and pressure.
• MAIN 2: SW Override - Arp Latch option now available for Switch Pedal overrides.
• MAIN 2: Key Velocity Map - The Key Velocity Map Save page now operates properly.
• MIDI: Program Change Mode - "QAccess" option renamed to "Favorites" and is now working properly.
• Delete - Previously, some object types were not considered when showing the message of No User Objects.

STORAGE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD / FILL - Loading individual objects from an OPEN file using FILL now works properly.
• STORE / ADVANCED - This operation now properly respects the "Store Dependent Objects?" prompt. Previously it was always storing dependents.
• STORE - Files generated with this OS and onward will have modified date of April 7th 2017.

GENERAL:

Features:

• Search string function added - a convenient way to expedite locating multis, programs, keymaps, FX chains, control sources and more. Search any term or string of characters within the currently selected list, or range of values (see Musicians Guide Rev E pg. 3-19 for details).

Fixes/Improvements:

• The last multi selected is now properly stored in the master table when exiting Global Mode even if no global parameter has been edited.
• When renaming objects, the +/- button LED (aka Guitar category button) now properly indicates character case.
• "Favorites" text in header was partially deleted in certain situations.

Version 2.03 - 1/3/17

STORAGE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD / Overwrite (.FOR files) - A 'Merge' option is now offered. Unlike Overwrite, which globally erases all user objects first before loading, Merge, instead, selectively overwrites (if necessary) only those User IDs matching the ID's of the objects stored in the file being loaded.

  Ex. if you start with programs residing in user memory running consecutively from ID's 1024-1034 and you Load-Merge a file containing one program with ID#1026, then only program #1026 will get overwritten in user memory - the 'old' program #1026 getting replaced by the 'new' program being loaded from the file. All other programs in this case would be untouched.

MULTI MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Regardless of selection method, Multis should now always load with proper entry values set.

Version 2.02 - 7/28/16

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Compatibility with Sound Tower Forte SoundEditor V 2.0.

MULTI MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT / FX - Fixed Chain "3488 JK Timbered Taps", which could cause the system to crash when selected.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT / FX - Fixed Chain "3488 JK Timbered Taps", which could cause the system to crash when selected.
• Fixed a problem that could cause a MIDI controller (such as a slider) to stop controlling an assigned Program parameter.

Version 2.01 - 7/12/16

STORAGE MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD - Fixed a problem that could cause the Forte to crash when loading objects.

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Fixed a problem that could cause imported PC3K/KRZ samples to sustain indefinitely. After updating to 2.01, PC3K/KRZ samples previously loaded with 2.00 should be reloaded from their original source (not from any v2 saved copy) to restore their proper envelopes.


• Piano Programs have been edited to use 14 or less FX units, which allows for smoother FX switching when switching programs while notes are sustained. Some piano Insert Chains have been edited, and some Piano programs now use a different Aux 2 Chain. As a result, in some piano programs the Chorus and Delay effects may sound slightly different from previous Forte releases.

  The following piano Programs have been modified:

  • 1 Rich 9ft Grand
  • 2 Rich 7ft Grand
  • 3 Bright 9ft Grand
  • 4 Bright 7ft Grand
  • 5 Solo 9ft Grand
  • 6 Solo 7ft Grand
  • 7 Vintage Upright
  • 8 Vintage Grand
  • 9 Elegant Grand
  • 10 New Orleans
  • 11 Dark & Distant
  • 12 Piano & Pad
  • 13 Piano & Strings
  • 14 Punchy Edge
  • 15 R&B Stack
  • 16 SuperPop
  • 17 70's Album
  • 19 Legacy Grand
  • 20 New Age
  • 21 Piano & Harp
  • 23 Mood Ring
  • 26 Soul Piano
  • 27 Pub Piano
  • 28 Double Grand
  • 29 Mono Upright
  • 30 Double Squash
  • 31 Vintage Squash
  • 32 House Piano

  The following effects Chains have been modified:

  • 4011 Dark & Distant
  • 4014 Punchy Edge
  • 4019 Legacy Grand
  • 4020 New Age Grand
  • 4021 Piano & Harp
  • 4023 Mood Ring
  • 4029 Mono Upright
  • 4030 Double Squash


• Program 999 Clear Program - Updated to include default pedal parameters (Sustain, Sostenuto, Soft and Expression), and the Aux 1 send setting now defaults to 50%.


• EDIT / COMMON - Fixed a problem that could cause the Forte to crash when editing the Category of a loaded program.


• EDIT / FX - Fixed a problem where a previously used Aux effect chain could be used for a program which has no Aux Chain selected.


• EDIT / FX - Fixed a problem where a program could sometimes become silent when selecting an Insert Chain.


• EDIT / FX - Chain Edit: Fixed a problem when exiting the Chain editor without saving, FX Mod Program parameter values were not being properly restored for FX Mods that had been deleted.


• EDIT / FX - Chain Edit: Fixed a problem when removing an FX Mod, the parameter would remain at the last value set by the FX Mod. Now the parameter returns to the value displayed within the FX box.

Version 2.00 - 7/6/16

STORAGE MODE:

Features:

• SAMPLE LOADING - Now you can load up to 3.375 GB of user samples into your Forte. WAVE and AIFF files can be loaded (8 or 16 bit, up to 96K sample rate). P3K, KRZ, K25, and K26 files with samples can be loaded. For example, see the Synthscapes and Take 6 libraries for PC3K available at kurzweil.com/product/pc3k8/downloads. User samples remain in memory across power cycles.
  
