Once released, Encore 6 will be available as a digital download for both Windows and macOS. No official pricing has been announced, but user speculation suggests a price in the range of for a new license, possibly with a launch discount. There has also been discussion about upgrade pricing for existing Encore 5 users, but no formal policy has been confirmed.
: Better integration with modern virtual instruments and sound libraries.
| Category | Feature | | :--- | :--- | | | 64‑bit for Windows and macOS; modern compiler environment; full compatibility with Apple M1/M2 chips | | User Interface | Single‑window interface; 4K monitor support; modern look and feel | | File Interchange | MusicXML 3.0 import/export; likely compatibility with Encore 4 & 5 files | | Playback & Sound | Device Rack and Track List; VST3/Audio Units support (planned) | | Core Usability | Multiple undo/redo; fixed lyric and text handling; improved scrolling; enhanced MIDI device support | | Continued Simplicity | Preserved keyboard shortcuts and workflows; same essential user experience as classic Encore |
The most significant technical change in Encore 6 is the shift to a native 64‑bit architecture for both Windows and macOS. Encore 6 will also run natively on Apple’s M1 and M2 chips, eliminating the need for emulation or Rosetta 2 translation. This alone will make the software usable on the vast majority of computers sold today.
However, its impact persists. The codebase and intellectual property of Encore have changed hands over the years, with community groups and successor companies occasionally launching compatibility patches or revival projects to help musicians open their massive archives of .enc files.
: A new track list toolbar allows for quick basic changes and deeper editing with a single click. Legacy Support
: Passport Music has indicated that existing users will likely have an upgrade path to open their old .enc files in the new version.
