Roland FR-5 User Manual

FR-7/FR-5
OS Version 2
Owner’s Manual
WARNING
– To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this device to rain or moisture.
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
ATTENTION
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral tri­angle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to per­sons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and mainte­nance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the product.
INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
1. Read these instructions.
2. Keep these instructions.
3. Heed all warnings.
4. Follow all instructions.
5. Do not use this apparatus near water.
6. Clean only with a dry cloth.
7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in accor­dance with the manufacturers instructions.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat reg­isters, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that pro­duce heat.
9. Do not defeat safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
– When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched partic­ularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
11. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufactur­er.
12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is re­quired when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normal­ly, or has been dropped.
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.
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-7 and FR-5 is covered by U.S. Patent No. 6.946.594.
NEUTRAL LIVE
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FR-7/FR-5
OS Version 2
Owner’s Manual
ENGLISH ENGLISH
Thank you for purchasing the Roland FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion. The FR-7/FR-5 is an amazingly versatile electronic instru­ment that can emulate the sounds of a vast array of accordions. You may know that the term “accordion” refers to a portable musical instrument of the free reed family, that its sound is controlled by air flow from the bellows, and that there are almost as many types as there are countries. The accordion family indeed includes instruments called “Aeloine”, “Aerophone”, “Bayan”, “Buzika”, “Concertina”, “Drängkammarorgel”, “Fisarmonica”, “Hanuri”, “Melodeon”, “Pedalowka”, “Schwyzerorgeli”, “Squeeze Box”, “Sun Fin Chin”, and many others.
For the first time in history, Roland introduces an accordion instrument that can emulate (recreate) the sounds and behavior of several bellows instruments. Though it is also the most sophisticated MIDI controller to date (even more powerful than any keyboard instrument), the major advantage of the FR-7/FR-5 is probably that it allows you to change sounds without changing instruments. Apart from the financial benefit (the FR-7/FR-5 costs far less than what you have to pay for the emulated originals), this also means that you can use your familiar playing style and techniques while covering a host of different musical genres.
To get the most out of the FR-7/FR-5 and to ensure many years of trouble-free service, we urge you to read through this Owner’s Manual thoroughly.
Before using this instrument, carefully read the “Important notes” (p. 9). They provide information concerning the proper operation of the FR-7/FR-5. Be sure to keep this manual in a safe place for future reference.
ENGLISH ENGLISH
Copyright © 2005 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.
FR-7/FR-5
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V-Accordion
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Contents

1. Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2. Important notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
3. Panel descriptions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
4. Setting up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
5. About the FBC-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
6. Editing sounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
7. MIDI functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
8. Miscellaneous functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
9. MIDI implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
10. Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
11. Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
V-Accordion
Treble control panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Bass control panel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Display and master bar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Connection panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Connection panel of the FBC-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Switching the power on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Listening to the demo songs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
First steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Touring the FR-7/FR-5’s sections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Using the orchestral sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Other practical functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Using the FBC-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Charging the battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Selecting parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Setting parameter values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
1. TUNING parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
2. TREBLE EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
3. BASS EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
4. FREE BASS EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
5. ORC BASS EDIT parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6. ORCH. EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
7. ORC CHD EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
8. ORC FBS EDIT parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
9. SET COMMON parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
10. SYSTEM parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
11. UTILITY parameters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
About MIDI. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Global MIDI parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
MIDI parameters for the various sections/parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Archiving your settings via MIDI (Bulk Dump). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Saving settings using the WRITE function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Restoring the factory defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Parameter list. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Factory Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Demo Songs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .103
MIDI Implementation Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
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FR-7/FR-5
Features
V-Accordion
| Features

1. Features

Stand-alone electronic instrument

Though the FR-7/FR-5 is a fully electronic instru­ment, you do not need to connect the FR-7 to an amplifier in order to produce sounds. Its onboard amplification system is powerful enough for small venues, restaurants, etc. (The FR-5 has no internal amplification.)
Furthermore, the FR-7 comes with a rechargeable battery (Ni-Mh) so that you do not need to connect it to a wall outlet. The battery should last ±8 hours. (The battery is available as an optional item for the FR-5.)

Sophisticated MIDI control

The FR-7/FR-5 is the most versatile and “musical” MIDI controller to date, going far beyond the control possibilities of a MIDI keyboard with optional perfor­mance functions or of MIDIfied wind instruments.
The piano-style Treble keyboard even transmits after­touch messages.

PBM (Physical Behavior Modeling)

The FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion is based on Roland’s lat­est 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-7/FR-5 provides 40 memories called “Sets”, with 14 treble registers, 7 bass & chord registers and 7 free bass registers each. All sounds it produces were obtained by sampling the most popular traditional acoustic accordions. Different tuning systems are also available.
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.

The digital advantage

The V-Accordion includes all functions and sounds of a traditional accordion, thus conveying a really 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;
• you can create and customize the accordion timbres (program your own sounds);
• you can choose among various bass button operation modes (Minor 3rd Free Bass, 5th, 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 V-Accordion allows you to control external MIDI­compatible 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.
In High or Low mode (see p. 26), you can control up to 4 parts simultaneously (two sounds in the right hand/two sounds in the left).

Orchestral sounds

22 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 as well as “M” variants of these modes).
In addition, the FR-7/FR-5 provides 7 orchestral bass sounds for the Bass section, 7 orchestral sounds for the chord buttons, and 7 orchestral sounds for the Free Bass section that can be added to the Bass accordion sound.
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• All product names mentioned in this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Using the unit safely
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.
V-Accordion
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Using the unit safely
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.
• Before using this instrument, read the instructions below and the Owner’s Manual.
...................................................................................................................................
• Connect the mains plug of this model to a mains outlet with a protective earthing connection.
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• Do not open or perform any internal modifications on the unit.
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• Do not attempt to repair the FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7 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.
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• Never use or store the FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7 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.
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•When not in use, do not place the FR-5 or FR-7 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.
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• The FBC-7 should only be connected to a power supply of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the bottom of the FBC-7.
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• Never expose the battery pack to excessive heat such as sunshine, fire or the like.
• Do not excessively twist or bend the power 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!
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• 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-7/FR-5 or FBC-7 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-7/FR-5 or FBC-7.
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• 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-7/FR-5 or FBC-7.
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• Protect the FR-7/FR-5 and FBC-7 from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)
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•Immediately turn the power off, remove the power cord 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 power-supply cord or the plug has been damaged;
or
• Objects have fallen into or liquid has been spilled onto
the FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7; 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.
7
FR-7/FR-5
Features
• Do not force the FBC-7’s power cord to share an outlet
• Before using the FBC-7 in a foreign country, consult with
• The FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7 should be located so that its
...................................................................................................................................
• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply cord
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• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entan-
...................................................................................................................................
• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the
V-Accordion
| Using the unit safely
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.
your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Informa­tion” page.
location or position does not interfere with its proper ventilation.
when plugging into or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
gled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed out of the reach of children.
FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7.
...................................................................................................................................
• Never handle the power cord or its plugs with wet hands when plugging into or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.
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• If you need to move the FBC-7, 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 power cord.
• Disconnect all cords coming from external devices.
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• Before cleaning the FR-7/FR-5, turn off the power and unplug the power cord from the outlet.
...................................................................................................................................
• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the FBC-7’s power cord from the outlet.
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• 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.
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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 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-7/FR-5 to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or dam­age to speakers or other devices.
• Although the LCD and 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, 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-7/FR-5 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.
• Do not place the FR-7/FR-5 near devices that produce a strong magnetic field (e.g., loudspeakers).
• Install the FR-7/FR-5 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 normally are used while their light source is 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-7/FR-5 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

