Roland FR-2, FR-2b User Manual

Owner’s Manual
WARNING
– To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this device to rain or moisture.
For EU Countries
This product complies with the requirements of European Directive EMC 89/336/EEC. Dieses Produkt entspricht der europäischen Richtlinie EMC 89/336/EEC. Ce produit est conforme aux exigences de la directive européenne EMC 89/336/EEC. Questo prodotto è conforme alle esigenze della direttiva europea EMC 89/336/EEC. Este producto cumple con la directrice EMC 89/336/EEC de la CE. Dit product beantwoordt aan de richtlijn EMC 89/336/EEC van de Europese Unie.
For the USA
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. – Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. – Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. – Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Unauthorized changes or modification to this system can void the users authority to operate this equipment. This equipment requires shielded interface cables in order to meet FCC class B Limit.
For Canada
NOTICE
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.
AVIS
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.
For the U.K.
IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.
BLUE: BROWN:
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows: The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK. The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED. Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.
Thank you for purchasing the Roland FR-2/FR-2b V-Accordion. The FR-2/FR-2b is an amazingly versatile electronic instrument that can emulate the sounds of a vast array of accordions. The major advantage of the FR-2/FR-2b is that it allows you to change sounds without changing instruments. Apart from the financial benefit (the FR-2/ FR-2b costs only a fraction of all emulated originals), this also means that you can use your familiar playing style and techniques while covering a host of different musical genres.
Before using this instrument, carefully read the “Important notes” (p. 5). They provide information concerning the proper operation of the FR-2/FR-2b. Be sure to keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
NEUTRAL LIVE
This manual applies to two instruments: FR-2 (the keyboard version) FR-2b (the button version)
This product must be disposed of separately at your local waste recycling centre. Do not dispose of in household waste bin.
The technology used in the FR-2 and FR-2b is covered by U.S. Patent No. 6.946.594.
Copyright ©2007 ROLAND EUROPE. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of Roland Europe S.p.a.
1. Features
•All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or reg­istered trademarks of their respective owners.
V-Accordion
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Features

PBM (Physical Behavior Modeling)

The FR-2/FR-2b V-Accordion is based on Roland’s sound gen­eration technology called “PBM” (Physical Behavior Model­ing) whose sonic result is very close to the sound of tradi­tional accordions.

Super realistic accordion simulations

The FR-2/FR-2b provides 8 memories called “Sets”, with 10 treble registers and 5 bass & chord registers. All sounds it produces were obtained by sampling popular traditional acoustic accordions. Different tuning systems are also avail­able.

Orchestral sounds

6 orchestral sounds are available for use instead of the tradi­tional accordion sounds. The FR-2/FR-2b also provides 5 orchestral bass and chord sounds for the Bass and Chord sec­tions.

The digital advantage

The V-Accordion includes all functions and sounds of a tradi­tional accordion, thus conveying a truly natural feel and sound. Yet it also provides the advantages only an electronic musical instrument can give you:
•reduced overall weight;
• possibility to choose among a wide variety of sounds;
•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 possibilities than any other MIDI key­board, MIDI wind instrument, etc., you may know.

