Encore 6 ((exclusive)) - Gvox
Encore 6 (often referred to as GVOX Encore 6 or Passport Encore 6) is the upcoming major update to the classic music notation software Encore. After over a decade of inactivity following the dissolution of GVOX and its transfer to Passport Music Software, the program is being rebuilt from the ground up by Don Williams of Sonic Scores.
As of April 2026, Encore 6 has not yet had a final public release, though it is in active development. Core Improvements in Encore 6
Unlike previous versions (like Encore 5), which suffered from compatibility issues on modern systems, Encore 6 is a complete rewrite designed for current hardware.
Modern OS Compatibility: Native support for Windows 10/11 and macOS (including M1/M2 silicon chips), addressing the frequent crashes seen in older versions.
Snap-to-Grid Entry: Retention of its signature "snappy" mouse-entry system that allows users to place notes anywhere on a beat without needing placeholder rests. gvox encore 6
Real-Time MIDI Recording: A DAW-like recording system that captures velocity, pitch bend, and aftertouch directly into notation.
Refined Interface: The goal is to maintain the famously simple, single-click interface while modernizing the graphics and menu structures. Key Features for Notation & Composition
The software is expected to carry over and enhance the features that made it a standard in music education:
Dynamic Scores: Automatic part extraction and the ability to work with up to 64 staves per system. Encore 6 (often referred to as GVOX Encore
Multi-Voice Support: Advanced handling of multiple voices on a single staff.
MIDI Mastery: Precise MIDI editing and playback, often favored by users who find modern alternatives like MuseScore or Finale too complex for simple MIDI tasks. Current Status and Access
Availability: The software is currently "taking longer than expected" but is the primary focus of Passport Music Software.
Upgrades: Passport Music has indicated that existing users will likely have an upgrade path to open their old .enc files in the new version. Import: MIDI (Type 0 & 1), Finale (via
Support: For documentation on the current stable version, you can view the Encore 5 Manual on Scribd. Encore music notation software is back in business
E. File Interoperability (for its time)
- Import: MIDI (Type 0 & 1), Finale (via XML conversion tools), NIFF
- Export: MIDI, EPS, WAV (via internal synth), and printed output.
1. What is Encore 6?
GVOX Encore 6 is a professional music notation software originally developed by Passport Designs and later acquired by GVOX. Unlike more feature-bloated competitors like Finale or Sibelius, Encore was built around a single, focused philosophy: speed and efficiency of note entry.
Encore 6 represents the final mature version of the classic “Encore” lineage before the software changed hands and underwent significant rewrites. It remains a cult favorite among engravers, copyists, and composers who value a streamlined, mouse-and-keyboard-driven workflow over deep virtual instrument integration.
3. What Encore 6 Does NOT Do (Important Caveats)
- No VST / AU instrument support – You cannot load Kontakt or Spitfire libraries directly. Playback relies on MIDI out or system GM sounds.
- No advanced contemporary notation – Complex prepared piano, graphic notation, or microtonal accidentals are not supported.
- No DAW-style mixing – It’s a notation program, not a production environment.
- No cloud collaboration or iOS app – It is strictly desktop software from the early 2000s (though it runs well on modern Windows with compatibility settings).