• Please be aware that the memory contents can be irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction or the improper operation of the instrument. Therefore, be sure to archive important settings using the FR-7/FR-5’s Bulk Dump function (see p. 89).
• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the instrument’s buttons, other controls and jacks/connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.
• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.
• 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 only the specified expression pedal (EV-5, EV-8; sold sepa­rately). By connecting any other expression pedals, you risk caus­ing malfunction and/or damage to the FR-7/FR-5.
• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. 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 the included (FR-7) or optional (FR-5) battery
• The temperature range for use of the batteries is as follows. Using them outside this range may impair battery performance and shorten battery service life. –20~30°C,
• Do not use or store a battery 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 battery’s service life.
• Do not charge a battery while it is cold (below 0°C) or outside when it is freezing. This may cause battery fluid leakage, impaired performance and shorten the battery’s 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.
• Use only the supplied FBC-7 to charge the FR-7/FR-5’s battery. Failure to follow proper charging procedures may cause excessive current flow, loss of control during charging, leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
• For the procedure for charging the FR-7/FR-5’s battery, please read page 35.
Charging
Use (discharging)
: 0~40°C.
: 0~50°C,
Storage
:
9
FR-7/FR-5
Important notes
Do not connect the battery directly to a power outlet or
• If a newly purchased battery exhibits rust, generates heat or seems
• Be sure to fully deplete a battery before recharging it for the first
• Keep the battery out of reach of babies or small children. Ensure
• Be sure to carefully instruct any person on the proper way of han-
• Never dispose of the battery in a fire. Never heat it. Doing so may
• Do not charge or use the battery with the positive (+) and nega-
• Do not remove the outer tube from a battery or damage it.
• Do no strike or drop the battery. Strong impact can cause leakage
• Never try to connect two batteries in parallel as this may cause
• Do not alter or remove protective mechanisms or other parts.
• The positive (+) terminal section of the battery is equipped with a
• Do not overcharge the battery by exceeding the predetermined
• If the battery is not fully charged after the predetermined charg-
• If any fluid from a battery comes in contact with the eyes, flush
• If skin or clothing comes in contact with any fluid from the bat-
• When a battery is no longer usable, dispose of it in accordance
• If the battery leaks fluid, changes color or shape or changes in any
V-Accordion
| Important notes
insert it into a cigarette lighter socket in a car. High voltage may cause excessive current flow, leakage of battery fluid, heat, bursting or fire.
abnormal in any other way, do not use it. Take it back to your Roland dealer.
time.
that babies or small children cannot remove a battery from the FBC-7 while it is being charged.
dling a battery.
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.
tive (–) terminals reversed, as this may drain the battery or cause abnormal chemical reactions. Under normal operation, this should be impossible, because the battery or cable can only be connected in one direction.
of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
Never disassemble the battery.
gas release vent. Never deform this section or cover it. Do not obstruct the release of gas as this could result in leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
charging period of the FBC-7 or indicator. Never recharge a bat­tery that is already fully charged. This could result in leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
ing period has elapsed, stop the charging process. Prolonged charging could result in leakage of battery fluid, heat generation, bursting or fire.
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.
tery, wash the area immediately with clean water from a tap. Bat­tery fluid can cause skin damage.
with all applicable local laws and regulations.
other way, do not use it, otherwise it may cause heat generation, bursting or fire.

Strap holder precaution

• Never unscrew the strap holder rings to avoid damaging the FR-7/ FR-5’s plastic housing, which eventually compromises overall sta­bility and safety.
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10
A
C
E
F

3. Panel descriptions

Treble control panel

B
D
B
V-Accordion
Panel descriptions
I
J
r
K
L
G
A
DATA/ENTER knob
This knob allows you to enter values and to select menu entries or shortcuts by turning it. You can also press it (ENTER) to confirm a setting or to jump to another parameter in the display. It also allows you to start/stop an external MIDI device (see p. 72).
B
UP/DOWN buttons
On the Main page, [UP] and [DOWN] allow you to select 8 important functions: TRANSPOSE (press [UP] once), MUSETTE DETUNE (press [UP] 2x), SCALE TUN­ING (press [UP] 3x), VALVE/BUTTON NOISE (press [UP] 4x); ORCHESTRA VOLUME (press [DOWN] once), ORCHESTRA BASS VOLUME (press [DOWN] 2x), ORCH CHORD VOLUME (press [DOWN] 3x), and ORCH FREEBS VOLUME (press [DOWN] 4x).
After selecting the MENU, [UP] and [DOWN] are used to enter values (same function as the [DATA÷ENTER] knob).
C
EXIT/JUMP button
The [EXIT÷JUMP] button allows you to return to the Main page (the display page that is shown while you are playing the FR-7/FR-5). After selecting a Menu function, briefly pressing [EXIT÷JUMP] takes you back to a higher level. Press it again to return to the Main page.
By holding down [EXIT÷JUMP] while the Main page is displayed, you activate the JUMP function (see p. 38).
D
MENU/WRITE button
This button allows you to select the FR-7/FR-5’s MENU environment where you can set and view the available functions. By holding down [MENU÷WRITE], you activate the WRITE function, which allows you to save your settings.
VOLUME knob
E
This knob allows you to set the V-Accordion’s overall volume.
H
ORCH LINK
BASS LINK
BALANCE knob
F
LOW
DUAL
SOLO
MODE
HIGH
This knob allows you to set the balance between the Bass and the Treble sections. Turn it towards “BASS” to decrease the Treble section’s volume. Turn it towards “TREBLE” to decrease the Bass section’s vol­ume.
G
SET buttons
These two buttons allow you to choose among 40 accordion Sets. Each Set contains suitable settings for the 14 Treble, 7 Bass, 7 Free Bass registers, 22 orchestral sounds and 7 orchestral bass/7 orchestral Free Bass/7 orchestral chord sounds.
H
Treble registers
The Treble section provides the following 14 switches (“registers”):
1 Bassoon 8 Master
2 Bandon 9 Musette
3 Cello 10 Celeste
4 Harmon 11 Tremolo
5 Organ 12 Clarinet
6 Accord 13 Oboe
7 Violin 14 Piccolo
Note: By pressing and holding any register, you can switch off the Treble section. Press another register to switch it back on. Note: In Orchestra mode the first 9 registers provide access to two sounds (A/B) of the family whose name is printed below the register. To select a “B” sound, press the corresponding reg­ister twice.
By holding down [ORCHESTRA], while pressing a reg­ister 9~14, you activate the Link functions (see p. 46) or select an Orchestra mode (see p. 26). By holding down [ORCHESTRA] while pressing register [8], you select the “Send PC” function (page 83).
M
11
FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Panel descriptions | Bass control panel
I
POWER button
Press this button to switch the V-Accordion on (the button lights) and off (button dark).
Note: The FR-7/FR-5 is automatically switched off after 10 minutes of inaction to save battery power. This can be changed, however (see p. 71).
J
SORDINA switch
This ON/OFF switch allows you to switch the simula­tion of the wooden resonance chamber on and off.

