Roland FR-3XB WH, FR-3XB BK, FR-3X BK, FR-3X WH User Manual

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Owner’s Manual

WARNING

– To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this device to rain or moisture.

This product complies with the requirements of European Directive EMC 2004/108/EC.

For EU countries

For EU Countries

For the USA

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

For Canada

NOTICE

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations.

AVIS

For the UK

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.

NEUTRAL
LIVE

The technology used in the FR-3x is covered by U.S. Patent No. 6.946.594.

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Copyright © 2010 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.

Roland is either a registered trademark or a trademark of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

Owner’s Manual

ENGLISH ENGLISH

Introduction

Thank you and congratulations on your choice of the Roland FR-3x V-Accordion.
To ensure that you obtain the maximum enjoyment and take full advantage of the FR-3x’s functionality, please

read this owner’s manual carefully.

About this manual

You should first read the chapter “Before you start playing” (p. 15) of the owner’s manual. It explains how to connect
the AC adaptor or install batteries and turn on the power. This Owner’s Manual explains everything, from the FR-3x’s
basic operations to more advanced functions.

Conventions in this manual

In order to explain the operations as clearly as possible, this manual uses the following conventions:

•Text enclosed in square brackets [ ] indicates the name of a button or knob. Example: the [USER PROGRAM] button.

• Lines that begin with “ ” are cautionary statements that you must read.

•The numbers of pages that you can turn to for additional, related information are given like this: (p. **).

The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the display. Note,
however, that your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes newer sounds), so
what you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.

Before using this instrument, carefully read “Using the unit safely” (p. 7) and “Important notes” (p. 9). Those sections
provide information concerning the proper operation of the FR-3x. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you
have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, the manual should be read in its entirety. The
manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

NOTE

ENGLISH ENGLISH

FR-3x

V-Accordion

Contents

1. Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

2. Important notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

3. A first look at your FR-3x. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

4. Panel descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

5. Before you start playing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

6. Listening to the demo songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

7. Using Sets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

8. Selecting and playing sounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

9. Using the FR-3x’s audio player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

10. Highlighting some practical functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

11. Saving your settings (User Program). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

12. Data management via the FR-3x’s USB port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

The sections of your FR-3x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Bellows resistance regulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Treble control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Bass control panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Battery compartment and USB port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connection panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Getting ready to play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Installing and removing batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Connecting the FR-3x to an amplifier, mixer, etc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Attaching the straps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Securing the adapter and/or MIDI cable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Switching the power on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Using headphones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Adjusting the volume and balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Adjusting the chorus and reverb effects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

How to read the display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Selecting Sets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Treble section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Playing the bass part with your right hand (Bass-to-Treble) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Bass and chord section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Playing drum/percussion sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Playing only bass notes with your left hand (Free Bass mode). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Copying audio files to a USB memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Connecting an optional USB memory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Playing back audio files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Selecting audio files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Adjusting the playback level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Using the metronome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Changing the key of the keyboard (transpose) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Musette Detune. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Switching off the internal speakers (Speaker Mode) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Saving the current settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Recalling a User Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Editing a User Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Saving User Program memories to USB memory (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Loading User Program memories from USB memory (optional). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Loading User Set memories from USB memory (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Loading new sounds from a USB memory (optional) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Importing the settings of a previous FR-3 model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42

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V-Accordion

13. Other settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Important remark about saving your settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Selecting the desired parameter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

PARAM LIST parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

14. Connecting to MIDI devices. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Connecting an external MIDI device to the FR-3x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

MIDI parameter list. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Selecting the desired MIDI LIST parameter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

MIDI LIST parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Sending program change messages to external devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

15. Restoring the factory defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

16. Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

17. Error messages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

18. Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

19. Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Factory Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Demo Songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Ways in which the FR-3x displays alphabetic characters of file names . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

MIDI implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

MIDI Implementation Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

20. Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

21. Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

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FR-3x V-Accordion

Features

1. Features

Stand-alone electronic instrument

Though the FR-3x is a fully electronic instrument, you
do not need to connect it to an amplifier in order to
produce sounds. Its onboard amplification system is
powerful enough for small venues, restaurants, etc.

The FR-3x can also be powered using 10 commercially
available rechargeable Ni-MH batteries, so that you
don’t need to connect it to a wall outlet.

