Nick,
The answer to your first question is "No" and to the second question "Yes".
"EMC StyleWorks Universal" PC software will convert styles back and forth (cross conversion) between ALL major arranger keyboard brands (except GEM?). "StyleWorks- Roland specific" or "StyleWorks-Yamaha specific" will convert other brand styles to that specific brand of arranger keyboard only (one way conversion). Though these programs are relatively expensive, if you want to do a lot of converting, it is very useful and will save you LOTS of time, and in the end, lots of $ as well. I especially like the "SMF to Style" portion of the "Styleworks" program. It is important to note though, that a conversion will never sound "exactly identical" to the original because the ROM sounds used by different manufacters are slightly different; but in general, I have experienced very satisfying conversion results.
You can purchase from: Tastenshop, atn: Klaus Grosser
http://www.tastenshop.com/taste/ or if in the USA, contact:
Fran Carango:
francarango@nni.com
Be sure to tell them Scott Yee sent you.
- Scott