Bass control panel

N
K
DELAY knob
The FR-7/FR-5 contains three digital effects that can be used simultaneously. This knob is used to set the level of the Delay (echo) effect (see p. 66).
L
CHORUS knob
Use this knob to set the level of the Chorus effect (see p. 64).
M
REVERB knob
Use this knob to set the level of the Reverb effect (see p. 63).
N
Bass registers
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.
These switches allow you to select the desired bass mix. They include the following footages:
1
2
3
4
O
ORCH BASS registers
Press the last three (“ORCH BASS”) registers (viewed from the top) simultaneously to enter Orchestra Bass mode (see p. 28). Doing so switches off the accordion bass sound and selects an orchestral sound. Press the last three registers again simultaneously to return to normal bass mode.
2’
4’
8-4’
16’/8’/8-4’/4’/2’
8’/4’/2’
5
16’/8’/8-4’
6
7
16’/2’
QO P
ORCH FREE BS/ORCH CHORD registers
P
By pressing these three registers, you activate (or switch off) one of two orchestral sections: ORCH CHORD (if the Free Bass section is off) or ORCH FREE BS (if the Free Bass section is on). “ORCH CHORD” allows you to select an orchestral sound for the chord buttons, while “ORCH FREE BS” can be used to select an orchestral bass sound for the Free Bass sec­tion. See p. 29 for details.
Q
FREE BASS registers
Press the first three (“FREE BASS”) registers (viewed from the top) simultaneously to enter Free Bass mode. The FR-7/FR-5 provides several systems for this mode (see p. 70). Press the first three registers again simultaneously to return to normal bass mode.
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12

Display and master bar

S
R
V-Accordion
Display and master bar
R
Master bar
In most cases, this bar (which you can press) recalls a Treble register you specify. In Dual, High or Low mode, however, it allows you to switch the Orches­tra section on and off.
S
Display
The display keeps you informed about the FR-7/FR-5’s status.
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Connection panel

T
T
TO FBC-7 socket
Use the supplied cable to connect this socket to the supplied FBC-7 power supply/footswitch unit/battery charger. This may be necessary in the following cases:
• To power the FR-7/FR-5 without using the supplied battery. In most instances, this may be unnecessary, because the supplied battery (FR-7) lasts up to 8 hours.
Note: See also “Connecting the FBC-7” on p. 34 for details about maximizing the life span of the battery.
If you connect the 19-pin cable, be sure to never place the FR-7/FR-5 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 19-pin plug.
• Always handle and move the FR-7/FR-5 with care and pay special attention to the cable slack to avoid damaging or bending the 19-pin cable.
• If you place the FR-7/FR-5 on your lap, ensure that the 19-pin cable runs between you legs (not side­ways) to avoid damaging or bending the 19-pin cable.
• To be able to control certain functions by foot (see p. 34).
• To use the FR-7/FR-5 as a MIDI controller (only the FBC-7 has MIDI sockets).
U
U
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-7/FR-5’s output is stereo. If you only use one jack (connected to the “L” or “R” socket), the FR-7/FR-5’s output is mono.
Note: If you don’t want to use a wireless system, consider con­necting the FR-7/FR-5 to the FBC-7 when you need to connect it to an external amplifier. Note: On the FR-7, connecting jacks to these sockets does not mute the internal speakers.
V
PHONES socket
This is where you can connect stereo headphones (Roland RH-25, RH-50 or RH-200). On the FR-7, con­necting a pair of headphones mutes the internal speakers.
V
13
FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Panel descriptions | Connection panel of the FBC-7
Connection panel of the FBC-7
AB CDEF
A
POWER ON switch
Press it to switch the FBC-7 (but not the FR-7/FR-5) on and off.
B
AC connector
This is where you need to connect the supplied power cable. See also page 16.
C
MIDI THRU/OUT/IN sockets
Use these sockets to connect the FR-7/FR-5 to exter­nal MIDI gear (see p. 79).
D
OUTPUT R/MONO & L/MONO sockets
Connect these sockets to an external amplifier or mixing console. For stereo operation, be sure to con­nect both jacks.
E
EXPRESSION PEDAL socket
This is where you can connect an optional EV-series expression pedal (see p. 34).
F
TO FR7/5 V-ACCORDION socket
Use the supplied 19-pin cable to connect this socket to your FR-7/FR-5 (see p. 34).
Note: See also “Using the FBC-7” on p. 34 for additional func­tions of the FBC-7.
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14
V-Accordion
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Setting up

4. Setting up

Connections

The FR-7 can be used without any connections to either an amplification system or the FBC-7 power supply/battery charger unit. An FR-5 without an optional battery needs to be connected to the supplied FBC-7, however.
Connecting the FR-7/FR-5 to the supplied FBC-7
If you do not have a battery (FR-5) or prefer not to use it (FR-7), you need to connect the V-Accordion to the FBC-7 using the supplied cable. That cable powers the FR-7/FR-5, trans­mits pedal messages and sends the FR-7/ FR-5’s audio signals to the OUTPUT L/MONO & R sockets on the FBC-7.
In that case, there is no real need to connect the OUTPUT sockets on the FR-7/FR-5 to an external amplifier. Connect the FR-7/FR-5 as shown in the illustration.
Note: This connection is required if you wish to take advantage of the FR-7/FR-5’s MIDI functions (see p. 79).
The FR-7/FR-5’s sounds have been arranged in such a way as to provide a natural stereo image. If you connect the V-Accordion to a mixing console, set the PAN control of the input to which the OUTPUT L socket (Treble section) is connected to “11 o’clock” and the PAN control of the channel to which the OUTPUT R socket (Bass & chord section) is connected to “3 o’clock” to preserve this bal­ance. Something like this: . This
T
B/C
setting can be changed, however (see p. 70).
Use the supplied 19-pin cable.
Note: Do not forget to connect the FBC-7’s AC socket to a suitable wall outlet.
OUTPUT
L/MONO + R/MONO
INPUT
L + R

Using the OUTPUT sockets

If you are using the supplied rechargeable battery (FR-7) and need to connect the FR-7/FR-5 to a PA system or mixer, we recom­mend using a wireless system to avoid having to use excessively long signal cables. The FR-7 is equipped with an inter­nal speaker system and thus does not need to be connected to an amplifier at all. The FR-5, on the other hand, always requires an audio connection. As long as it does not contain an optional bat­tery, we recommend connecting it to the FBC-7 (see above).
You can also use a pair of head­phones (Roland RH-25, RH-50 or RH-200). In the case of the FR-7, connecting headphones switches off the internal speakers.
Note: The FR-7/FR-5’s OUTPUT sockets are also available if you connect the FR-7/FR-5 to the FBC-7. Do not try to connect them to any of the FBC-7’s sockets, because that does not work.
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
15
FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Switching the power on and off