PBM (Physical Behavior Modeling)

The FR-3x 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

All sounds the FR-3x produces were obtained by sam­pling popular traditional acoustic accordions.

This V-Accordion allows you to switch from an Italian
jazz accordion to German folk, French musette or a his­toric bandoneon sound – without changing your tech­nique.

Different tuning systems are also available.

Orchestral sounds

10 orchestral sounds can be used in combination with
traditional accordion sounds – complete with full bel­lows articulation, and unique keyboard modes (Solo,
Dual, High and Low).

Tonewheel organ sounds

The FR-3x allows you to play amazing organ sounds in
almost the same way as an organ player using the tre­ble section. You can add a rotary effect (slow/fast).

USB-based audio player

The FR-3x contains an audio player function that allows
you to play back mp3 and WAV files directly from a
connected USB memory.

Save your settings to a USB memory

You can save your settings by connecting an optional
USB memory to the FR-3x’s USB port.

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;

• various selectable Free Bass modes (Minor 3rd, Bayan,
North Europe, Finnish);

•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 FR-3x 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.

Drum sounds

You can also use the FR-3x to play simple drum parts
with your left hand (bass and chord sections).

Sound expansion

The FR-3x provides two internal memories that allow
you to add new sounds.

Sophisticated bellows response

Faster response and higher sensitivity and precision
plus detection of bellows opening/closing with new
bellows pressure sensing circuitry.

A bellows resistance regulator knob allows you to
adjust the bellows’ inertia to your preference.

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•All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Using the unit safely

V-Accordion

Using the unit safely

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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.

• Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC
adaptor.

...................................................................................................................................

• Do not attempt to repair the unit, 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 install the unit in any of the following locations.

• 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

• Exposed to steam or smoke; or are

• Subject to salt exposure; or are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty or sandy; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration and shakiness.

...................................................................................................................................

•Make sure you always have the FR-3x placed so it is level
and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that
could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.

...................................................................................................................................

• 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.

...................................................................................................................................

• Use only the supplied power-supply cord. Also, the sup­plied power cord must not be used with any other device.

...................................................................................................................................

• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, or place
heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, pro­ducing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged
cords are fire and shock hazards!

...................................................................................................................................

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.

• The FR-3x, 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 unit, and consult an audiologist.

....................................................................................................................................

• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins,
pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to
penetrate the FR-3x.

....................................................................................................................................

•Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC 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 AC adaptor, the power-supply cord, or the plug has been

damaged; or

• If smoke or unusual odor occurs

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been spilled onto the unit;

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.

....................................................................................................................................

• In households with small children, an adult should pro­vide supervision until the child is capable of following all
the rules essential for the safe operation of the FR-3x.

....................................................................................................................................

• Protect the FR-3x from strong impact.
(Do not drop it!)

....................................................................................................................................

7

FR-3x V-Accordion

Features

• Do not force the FR-3x’s power-supply cord 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-3x in a foreign country, consult with
your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an
authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Informa­tion” page.

...................................................................................................................................

• Batteries must never be recharged, heated, taken apart,
or thrown into fire or water.

...................................................................................................................................

• Never expose batteries to excessive heat such as sun­shine, fire or the like.

• The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so its
location or position does not interfere with their proper
ventilation.

...................................................................................................................................

•Always grasp only the plug on the AC adaptor cord when
plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

•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 bat-

teries, 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.

• If a battery has leaked, use a soft piece of cloth or paper towel

to wipe all remnants of the discharge from the battery com­partment. Then install new batteries. To avoid inflammation of
the skin, make sure that none of the battery discharge gets onto
your hands or skin. Exercise the utmost caution so that none of
the discharge gets near your eyes. Immediately rinse the
affected area with running water if any of the discharge has
entered the eyes.

• Never keep batteries together with metallic objects such as ball-

point pens, necklaces, hairpins, etc.

....................................................................................................................................

• 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.

....................................................................................................................................

• Keep the included button caps in a safe place out of chil­dren's reach, so there is no chance of them being swal­lowed accidentally.

....................................................................................................................................

...................................................................................................................................

• 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 unit 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.

...................................................................................................................................

• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entan­gled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they
are out of the reach of children.

...................................................................................................................................

