FR-7/FR-5V-Accordion

Editing sounds 2. TREBLE EDIT parameters

2.7 Bellows Detune

(Off, Low, Standard, High, Default setting: Standard) This parameter further adds to the realism of the sounds emulated by your FR-7/FR-5. Here, you

can specify how strongly the pitch of the simulated Treble reed(s) changes when you open or close the bel- lows faster than usual.

If the “Standard” setting seems too mild, try “High”. If it is too strong, use “Low”. If you don’t want any detuning effect, select “Off”. The most convincing setting usually depends on the selected instrument(s) (see “2.1 Reed Type”).

2.8Reverb Send, 2.9 Chorus Send,

2.10Delay Send

(0~127 for all three) Use these parameters to set the Reverb, Chorus or Delay send level (how much effect should be applied to the Treble sec- tion). The higher the value you set, the more the Treble section is pro- cessed by the effect in question.

It works much the same way as a cathedral: the louder you sing, the more reverb (chorus or delay) you

hear. In the case of the cathedral, singing louder means that you increase the effect send level, i.e. the level of the signal (your voice) that will be processed by the acoustic environment.

The other sections (Bass, Free Bass, etc.) have the same parameters, so that you can create a sound image with various “levels” (foreground, background).

The effects themselves can be edited on separate pages (see p. 64).

2.11 Aftertouch Pitch

(Off, 1/4 Down, 1/2 Down, 1/4 Up, 1/2 Up, Default setting: Off) As stated earlier, the FR-7/ FR-5’s Treble keyboard also gen- erates aftertouch messages.

“Aftertouch” refers to the fact that you press a key even further down after playing a note. This effect allows you to bend the pitch down (temporarily lower the note) by a quarter (“1/4 Down”) or a semi-tone (“1/2 Down”). Select “1/4 Up” or “1/2 Up” to bend the notes up a quarter or a semi-tone. Select “Off” to switch off the Treble section’s aftertouch recognition.

r

Note: This aftertouch effect applies to all notes that are sound-

ing simultaneously. If you play a chord and then only press down

 

 

one key of the chord’s constituent notes, all notes are bent by the

 

same amount. (MIDI buffs call this “channel aftertouch”.)

2.12 Bass Link

Here are two parameters that allow you specify which Bass and/or Orchestra Bass register/ sound are selected whenever you press the Treble register you

are currently editing. That way, you only need to press one register instead of at least two (one Treble, one Bass). There are other parameters that allow you to associate a Treble Orchestra and/or Chord/Free Bass Orchestra sounds with the currently selected accordion register (see below).

The options for the parameters on this page are:

BASS: No Link, Bass 1~7, Free 1~7 (This selection also influences the options for the “2.14 Orchestra Chord Link” parameter.)

ORC.BASS: No Link, Acoustic, Bowed, Fingered, Fret- less, Picked, Tuba, Tuba Mix

If you define a “Free” register, the Bass section auto- matically switches to Free Bass mode when you press the Treble register while the Bass Link function is active. (If you define a “Bass” register, the Bass sec- tion switches from Free Bass to Bass mode at that time, if necessary.)

If you also define an ORC.BASS sound (other than “No Link”), the Bass section automatically activates the Orchestra Bass part when you press the Treble register while the Bass Link function is active.

Select “No Link” if there should be no connection between the currently selected Treble register and the Bass or Orchestra Bass section.

Note that this automatic link is not activated when you define it on this page – it is merely enabled and “pre-set”. To activate the Bass Link function, press and hold down the [ORCHESTRA] register and press

[9]:

Note: Simply activating the link does nothing at all (i.e. the Bass/Free Bass/Orchestra Bass/Orchestra Chord/Orchestra Free Bass register does not change right away). You need to select another Treble register whose Bass Link function is on for the link to work.

Repeat this procedure to defeat the Bass Link func- tion if you no longer need it.

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Roland FR-7, FR-5 owner manual Bellows Detune, Reverb Send, 2.9 Chorus Send Delay Send, Aftertouch Pitch, Bass Link

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.