Switching the power on and off

The power-on procedure depends on whether you are using a battery or the FBC-7 Foot Pedal/DC Power/ Bat­tery Charger Unit.
Note: Only use the battery that either came with your FR-7 or that you purchased from your Roland dealer. Using other batter­ies can severely damage the FR-7/FR-5 or FBC-7. Roland assumes no responsibility for damages caused by batteries that have not been explicitly approved. Such damages are not covered by Roland’s warranty regulations.
If you are using a battery and no external amplification (FR-7 only)
(1) Press the FR-7’s [POWER] button (it lights) to
switch it on.
—To switch off your system—
(6) Turn down the output volume of the receiving
audio device or switch it off.
(7) Press the FR-7/FR-5’s [POWER] button again so
that it goes dark.
If you are using the FBC-7
If the FR-7/FR-5 is powered by the supplied FBC-7 unit, proceed as follows:
(1) Connect the FR-7/FR-5 to the FBC-7 using the
supplied 19-pin cable.
(2) Connect the FBC-7’s AC INLET socket to a wall out-
let that meets the specifications (see p. 98).
To a wall outlet
Note: You can also connect headphones.
(2) Start playing (see “First steps” on page 18). (3) Press the [POWER] button again so that it goes
dark when you are finished.
If you are using a battery and an audio connec­tion to an external device
The FR-5 needs to be connected to an amplification system of some sort (unless you want to use head­phones), while you also need the FBC-7.
Note: You can also purchase a wireless transmitter from your Roland dealer and connect it to the OUTPUT sockets on the FR-7/ FR-5.
(1) Turn down the output volume of the receiving
audio device.
You can also simply switch it off.
(2) Connect the FR-7/FR-5’s OUTPUT sockets to the
external audio device using two 1/4” guitar cables.
Note: You can also connect headphones to the PHONES socket, in which case you do not need to establish an audio connection.
(3) Press the FR-7/FR-5’s [POWER] button (it lights) to
switch it on.
The icon informs you that the FR-7/FR-5 runs on the battery (it also indicates the battery’s status).
(4) Switch on the receiving audio device. (5) Start playing (see “First steps” on page 18).
The FBC-7 should only be connected to a power source of the type marked on the bottom of the unit. For details on the power consumption, please refer to page 98.
(3) Turn down the output volume of the receiving
audio device.
You can also simply switch it off.
(4) Connect the FBC-7’s OUTPUT sockets to the exter-
nal audio device (amplifier, mixing console, etc.).
Though you can also use the FR-7/FR-5’s OUTPUT sockets, doing so is probably only a good idea if you are working with a wireless transmitter. Using the FBC-7’s OUTPUT sockets indeed means that you only need one connection between the FR-7/FR-5 and the FBC-7.
(5) Press the FBC-7’s [POWER¥ON] button to switch it
on.
The POWER ON indicator on the FBC-7’s top panel lights red.
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16
V-Accordion
Listening to the demo songs
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(6) Press the FR-7/FR-5’s [POWER] button (it lights) to
switch it on.
The icon in the display means that the FR-7/FR-5 is powered by the FBC-7.
(7) Switch on the receiving audio device. (8) Start playing (see “First steps” on page 18).
—To switch off you system—
(9) Turn down the output volume of the receiving
audio device or switch it off.
(10) Press the FR-7/FR-5’s [POWER] button again so
that its indicator goes dark.
(11) Switch off the FBC-7.

Listening to the demo songs

One of the most striking aspects of your V-Accordion may be that it can play all by itself! It contains indeed a series of demo songs that illustrate its wide variety of sounds and applications. Here is how to listen to the demo songs:
(1) Switch on the FR-7/FR-5.
See “Switching the power on and off” on p. 16. The display now looks more or less as follows:
Let us agree to call this page the “Main page”.
Note: If you like, you can program a short message that is dis­played each time the FR-7/FR-5 is switched on.
(2) Simultaneously press and hold SET [√] and [®] to
jump to the following display page:
(3) If necessary, use the SET [√][®] buttons to select
another demo song.
(4) Use the [VOLUME] knob to change the volume if it
is too loud or too soft.
Note: All demo songs are copyright ©2005 by Roland Europe. Public performance or recording of these songs is prohibited.
(5) Press [EXIT÷JUMP] (or SET [√] and [®] simultaneously)
to leave the demo mode.
Playback starts automatically with the first demo song (there are 30 demo songs in all).
17
FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | First steps

First steps

The sections of your FR-7/FR-5
Before showing you how to use the FR-7/FR-5, let’s briefly look at the various “sections” of your instrument, as that will help you understand how your V-Accordion works.
The FR-7/FR-5 is a “virtual” accordion. That term was borrowed from synthesizers that recreate the sounds of other synthesizers using a different technology (hence the term “virtual analog syn­thesizer”, for example).
The FR-7/FR-5 recreates the sounds of various accordion instru­ments (the “virtual” part) and can even generate orchestral sounds, like trumpet, flute, etc. (the synthesizer part).
The sections outlined in the illustration to the right contain several functions you can set. Let us agree to call those functions “parame­ters”.
The parameters allow you to change certain aspects of the FR-7/FR-5’s sound: you can select a French musette, an Italian accordion, etc., specify how strongly the virtual reeds should be detuned, add digital effects and more. Each section has its own parameters, so that you can fine-tune your sounds until you really like the entire accordion sound. You can save your settings and select them each time you want to play a given piece. There is thus no need to set the parameters time and again.
The various sections are combined into “Sets”. Why is that? Because that way, you only need to select one memory (the Set) in order to save and recall the set­tings of all sections.
Set 40
Set 3
COMMON
Reverb Chorus
Delay Name
Icon
Master Bar
Set 2
Set 1
Master bar
Bass, Orchestra Bass, Orchestra Chord, Free Bass, Orchestra Free Bass section
Treble section
Registers of the bass, chord and orches­tral bass/chord sections
If you are really into programming, however, you could also assign completely different instruments to each register, in which case a Set becomes a container (the aforesaid car trunk) for a variety of accordion sounds.
One possibility: each Treble reg­ister represents a different instrument.
Treble 1:
Bandoneon
Treble 2:
Italian
Treble 14:
Cajun
The same system also applies to the Bass, Free Bass, Orches­tra Bass, Orchestra Free Bass, Orchestra Chord, and Orches­tra section.
Another advantage of the Set structure is that it allows you to reconfigure the three digital effects processors (Reverb, Chorus, Delay) whose settings always apply to all sections.
Oh and… the Sets can be selected with the SET [√][®] buttons on the FR-7/FR-5 and the SET ([1], [2]) foot­switches on the FBC-7 (if it is connected to the FR-7/ FR-5).
Treble
1~14
Bass
1~7
There are 40 Set memories that already contain useful settings right out of the box. But you can replace them with your own settings. (And if 40 Sets are not enough, you can archive and load new sets via MIDI, see page 89).
Sets are like the trunk of a car that contains several instruments (bandoneon, musette, etc.). The instru­ments themselves can be recalled via the registers.
There are 14 Treble memories, 7 Bass, Free Bass, Orches­tra Chord, Orchestra Free Bass, and Orchestra Bass reg­isters, and 22 Orchestra registers per Set. Except for the orchestral sounds, the registers can behave like on an acoustic accordion, i.e. they allow you to change the footage combinations.
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18
Free Bass
1~7
Orch. Chord
1~7
Orch. Bass
1~7
Orchestral
1~22