• Never climb on top of, or place heavy objects on the unit.

...................................................................................................................................

• Never handle the AC adaptor or its plugs with wet hands
when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this
unit.

...................................................................................................................................

• Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor and
all cords coming from external devices.

...................................................................................................................................

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug
the AC adaptor from the outlet (see p. 15).

...................................................................................................................................

•Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your
area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.

...................................................................................................................................

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8

V-Accordion

2. Important notes

In addition to the items listed under “Using the unit safely” on p. 7, please read and observe the following:

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Important notes

Power supply

• Do not connect this unit 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.

• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of
consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.

• The use of the supplied AC adaptor is recommended as the unit's
power consumption is relatively high. Should you prefer to use
batteries, please use the rechargeable Ni-MH type.

•When installing or replacing batteries, always turn off the power
on this unit and disconnect any other devices you may have con­nected. This way, you can prevent malfunction and/or damage to
speakers or other devices.

• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to
all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to
speakers or other devices.

Placement

• Using the unit 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 this device in the vicinity of such receivers.

• 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, you should 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. Excessive heat can deform or dis­color the unit.

•When moved from one location to another where the temperature
and/or humidity is very different, water droplets (condensation)
may form inside the unit. Damage or malfunction may result if
you attempt to use the unit in this condition. Therefore, before
using the unit, you must allow it to stand for several hours, until
the condensation has completely evaporated.

• Do not allow objects to remain on top of the keyboard. This can be
the cause of malfunction, such as keys ceasing to produce sound.

• Depending on the material and temperature of the surface on
which you place the unit, its rubber feet may discolor or mar the
surface.
You can place a piece of felt or cloth under the rubber feet to pre­vent this from happening. If you do so, please make sure that the
unit will not slip or move accidentally.

Repairs and data

•Please be aware that all data contained in the unit’s memory may
be lost when the unit is sent for repairs. Important data should
always be backed up on a USB memory or written down on paper
(when possible). During repairs, due care is taken to avoid the loss
of data. However, 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, and Roland Europe S.p.a. assumes no lia­bility concerning such loss of data.

Precautions for batteries (not supplied)

• 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.

Maintenance

• For everyday cleaning wipe the FR-3x 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 benzine, thinner, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to
avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Additional precautions

•Please be aware that the contents of memory can be irretrievably
lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the
unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data,
we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of impor­tant data you have stored in the unit's memory to a USB memory.

• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data
that was stored on a USB memory once it has been lost. Roland
Europe S.p.a. assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

9

FR-3x V-Accordion

Important notes

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit's buttons,
sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors.
Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

•When connecting / disconnecting all 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.

• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit's volume
at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do
not need to be concerned about those around you (especially
when it is late at night).

•When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box
(including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will
need to use equivalent packaging materials.

• 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.

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.

Storage devices that can be connected to the
FR-3x’s USB port

• The FR-3x allows you to connect commercially available USB
memories. You can purchase such devices at a computer store, a
digital camera dealer, etc.

• Use USB memory sold by Roland. We cannot guarantee operation
if any other USB memory is used.

Before using external USB memories

•When connecting a USB memory, firmly insert it all the way into
the FR-3x’s USB port.

• Do not touch the pins of the FR-3x’s USB port or allow them to
become dirty.

•While using an external storage device, please observe the follow­ing points when handling it:

• To prevent damage from static electrical charges, discharge any

static electricity that might be present in your body before han­dling a USB memory.

• Do not touch the terminals with your fingers or any metal

object.

• Do not bend or drop a USB memory, or subject it to strong

impact.

• Do not leave a USB memory in direct sunlight or in locations

such as a closed-up automobile.

• Do not allow a USB memory to become wet.

• Do not disassemble or modify your external USB memory.

•When connecting a USB memory, position it horizontally with the
FR-3x’s USB port and insert it without using excessive force. The
USB port may be damaged if you use excessive force when insert­ing a USB memory.

• Do not insert anything other than a USB memory (e.g., wire, coins,
other types of device) into the USB port. Doing so will damage the
FR-3x’s USB port.

• Do not apply excessive force to the connected USB memory or the
FR-3x’s USB port.

• Never connect your USB memory to the FR-3x via a USB hub.