  Note: When transferring files to and from the Forte via the USB Computer Port, the maximum size of files that can be transferred is approximately 20 MB. This is suitable for most, non-sample, objects. For transferring audio sample files, use the USB Storage Port with a USB mass storage device such as a "thumb drive." When using the USB Storage Port to transfer files, the file size that can be transferred is limited only by the size of the USB mass storage device, and the Forte's available object and sample memory.


• LOAD - The object Load function has a new feature "Fill from ID". When the User Type parameter on the Global Mode Main page is set to Advanced, pressing the Storage Mode Load "Fill" soft button will show the "Fill from ID" dialog. When you select a saved object file to load, "Fill from ID" allows you to choose the ID number at which you would like to begin loading objects. This allows you to load user objects to specific IDs, instead of always loading to the unused IDs starting at ID 1024. Fill from ID also shows a visual map of the used/unused object ID space, which is useful for finding unused ID ranges so that objects are loaded to adjacent IDs.


• LOAD - Multiple object selection: The Storage Load page now has a Select soft button which can be used to select and load multiple objects in the list at the same time.


• STORE ADVANCED - Browse Objects by Type: A new "Type" soft button has been added, which allows you to jump to the next different type of object in the list.

Fixes/Improvements:

• LOAD & STORE - Improved speed of scrolling through the file/object list.


• LOAD / OPEN - Now loads only the selected objects.


• LOAD - Fixed an issue where user Per Key Velocity Maps could be loaded to the wrong ID.

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• EDIT / AUDIO IN - Press the AUDIO IN soft button to access the Audio Input page. The Audio Input page allows you to choose an FX Chain to apply to the rear panel 1/8" (3.5mm) input signal, and enable or disable the use of any existing FX Mods in the selected Chain. Each Multi can be saved with it's own Audio Input settings, or be set to use the Audio Input settings set in Global Mode.


• EDIT / FX - New FX algorithms: Spectral 4-Tap and Spectral 6-Tap with five FX box presets (IDs 176 and 178-181). These effects consist of a feedback delay loop with multiple output taps that can be set to tempo-based times. The feedback path contains a LPF, HPF, and a diffuser. The first tap has a shaper, and the other 3-5 taps each have a shaper plus a comb filter.


• EDIT / FX - Aux FX now remain loaded when possible when switching from Multi to Multi. Previously Aux FX would always become muted when switching from Multi to Multi.


• EDIT / MAIN - When the Global Mode User Type parameter is set to Advanced, a new parameter "Input Channel" is accessible. The Input Channel allows remapping of incoming MIDI data through specified zones. Here's how it works:

  In Multi mode, an external MIDI device (such as a keyboard or sequencer) will play notes of a single program by default (if the Global mode Local Keyboard Channel parameter is set to off, see page 12-16 of the Forte Musician's Guide for details.) The played program will be on a Zone that has a Channel parameter (on the MAIN page) which matches the channel on which the external MIDI device is transmitting. (If no Zone's Channel parameter matches, the external device will play notes of the last program that was using that channel in Program Mode or from a previously loaded Multi.)

  When the Program of a Multi Zone is played from an external MIDI device, Multi MIDI parameters (most noticeably key range and transposition) will not be applied. If you want these parameters applied, set the Input Channel parameter to match the channel on which the external MIDI device is transmitting. See the Input Channel Settings section below for details on setting an Input Channel. (To play the entire Multi from an external MIDI device, see Local Keyboard Channel (Local Kbd Chan) on page 12-16.) When Local Keyboard Channel is set to something other than Off, the Input Channel parameter has no effect and will appear in parentheses.

  Input Channel basically has the same effect as Local Keyboard Channel, except you can choose to play only one or some Multi Zones from an external device, instead of all Zones. To play more than one Zone from an external device, set each desired Zone's Input Channel parameter to match the channel on which the external MIDI device is transmitting.

  Input Channel Settings

  When setting a MIDI channel number for the Input Channel parameter, channel 1 for example, you can choose "1 L+M" or "1 M" (scroll past "16 L+M" to see all the choices.) A channel number with a setting of "L+M" indicates that the zone will be playable from the Forte keyboard (L for Local) and from the external MIDI controller (M for MIDI.) A channel number with a setting of "M" indicates that the zone will be playable only from the external MIDI controller, and not from the Forte keyboard. You can also choose "Any L+M" or "Any M" for the Input Channel setting. "Any L+M" and "Any M" will make the zone receive MIDI on any channel that an external device is transmitting. This is useful if you are using a single external MIDI controller and are not sure which channel it is transmitting on.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Improved FX transitions.


• Fixed an issue where scrolling through Multis could cause the system to crash.


• Fixed a problem that could cause changes to be lost when canceling the import of a Multi Zone.


• Fixed a problem that could cause the Multi editor to show the "All Zones" indicator for parameters that only apply to one Zone.


• Fixed a problem in the Multi Editor that could prevent the keypad from working for renaming Arp Presets.


• Fixed a problem where deleting a Multi could cause the system to crash.

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• EDIT / FX - (FX Chain editor) New FX algorithms: Spectral 4-Tap and Spectral 6-Tap with five FX box presets (IDs 176 and 178-181). These effects consist of a feedback delay loop with multiple output taps that can be set to tempo-based times. The feedback path contains a LPF, HPF, and a diffuser. The first tap has a shaper, and the other 3-5 taps each have a shaper plus a comb filter.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Improved FX transitions. Seamless FX transitions are possible when switching between two programs using a maximum of 14 FX units each.