Selecting Easy or Full mode

At first, the FR-7/FR-5 is configured to start up in “Easy” mode. In that mode, only the main parameters can be selected. It has the advantage that you do not feel overwhelmed by the FR-7/FR-5’s possibilities. The downside, however, is that there are certain (albeit rather specialized) parameters you cannot even select.
To use the full potential of your FR-7/FR-5, you need to select “Full” mode:
(1) Switch on the FR-7/FR-5.
See “Switching the power on and off” on p. 16. The display now looks more or less as follows:
Let us agree to call this page the “Main page”.
(2) Press and hold the [EXIT÷JUMP] button until the
display looks as follows:
V-Accordion
Selecting Easy or Full mode
(6) Press [EXIT÷JUMP] to return to the main page.
This setting is remembered until you switch off the FR-7/FR-5. If you want to keep it, proceed as follows:
(7) Press and hold the [MENU÷WRITE] button until the
following page appears:
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(3) Press registers [10] and [2] to jump to the following
page:
(4) Press the [DATA÷ENTER] knob. (5) Rotate the [DATA÷ENTER] knob or press the [UP]/
[DOWN] buttons to select either “Full” (show all parameters) or “Easy” (show only the main param­eters).
(8) Rotate the [DATA÷ENTER] knob (or use the [UP]/
[DOWN] buttons) to select “Global”.
(9) Press the [DATA÷ENTER] knob to confirm your
selection.
Note: The GLOBAL page shows all parameters that are saved to the Global memory (there is only one such memory).
(10) Press the [MENU÷WRITE] button to save your
changes. The display briefly shows a confirmation:
Note: If you don’t save the edited Global settings, they will be used until you switch off the FR-7/FR-5 (or change the settings again).
(11) Press the [EXIT÷JUMP] button to return to the Main
page.
19
FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | First steps

About the Main page

You may have realized by now that, with the exception of the display as well as the additional buttons and knobs, the FR-7/FR-5 looks like a conventional accordion. The display contains important clues about the settings that are currently in effect.
What’s shown in the display depends on the function you select. When you switch on the FR-7/FR-5, or if you press the [EXIT÷JUMP] button several times, the Main page appears. In some cases, it may also reappear auto­matically after changing a parameter. The Main page must be displayed whenever you wish to play the FR-7/ FR-5 without changing any of its “internal” settings.
A typical Main page display looks like this:
ABCD
E F
The exact contents depend on the Set that is currently selected and on how the various sections and perfor­mance functions are set. The A~H fields, however, are always there:
A Selected Orchestra register (here “14”).
G
H
G
B Orchestra mode. C Power source (here the battery).
If you are working with a battery, this field also indicates the remaining battery power.
D Number of the currently selected Set. E Selected Treble register (here “8”). F Bass, Free Bass, Orchestra Bass, Orchestra Chord,
Orchestra Free Bass register (here “4”). Only one of the two available Bass sections (Free Bass or Bass) can be active at any one time.
G Link symbols. These symbols mean that the Orches-
tra (upper entry) and Bass registers change when­ever you select a different Treble register (page 46). The Bass Link function also applies to the Orchestra Chord section (or the Orchestra Free Bass section).
H Part Select indicator. It tells you whether the Treble
keyboard plays the accordion or orchestral sound.
Note: The information shown in the display may change when you rotate a knob or press a button. In such cases, however, the Main page reappears after a few seconds.
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V-Accordion
Touring the FR-7/FR-5’s sections
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Touring the FR-7/FR-5’s sections
It’s time we put the FR-7/FR-5 through its paces, because that’s what you purchased it for. We’ll work section by section.

Treble section

The Treble section can be played using the 41-key “piano” key­board.
The sound it produces is deter­mined by the register (1~14) you pressed last. This section can be used as “accordion”, to play an orchestral sound or both.
Note: By pressing and holding any reg­ister, you can switch off the Treble sec­tion. (Even in that case, the Treble sec­tion continues to send MIDI commands.) Press another register to switch it back on.
(1) Connect the FR-7/FR-5 (if
necessary) and switch it on.
See pages 15 and 16.
(2) Grab the FR-7/FR-5, press a Treble register and
start playing on the “piano” keyboard.
Though the FR-7/FR-5 is an electronic musical instru­ment, it only produces sound if you move the bel­lows. As long as you don’t move the bellows, you hear nothing at all (like on an acoustic accordion).
Note: When the FR-7/FR-5 is controlled via MIDI, there is no need to move the bellows.
(3) Press one of the registers to change the sound.
The display briefly confirms your setting and indi­cates which footage you selected.
Black dots mean that the Cassotto function (see p. 45) is off, hollow dots mean that the Cassotto function is on. Here is what the registers and display indications mean (bear in mind that the dots can either be black or white):
Treble registers
1 Bassoon 8 Master
2 Bandon 9 Musette
3 Cello 10 Celeste
4 Harmon 11 Tremolo
5 Organ 12 Clarinet
6 Accord 13 Oboe
7 Violin 14 Piccolo
On the Main page, the number of the selected regis­ter appears in the TREBLE field:
(4) If you think the sound is too loud or too soft, you
can change the setting of the [VOLUME] knob.
These indications refer to the octaves (vertical direc­tion, ) and the number of slightly detuned reeds that are used (horizontal direction, ). The detuned reeds are only available for the central register (8’).
2
2 / '
1
5 / '
3
3
8–' 4'
8' 16' 8+'
(5) If you still can’t hear the Treble notes, set the
[BALANCE] knob to the center position.
This knob is used to set the balance between the Tre­ble and Bass registers. When it is turned all the way to BASS, the Treble section is inaudible. When you change the Balance setting, the display briefly con­firms your setting:
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FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Touring the FR-7/FR-5s sections
(6) Use the SET [√][®] buttons to select another Set and
again play a few notes.
The number of the selected Set is shown in the upper right corner of the display. Note that you can also use the FBC-7’s SET footswitches to select Sets.
Using the Sordina
The [SORDINA] switch allows you to attenuate the sound (make it softer). On an acoustic accordion, this closes the wooden resonance chamber inside the instrument.
The FR-7/FR-5 simulates this effect electroni­cally (it contains not a single reed!).
When you switch on the Sordina, the display briefly confirms your selection:
Note: The Sordina only applies to the Treble section. Note: If you add an organ sound (8A~9B) to the Treble register
(using the Orchestra section), the Sordina function is no longer available. Organ sounds use a Rotary effect that blocks the Sordina function (in order to add the modulation of an organ speaker cabinet). You can use aftertouch, to switch between the fast and slow Rotary speeds. “Aftertouch” refers to the fact that you press a key even further down after playing a note.
Using the FR-7/FR-5’s digital effects
While playing on the Treble keyboard, you may have noticed that the accordion sounds were enhanced by effects (probably reverb). It may also have struck you that the effects change whenever you select a differ­ent Set. That’s because the effect settings are part of the parameters you can save for each Set indepen­dently.
The FR-7/FR-5 contains 3 digi­tal effects:
Reverb: This effect gives the impression that you are playing in a concert hall, a church or a room. It adds “depth” to the sound.
Chorus: This 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).
Delay: This effect creates echoes, i.e. repetitions. Short intervals (called “slapback”) create an effect similar to reverb. Longer intervals, on the other hand, create real echoes.
The [DELAY], [CHORUS] and [REVERB] knobs allow you to set the volume of these three effects. Turn them all the way towards the left (the small dot) if you don’t need the effect in question.
Turn them towards the right (the big dot) to increase the effect volume.
Note: The settings of these knobs apply to all sections and all Sets.
After familiarizing yourself with the FR-7/FR-5’s parameters, you will realize that these knobs should only be used as a last resort (i.e. on stage). You can indeed program the effect level for each section sep­arately, so that the [DELAY], [CHORUS] and [REVERB] knobs can be left in the center position, while the effect amount changes with every Set you select.
Note: In certain cases, changing the knob position of an effect may not produce any audible result. This is due to the Send Level settings of the sections (see page 46, for example). It means that a given section was programmed not to send any signal to the effect in question. Even setting the corresponding knob to the maximum therefore produces no change.
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V-Accordion
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Bass section