Liability and copyright

• The FR-3x’s audio player is designed to allow you to reproduce
material to which you have copyright, or material which the copy­right owner has granted you permission. Accordingly, the repro­duction of music or other copyrighted material without permis­sion of the copyright owner avoiding technical prohibiting fea­tures of second-generation and later copying, like SCMS or other
solutions, constitutes copyright infringement and may incur pen­alties even in case such reproduction is for your own personal use
and enjoyment (private use).
Consult a copyright specialist or specialized publications for more
detailed information on obtaining such permission from the copy­right holders.

• Do not use the FR-3x for purposes that could infringe on a copy­right held by a third party. Roland assumes no responsibility what­soever with regard to any infringements of third-party copyrights
arising through your use of this unit.

About audio files

• Audio files in the following formats can be played back:

•WAV format

• 16-bit linear

• Sampling frequency: 44.1kHz

• Stereo/mono

•mp3 files:

•MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3

• Sampling frequency: 44.1kHz

•Bit rate: 32/40/48/56/64/80/96/112/128/160/192/224/256/

320kbps, VBR (variable bit rate)

Notice

•MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is licensed from
Fraunhofer IIS Corporation and THOMSON Multimedia Corpora­tion.

• Roland and V-Accordion are either registered trademarks or trade­marks of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other
countries.

• MMP (Moore Microprocessor Portfolio) refers to a patent portfolio
concerned with microprocessor architecture, which was developed
by Technology Properties Limited (TPL).
Roland has licensed this technology from the TPL Group.

•All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective owners.

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10

3. A first look at your FR-3x

Let us first take a look at how the FR-3x is organized and how it is operated.

V-Accordion

A first look at your FR-3x

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The sections of your FR-3x

Let’s briefly look at the various “sections” of your
instrument, as that will help you understand how your
V-Accordion works.

Bellows

Bass and chord
section

Treble section

■ Treble section (right-hand manual)

This section is normally used for playing the melody.
The FR-3x’s treble section is velocity sensitive.

■ Bass and chord section

This section is normally used to play the accompani­ment. There are two general categories: one is called
“Stradella”, and the other “Free Bass”. The FR-3x
allows you to use either type.

The “Stradella” system, also called the “standard bass
system” uses the first 2 (or 3) button rows to play
bass notes. The remaining button rows are used to
play chords.

If you select the “Free Bass” system, all buttons are
used to play single bass notes.

The FR-3x’s bass and chord section is velocity sensi­tive.

Bellows resistance regulator

Your FR-3x is equipped with a bellows resistance regu­lator and air button that allows you to specify the bel­lows’ inertia (the force needed to push and pull it).

Bellows resistance regulator. Press
and turn to select the bellows’
resistance.

Located next to one of the bellows clips and mounted
onto the air button (which allows you to release
remaining air from the bellows without producing
sound).

•Press the wheel and rotate it clockwise to select a
stronger inertia.

•Press the wheel and rotate it counterclockwise to
select a lighter inertia.

•Press the air button to purge the remaining air from
the bellows after closing it.

Air button. Press to purge
remaining air after playing.

■ Bellows

The bellows is an important part of the accordion.
The movement of the bellows indeed lends expres­sion and dynamics to the sound. Several techniques
are available, one of which is called “bellows shake”
(rapid opening and closing movements).

The bellows’ inertia can be set with the resistance
regulator and air button.

11

FR-3x V-Accordion

Panel descriptions

4. Panel descriptions

Treble control panel

A

POWER button

Press this button to switch the V-Accordion on (the
button lights) and off (button dark).

NOTE

If you need to turn off the power completely (when using
the supplied AC adaptor), first turn off the [POWER] switch,
then disconnect the AC adaptor’s plug from the wall outlet.

B

SORDINA switch

This MELLOW/BRIGHT switch allows you to switch the
simulation of the wooden resonance chamber on
(“BRIGHT”) and off (“MELLOW”).

C

VOL knob

This knob allows you to set the V-Accordion’s overall
volume.

D

BAL knob

This knob allows you to set the balance between the
Bass/Chord and the Treble sections.

E

SET register

This register is used to recall one of 25 Sets from one
of the 10 Set families: press the [SET] register and one
of the 10 treble registers.

The [SET] register has three additional functions:

•To edit function and MIDI parameters: press and hold
[SET].