Useful accessory

The FR-2/FR-2b has a compartment for optional AA-type batteries. Consider purchasing such batteries (you will need
8) when performing on stage.
Contents
1. Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
2. Important notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3. Panel descriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Treble control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Bass control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Connection panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Personalizing your FR-2/FR-2b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
4. Setting up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Switching the power on and off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Listening to the demo songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Touring the FR-2/FR-2b’s sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Using the orchestral sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5. Other practical functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Switching off sections you don’t need . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Using the metronome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Pitch-related functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Song function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
PAD function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
6. Editing FUNCTION settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Selecting the desired function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
7. MIDI parameters (FUNCTION group). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
MIDI parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
8. Saving your settings (User Program) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
9. Changing your accordion’s behavior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Treble Mode (only on the FR-2b) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Bass & Chord Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
10. Restoring the factory defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
11. Using optional batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
12. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
13. Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Demo Songs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
MIDI Program change messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
MIDI Implementation Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3
FR-2/FR-2b
Features
Using the unit safely
V-Accordion
Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.
Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly.
* Material damage refers to damage or
other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.
• Before using this instrument, read the instructions below and the Owner’s Manual.
• Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC adaptor.
• Do not attempt to repair the FR-2/FR-2b or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions direct­ing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
• Never use or store the FR-2/FR-2b in places that are:
• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct sunlight in an
enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generat­ing equipment); or are
• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors); or are
• Humid; or are
• Exposed to rain; or are
• Dusty; or are
• Subject to high levels of vibration.
•When not in use, do not place the FR-2b or FR-2 vertically due to instability. If placed in the vertical position on the floor/stage, ensure that it leans against a stable vertical surface e.g. a wall or a heavy musical instrument.
• The FR-2/FR-2b’s adaptor should only be connected to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the adaptor’s label.
• Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor's body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.
The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.
The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled.
The ● symbol alerts the user to things that must be carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the power­cord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.
• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the FR-2/ FR-2b.
• Batteries must never be recharged (one-way batteries), heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or water.
•In households with small children, an adult should provide super­vision until the child is capable of following all rules essential for the safe operation of the FR-2/FR-2b.
• Protect the FR-2/FR-2b from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)
•Immediately turn the power off, remove the adaptor from the outlet and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page when:
• The adaptor’s cord or the plug has been damaged; or
• Objects have fallen into or liquid has been spilled onto the FR-2/FR-2b;
or
• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise has become wet); or
• The unit does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked
change in performance.
• Do not force the adaptor to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using exten­sion cords—the total power used by all devices you have con­nected to the extension cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.
• Before using the FR-2/FR-2b in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.
• Do not excessively twist or bend the adaptor cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!
• Use only the attached power-supply cord. Also, the supplied power cord must not be used with any other device.
• This instrument, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the FR-2/FR-2b and consult an audiol­ogist.
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• The FR-2/FR-2b should be located so that its location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
................................................................................................................................................
•Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply cord when plug­ging into or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
• At regular intervals, you should unplug the AC adaptor and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all dust and other accumulations away from its prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the power outlet whenever the FR-2/FR-2b is to remain unused for an extended period of time. Any accumulation of dust between the power plug and the power outlet can result in poor insulation and lead to fire.
................................................................................................................................................
V-Accordion
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Power supply

• If used improperly, batteries may explode or leak and cause dam­age or injury. In the interest of safety, please read and observe the following precautions.
• Carefully follow the installation instructions for batteries, and make
sure you observe the correct polarity.
• Avoid using new batteries together with used ones. In addition, avoid
mixing different types of batteries.
• Remove the batteries whenever the unit is to remain unused for an
extended period of time.
• Used batteries must be disposed of in compliance with whatever regulations for their safe disposal that may be observed in the region in which you live.
• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed out of the reach of chil­dren.
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the FR-2/ FR-2b.
• Never handle the adaptor or its plugs with wet hands when plug­ging into or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
• If you need to move the FR-2/FR-2b, take note of the precautions listed below. Make sure to have a firm grip, to protect yourself from injury and the instrument from damage.
•Disconnect the adaptor.
•Disconnect all cords coming from external devices.
• Before cleaning the FR-2/FR-2b, turn off the power and unplug the adaptor from the outlet.
•Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the adaptor from the outlet.
• Should you remove screws, make sure to put them in a safe place out of children’s reach, so there is no chance of them being swal­lowed accidentally.
2. Important notes
In addition to the items listed under “Using the unit safely” on p. 4, please read and observe the following:
Power supply
• Do not connect the FR-2/FR-2b to same electrical outlet that is being used by an electrical appliance that is controlled by an inverter (such as a refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, or air conditioner), or that contains a motor. Depending on the way in which the electrical appliance is used, power supply noise may cause this unit to malfunction or may produce audible noise. If it is not practical to use a separate elec­trical outlet, connect a power supply noise filter between this unit and the electrical outlet.
• Do not use this instrument on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system).
• Before connecting the FR-2/FR-2b to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.
• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecu­tive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.
•Although the LEDs are dark when the POWER switch is off, this does not mean that the unit has been completely disconnected from the power source. To turn off the power completely, first turn off the power switch (VOLUME knob), then unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. For this reason, the outlet to which you connect the power cord’s plug should be one that is within easy reach.

Placement

• Using the FR-2/FR-2b near power amplifiers (or other equipment con­taining large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the prob­lem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference.
• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use the FR-2/FR-2b in the vicinity of such receivers.
• Do not place the FR-2/FR-2b near devices that produce a strong magnetic field (e.g., loudspeakers).
• Install the FR-2/FR-2b on a solid, level surface.
• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call or while conversing. Should you experi­ence such problems, relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit or switch them off.
• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radi­ate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Also, do not allow lighting devices that are nor­mally placed very close to the unit (such as a piano light), or powerful spotlights to shine upon the same area of the unit for extended periods of time. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.
• To avoid possible breakdown, do not use the unit in a wet area, such as an area exposed to rain or other moisture.
• Do not allow rubber, vinyl or similar materials to remain on the instru­ment for long periods of time. Such objects can discolor or otherwise harmfully affect the finish.
• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g., flower vases) on the instru­ment. Also, avoid the use of insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.
• Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard or buttons. This can be the cause of malfunction, such as keys or buttons ceasing to pro­duce sound.
• Do not paste stickers, decals or the like on this instrument. Peeling these off, particularly when strong adhesives have been used, can damage the instrument’s exterior finish (the stickers provided with this instrument feature a weak adhesive).