Bass section

The Bass section can be played via the “Stradella” but­tons.
The buttons in this section allow you to play both bass notes and chords. The chords use the (sound) register selected for the Bass section – hence the name of this section. The “real” bass notes are assigned to the two circled rows. The remaining buttons are used to play chords. (You can also play an orchestral sound using the chord buttons, while playing accordion with the bass buttons, and vice versa.)
The FR-7/FR-5 is supplied with several reference caps (concave and with lines) designed to help you locate the bass and chord buttons without looking at them. At the factory, three caps are installed on the black but­tons in the following illustration. Feel free to remove them and to slide them over other buttons if that feels more comfortable.
ORCH BASS
Ab3 Eb3 Bb3 F3 C3 G3 D3 A3 E3 B3 F#3 C#3 Ab3 Eb3 Bb3 F3 C3 G3 D3 A3
E3 B3 F#3 C#3 Ab3 Eb3 Bb3 F3 C3 G3 D3 A3 E3 B3 F#3 C#3 Ab3 Eb3 Bb3 F3
EM BM F#M C#M AbM EbM BbM FM CM GM DM AM EM BM F#M C#M AbM EbM BbM FM
Em Bm F#m C#m Abm Ebm Bbm Fm Cm Gm Dm Am Em Bm F#m C#m Abm Ebm Bbm Fm
E7 B7 F#7 C#7 Ab7 Eb7 Bb7 F7 C7 G7 D7 A7 E7 B7 F#7 C#7 Ab7 Eb7 Bb7 F7
Bdim F#dim C#dim Abdim Ebdim Bbdim Fdim Cdim Gdim Ddim Adim Edim Bdim F#dim C#dim Abdim Abdim Bbdim Fdim
Edim
(*) This can be changed to 3 bass and 3 chord rows. See 10.5 Bass & Chord Mode on p. 69.
ORCH FREE BS
ORCH CHORD
Chord buttons*
FREE BASS
Bass buttons
(3) Press another register to change the sound.
ORCH BASS
FREE BASS
The display briefly confirms your setting and indi­cates which footage you selected:
2' 4' 8-4' 8' 16'
These indications refer to the octaves (vertical direc­tion) and the number of slightly detuned reeds that are used (horizontal direction).
On the Main page, the number of the selected regis­ter appears in the BASS field:
(4) If you think the sound is too loud or too soft, you
can change the setting of the [VOLUME] knob.
Here is what the caps look like:
Slide up to remove
Reference cap
Slide over button
The sound the Bass section produces is determined by the register you pressed last. This section can be used as “accordion”, to play orchestral sounds, or both.
(1) Connect the FR-7/FR-5 (if necessary) and switch it
on.
See pages 15 and 16.
(2) Grab the FR-7/FR-5, press a register and start play-
ing on the Bass (button) keyboard.
Though the FR-7/FR-5 is an electronic musical instru­ment, it only produces sound if you move the bel­lows.
Note: By pressing and holding any register, you can switch off the Bass section. (Even in that case, the Bass section continues to send MIDI commands.) Press another register to switch it back on.
(5) If you still can’t hear the bass and chord notes you
are playing, change the [BALANCE] knob’s setting.
This knob is used to set the balance between the Tre­ble and Bass registers. When it is turned all the way to TREBLE, you won’t be able to hear the Bass section.
(6) Use the SET [√][®] buttons to select another Set and
again play a few notes.
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FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Touring the FR-7/FR-5s sections
The number of the selected Set is shown in the upper right corner of the display. You can also use the FBC-7’s SET footswitches to select Sets.
Playing in Free Bass mode
The FR-7/FR-5 also provides a Free Bass mode, which is chiefly used by professionals who prefer to play the left-hand notes (Bass section) differently. You may never need it, but if you wish to experiment with it…
Note: See page 70 for how to select the note system for Free Bass mode. That setting is shared by all Sets.
(1) Simultaneously press the three registers labeled
“FREE BASS”.
ORCH BASS
The display now briefly responds with:
FREE BASS
Using the FR-7/FR-5’s digital effects
While playing on the Bass keyboard, you may have noticed that the accordion sounds were enhanced by effects (probably reverb). It may also have struck you that the effects change whenever you select a differ­ent Set.
The FR-7/FR-5 contains 3 digital effects that apply to all sections. See page 22 for details and how to set them.
Note: In certain cases, changing the knob position of an effect may not produce any audible result. This is due to the Send Level settings of the sections. It means that a given section (or all sections) was programmed not to send any signal to the effects processor in question. Even setting the corresponding knob to the maximum therefore produces no change.
8' 8'
L H
16' 16'
“L” refers to the low range and “H” to the high range. The exact ranges depend on the FREE BASS mode you selected. See also the illustration on page 71 where the high range is indicated by means of black but­tons, and the low range by means of white buttons.
Note: See page 70 for the assignment of the bass buttons to the available Free Bass notes.
(2) Use the Bass registers to select another registration
(if necessary).
(3) Press the three FREE BASS registers again to return
to the normal Bass mode.
Note: You can add an orchestral sound to the Bass, chord or Free Bass section. See page 28 for details.
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V-Accordion
Using the orchestral sounds
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Using the orchestral sounds

Your FR-7/FR-5 also contains PCM sounds (samples) of various instruments that are not related to accordion sounds. Those sounds allow you to expand your musical endeavours without using external MIDI devices. Of course, you are free to add external MIDI tone generators to your setup and to control them from your FR-7/FR-5. See page 79 for details. Let us first look at how to use the on-board orchestral sounds, however.
The FR-7/FR-5’s Orchestra functionality actually com­prises four sections: one for the Treble keyboard (called “Orchestra”) and three for the Bass buttons (called “Orchestra Bass/Orchestra Chord/Orchestra Free Bass”).
You can specify for each keyboard whether the orches­tral sounds should be used alongside the accordion sounds (so that each note or chord you play results in a combination of accordion + instrument sound) or in isolation (no accordion).

