With this morning’s update to forScore 6.1 and the exciting addition of MIDI integration, it’s worth taking a look at IK Multimedia’s wireless MIDI controller: the iRig Blueboard. We’ve been testing one over the past few weeks and found it to be a compelling and capable controller, worth considering if you’re looking for a page turner.
The popular existing choices, the AirTurn BT-105 and PageFlip Cicada, are distinct takes on what a page turner should be and have their own advantages and disadvantages, but the iRig Blueboard is an even bigger departure: it uses Bluetooth 4.0 for incredible energy efficiency, 
features four soft backlit buttons instead of pedals, and communicates via MIDI instead of impersonating a standard computer keyboard (which works around iOS’ cumbersome virtual keyboard behavior).
The iRig Blueboard requires an intermediary app to function, so you need to install it and keep it running in the background whenever you want to use the Blueboard. This is perhaps the biggest disadvantage when compared to other page turners, although the app does give you the added ability to program the four backlit buttons to send different signals. You can use forScore to map those signals to specific functions, just like you can with the other page turner options (choose “Settings” from the tools menu, then select “Page turners & shortcuts”). All in all, it’s a great option for anyone who can benefit from MIDI compatibility in other apps, and the best deal for four controls in a power-conscious, self-contained package.
Today we’re happy to announce the immediate availability of forScore 6.1, complete with MIDI integration, big Console improvements, and more. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, our recent Sneak Peek describes some of the biggest changes.
As always, this update is absolutely free for all of our existing customers, and still just $6.99 (USD) for newcomers. Be sure to check it out on the app store, and if you’re upgrading, please take a moment to back up your data first.
We’ve been working hard for the last several months to ready our next big update to forScore, version 6.1. This update is all about MIDI, and it’s much more than a simple add-on. We’ve woven MIDI functions into the app at several different levels, making it even easier to integrate forScore into your connected setup. Use Apple’s Camera Connection Kit to attach your USB-equipped device or use an adapter like the iRig Midi.
Once you do, you’ll be able to play forScore’s virtual piano instrument, use MIDI signals to open specific scores or perform common actions, and add commands to any item in your library to be broadcast automatically any time you open it (including program changes, song select messages, and raw hex codes).
Console has seen some important enhancements, too. The metadata view now includes the ability to create and edit bookmarks, and allows you to manage setlist and library membership (just like you can with forScore’s Metadata panel). The main view now features a menu bar along the top of the screen that allows you to create new libraries and switch between them without returning to the iPad.
We’ve also made working with password-protected files more straightforward, expanded our shortcut options to include audio track controls, upgraded the metronome’s sounds, and added native support for Apple’s latest 64-bit devices.
It’s a great update, and we can’t wait to release it in a few weeks when it’s ready, so be sure to stay tuned. Thanks as always for your support!
Today we’re proud to announce two big updates for our two littlest apps: Beat Keeper 3 and Pitch, Please! 2. These great utilities have taken on a whole new look fit for iOS 7, complete with brand new icons and more.
Aside from the visual changes, Pitch, Please! 2 has been updated to run natively on the latest 64-bit devices, and it now works in both portrait and landscape orientation. Beat Keeper 3 includes a number of great improvements including new samples, channel selection when using headphones or an auxiliary cable, a beat limit for auto-shutoff, and 64-bit support. Both apps are available now, free for existing users or just 99 cents each (USD) for newcomers. Be sure to check them out!
Readdle’s popular iOS app, Scanner Pro, is the ‘App of the Week’ on the iTunes Store making it free instead of the usual $6.99. Like forScore’s built-in Darkroom feature, Scanner Pro allows you to quickly digitize files using your device’s camera. It also has many more advanced features like automatic alignment and full control over brightness and contrast. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who regularly digitizes their scores on the go, so be sure to check it out before this promotion ends!