Current firmware versions
VARIO base board: 1.4.0 or 2.2.0
VARIO sensor boards (sense boards): 1.3.0
If a new operating software, the so-called firmware, is available for the VARIO duet, you can import it into the system with the VARIO app.
Here you will find the latest version of the app for iOS and iPadOS:
https://apps.apple.com/de/app/c-bechstein-vario/id1397337218
Here you will find the latest version of the app for Android:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.bechstein_digital.vario
All steps in detail
1. Connection
You can connect your instrument to your smartphone/ tablet over USB or Bluetooth.
- On iOS/iPadOS: Select the Connection menu (upper right corner of the screen)
- On Android: Select the MIDI Connection menu (upper left corner of the screen)
Although you can update over USB or Bluetooth, we recommend using a USB connection for two reasons: data transfer is faster using a cable, and radio waves generated by other devices may interfere with the Bluetooth connection.
Direct cable connection is possible if your smartphone/ tablet has a USB-C port, but you will need a camera connection kit Apple Camera Connection Kit if you’re using an Apple device. (https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201542) with a Lightning port.
If you’re updating the app on a smartphone, put the phone in Flight mode and deactivate the Do Not Disturb function prior to start the process to make sure it won’t be interrupted by any type of incoming calls (see https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT204234).
- On iOS/iPadOS: Settings -> Display & Brightness -> Do not disturb -> Never
- On Android: Settings -> Security -> Display lock (option varies according to device manufacturer)
https://support.google.com/android/answer/9079129?hl=en
Don’t forget to reactivate your preferred settings after the update.
2. Firmware update
- On iOS/PadOS open the Settings menu (lower right corner of the screen) and click “Firmware” (bottom)
- On Android open the Settings menu (upper left corner of the screen) and click “Firmware” (bottom).
The screen displays the installed firmware version as well as the new version available for the VARIO’s mainboard and sensors.
Press the Start button to launch the update; it usually takes three or four minutes.
Keep your device near your instrument during the update, even if you’re using a Bluetooth connection. Don’t interrupt the process, even if it lasts a bit longer than expected.
A message appears briefly on the screen to confirm that the update was successful.
Verify the firmware version now displayed on the screen.
Please note that it might be necessary to repeat the update process for various components of the system (mainboard, sensor bar).
3. New connection to the VARIO system
The Bluetooth MIDI connection is automatically dropped when the update process ends.
Press and hold the hardware button on the front of the VARIO device to put the system in standby mode.
The system’s two control modules start as soon as you establish a new Bluetooth connection between the VARIO app and the system.
If you connect over USB, you have to press the button on the VARIO control module to start the system.
4. Calibration and setting check
We recommend recalibrating of the keyboard and pedals after each update.
It may also be necessary to set the keys and pedal parameters after recalibration.
Please note that the dynamism curve may need a reset after an update.
Related information
In some cases the MIDI connection is not completely restored. A so-called Force Quit (complete termination) of the app is recommended if the VARIO duet sound module is not found after the update. (https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201330)