Orchestral sounds for the Treble section

Note: Only one orchestral sound can be selected at any one time.
(1) Press the [ORCHESTRA] register.
The display now responds with:
The arrow moves from the TREBLE to the ORCH line. By pressing a register, you therefore select an orches­tral sound.
Let us quickly analyze the information you get on this page:
• “SOLO” means that the mode of the same name is currently selected (there are four different modes, see below).
• “CANCEL” means that the Orchestra part is not active. When you play on the Treble keyboard, you only hear the Treble accordion sound. To activate the Orchestra part at this stage, you need to select a sound (see below).
• The TREBLE field contains a keyboard icon. It means that the Treble keyboard is assigned to the Treble accordion part. The ORCH field, on the other hand, contains no keyboard icon, which confirms the “CAN­CEL” message.
• The sound name (“Celeste”) refers to the register that was selected for the TREBLE section’s accordion part.
(2) Press one of the registers to select the desired
orchestral sound (see the names below the Treble registers).
This activates the Orchestra part. The display now changes (the sound name may be different on your instrument):
Compare the information discussed above with what you see now:
• A sound name is displayed next to the ORCH field (“Ac Guitar”). That’s the sound you’ll hear when you play on the Treble keyboard.
• The keyboard icon has moved from the TREBLE to the ORCH field. The 22 available orchestral sounds and associated registers are:
Orchestral Treble sounds
1A Trombone 7A HighLand*
1B Trumpet 7B Zampogna*
2A Tenor Sax 8A PercOrgan
2B Alto Sax 8B JazzOrgan
3A Clarinet 9A RotOrgan
3B Oboe 9B TremOrg
4A Harmonica 10 ScatVoice
4B Mute Harm 11 Mandolin
5A Violin 12 AcGuitar
5B Pizzicato 13 AcPiano
6A Flute
6B Pan Flute
[*] See “About the ‘HighLand’ and ‘Zampogna’ sounds” on p. 26.
The first nine registers allow you to select two sounds (“A” and “B”). To select a “B” sound, press the corre­sponding register again.
If you select a “B” sound (5B “Pizzicato”, for example), then press another register (12 “AcGuitar”), and again the previous register (5), the FR-7/FR-5 automatically recalls the “B” sound (“Pizzicato”). This “configura­tion” is retained until you switch the FR-7/FR-5 off. If you need the 5A “Violin” sound at this stage, press register [5] once more.
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FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Using the orchestral sounds
The display briefly confirms your selection and shows both the name of the sound you selected and the number of the register you pressed:
(3) Play a few notes on the Treble keyboard.
The Treble keyboard is velocity sensitive. The volume and timbre of the notes played by the Orchestra part depend on how hard/fast you press the treble keys (for sounds 11, 12 or 13).
Note: The Treble accordion does not respond to velocity infor­mation generated by the keyboard. You can, however, vary its volume and timbre by pressing/pulling the bellows harder and softer (like on a “real” accordion).
The Treble keyboard also generates aftertouch mes­sages. “Aftertouch” refers to the fact that you press a key even further down after playing a note. For some orchestral sounds (guitar, flute, etc.) as well as for the Treble accordion section, this effect allows you to bend the pitch down (temporarily lower the note). If you select an organ sound, aftertouch can be used to switch between the fast and slow Rotary effect speeds.
Note: This aftertouch effect applies to all notes that are sounding simultaneously. If you play a chord and then only press down one key of the chord’s constituent notes, all notes are bent by the same amount. (MIDI buffs call this “channel aftertouch”.)
About the ‘HighLand’ and ‘Zampogna’ sounds
Your FR-7/FR-5 contains two bagpipe-instrument sounds, one called “HighLand”, the other called “Zampogna”. The instruments on which those sounds are based use one or several drone notes over which the melody is played.
To recreate the same sensation on the FR-7/FR-5, the lowest octave on the Treble keyboard is assigned to the drone notes when you select one of these sounds:
Can be used to play the melody.
• To switch off the currently sounding drone note(s), either press another key in the gray area (switch to another drone note) or press the key(s) of the sound­ing drone notes again to stop the drone.
Selecting the Orchestra mode
Depending on the settings of the Set you selected, the Orchestra part may sound together with the Tre­ble accordion section. That’s because there are four ways in which the Orchestra section can be combined with the Treble accordion section.
If the Orchestra part is off (set to CANCEL), the Mas­ter bar always recalls the Treble register selected with “Master Bar Recall” (page 67). After selecting one of the modes (DUAL, HIGH, LOW, or SOLO) and switching on the Orchestra part (CAN­CEL off), the Master bar allows you to switch the Orchestra part on and off. In SOLO mode, this means that you alternate between the Treble and Orchestra parts.
SOLO [14]: When you switch on the Orchestra section (see step (2) above), you only hear the orchestral instrument sound. Press [CANCEL] to return to the Treble accordion sound.
DUAL [13]: The orchestral sound is added to the Treble accordion, so that each note you play sounds like an accor­dion, with the selected instru­ment playing in unison. Just as a reminder: here, both the ORCH and TREBLE fields contain a keyboard icon to indicate that they sound simultaneously.
HIGH [12]: Now it becomes a little more complicated – but very interesting indeed. If you select this mode and play just one note, it is sounded by the orchestral sound. If you keep holding that key while pressing another (lower) key to its left, the upper note is played by the orchestral sound. Lower notes, how­ever, are played by the Treble accordion sound. This is perfect for situations where you need to play chords and a solo line using different sounds. Something like this:
Played by the Orchestra sound
Sound the drone notes.
Here is how the drone function works:
• If you press a single gray key (see the illustration), only that note is held. You can release the key imme­diately after playing the note – it will be held indefi­nitely.
• If you press two (or more) keys simultaneously, those notes are held (the drone function is polyphonic).
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Played by the accordion
V-Accordion
Orchestral sounds for the Treble section
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LOW [11]: This is the opposite of HIGH and can be used in situations where the melody (or counter-mel­ody) lies above the notes you wish to hold.
Played by the accordion
Played by the Orchestra sound
(4) While holding down the [ORCHESTRA] register,
press [11], [12], [13] or [14] to select the desired mode.
(6) Press the Master bar that protrudes from under-
neath the Treble keyboard to switch the Orchestra part on or off.
The display now looks as follows (same system for the HIGH and LOW modes):
Note which field contains a keyboard icon, then press the Master bar again and look at the display. Play a few notes to understand what happens.
The display briefly confirms your selection (only one of the following messages is actually displayed):
(5) Again play a few notes and listen to the result.
Note: The Orchestra mode setting can be saved to a Set (see p. 47). The saved mode is recalled when you activate the Orchestra part.
Quickly adding and muting the orchestral sound
After activating the Orchestra section and selecting a mode, you can play certain phrases using the accor­dion sound and then add the selected orchestral sound to it when you repeat such a phrase.
The following switches the Orchestra part on and off in DUAL, HIGH or LOW mode. The Treble accordion part goes on sounding, however.
Setting the volume of the (Treble) orchestral sound
There may be times (in DUAL, HIGH or LOW mode) when the ORCHESTRA sound is too loud or too soft with respect to the Treble accordion sound. In that case, you can change its volume:
(7) Press the [DOWN] button once.
(8) Use the [DATA÷ENTER] knob to set the desired
value.
This is actually a balance parameter with a setting range of “Off”, –40~“Std”~+40. “Std” means that the Orchestra part uses its “normal” volume. Negative values (–) make the Orchestra part softer, while posi­tive values (+) make it louder.
You can save the new value (and the remaining changes you make). See page 92.
(9) Return to the Main page by pressing [EXIT÷JUMP].
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FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Using the orchestral sounds
Switching off the Orchestra part
To return to a state where only the Treble accordion section sounds:
(10) Press the [CANCEL] register. Now, the FR-7/FR-5 is
a normal accordion again.
To activate the Orchestra part again, repeat steps (1) and (2) on page 25.