•To change octaves: press and hold [SET] and press
[1/OCT–] or [2/OCT+].

•To activate Bass-to-Treble mode: press and hold [SET]
and press [3] BS TO TREB.

NOTE

By pressing and holding any register, you can switch off
the treble or Treble Orchestra and Organ section. Press
another register to switch it back on.

G

ORGAN/ORCHESTRA register

Pressing [ORGAN/ORCHESTRA] followed by one of
the treble registers recalls an orchestral or organ
sound.

This register has two additional functions:

•To activate the demo song function: press and hold
[ORGAN/ORCHESTRA].

•To select other functions: press and hold [ORGAN/
ORCHESTRA] and press one of the treble registers
[4]~[0].

H

REVERB knob

Use this knob to set the level of the reverb effect (see
p. 22).

I

CHORUS knob

Use this knob to set the level of the chorus effect (see
p. 22).

J

USER PROGRAM button

This button is used to recall one of 10 User Programs:
first press [USER PROGRAM] and then one of the tre­ble registers.

F

Treble registers

The Treble section contains 10 registers that allow
you to select accordion, orchestral and organ sounds,
Sets and User Programs.

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12

Bass control panel

K

Bass registers

These switches allow you to select the desired bass
sound.

NOTE

By pressing and holding any register, you can switch off
the Bass (or Free Bass) section. Press another register to
switch it back on.

V-Accordion

Bass control panel

L

Bass and chord buttons

These 120 buttons are used to play bass notes and
chords (they are velocity-sensitive). They also allow
you to play drum sounds.

M

Bellows resistance and air button

This wheel allows you to specify the bellows’ inertia
(the force needed to push and pull it). See page 11.
By pressing it you can purge the air that still remains
in the bellows after playing.

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N

Display

N

E

L
B
E

A

R
T

R
T

/

S

S

D

B

R

E

E

O

E

H

H

R

C

C

F

R
O

S
S
A
B

The display keeps you informed about the FR-3x’s
status and helps you locate the functions you may
wish to set.

13

FR-3x V-Accordion

Panel descriptions

Battery compartment and USB port

O P

O

Battery compartment

This is where you install 10 commercially
available rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH
batteries (see p. 16).

P

USB port

The FR-3x’s USB port allows you to con­nect a USB memory. It can be used to play
back audio files (mp3 and WAV) and to
save and load settings.

Connection panel

Q

Q

DC IN socket

This is where you need to connect the supplied power
adapter (PSB-7U). Note that you can also purchase
10 rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH batteries and use
the FR-3x without the adapter.

R

MIDI OUT/IN socket

This socket can be used to receive or transmit MIDI
data.

S

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-3x’s output is stereo. In that case
the signals of the Treble section is transmitted to the
L/MONO socket, while the R/MONO socket transmits
the bass (and chord) signal. If you only use one jack
(connected to the “L” or “R” socket), the FR-3x’s out-

r

put is mono.

R

NOTE

Use a USB memory sold by Roland. We cannot
guarantee operation if any other USB memory
is used.

S

NOTE

On the FR-3x, connecting jacks to these sockets does not
mute the internal speakers.

NOTE

Using these sockets and switching off the FR-3x’s speakers
(see “Speaker Mode” on p. 55) allows you to save battery
power.

T

PHONES socket

This is where you can connect stereo headphones
(Roland RH-25, RH-50, RH-200 or RH-300).

NOTE

Connecting a pair of headphones mutes the internal speak­ers.

T

14

5. Before you start playing

Getting ready to play

The FR-3x is an electronic instrument that requires
some form of electrical power. This chapter explains
how to power your FR-3x using the supplied adaptor or
10 commercially available rechargeable batteries (AA­type Ni-MH). In addition, you will learn how to connect
your FR-3x to an external amplification system.

Connecting the AC adaptor

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.

1.

Turn the [VOL] knob all the way towards the
small dot to minimize the volume.

V-Accordion

Before you start playing

NOTE

Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit
(PSB-7U). 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.

3.

Connect the AC adaptor to the FR-3x’s DC
IN jack.

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2.

Connect the included power cord to the AC
adapter.

The indicator will light once you plug the AC adapter
into a wall outlet.

To the FR-3x’s DC IN connector

AC adaptor

Indicator

Place the AC adaptor so the side with the indicator
(see illustration) faces upwards and the side with tex­tual information faces downwards.