• EDIT / COMMON - Numeric entry working now in Intonation Table Editor.


• Fixed a problem that could cause the Global Tempo to revert to a previously set Global Tempo when selecting a Program.

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• AUDIO IN - Audio Input FX: The previous 'Audio Input' parameter has been removed from the Global Mode Main 1 page, and replaced by the new Audio Input page. Press the AUDIO IN soft button to access the Audio Input page. The Audio Input page allows you to adjust the input gain of the rear panel 1/8" (3.5mm) input using the "Level" parameter. Now you can also choose an FX Chain to apply to the input signal, and enable or disable the use of any existing FX Mods in the selected Chain.


• MAIN / Sound Sel - ('Surf-n-Select') When the User Type parameter on the Global Mode Main page is set to Advanced, the Sound Selection parameter appears. The "Category Buttons" setting allows you to select Programs and Multis normally. The "Enter Button" setting allows you to scroll through the Program or Multi list without immediately loading the selected Program or Multi. This allows you to find the next Program or Multi to load without interrupting the Program or Multi that is currently being played. When scrolling through the Program or Multi list, Programs and Multis will appear with their names in parenthesis to indicate that they have not been loaded. Press the Enter button to load the currently selected Program or Multi. When switching to Program or Multi mode, the current Program or Multi will be loaded automatically. When pressing a Favorites button, the assigned Program or Multi will be loaded automatically.


• SAMPLES / PREVIEW - Sample Preview functionality to create a basic Keymap and Program directly from any User or Factory sample in memory for easy sample audition.


• SAMPLES - Sample page shows current free space in the user sample area.


• DELETE - Multiple Object Selection: A new "Select" soft button has been added. Multiple objects can now be selected and deleted at the same time.


• DELETE - Browse Objects by Type: A new "Type" soft button has been added, which allows you to jump to the next different type of object in the list.

Fixes/Improvements:

• MAIN 1 - Fixed a problem where the "Program Tempo" parameter would not appear immediately when selecting Advanced User Type.


• MAIN 2 - Numeric entry working now in Intonation Table Editor.


• DELETE - Fixed a problem where Program and Multi 1024 were not being displayed.


• DELETE - Improved speed of scrolling through the object list.


• DELETE - Delete processing time is now much faster.

GENERAL:

Features:

• Increased User ID space: User objects can now be saved to IDs 1024 through 4095 (previous range was 1024 through 2047). Note that some factory objects are also stored in this range (Chains, Samples and Keymaps).
  
  Note: Each user object stored in the Forte slightly increases the boot up time. Generally this increased boot up time does not become noticeable until there are thousands of user objects stored in the Forte.


• The Storage Active LED now lights up whenever writing to the internal system memory (in addition to when writing to or reading from USB devices). For example, the Storage Active LED now lights up when saving objects such as Programs, Multis or Global Mode settings (when exiting Global Mode) to indicate that the Forte should not be powered off while writing to system memory, as this can cause data corruption.


• Fixed a problem where the keypad "DELETE", "INSERT" and "SYMBOL" buttons did not work in some text fields.


• Fixed an issue where quickly pressing Favorites buttons could cause problems with controllers.


• Various minor bug fixes.

Version 1.40 - 3/15/16

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• EDIT/ARPS - 16 Arpeggiators, one per Zone.
• EDIT/CONTROLS - Zone Mute buttons are now assignable to other functions.
• EDIT/OVERVIEW - Nested program editing is now available in Multi Edit Mode. When the Global Mode User Type parameter is set to Advanced, selecting a program on the EDIT:Multi Overview page and pressing the Favorites 1 button will enter the Program Editor. This allows you to edit a program in the context of the current Multi.
• EDIT/FX - Nested Aux Chain editing is now available in Multi Edit Mode. When the Global Mode User Type parameter is set to Advanced, selecting an Aux Override Chain on the EDIT:Multi FX page and pressing the Favorites 1 button will enter the Aux Chain Editor. This allows you to edit an Aux Chain in the context of the current Multi.
• EDIT/FX - Added Aux Mod Override parameters.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Soundware Updates:

  Multi 10 Vox n Glox: Improved switch assignments.

