Roland owner manual Sections of your FR-7/FR-5, FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion Setting up First steps

Models: FR-7 FR-5

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FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion

Setting up First steps

First steps

The sections of your FR-7/FR-5

Before showing you how to use the FR-7/FR-5, let’s briefly look at the various “sections” of your instrument, as that will help you understand how your V-Accordion works.

The FR-7/FR-5 is a “virtual” accordion. That term was borrowed from synthesizers that recreate the sounds of other synthesizers using a different technology (hence the term “virtual analog syn- thesizer”, for example).

The FR-7/FR-5 recreates the sounds of various accordion instru- ments (the “virtual” part) and can even generate orchestral sounds, like trumpet, flute, etc. (the synthesizer part).

The sections outlined in the illustration to the right contain several functions you can set. Let us agree to call those functions “parame- ters”.

Master bar

Treble section

Bass,

Orchestra Bass,

Orchestra Chord,

Free Bass,

Orchestra Free

Bass section

Registers of the bass, chord and orches- tral bass/chord sections

The parameters allow you to change certain aspects of the FR-7/FR-5’s sound: you can select a French musette, an Italian accordion, etc., specify how strongly the virtual reeds should be detuned, add digital effects and more. Each section has its own parameters, so that you can fine-tune your sounds until you really like the entire accordion sound. You can save your settings and select them each time you want to play a given piece. There is thus no need to set the parameters time and again.

The various sections are combined into “Sets”. Why is that? Because that way, you only need to select one memory (the Set) in order to save and recall the set- tings of all sections.

Set 40

 

 

Set 3

 

 

 

COMMON

 

Set 2

 

 

 

 

Set 1

 

 

 

Reverb

 

 

 

 

Chorus

 

 

 

 

 

Delay

 

 

 

 

 

Name

 

 

 

 

 

Icon

 

 

 

 

 

Master Bar

 

 

 

 

 

Treble

Bass

Free Bass

Orch. Chord

Orch. Bass

Orchestral

1~14

1~7

1~7

1~7

1~7

1~22

If you are really into programming, however, you could also assign completely different instruments to each register, in which case a Set becomes a container (the aforesaid car trunk) for a variety of accordion sounds.

One possibility: each Treble reg-

Treble 14:

ister represents a different

Cajun

instrument.

 

Treble 2:

The same system also applies

to the Bass, Free Bass, Orches-

Italian

tra Bass, Orchestra Free Bass,

Treble 1:

Orchestra Chord, and Orches-

Bandoneon

tra section.

 

Another advantage of the Set structure is that it allows you to reconfigure the three digital effects processors (Reverb, Chorus, Delay) whose settings always apply to all sections.

Oh and… the Sets can be selected with the SET [√][®] buttons on the FR-7/FR-5 and the SET ([1], [2]) foot- switches on the FBC-7 (if it is connected to the FR-7/ FR-5).

r

There are 40 Set memories that already contain useful settings right out of the box. But you can replace them with your own settings. (And if 40 Sets are not enough, you can archive and load new sets via MIDI, see page 89).

Sets are like the trunk of a car that contains several instruments (bandoneon, musette, etc.). The instru- ments themselves can be recalled via the registers.

There are 14 Treble memories, 7 Bass, Free Bass, Orches- tra Chord, Orchestra Free Bass, and Orchestra Bass reg- isters, and 22 Orchestra registers per Set. Except for the orchestral sounds, the registers can behave like on an acoustic accordion, i.e. they allow you to change the footage combinations.

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Roland owner manual Sections of your FR-7/FR-5, FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion Setting up First steps

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.