NOTE

Depending on your region, the included power cord may
differ from the one shown above.

NOTE

We recommend that you keep batteries installed in the unit
even if you’ll be powering it with the AC adaptor. That way,
you’ll be able to continue a performance even if the cord of
the AC adaptor gets accidently disconnected from the unit.

Power cord

To a AC outlet

To a wall outlet

4.

Plug the power cord into a power outlet.

Now that the FR-3x is connected to a wall outlet, you
can continue with the section “Switching the power
on and off” on p. 21. To use the FR-3x with batteries,
see “Installing and removing batteries” on p. 16.

NOTE

If the FR-3x is to remain unused for an extended period of
time, unplug the adaptor.

NOTE

To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit
(should the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid
applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the
power cord. See “Securing the adapter and/or MIDI cable”
on p. 20.

15

FR-3x V-Accordion

Before you start playing

Installing and removing batteries

Your FR-3x has a compartment that contains a special
holder unit into which you can install 10 rechargeable
AA-type Ni-MH batteries (not supplied). You can there­fore play your instrument without connecting the sup­plied adapter.

1.

Switch off the FR-3x.

2.

Remove the cushion located between the
treble keyboard and the bellows.

4.

Use the tab to pull the battery case out of
the compartment and turn the case around.

The battery case is connected to the FR-3x by means
of a cable with a padded connector strip. You can
disconnect the cable from the battery case by pulling
off the padded connector strip.

3.

Remove the cover from the FR-3x’s battery
compartment by pressing the two tabs and
lifting the cover.

You should now see a tab that allows you to remove
the battery case:

This is unnecessary if you manage to install (or
remove) the batteries without disconnecting the
connector strip.

5.

Insert 10 rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH bat­teries into the compartment (5 on either
side), taking care to orient them in accor­dance with the “+” and “–” indications.

6.

Insert the battery case with the 10 (5 + 5)
batteries into the compartment.

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16

7.

Close the FR-3x’s battery compartment and
re-install the cushion.

NOTE

Though it is perfectly possible to use rechargeable batter­ies, be aware that they cannot be recharged simply by leav­ing them in the FR-3x’s compartment and connecting the
adapter. You will need an external charging unit.

V-Accordion

Battery charge indication

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NOTE

We recommend using rechargeable AA-type Ni-MH batter­ies.

NOTE

When replacing batteries, be sure to insert them correctly
(ensure correct polarity).

NOTE

Remove the batteries whenever the FR-3x is to remain
unused for an extended period of time.

Battery charge indication

If, while using batteries, the “bAt” message appears in
the display, the remaining battery power is low.
Replace the batteries at your earliest convenience.
A flashing “bAt” message means that you need to
replace the batteries right away (or use the supplied
adaptor).

NOTE

The battery charge indication is only an approximation.

Battery duration

New or fully charged batteries should last about 9
hours (for 2000mAh Ni-MH batteries) during contin­uous operation while the internal speakers are off
(see “Speaker Mode” on p. 55), or 5 hours while the
speakers are on.

Connecting the FR-3x to an
amplifier, mixer, etc.

The FR-3x is equipped with an internal speaker system
and thus does not need to be connected to an amplifier
at all. There may be times, however when using an
external amplification system is more convenient.

NOTE

If you are using optional batteries and need to connect the
FR-3x to a PA system or mixer, we recommend using a com­mercially available wireless system to avoid having to use
excessively long signal cables.

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.

1.

Turn the [VOL] knob all the way towards the
small dot to minimize the volume.

2.

Switch off all devices.

3.

Connect the FR-3x’s OUTPUT jacks to the
inputs of your external device.

NOTE

Actual battery life varies according to usage conditions, the
quality of the batteries and the number of charging cycles.

Energy saving function

The FR-3x contains an energy saving function that
switches the instrument off when it is left unat­tended for more than 10 minutes. You may therefore
have to switch it on again from time to time. You can
specify how long the FR-3x should wait before pow­ering off automatically. See “Auto Power Off” on
p. 55.

OUTPUT
L/MONO (Treble) + R/MONO (Bass)

Use either a long signal cable (10m or more) or an optional wireless system
(recommended).