Maintenance

• For everyday cleaning wipe the FR-2/FR-2b with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the instru­ment thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.
• Never use benzene, thinner, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Repairs and data

•Please be aware that all data contained in the instrument’s memory may be lost when it is sent for repairs. In certain cases (such as when circuitry related to memory itself is out of order), we regret that it may not be pos­sible to restore the data. Roland assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

Additional precautions

•When moved from one location to another where the temperature and/ or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation) may form inside the FR-2/FR-2b. Damage or malfunction may result if you attempt to use the FR-2/FR-2b in this condition. Therefore, before using the FR-2/ FR-2b, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until the condensa­tion has completely evaporated.
•Please be aware that the memory contents can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction or the improper operation of the instrument.
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the instrument’s buttons, other controls and jacks/connectors. Rough handling can lead to mal­functions.
5
FR-2/FR-2b
Features
V-Accordion
•When connecting/disconnecting cables, grasp the connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts or damage to the cable’s internal elements.
•A small amount of heat will radiate from the instrument during normal operation. This is perfectly normal.
• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the instrument’s volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially late at night).
•When you need to transport the instrument, package it in the box (including padding) that it came in. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials or a flightcase.
• Use Roland cables to make audio connections. If using some other make of connection cable, please note the following precautions. Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorpo­rate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.

Precautions for optional batteries

• The temperature range for use of the batteries depends on the battery type being used. Please see the documentation that came with the bat­teries.
• Do not use or store batteries at high temperature, such as in strong direct sunlight, in cars during hot weather or directly in front of heaters. This may cause battery fluid leakage, impaired performance and shorten the batteries’ service life.
• Do not splash fresh or saltwater on a battery or allow the terminals to become damp. This may cause heat generation and formation of rust on the battery and its terminals.
•If newly purchased batteries exhibit rust, generate heat or seem abnormal in any other way, do not use them. Take them back to your dealer.
• Keep the batteries out of reach of babies or small children.
• Be sure to carefully instruct any person on the proper way of handling a battery.
• Never dispose of the battery in a fire. Never heat it. Doing so may melt the insulation, damage the gas release vents or protective devices, cause combustion through chemical reaction with generated hydrogen, ejec­tion of battery fluid, bursting or fire.
• Do not use batteries with the positive (+) and negative (–) terminals reversed, as this may drain the batteries or cause abnormal chemical reactions.
• Do no strike or drop the batteries. Strong impact can cause leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
• Never try to connect several batteries in parallel as this may cause leak­age of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
• Do not alter or remove protective mechanisms or other parts. Never dis­assemble the batteries.
•If any fluid from a battery comes in contact with the eyes, flush the eyes immediately, washing them thoroughly with clean water from a tap or other source and consult a doctor. Strong alkaline fluid can damage the eyes and lead to permanent loss of eyesight.
•If skin or clothing comes in contact with any fluid from the battery, wash the area immediately with clean water from a tap. Battery fluid can cause skin damage.
•When a battery is no longer usable, dispose of it in accordance with all applicable local laws and regulations.
•If a battery leaks fluid, changes color or shape or changes in any other way, do not use it, otherwise it may cause heat generation, bursting or fire.
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Battery handling

•Incorrect handling of batteries, rechargeable batteries, or a battery charger can cause leakage, overheating, fire, or explosion. Before use, you must read and strictly observe all of the precautions that accompany the batteries, rechargeable batteries, or battery charger. When using rechargeable batteries and a charger, use only the combination of rechargeable batteries and charger specified by the battery manufacturer.

