V-Accordion r

Using the orchestral sounds

Using the orchestral sounds

Your FR-7/FR-5 also contains PCM sounds (samples) of various instruments that are not related to accordion sounds. Those sounds allow you to expand your musical endeavours without using external MIDI devices. Of course, you are free to add external MIDI tone generators to your setup and to control them from your FR-7/FR-5. See page 79 for details. Let us first look at how to use the on-board orchestral sounds, however.

The FR-7/FR-5’s Orchestra functionality actually com-

(2) Press one of the registers to select the desired

prises four sections: one for the Treble keyboard (called

orchestral sound (see the names below the Treble

“Orchestra”) and three for the Bass buttons (called

registers).

“Orchestra Bass/Orchestra Chord/Orchestra Free Bass”).

This activates the Orchestra part. The display now

You can specify for each keyboard whether the orches-

changes (the sound name may be different on your

tral sounds should be used alongside the accordion

instrument):

sounds (so that each note or chord you play results in a

 

 

 

 

 

 

combination of accordion + instrument sound) or in

 

 

 

isolation (no accordion).

 

 

 

Orchestral sounds for the Treble section

Note: Only one orchestral sound can be selected at any one time.

(1) Press the [ORCHESTRA] register.

The display now responds with:

The arrow moves from the TREBLE to the ORCH line. By pressing a register, you therefore select an orches- tral sound.

Let us quickly analyze the information you get on this page:

•“SOLO” means that the mode of the same name is currently selected (there are four different modes, see below).

•“CANCEL” means that the Orchestra part is not active. When you play on the Treble keyboard, you only hear the Treble accordion sound.

To activate the Orchestra part at this stage, you need to select a sound (see below).

•The TREBLE field contains a keyboard icon. It means that the Treble keyboard is assigned to the Treble accordion part. The ORCH field, on the other hand, contains no keyboard icon, which confirms the “CAN- CEL” message.

•The sound name (“Celeste”) refers to the register that was selected for the TREBLE section’s accordion part.

Compare the information discussed above with what you see now:

•A sound name is displayed next to the ORCH field (“Ac Guitar”). That’s the sound you’ll hear when you play on the Treble keyboard.

•The keyboard icon has moved from the TREBLE to the ORCH field.

The 22 available orchestral sounds and associated registers are:

Orchestral Treble sounds

1A

Trombone

7A

HighLand*

1B

Trumpet

7B

Zampogna*

 

 

 

 

2A

Tenor Sax

8A

PercOrgan

 

 

 

 

2B

Alto Sax

8B

JazzOrgan

 

 

 

 

3A

Clarinet

9A

RotOrgan

 

 

 

 

3B

Oboe

9B

TremOrg

 

 

 

 

4A

Harmonica

10

ScatVoice

 

 

 

 

4B

Mute Harm

11

Mandolin

 

 

 

 

5A

Violin

12

AcGuitar

 

 

 

 

5B

Pizzicato

13

AcPiano

 

 

 

 

6A

Flute

 

 

 

 

 

 

6B

Pan Flute

 

 

 

 

 

 

[*]See “About the ‘HighLand’ and ‘Zampogna’ sounds” on p. 26.

The first nine registers allow you to select two sounds (“A” and “B”). To select a “B” sound, press the corre- sponding register again.

If you select a “B” sound (5B “Pizzicato”, for example), then press another register (12 “AcGuitar”), and again the previous register (5), the FR-7/FR-5 automatically recalls the “B” sound (“Pizzicato”). This “configura- tion” is retained until you switch the FR-7/FR-5 off. If you need the 5A “Violin” sound at this stage, press register [5] once more.

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Roland FR-5, FR-7 owner manual Using the orchestral sounds, Orchestral sounds for the Treble section
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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.
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