INPUT

L + R

Please choose unbalanced (mono) cables with 1/4”
jacks at one end (for the FR-3x). The connectors at
the other end need to match the input sockets of the
device to which you are connecting the FR-3x.

NOTE

If you use a commercially available wireless transmitter,
the FR-3x’s output signals may distort. In that case, change
the FR-3x’s output level (see “Output Level Attenuation” on
p. 55).

NOTE

If your amplifier is monaural, you only need to connect the
L/MONO socket.

NOTE

You can also use a pair of headphones (Roland RH-25,
RH-50, RH-200 or RH-300).

17

FR-3x V-Accordion

Before you start playing

Important remark

After connecting any cable to the FR-3x, 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-3x with care and pay
special attention to the cable slack to avoid damaging
or bending the cables.

• If you place the FR-3x on your lap, ensure that the
audio and adapter cables run between your legs (not
sideways) to avoid damaging or bending the cables.

Attaching the straps

Proceed as follows to attach the straps to your FR-3x:

1.

Unpack the straps.

The FR-3x comes with two straps, each with two
ends: the upper end is fitted with a velcro strip and
the clip, the lower end is not. See the illustration
below:

2.

Put the FR-3x on a stable surface as shown
in the illustration below.

3.

Slide the upper end (with the velcro strip) of
one strap through the left holder ring (see
the illustration).

4.

Attach the strap’s upper part to the velcro
layer below it.

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5.

Close the security clip to ensure that the
strap cannot come loose.

V-Accordion

9.

Turn the strap end around and insert it into
the lower eyelet, then pull it tight.

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Bass strap

6.

Repeat steps 3~5 for the other strap.

The upper strap ends should look as follows:

7.

Slide the lower end of one strap through the
right holder ring as shown.

NOTE

You may want to adjust the length first to suit your prefer­ence.

10.

Slide the plastic clip over the loose and long
lower strap ends to secure the strap.

11.

Repeat steps 7~9 for the other lower strap
end.

Bass strap

The FR-3x’s bass strap (used to move the bellows in
and out) is made of fabric and fitted with a velcro
strip that allows you to adjust its slack.

8.

Slide the strap end through the upper eyelet
of its plastic buckle (see the illustration).

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FR-3x V-Accordion

Before you start playing

Securing the adapter and/or MIDI cable

Proceed as follows to ensure that the adapter cable –or
a MIDI cable– doesn’t come loose while you are play­ing.

1.

Unclip the indicated part of the cushion at
the back of the FR-3x.

The cushion is attached with several clips. You only
need to unclip the part shown in the illustration
below.

3.

Reinstall the cushion, taking care to secure
the adapter cable and/or MIDI cable you
have just installed.

When finished, the FR-3x should look as follows:

Note the guide next to the right clip closest to the
connection panel.

2.

Connect the small plug of the AC adaptor
cable to the FR-3x’s DC IN socket and wind
the cable around the guide:

4.

Reverse these steps to remove and discon­nect the adapter when you want to stop
playing.

You can also connect the MIDI cable to the MIDI OUT/
IN socket and wind it around the guide like the
adapter cable.

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Switching the power on and off

NOTE

Once the connections have been completed, turn on 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.

Turning on the power

1.

Turn the [VOL] knob all the way towards the
small dot to minimize the volume.

See “Adjusting the volume and balance” on p. 22. If
you connected the FR-3x to an amplifier, etc., set its
volume to the minimum value as well.

2.

To switch the FR-3x on, press and hold
down its [POWER] button until the display
shows “Fr3”.

The [POWER] button lights.

V-Accordion

Switching the power on and off

Turning off the power

1.

Turn the [VOL] knob all the way towards the
small dot to minimize the volume.

If you connected the FR-3x to an amplifier, etc., set
its volume to the minimum value as well.

2.

Press the FR-3x’s [POWER] button (its indi­cator goes dark).

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Fr3

NOTE

This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief inter­val (a few seconds) after power up is required before the
unit will operate normally.

3.

Turn the [VOL] knob clockwise to set the
volume to an appropriate level.

Using headphones

The FR-3x has one jack for plugging in headphones.
This allows you to play without having to worry about
bothering others around you, even at night.

1.

Plug the headphones into the [PHONES] jack
located on the FR-3x’s connection panel.

