Multimedia: Coda composes Finale 98

MacWeek, July 20, 1998 by Joanna Pearlstein

Finale 98 adds a QuickStart interface that the company said helps users easily begin composing. New quantization features reduce the amount of editing required after music is entered, according to Coda.

The upgrade packs support for color printing, multiple levels of undo and the use of multiple fonts within a single score, Coda said. An Automatic Tablature feature helps users create scores for fretted instruments, the company said.

The upgrade comes with 18 new plug-ins, including Add Cue Note, Automatic Barlines and Staff Set-up, the company said; the upgrade also includes a new help system.

Finale 98 costs $545, the company said. Upgrades from Finale 97 for Mac OS cost $79.95, and upgrades from earlier Macintosh versions are priced at $99.95 through Sept. 1, at which time the price of the software will increase to $149.95.

The company is also offering a trade-up to owners of Encore and Rhapsody, notation software from the now-defunct Passport Designs Inc., which filed for bankruptcy last month (see 06.01.98, Page 3).

Coda Music Technology Inc. of Eden Prairie, Minn., can be reached at (612) 937-9611 or (800) 843-2066; fax (612) 937-9760; http://www.codamusic.com.