Strap holder precaution

• Never unscrew the strap holder rings to avoid damaging the FR-2/FR-2b’s plastic housing, which eventually compromises overall stability and safety.
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3. Panel descriptions

Treble control panel

A
V-Accordion

Panel descriptions

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BCD
A
VOLUME knob
This knob allows you to set the V-Accordion’s overall vol­ume. Turn it all the way to the left (“POWER OFF”) to switch the FR-2/FR-2b off. Turn it towards the right to switch it on.
B
ORCH BASS button
This button is used to switch the ORCHESTRAL BASS sec­tion on and off.
C
LEFT REGISTER button
This button is used to assign the 5 Bass registers to the BASS (light off) or CHORD section (light on). See page 13 for details.
D
ORCH CHORD button
This button is used to switch the ORCHESTRAL CHORD sec­tion on and off.
E
FUNCTION/SET register
This register has three functions: after pressing lights blue), you can use the Treble registers to select one of the following Sets: The Sets have been programmed at the factory and cannot be changed.
1 CLASSIC 5 F FOLK
2 JAZZ 6 SP FOLK
3I FOLK 7 BANDONEON
4D FOLK 8 ALPINE
By pressing and holding to “hidden” parameters and MIDI functions.
Press it together with register
[FUNCTION÷SET]
[1]
or
[2]
to change octaves.
[SET]
, you gain access
(it
GHI JEF
When you select follows. This is not printed on the front panel, so please refer to the table below:
1a Bassoon 4a Mr Gus
1b Jazzy 4b Sw Valse
2a Arnold 5a SOS Muset
2b Beguine 5b Av Muset
3a 4 Voix
3b 4 Voix SW
F
Treble registers (1~8)
The Treble section provides the following 5 switches (“reg­isters”) that allow you to select various accordion footages.
1a Bassoon 4a Musette
1b Bandon 4b Celeste
2a Clarinet 5a Piccolo
2b Oboe 5b Organ
3a Master
Set 5, “F FOLK”
Treble registers (Set 5)
Treble registers
, the footages change as
3b Harmon
Each register When you select an accordion registration, the corre­sponding register lights green.
Registers tral sounds (various musical instruments that are not related to the accordion):
[1]~[5]
allows you to select two registrations.
[6]~[8]
can be used to select the following orches-
6a Violin 8a Flute
6b Strings 8b Organ
7a Sax
7b Clarinet
7
FR-2/FR-2b
Panel descriptions
V-Accordion
Each register you select an orchestral sound, the corresponding register lights yellow.
G
PAD/DEFAULT button
This button is used to switch the PAD function (see p. 16) on and off. While FUNCTION mode is active (see p. 18), this button allows you to recall the factory setting for the selected parameter.
H
USER PROG/DEC and METRONOME/INC buttons
The
[USER¥PROG]
the FR-2/FR-2b’s memory function (see p. 22). In FUNC­TION mode, this button is used to decrease the value of the selected parameter.
[6]~[8]
allows you to select two sounds. When
button allows you to activate/switch off