NOTE

Use stereo headphones. Please use only Roland head­phones. Headphones from other manufacturers may be
unable to provide sufficient volume.

4.

Adjust the volume of the receiving audio
device (if connected).

NOTE

The FR-3x’s speakers are switched off when you connect
headphones.

2.

Use the FR-3x’s [VOL] knob to adjust the
headphone volume.

■ Cautions when using headphones

•To prevent damage to the cord’s internal conductors,
avoid rough handling. When using headphones,
mainly try to handle either the plug or the headset.

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FR-3x V-Accordion

Before you start playing

• Your headphones may be damaged if the volume of a
device is already turned up when you plug them in.
Minimize the volume before you plug in the head­phones.

• Excessive input will not only damage your hearing,
but may also strain the headphones. Please enjoy
music at an appropriate volume.

Adjusting the volume and balance

Here is how to adjust the volume on your FR-3x.

NOTE

If headphones are connected, the [VOL] knob controls the lis­tening level.

1.

Use the [VOL] knob to set the desired vol­ume.

Adjusting the chorus and reverb effects

The FR-3x contains two digital effects: Chorus and
Reverb. The chorus effect gives the impression that sev­eral instruments of the same type are playing at the
same time (it is similar to detuning several reeds of a
register). The reverb effect gives the impression that
you are playing in a concert hall, a church or a room. It
adds “depth” to the sound.

1.

Rotate the [CHORUS] knob to adjust the
level of the chorus effect.

CHORUS

Adjust the volume while you play the FR-3x and
move the bellows to produce sound.

Turning the [VOL] knob clockwise increases the vol­ume, turning it counterclockwise decreases it.

2.

Use the [BAL] knob to adjust the volume
balance between the bass/chord and treble
sections.

Adjust this setting while playing the FR-3x and mov­ing the bellows to produce sound. The chorus level
you select (0~127) is briefly shown in the display.

2.

Rotate the [REVERB] knob to adjust the level
of the reverb effect.

REVERB

Adjust this setting while playing the FR-3x and mov­ing the bellows to produce sound. The reverb level
you select (0~127) is briefly shown in the display.

3.

Turn the [CHORUS] or [REVERB] knob all the
way towards the small dot if you don’t need
the effect in question.

Turning it towards “BASS” decreases the treble sec­tion’s volume. Turning it towards “TREBLE” decreases
the bass/chord section’s volume.

The selected balance setting (“t1”~“t63”, “0”, “b1”~
“b63”) is briefly shown in the display.

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NOTE

See p. 47 for how to select a different chorus or reverb
type.

How to read the display

The FR-3x’s display keeps you informed about the
FR-3x’s status and helps you locate functions you may
wish to set. The display can show up to three alphanu­meric characters, either with or without a dot.

The main page contains the following information:

423.

Digit Explanation

First Refers to the bass register you are currently

using.

Second The digit in the middle refers to the Chord/Free

Bass register you are currently using.

V-Accordion

How to read the display

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Third Refers to the treble register you are currently

using.

A dot to the right of a digit has the following meaning:

Status Explanation

Dark You are using an accordion sound.

Lit You are using an orchestral sound.

Flashes You are using an organ sound.

In addition to the above, the display also shows infor­mation that refers to the selected function. Messages
(information) are displayed only temporarily.

23

FR-3x V-Accordion

Listening to the demo songs

6. Listening to the demo songs

The FR-3x contains several demo songs. Here is how to play back those demo songs and fully appreciate the sounds con­tained in the FR-3x.

1.

Switch on the FR-3x.

See “Switching the power on and off” on p. 21.

2.

Press and hold the [ORGAN/ORCHESTRA]
register until the display looks as follows:

d01

Playback starts automatically with the first demo
song (there are 33 demo songs in all). At the end of
the first song, the FR-3x starts playing songs “2”, “3”
etc.

You can also directly jump to the song you’re inter­ested in:

3.

Use treble registers [1] and [2] (VALUE
√ ®) to select the demo song you want to
listen to.

(4) Use the [VOL] knob to change the volume if

it is too loud or too soft.

NOTE

All demo songs are copyright ©2010 by Roland Europe
S.p.a. Public performance or recording of these songs is
prohibited.

5.

Press [ORGAN/ORCHESTRA] again to leave
demo song mode.

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