FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion

About the FBC-7 About the FBC-7

5. About the FBC-7

Your FR-7/FR-5 comes with an FBC-7 footswitch unit that doubles as power supply for your V-Accordion and also allows you to recharge a battery. If you purchased an FR-5, you must connect it to the FBC-7 (or purchase an optional battery). FR-7 users, on the other hand, can also play their instrument without connecting it to the FBC-7.

Using the FBC-7

When do you need the FBC-7?

If you own an FR-5 and did not purchase an optional battery, you always need the FBC-7.

If you want to select registers and Sets using the SET and REGISTER footswitches.

If you want to use the SUSTAIN footswitch and possi- bly also an optional expression pedal.

If you want to take advantage of the FR-7/FR-5’s MIDI functionality. This may include starting and stopping an external arranger module, selecting oth- ers Style divisions, etc.

If you do not own an optional wireless system and do not want to use excessively long audio cables that run from the FR-7/FR-5 to your amplifier or mixing console.

If you need to recharge the (optional) battery.

Connecting the FBC-7

See page 16 for how to connect the FR-7/FR-5 to the FBC-7, and the FBC-7 to a wall outlet that matches its voltage.

The 19-pin cable can only be connected in one way, so you can’t go wrong. Just be sure to align the protru- sions on the jack with the corresponding holes on the FBC-7’s and FR-7/FR-5’s socket:

Turn the ring to lock the jack and secure the connection

Using the footswitches

The FBC-7 has five footswitches that grant you even more flexibility:

Use the SET switches ([1] and [2]) to select Sets. The [1] switch allows you to select the preceding Set (e.g. Set 18 if you are currently using Set 19), while the [2] switch is used to select the next Set (e.g. 20 if you are currently using Set 19).

If you press [2] again after selecting Set 40, the FR-7/ FR-5 jumps to Set 1. Likewise, if you press [1] after selecting Set 1, the FR-7/FR-5 jumps to Set 40.

The REGISTER switches ([3] and [4]) allow you to select Treble registers [1]~[14]. They work the same way as the SET footswitches: [3] selects the preceding register, while [4] selects the next one. These footswitches are most effective when you combine them with the Link function (see p. 46), because that allows you to recon- figure the Bass/Free Bass and Orchestra sections simply by selecting another Treble register.

Holes

Protrusions

The SUSTAIN footswitch allows you to hold the notes of orchestral sounds if that section is on. It also trans- mits CC64 messages via MIDI. If you assign it to another section (page 68), it only transmits MIDI messages on the channel of the selected section (Treble, Bass, Orchestra Bass, Chord, Orchestra Chord, and/or Orches- tra Free Bass). Its main use is to generate legato notes for piano and similar sounds like on an acoustic or digi- tal piano. Notes whose keys are pressed when you press the footswitch will be held until you release the SUS- TAIN footswitch.

r

Connecting an optional expression pedal

You can also connect an optional EV-5 or EV-8 expres- sion pedal to the EXPRESSION PEDAL jack. That pedal applies to the Treble Orchestra part only (again for the piano, mandolin and guitar sounds; these, by the way, are the only sounds whose expression cannot be con- trolled via the bellows). It allows you to create swell effects in much the same way as an organ or guitar player does.

34

Page 34
Image 34
Roland FR-7, FR-5 owner manual About the FBC-7, Using the FBC-7, Connecting the FBC-7, Using the footswitches

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.