Bass control panel

K
The
[METRONOME]
FR-2b’s metronome on and off (see p. 14). In FUNCTION mode, this button is used to increase the value of the selected parameter.
I
REC/LOOP button
This button is used to record a short drum/percussion phrase and to play it back repeatedly (see p. 17).
J
SONG/DEMO button
This button allows you to switch to SONG mode where you can practice your left- or right-hand playing using one of the 16 internal songs (the FR-2/FR-2b plays the part of the other hand). See page 15.
Press and hold this button to listen to the FR-2/FR-2b’s demo songs.
button is used to switch the FR-2/
K
Bass registers (lower row) and pads (upper row)
The lower switches allow you to select the desired bass mix (and chord). They include the following accordion foot­ages:
Bass registers
12
24
3 16’/8’/8-4’/4’/2’
48’/4’/2’
5 16’/2’
Note:
Each register is assigned to only one registration or sound
(unlike the treble registers).
The FR-2/FR-2b allows you to play:
•accordion chord and bass sounds (like on an acoustic accordion);
•accordion bass lines with orchestral chords (but no accor­dion chords);
•accordion chord parts with orchestral bass notes (but no accordion bass notes). That explains why the bass registers’ assignments some­times depend on the status of the See p. 12 for details.
The bass registers are also used to select orchestral sounds for the Bass or Chord section.
The row closest to the bellows can be used to play drum and percussion sounds (PAD function, see p. 16).
[LEFT¥REGISTER]
Pads (press)
Registers (press and pull down)
button.
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Connection panel
V-Accordion
Bass control panel
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L
L
DC IN socket
This is where you can connect the supplied power adaptor (PSB-1U). Note that you can also purchase 8 optional batteries and use the FR-2/FR-2b without the adaptor.
M
MIDI OUT/IN socket
This socket can be used to receive or transmit MIDI data. Its function depends on the setting of the “MIDI Out/In” parameter (see p. 21).
Note: After selecting the “MIDI IN” setting, you will hear noth­ing when you play on the FR-2/FR-2b’s keyboards: it will only respond to MIDI messages received from an external device.
N
OUTPUT L/MONO (TREBLE) & R/MONO (BASS) sockets
These sockets can be connected to an amplifier, a mixing console or a wireless system. If you use both connectors, the FR-2/FR-2b’s output is stereo. In that case the signal of the Treble section is transmitted to the L/MONO socket, while the R/MONO socket trans-
M
N
mits the bass (and chord) signal. If you only use one jack (connected to the “L” or “R” socket), the FR-2/ FR-2b’s output is mono.
O
PHONES socket
This is where you can connect stereo headphones (Roland RH-A30, RH-200s or RH-300). Doing so does not mute the OUTPUT sockets.
Important remark
After connecting any cable to the FR-2/FR-2b, be sure to never place it on the side when not using it.
•Always stand the V-Accordion on its rubber feet (and in the corresponding direction) to avoid damaging the plugs.
•Always handle and move the FR-2/FR-2b with care and pay special attention to the cable slack to avoid damag­ing or bending the cables.
• If you place the FR-2/FR-2b on your lap, ensure that the audio and adaptor cables run between your legs (not sideways) to avoid damaging or bending the cables.
O
Personalizing your FR-2/FR-2b
The artwork you see behind the treble registers (above the Roland logo) can be replaced either with one of the six sheets supplied with the FR-2/FR-2b or with a graphic you create yourself. To do so, proceed as follows:
(1) Use a coin to loosen the two screws holding the
“traforo” cover:
Be careful not to turn the screws too far—they should remain in the traforo cover.
(2) After loosening both screws, you can open the
traforo cover:
Note: Be careful not to scratch the housing of your FR-2/ FR-2b.
(3) Remove the sheet from underneath the traforo
cover and insert another one.
You can either insert one of the supplied sheets or create your own artwork. If you prefer to create your own, pay attention to the following:
• You can use your color printer and a graphic program
to create your own artwork.
• Be sure to use paper or rather thin media—cardboard
is usually too thick.
•For a professional look, be sure to prepare a sheet
with the following dimensions: 364mm (L) x 92.9mm (H).
(4) Secure the traforo cover by tightening the two
screws using a coin.
9
FR-2/FR-2b V-Accordion

Setting up

4. Setting up

Connections

The FR-2/FR-2b has a compartment for 8 optional AA-type batteries. Consider purchasing such batteries when performing on stage.

Using the OUTPUT sockets

The FR-2/FR-2b needs to be connected to an amplification system. If you are using optional batteries and need to connect the FR-2/FR-2b to a PA system or mixer, we recommend using a wireless system to avoid having to use excessively long signal cables.
You can also use a pair of headphones (Roland RH-30A, RH-200, RH-200S or RH-300).
Note: To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.
To a wall outlet
Switching the power on and off
The power-on procedure depends on whether or not you are using optional batteries.
Note: If you decide to use rechargeable AA batteries, be aware that they cannot be recharged simply by leaving them in the FR-2/FR-2b’s com­partment and connecting the adaptor. You will need an external charg­ing unit.
Note: Once the connections have been completed, turn on the power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

If you are using the supplied adaptor

(1) Connect the supplied
adaptor to the FR-2/ FR-2b’s DC IN socket.
(2) Connect the adaptor to
a wall outlet that meets the specifications (see p. 28).
OUTPUT
L/MONO + R/MONO
Use either a long signal cable (10m or more) or an optional wireless system (recommended).
You can also simply switch it off.
(4) Connect the FR-2/FR-2b’s OUTPUT sockets to the exter-
nal audio device (amplifier, mixing console, etc.).
(5) Turn the FR-2/FR-2b’s [VOLUME] knob A from the
“POWER OFF” position towards the right. (6) Switch on the receiving audio device. (7) Start playing.
Note: This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval
(a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will oper-
ate normally.
—To switch off you system—
(8) Turn down the output volume of the receiving audio
device or switch it off. (9) Turn the FR-2/FR-2b’s [VOLUME] knob A all the way to
the left (“POWER OFF”).
INPUT
L + R
To a wall outlet
The adaptor should only be connected to a power source of the type marked on its label. For details on the power consumption, please refer
to page 28.
(3) Turn down the output volume of the receiving audio
device.
r
10

If you are using batteries

The FR-2b needs to be connected to an amplification system of some sort (unless you want to use headphones).
(1) Install the required batteries into the FR-2/FR-2b’s com-
partment (see p. 27). (2) Turn down the output volume of the receiving audio
device.
You can also simply switch it off.
(3) Connect the FR-2/FR-2b’s OUTPUT sockets to the exter-
nal audio device using two 1/4” guitar cables.
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