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• EDIT/Full VAST Editing - Edit VAST programs containing up to 32 layers of sample Keymaps, KVA oscillators and other DSP functions. To access full VAST editing, the Global Mode MAIN1 User Type parameter must be set to Advanced. In the VAST editor, pressing the Favorites 1 button can enter additional editors when certain parameters are selected, such as the Parameter editor, FX Chain editors, Keymap editor, Sample editor, Arpeggiator Pattern editors (note shift, velocity and duration), and Wiring Algorithm editor.
• EDIT/Full KB3 Editing - Edit KB3 organ programs with control of Tonewheel emulation, percussion, keyclick, and other functions. To access full KB3 editing, the Global Mode MAIN1 User Type parameter must be set to Advanced.
• EDIT/Full Effects Chain Editing - Edit Effects Chains containing up to 16 effects boxes using up to 32 DSP units. Choose from 18 types of effects boxes, including hundreds of effects box algorithms and presets. Create custom controller assignments and apply modulation with LFOs, ASRs and mathematical functions. To access full FX Chain editing, the Global Mode MAIN1 User Type parameter must be set to Advanced.
• EDIT/ARP - New Arpeggiator per program featuring Arpeggiator presets, Classic mode, independent patterns (note shift, velocity and duration), and Step Sequencer mode.
• EDIT/ARP - Tempo per program: Each program can be saved with a specific tempo, or be set to use the system tempo. Tempo is used for the Arpeggiator as well as Tempo synced effects. This is set on the Program Edit Arp page (Tempo parameter). Per program Tempos can also be overridden by the system tempo (see the Global Mode MAIN1 page, Program Tempo parameter).
• EDIT/KEYMAP - Kurzweil String Resonance (KSR) - new piano string resonance emulation. The String Resonance parameter works in conjunction with the FX preset "600 String Resonance" to emulate the sound of strings resonating in an acoustic piano. When combined, these two components create KSR (Kurzweil String Resonance). When a layer has the String Resonance parameter set to On, the FX preset "600 String Resonance" monitors which keys are being held on that layer and uses them to tune the algorithm in the FX preset. Any audio that passes though the FX preset while these keys are held will cause emulated strings to resonate based on this tuning. Switch 2 enables/disables KSR; Slider F controls the amount.
• EDIT/PARAMS - New Description field on the Parameters page.
• EDIT/ALG - Added wiring algs 3200 and 3201.
• On any page, a simultaneous press of the left/right navigation buttons will display the Global TEMPO page.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Fixed a problem where some Tone Wheels in KB3 programs could sometimes be out of tune when selecting a KB3 program.
• Fixed a problem where quickly switching between Favorites could cause Programs to load with incorrect controller assignments or layers.
• Fixed a bug where resonant filters produced undesirable noise.


• Soundware Updates:

Piano Category:

Improved German 9ft Grand Piano Programs: Volume adjusted all 704 samples in the 8 German Piano keymaps (ppp, pp, p, mp, mf, f, ff, fff) for a better and smoother balance from note to note, per velocity. Addressed an issue with some pianos having bright metallic artifacts that were standing out and needed to be altered.

Improved Japanese 7ft Grand Piano Programs: Volume adjusted all 8 Japanese Grand Keymaps. Also improved some sample and velocity transition issues.

Piano Programs 1-32: String/Pad layer volume control assigned to Mod Wheel has been standardized: Up is loud, down is quiet.

Piano Programs 1-20, 22, 23, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31, 32: Improved Soft pedal.

Piano Program 26 Soul Piano: Added a Low Pass Filter controlled by Slider A.

Piano Programs 1-14, 16-20, 26, 30, 32: New String Resonance effect added to insert FX Chains (replacing the distortion effect). Controllable with Slider F and assignable switch 2.

These are the updated Chains:
4001 Rich 9 Ft Grand
4002 Rich 7 Ft Grand
4003 Rock 9 Ft Grand
4004 Bright 7ft Grand
4005 Solo 9 Ft Grand
4006 Solo 7 Ft Grand
4011 Dark & Distant
4012 Piano + Pad
4013 Piano & Strings
4014 Punchy Edge
4016 Super Pop
4017 70s Album
4018 Artis Grand
4019 Legacy Grand
4020 New Age Grand

E Piano category: controller assignment and FX improvements.

Clav category: controller assignment improvements. FX chain improvements for programs 73-80 to assign Zone Mute switches 1 and 2.

Organ category: controller assignment and FX improvements for VAST organs.

Leads category: controller assignment and FX improvements.

Pads category: controller assignment and FX improvements. Improved FX chain for Pads Program 331.

Synths category: controller assignment improvements.

Syn Bass category: minor improvements to Parameter Info Text.

Strings category: controller assignment improvements.

Brass category: controller assignment improvements. Minor improvements to Parameter Info Text.

Winds category: minor improvements to Parameter Info Text.

Ensemble category: minor improvements to Parameter Info Text.

Guitar category: controller assignment improvements.

Bass category:

Controller assignment and FX improvements.
Improved assignments for Zone Mute switches 1 and 2.
Bass Programs 243, 246, and 247: Extended note range to A below Low E, to simulate a 5 string bass and/or drop D tuning.

Hybrid category: controller assignment and FX improvements.

Misc category: controller assignment and FX improvements.

EFFECTS:

Features:

• New effect boxes: 600 String Resonance, 502 TTubeAmp3.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Improvements for effect box presets 112, 113, and 114. Prevents popping when switching the order of the component effects or turning the effect on/off.
• Improvements for effect box presets 500 Gate+TTubeAmp3, 501 MonoDistT + EQ, and 580 VibChorCabT. Prevents unwanted popping and quantization noise.
• Fixed gate bypass bug for effect box presets 500 Gate+TTubeAmp3.
• Improvements for effect box presets 311 and 312. Prevents unwanted popping.
• Improvements for Chain 34 Soft Flange: Noise Level is now set to "OFF" by default. This prevents problems with un-wanted noise during program changes.
• Improved FXMOD assignments for many FX Chains.

