Bass section, Here is what the caps look like

Bass section

The Bass section can be played via the “Stradella” but- tons.

The buttons in this section allow you to play both bass notes and chords. The chords use the (sound) register selected for the Bass section – hence the name of this section. The “real” bass notes are assigned to the two circled rows. The remaining buttons are used to play chords. (You can also play an orchestral sound using the chord buttons, while playing accordion with the bass buttons, and vice versa.)

The FR-7/FR-5 is supplied with several reference caps (concave and with lines) designed to help you locate the bass and chord buttons without looking at them. At the factory, three caps are installed on the black but- tons in the following illustration. Feel free to remove them and to slide them over other buttons if that feels more comfortable.

ORCH BASS	FREE BASS
	ORCH FREE BS
	ORCH CHORD

Ab3

Eb3

Bb3

F#3

C#3

Ab3

Eb3

Bb3

Bass

F#3

C#3

Ab3

Eb3

Bb3

F#3

C#3

Ab3

Eb3

Bb3

buttons

F#M

C#M

AbM

EbM

BbM

F#M

C#M

AbM

EbM

BbM

F#m

C#m

Abm

Ebm Bbm

F#m

C#m

Abm

Ebm Bbm

F#7

C#7

Ab7

Eb7

Bb7

F#7

C#7

Ab7

Eb7

Bb7

Edim

Bdim

F#dim

C#dim

Abdim

Ebdim

Bbdim

Fdim

Cdim

Gdim

Ddim

Adim

Edim

Bdim

F#dim

C#dim

Abdim

Bbdim

Fdim

Chord buttons*

(*)This can be changed to 3 bass and 3 chord rows. See “10.5 Bass & Chord Mode” on p. 69.

Here is what the caps look like:

Slide up to remove

Reference cap

Slide over button

The sound the Bass section produces is determined by the register you pressed last. This section can be used as “accordion”, to play orchestral sounds, or both.

(1)Connect the FR-7/FR-5 (if necessary) and switch it on.

See pages 15 and 16.

(2)Grab the FR-7/FR-5, press a register and start play- ing on the Bass (button) keyboard.

Though the FR-7/FR-5 is an electronic musical instru- ment, it only produces sound if you move the bel- lows.

Note: By pressing and holding any register, you can switch off the Bass section. (Even in that case, the Bass section continues to send MIDI commands.) Press another register to switch it back on.

V-Accordion r

Bass section

(3) Press another register to change the sound.

ORCH BASS

FREE BASS

The display briefly confirms your setting and indi- cates which footage you selected:

8-4' 8' 16'

These indications refer to the octaves (vertical direc- tion) and the number of slightly detuned reeds that are used (horizontal direction).

On the Main page, the number of the selected regis- ter appears in the BASS field:

(4)If you think the sound is too loud or too soft, you can change the setting of the [VOLUME] knob.

(5)If you still can’t hear the bass and chord notes you are playing, change the [BALANCE] knob’s setting. This knob is used to set the balance between the Tre- ble and Bass registers. When it is turned all the way to TREBLE, you won’t be able to hear the Bass section.

(6)Use the SET [√][®] buttons to select another Set and again play a few notes.

FR-7, FR-5 specifications

The Roland FR-5 and FR-7 are part of Roland's acclaimed line of digital accordions, known for their innovative technologies and exceptional sound quality. These instruments have been designed to provide musicians with a versatile and rich playing experience, fusing traditional accordion elements with modern digital functionality.

One of the most significant features of both the FR-5 and FR-7 is their advanced digital sound engine. This technology offers a wide array of sounds, including a variety of accordion types, reeds, and orchestral instruments. The sound quality is remarkable, with a high level of fidelity that captures the essence of authentic acoustic instruments. Musicians can easily switch between different instrument sounds, making these accordions perfect for various musical styles and genres.

Both models feature a lightweight and ergonomic design, making them comfortable to play for extended periods. The FR-5 and FR-7 have built-in speakers that provide excellent sound projection, allowing performers to play without the need for external amplification. Furthermore, the onboard effects, such as reverb and chorus, enhance the musical experience, enabling players to add depth and character to their performances.

The user interface on both models is intuitive, with easily accessible controls that allow for quick adjustments while performing. The FR-7 takes it a notch higher with its extensive customizable settings and user memory options, which can store a variety of configurations and preferences for different playing situations.

A standout feature of the FR-7 is its capability for MIDI connectivity, enabling musicians to connect to computers and other digital devices. This opens up a world of possibilities for recording and live performance setups, allowing users to integrate their accordion with software instruments and digital audio workstations.

In terms of playability, the FR-5 and FR-7 offer responsive keyboard action and a range of registers that mimic the sound of traditional accordions. The bellows response is finely tuned, ensuring that players can achieve dynamic expression through their playing style.

Overall, the Roland FR-5 and FR-7 digital accordions represent a perfect blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, catering to both hobbyists and professional musicians. With their exceptional sound, lightweight design, and cutting-edge features, these instruments are redefining the possibilities of accordion music in contemporary settings. Whether one is performing on stage or practicing at home, the FR-5 and FR-7 deliver an unparalleled playing experience that inspires creativity and passion for music.