Orchestral sounds for the Bass section

The orchestral bass part can be used instead of the Bass section (thus replacing the accordion sound played by the bass rows of the button keyboard). There are no clever modes (DUAL, SOLO, etc.) here.
Furthermore, the ORCH BASS part does what its name implies: it only applies to the bass rows (the ones closest to the bellows) and has no effect on the chord buttons.
(1) Simultaneously press the three registers labeled
“ORCH BASS”.
ORCH BASS
[7] [6] [5] [4] [3] [2] [1]
The display now briefly responds with:
FREE BASS
Setting the volume of the Bass Orchestra sound
There may be times when the Orchestra Bass sound is too loud or too soft with respect to the Bass/Free Bass accordion sound. In that case, you can change its volume:
(3) Press the [DOWN] button twice.
The display now responds with:
(2) Use the Bass registers to select the desired sound.
Orchestra Bass sounds
1 Acoustic 5 Picked
2* Bowed* 6* Tuba*
3 Fingered 7 Tuba Mix
4 Fretless
Note: The dynamics of sounds marked with an asterisk (*) can only be controlled by bellows movements. Those sounds are not velocity sensitive. For the other sounds, see also “10.12 Orch. Bs&Ch Touch” on p. 72. Note: The numbers shown in the illustration above do not appear on the registers themselves. They have been added for your reference.
(4) Use the [DATA÷ENTER] knob to set the desired
value.
This is actually a balance parameter with a setting range of “Off”, –40~“Std”~+40. “Std” means that the Orchestra Bass part uses its “normal” volume. Nega­tive values (–) make the Orchestra Bass part softer, while positive values (+) make it louder.
You can save the new value (and the remaining changes you make). See page 92.
(5) Return to the Main page by pressing [EXIT÷JUMP].
Switching off the Orchestra Bass part
(6) Press the three ORCH BASS registers again to
return to the normal Bass mode.
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V-Accordion
Orchestral sounds for the Chord section
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Orchestral sounds for the Chord section

The Orchestra Chord part can replace the accordion sound played by the chord rows of the bass keyboard. There are no clever modes (DUAL, SOLO, etc.) here.
The ORCH CHORD part does what its name implies: it only applies to the chord rows and has no effect on the bass rows. The ORCH CHORD part is not available in Free Bass mode (because there are no chord buttons in that mode).
(1) Simultaneously press the three registers in the
middle.
ORCH BASS
[7] [6] [5] [4] [3] [2] [1]
The display now briefly responds with:
(2) Use the Bass registers to select the desired sound.
ORCH CHORD sounds
1* Trombone 5* Voice
2* Tenor Sax 6 Ac Guitar
3* Clarinet 7 Ac Piano
4* Trem Organ
Note: The dynamics of sounds marked with an asterisk (*) can only be controlled by bellows movements. Those sounds are not velocity sensitive.
FREE BASS
Setting the volume of the ORCH CHORD sound
There may be times when the orchestral chord sound is too loud or too soft with respect to the other avail­able sections. In that case, you can change its vol­ume:
(3) Press the [DOWN] button three times.
The display now responds with:
(4) Use the [DATA÷ENTER] knob to set the desired
value.
This is actually a balance parameter with a setting range of “Off”, –40~“Std”~+40. “Std” means that the Orchestra Chord part uses its “normal” volume. Nega­tive values (–) make the Orchestra Chord part softer, while positive values (+) make it louder.
You can save the new value (and the remaining changes you make). See page 92.
(5) Return to the Main page by pressing [EXIT÷JUMP].
Switching off the ORCH CHORD part
(6) Press the three central registers again to return to
the normal (accordion) chord mode.

Orchestral sounds for the Free Bass section

The orchestral Free Bass part can replace the accordion sound played by the button keyboard while Free Bass mode is active. In that case, all bass buttons play bass notes – no chords. There are no clever modes (DUAL, SOLO, etc.) here.
(1) Simultaneously press the three registers labeled
“FREE BASS” to switch to the accordion mode of the same name.
ORCH BASS
[7] [6] [5] [4] [3] [2] [1]
This is not necessary if you are already in Free Bass mode.
FREE BASS
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FR-7/FR-5 V-Accordion
Setting up | Using the orchestral sounds
(2) Simultaneously press the three registers in the
moddle.
ORCH BASS
[7] [6] [5] [4] [3] [2] [1]
The display now briefly responds with:
(3) Use the Bass registers to select the desired sound.
ORCH FREE BS sounds
1* Trombone 5* Perc Organ
2* Clarinet 6 Ac Guitar
3* Oboe 7 Ac Piano
4* Flute
Note: The dynamics of sounds marked with an asterisk (*) can only be controlled by bellows movements. Those sounds are not velocity sensitive. Note: The numbers shown in the illustration above do not appear on the registers themselves. They have been added for your reference.
FREE BASS
You can save the new value (and the remaining changes you make). See page 92.
(6) Return to the Main page by pressing [EXIT÷JUMP].
Switching off the ORCH FREE BS part
(7) Press the three central registers again to return to
the normal Free Bass mode.
(Press them yet again to leave Free Bass mode and return to Bass mode.)
Setting the volume of the ORCH FREE BS sound
There may be times when the orchestral Free Bass sound is too loud or too soft with respect to the Tre­ble accordion and/or orchestral sound. In that case, you can change its volume:
(4) Press the [DOWN] button four times.
The display now responds with:
(5) Use the [DATA÷ENTER] knob to set the desired
value.
This is actually a balance parameter with a setting range of “Off”, –40~“Std”~+40. “Std” means that the Orchestra Free Bass part uses its “normal” volume. Negative values (–) make the Orchestra Free Bass part softer, while positive values (+) make it louder.
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