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• MAIN1/Program Tempo - Setting this parameter to "Program" makes each program use its own tempo settings. To view this parameter, the Global Mode MAIN1 User Type parameter must be set to Advanced.
• MAIN2/S.Buttons 1-2 - Set the function of Soft buttons 1 and 2 in Program/Multi Mode. Choices are Octave -/+ or Arpeggiator Enable and Latch.
• MAIN2/Key Velocity Map - Adjust the velocity response per key. Press Favorites 1 to edit the map (the Global Mode MAIN1 User Type parameter must be set to Advanced).
• MAIN2/Press S Override - Adjust pressure sensitivity.
• MIDI/Program Change - Enable or disable sending program change messages to external MIDI devices.
• TOOLS/TEMPO - The TEMPO page is now available in Global Mode. Use this page to view and change the current system tempo, which can be used to set the tempo for the Arpeggiator as well as Tempo synced effects in Program mode. (Multis each user their own tempo, not the system tempo.) On any page, a simultaneous press of the left/right navigation buttons will display the TEMPO page.

Fixes/Improvements:

• RESET - Improved speed of Hard Reset.

GENERAL:

Features:

• New Empty Favorite Banks 17-50 for additional user Favorites.

Version 1.31 - 7/20/15

GLOBAL MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• INFO - The "Scanner Version" is now displayed along with the O/S and Object versions.

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Pressing keys while the Forte was booting up was potentially causing velocity response problems in v1.30. This has been fixed.

Version 1.30 - 6/25/15

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• 16 ZONES! are now available per Multi when User Type is set to 'Advanced'.
• EDIT/HELP menu - when User Type is set to 'Advanced' a new Help page is shown which details the secondary functions of the Favorite buttons.
• EDIT/Duplicate Zone (Favorite 7) - when User Type is set to 'Advanced', pressing Favorite 7 will create a new zone by duplicating the current zone.
• EDIT/Delete Zone (Favorite 9) - when User Type is set to 'Advanced', pressing Favorite 9 will delete the current zone.
• EDIT/CONTROLS - 2 new controller destinations have been added to allow the real-time control of the Intonation Map (180 Chan Intonation) and the Intonation Key (181 Chan Int Key).

Fixes/Improvements:

• EDIT/FX - the FX control per channel has been improved and expanded to show all 16 zones/channels and made easier to understand.
• EDIT/CONTROLS - parameters that are common to all zones show "All Zones" at the page header.

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• EDIT/COMMON - when User Type is set to 'Advanced', you can edit and save user intonation tables. Select an intonation table and press the Favorite 1 button to Edit.

STORAGE MODE:

Features:

• STORE - support for saving individual objects has been added.
• LOAD - support for loading individual objects has been added.

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• MAIN2 - when User Type is set to 'Advanced', the editing and creation of user Intonation Tables is now supported.
• TOOLS/MIDI Monitor - the MIDI monitor tool has been split into two, offering separate MIDI IN and MIDI OUT views. All data is now also presented in a scrollable list, allowing easy viewing over a larger history of MIDI activity.
• RESET/Soft+Hard - new options for resetting the system.
  - 'Soft' only resets the configuration of the unit to factory defaults but leaves all user Programs/Multis intact.
  - 'Hard' completely clears all user Programs/Multis and also resets the configuration of the unit to factory defaults.

Version 1.21 - 2/2/15

PROGRAM MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Releasing sustain pedal while a 'latched' note was still sounding caused the pitch to jump to the position of the pitch wheel.
• Program 12 "Piano & Pad" - Increased pad volume and added controls.
• Program 72 "RealTouch Wurly" - Added per-program demo.

MULTI MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Edit/Common - Tempo was disappearing when set to 0 (meaning External sync). A new parameter "ClockSource" has now been added to better manage internal vs external clocking.
• Edit/Overview - Key Range: Assign works properly now even if note selections are outside of the current range.

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Additional support implemented for the SoundTower Editor.

Version 1.20 - 12/16/14

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• Forte Piano programs now support half damper pedaling (a.k.a. continuous switch pedals).
• 16 Favorites Banks - When View/Display is set to "Favorites" and User Type is set to "Advanced", the Chan/Zone buttons are now used to scroll through and access 16 different Favorites Banks. The current Favorites Bank number is displayed in the upper right hand corner of the screen.
• MIDI In/Out Activity Indicators - MIDI port I/O icons displayed at the top of the screen:
  Green light = data activity at the given port
  Red light = communication with the external software editor
  Grey light = no MIDI activity
• Edit/Common - parameters added to permit control of monophonic/legato/portamento performance.
• New Programs:
  70 "RealTouch73 Suit"
  71 "RealTouch77 Suit"
  72 "RealTouch Wurly"
  326 "Bubbles!"
  327 "Magic Carpet B3"
  330 "Reverse Universe"
  331 "Pan Strings 3"
  332 "5th-Scape"
  340 "SyncoDeMayo"
  350 "Leviathan Bass"
  351 "Decepticon Bass"
  352 "Latch Bass"
  353 "APG-ish Bass"
• KB3 tonewheel organ programs have been updated to utilize "Double Leslie" FX chains, delivering enhanced rotary speaker performance with additional depth and detail.
  89 "Classic B3"
  90 "Funky Perc"
  91 "Soul Perc"
  92 "First Three"
  94 "'70s Drawbars"
  96 "Ezra II"
  97 "Ezra's Burner"
  98 "Classic Traffic"
  100 "HotTubeGospel"
  114 "LateNighter"
  115 "Testify"
  116 "The Ninth Bar"
  327 "Magic Carpet B3" (new program)

Fixes/Improvements:

