Features | Roland FR-7, FR-5 instruction

FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion

Features Features

1. Features

Stand-alone electronic instrument

Though the FR-7/FR-5 is a fully electronic instru- ment, you do not need to connect the FR-7 to an amplifier in order to produce sounds. Its onboard amplification system is powerful enough for small venues, restaurants, etc. (The FR-5 has no internal amplification.)

Furthermore, the FR-7 comes with a rechargeable battery (Ni-Mh) so that you do not need to connect it to a wall outlet. The battery should last ±8 hours. (The battery is available as an optional item for the FR-5.)

Sophisticated MIDI control

The FR-7/FR-5 is the most versatile and “musical” MIDI controller to date, going far beyond the control possibilities of a MIDI keyboard with optional perfor- mance functions or of MIDIfied wind instruments. The piano-style Treble keyboard even transmits after- touch messages.

PBM (Physical Behavior Modeling)

The FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion is based on Roland’s lat- est sound generation technology called “PBM” (Phys- ical Behavior Modeling) whose sonic result is very close to the sound of traditional accordions.

Super realistic accordion simulations

The FR-7/FR-5 provides 40 memories called “Sets”, with 14 treble registers, 7 bass & chord registers and 7 free bass registers each. All sounds it produces were obtained by sampling the most popular traditional acoustic accordions. Different tuning systems are also available.

This V-Accordion allows you to switch from an Italian jazz accordion to German folk, French musette or a historic bandoneon sound – without changing your technique.

Orchestral sounds

		22 orchestral sounds can be used in combination
		with traditional accordion sounds – complete with
		full bellows articulation and unique keyboard modes
		(Solo, Dual, High and Low as well as “M” variants of
		these modes).
		In addition, the FR-7/FR-5 provides 7 orchestral bass
	r	sounds for the Bass section, 7 orchestral sounds for
		the chord buttons, and 7 orchestral sounds for the
		Free Bass section that can be added to the Bass
		Free Bass section that can be added to the Bass
		accordion sound.

The digital advantage

The V-Accordion includes all functions and sounds of a traditional accordion, thus conveying a really natu- ral feel and sound. Yet it also provides the advan- tages only an electronic musical instrument can give you:

•reduced overall weight;

•possibility to choose among a wide variety of sounds;

•you can create and customize the accordion timbres (program your own sounds);

•you can choose among various bass button operation modes (Minor 3rd Free Bass, 5th, Bayan, North Europe, Finnish);

•tuning stability over time and wear resistance of all mechanical parts;

•you can sound in a different key than the one you are playing in (transpose function);

•you can play with headphones, i.e. without disturbing your neighbors or family.

Superb performance flexibility

The V-Accordion allows you to control external MIDI- compatible instruments. The Treble keyboard and chord/bass buttons are velocity-sensitive, while the bellows controller provides more articulation possi- bilities than any other MIDI keyboard, MIDI wind instrument, etc., you may know.

In High or Low mode (see p. 26), you can control up to 4 parts simultaneously (two sounds in the right hand/two sounds in the left).

•All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

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.