• Seamless Program Transition (as long as there's an Aux FX free).
• Split/Layer creation is now much faster.
• View Modes - System reorganized now offering 3 choices: Large (default), Favorites and List.
• After playing song demos, the FXs used by the song were left active instead of loading the proper program FXs.
• Edit/Params - Assign Icon displayed in header if current parameter permits selection via Assign (aka Intuitive Entry).
• Piano programs - Fix applied to Hi Freq stim layers.
• Program 32 "House Piano" - Fixed pad octave up/down button.
• Rhodes Programs 36-46, 55 and 69 revised to use new/improved velocity models and keymaps.
• Program 43 "FusionChorDyno73" - Fixed bug causing harder strikes to be out of tune.
• Program 124 "Voyage Lead" - Fixed missing sustain pedal.
• Program 170 "Aggro OctoBass" - Fixed mod wheel entry value.
• Program 186 "Poltergeist Pad" - Fixed missing sustain pedal.
• 208 "Bullit Brass", 215 "Solo Tenor Sax", and 217 "Solo Bari Sax" - Fixes to Aux FX for smoother transitions when bypassing FX.
• Fixes to various Info tags.

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• 16 Favorites Banks - When View/Display is set to "Favorites" and User Type is set to "Advanced", the Chan/Zone buttons are now be used to scroll through and access 16 different Favorites Banks. The current Favorites Bank number is displayed in the upper right hand corner of the screen.
• MIDI In/Out Activity Indicators - MIDI port I/O icons displayed at the top of the screen:
  Green light = data activity at the given port
  Red light = communication with the external software editor
  Grey light = no MIDI activity
• Edit/Controls - 12 Keys per zone can now be designated to be programmable switches. Each 'key switch' can send MIDI CC data or (up to) an 8-note chord (for single finger chords).
• Edit/Controls - When a given pedal override is enabled (Global mode) a reminder message "Global Pedal Override is enabled" will display when that pedal is viewed.
• Edit/FX - New icons for FX chains displayed.
• New Multis:
  177 "Jazzy Key Trigs" - demonstrates new assignable key trigger feature.
  178 "Motion Synth/Pad"
  179 "SloStrCelesta"
  180 "SloStr/Cel/Rhds"
  181 "Diskclosure Split"
  182 "Game ofTrombones"

Fixes/Improvements:

• Split/Layer creation is now much faster.
• View Modes - System reorganized now offering 3 choices: Large (default), Favorites and List.
• Edit/Controls - Assign Icon displayed in header if current parameter permits selection via Assign (aka Intuitive Entry).
• Edit/Controls - MIDI Destination "Solo Zone (162)" behavior has been improved:
  When engaged, the Zone Mute button LED now lights:
  Red = a soloed zone.
  Orange = muted zone.
  Pressing any of the muted/orange Zone buttons will make that Zone the soloed zone.
  Pressing the soloed zone button will cancel solo mode. To return to Solo mode the original controller assigned to Solo Zone (162) will need to be re-engaged.
• Edit/FX - The 'Aux FX Channel' parameter has been moved from COMMON to the FX page.
• Edit/ FX - If 'Aux Override' is set to 'No', then the 'Chain' of the program on the 'Aux FX Channel' is now shown: "Chain (Prog)".
• Edit/Controls - MIDI Destination list was cleaned up (removed various PC3 controllers that are not applicable to the Forte).
• Fix for rare case of effects not loading correctly.
• Multi 68 "Strummer" - Fixed sustain pedal entry value.

GLOBAL MODE:

Features:

• SW Pedal Overrides added - These controls permit changing the function of each Switch Pedal globally. Available choices are: None, Sustain, Sostenuto, Soft, Data Inc, Data Dec, Favorite Inc, and Favorite Dec.
• CC Pedal Overrides added - These controls permit changing the function of each CC Pedal globally. Available choices are: None, ModWheel, Foot, Volume, Expression, and Pressure.
• Rotary Override - This control determines how KB3 leslie/rotary speed is operated. Available choices are: "Button+Pedal" (default) or "Button". If set to Button only, the sustain pedal will perform normal sustain.

Fixes/Improvements:

• View Modes/Display - System reorganized now offering 3 choices: Large (default), Favorites and List.
• "Show Controllers" - New parameter to show/hide real-time controller activity; this is independent of the view mode.

STORAGE MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• The loading of PC3/K/LE master tables is now prevented.
• Improved PC3/K file loading.
• Favorites are now properly saved/loaded to/from files.

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• "Expression" (cc11) now has a greater negative range, achieving closer to complete silence at the lowest setting level (KB3 swell behavior is unaffected by this change).
• Rename pages - Controllers were not working. Now they work normally.
• Removed 'noise' from an unused CCPedal 2 input when only CCPedal 1 was connected. This was causing random volume drops in some KB3 programs.
• Improved compatibility for SoundTower Editor.
• New Panic MOOSE!

Version 1.11 - 8/28/14

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• The initialization of the pitch wheel has been corrected in all cases.

Version 1.10 - 8/25/14

PROGRAM MODE:

Features:

• KB3 programs that emulate Hammond organs no longer use any of the Forte's 128 voices of polyphony (this does not apply to KB3 Programs that emulate Vox or Farfisa organs).
• Support for half damper sustain pedals (a.k.a. continuous switch pedals). Half damper pedals can now be used as a standard sustain/switch pedal for Forte Programs/Multis. Half damper pedals can also send continuous controller values to the USB or MIDI out ports to control external keyboards or software that supports half damper pedals.

Fixes/Improvements:

• Edit/Params - Controller edits were not taking effect until the program was saved. Now changes happen in real time.
• Edit/Params - Intuitive Entry now working. Intuitive entry for a Control field now changes that control, instead of navigating to a different parameter.
• Edit/Params - Showing different background colors for parameters in different subsystems. Prefixes have also been added for FX parameter labels (INS, AUX1, AUX2).
• Edit/Params - Scrolling through the Params page with the alpha wheel no longer lights the Save LED.
• Edit/Params - KB3 Leak (Leakage) Parameter range has been changed. Leakage can now be turned all the way off. 0-127 range now sets Leakage level between -96 dB and -20 dB. Program leak levels adjusted accordingly.
• Edit/FX - New icons for FX chains in program editor.
• Edit/FX - Outputs renamed from 'Main/Primary' and 'Secondary' to 'A' and 'B', to match the silkscreen.
• Edit/Common - Category names were wrong in same cases.
• Edit - An edit which doesn't result in any actual value change will no longer light the Save LED.
• Edit - Pressing 'Back' from the Exit page will now always take you back to the Editor, instead of sometimes going back to the Save page.
• Edit: Program Mode LED now stays on when in Program Edit.
• User button now acts as a toggle.
• Zone Buttons 2, 3 and 4 now working properly in Program Mode.
• Programs 4 "Bright 7ft Grand" and 5 "Solo 9ft Grand" - Noise reduction curves were added to all layers.
• Program 25 "Film Piano" - Pad Layer is now off by default.
• Program 34 "Steely Dyno 77", 37 "BarkDist 77 Rhds", 39 "Phasey 73 Rhds", and 40 "Mr. SparkleTop73" - Velocity adjustments applied.
• Program 53 "FM EP 1" and 54 "FM EP 2" - Fixed modulator level and belltone level controls.
• Program 89 "Classic B3 "- Swell Fixed.
• Program 113 "16' Viol" - Panning adjustments made.
• Program 117 "Blues Harmonica" - Amp Env control and correct FX were added.
• Program 142 "Undercurrents" - Added Filter control.
• Program 143 "Fairlight Pad" - Envelope fixed.
• Program 194 "Solo Harp" - renamed "Arpegg/Solo Harp"; Entry values fixed.
• Program 200 "Super-8 Brass" and 205 "Jubilee Trumpets" - Gain staging adjustments to avoid internal clipping.
• Program 208 "Bullit Brass" - Reconfigured to conform to conventions.
• Program 211 "Mostly Saxes" - Amp Env Decay now working.
• Program 229 "SuperStudioCast" renamed "Studio 'Caster".
• Program 234 "RedHot/StudioStr" renamed "Stompbox Les".
• Program 240 "3Str Mandolin" renamed "Mandolin Plus".
• Program 241 "3Str Banjo" renamed "Banjo Plus".
• Program 245 "Finger Bass" - Some program restructuring; no longer loud when FX are bypassed.
• Program 249 "Beasties Bass" - Some program restructuring.
• Program 250 "Levin/GabrlFrtls" - Improved consistency of notes in the lowest octave.
• Program 267 "Celeste" and 280 "Rogers Celeste" transposed down an octave to match the pitch of the real instrument.
• Program 291 "Slo Orch Chorus" - Reverb Enable Control added.
• Program 322 "Clavestrum" - Fixed sample pinning and pedal controls.
• Program 323 "Bowed Crotales" - Deleted superfluous info.
• Program 325 "Bass Pedal"- Fixed reverb control info and added Reverb bypass functionality.
• Piano keymaps now have correct volume adjust values from A0 down and from C8 up.
• All KB3 Programs - Added Sustain to Switch pedal 3 (MIDI 67).
• Farfisa/Vox Organ programs- Pitch bend range corrected.
• Accordion/Harmonica programs - Fixes applied to reverb control.
• Guitar programs - Major revoicing of select programs and their FX; added variation button assignments.
• Pad and Lead Programs - Fixed various envelope and switch controls.
• Accordion, Bass, Brass, Clav, Guitar, Harpsichord, Hybrid, Lead, Mallet, Pad, Perc, String, Synth, Syn Bass, Vox and Wind programs - Controller conventions applied.
• Clav, Ensemble, Lead, String, and Wind programs - Info fixes applied.
• Demo - Alpha Wheel, Plus/Minus, and Arrow Keys will now cancel the demo and change programs. Channel Up/Down buttons will cancel the demo and change channels.
• Demo - Exiting and re-entering program demo mode will now correctly restart the demo song.
• Demo - Starting a program demo will now reset all controller values back to their default state for the demo.
• Demo - Save LED no longer turns on during program demos.
• Changed and/or added demo songs for programs:
  1 "Rich 9ft Grand"
  3 "Bright 9ft Grand"
  6 "Solo 7ft Grand"
  16 "SuperPop"
  17 "70's Album"
  23 "Mood Ring"
  29 "Mono Upright"
  30 "Double Squash"
  31 "Vintage Squash"
  32 "House Piano"

MULTI MODE:

Features:

• Support for half damper sustain pedals (a.k.a. continuous switch pedals). Half damper pedals can now be used as a standard sustain/switch pedal for Forte Programs/Multis. Half damper pedals can also send continuous controller values to the USB or MIDI out ports to control external keyboards or software that supports half damper pedals.
• New Multis:
  136 "Voyager"
  137 "Year oftheDragon"
  138 "Bring It MW"
  139 "Reflections"
  140 "Hybrid Clavier"
  141 "Gabriel's Keys"
  142 "Boz Low Down"
  143 "Prog Split"
  144 "Don't Stop"
  145 "Aero Dream"
  147 "Str/Cel/Vox/Glok"
  148 "Sparkler"
  149 "Guitar+Synth"
  150 "Neo-Baroque"
  151 "Dirty Funk Split"
  152 "Mystical Synth"
  153 "Stacked Organ"
  154 "Glitzy Keys"
  155 "Phat Horns"
  156 "Buggin Bells"
  157 "Breathy Synth"
  158 "Clean Lead"
  159 "Piano+Strings"
  160 "SlurpyPad-O"
  161 "DramaPad"
  162 "Mercury Rise"
  163 "Static Pad"
  164 "Windy City"
  165 "Square Coil"
  166 "French Nylon"
  167 "Psychedelic Pad"
  168 "Floating Pad"
  169 "Brass Pad"
  170 "String Pad"
  171 "Large Choir"
  172 "Medieval Ages"
  173 "Gamelan"
  174 "Pure Imagination"
  175 "DnB Split"
  176 "Dub Reggae"
  177 "Toxic Split"

Fixes/Improvements:

• Edit/Overview - Mute Buttons could cause the currently highlighted zone vs zone being edited to get out of sync.
• Edit/Overview - The selected item will now get updated to reflect the current Zone if the Zone number is changed from one of the other Multi Edit pages.
• Edit/Overview - Channel Up/Down buttons can now be used to change the selected Zone. Channel Up/Down simultaneous-press will jump to Zone 1.
• Edit/Main - Outputs renamed from 'Main/Primary' and 'Secondary' to 'A' and 'B', to match the silkscreen.
• Edit/Controls - Selecting a controller no longer lights the Save LED.
• Edit/Controls - Destination list was reaching destinations not valid for the Forte.
• Edit/Controls - Increased the length of some text fields to allow more characters to fit.
• Edit/FX - Fix for sometimes (Y) being displayed even when an effect is loaded in multi mode.
• Edit/FX - Improvements to Aux send level overrides. Multi Aux send level overrides now use absolute percent values instead of using a percent of the existing program send level. Makes all Aux send level overrides levels behave more consistently.
• Edit/FX - Fix for Aux 1 override not working.
• Edit - Changing entry positions could change other slider values.
• Edit - An edit which doesn't result in any actual value change will no longer light the Save LED.
• Edit - Entry values now loaded properly when using Scale/Add/Curve.
• Edit - Pressing 'Back' from the Exit page will now always take you back to the Editor, instead of sometimes going back to the Save page.
• Edit - Added jump values for all fields.
• User button now acts as a toggle.
• Keypad mode is now permanently enabled.
• The list mode is now preserved even after changing pages, until exiting Multi Mode completely.
• Aux send level overrides were causing loud transitions.
• Held chords could leave hung notes when changing multis.
• Multi 11 "Jazz Combo Split" - No longer mutes zone/channel 3 on exit. Zone 4 is also now muted.
• Mutli 45 "Burning Lead" - No longer mutes zone/channel 4 on exit.
• Multi 64 "ABs/Brs & MWStrg" - The variation switch is now off by default.
• Multi 113 "Piano Lesson" - Fix to allow for two sustain pedals.
• FX and Volume Adjusts to Multis:
  3 "Celestial Palace"
  62 "VelBrassSalsaJam"
  64 "ABs/Brs & MWStrg"
  65 "BsKik&Snare\Orgn"
  70 "80's Power Rock "
  75 "EBass/FMEP & Pad"
  78 "Harpsichord&Orch"
  79 "BaroqOrgan&Strgs"
  119 "MW Orch Strings"

GLOBAL MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Tools/MIDIScope - Performance was really slow. Fixed.
• Main1 - Auto Power Off Minutes can be edited properly now.
• Main1 - Auto Power Off Time now defaults to 4 hours.
• Added jump values for all fields.
• Pressing exit from MAIN, MAIN2, and MIDI pages now correctly exits to Program Mode.

STORAGE MODE:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Object loading speed has been improved.
• Master Table was not being stored nor loaded from object files.
• Store soft buttons now in capitals.
• Active LED - Now more accurately reflects when the media is being accessed.

GENERAL:

Fixes/Improvements:

• Faster file system: Storing to and Loading from USB ports is now faster. Saving Programs and Multis to User IDs is now faster. Deleting User Programs and Multis is now faster. Saving the Master Table (when exiting Global Mode) is now faster.
• Song Demo - Exiting song demo will now correctly restore the original programs that were loaded before entering song demo.
• Song Demo - Scrolling is now a little smoother.
• Song Demo - Automatically advances to the next demo song.
• Song Demo - Program volume levels and FX now properly restored when exiting a Song Demo.
• Song Demo - Tap Tempo LEDs no longer light.
• Song Demo - Tap Tempo button no longer usable.
• Song Demo - 9 "Play Along in Fm": added Sus Pedal and other missing non-note MIDI data; loop point altered.
• Favorites: Pressing a Favorite that changes to a non-user selection will now exit user list mode.
• Favorites - Switching from a Setup to a Program via the Favorites buttons now switches to category list mode.
• Favorite #4 default changed to Multi 44 "Pizz & Glock".
• All soft button labels now written in capital letters.

Version 1.02 - 7/10/14

Initial Release

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