Roland FR-8x: The fusion of technology and tradition at the highest level!
With the new FR-8x digital piano accordion, Roland has perfected the synergy between the ability to play a traditional accordion and modern digital power. The latest top model of the V-Accordion is designed with features and improvements developed to the maximum, with the help of top accordionists from around the world, bringing a new level of expression and versatility previously unattainable for every accordionist. The innovative Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology provides the true response of an acoustic accordion's bellows, while the extensive sound set, four powerful multi-effects, a looper, and much more offer a treasure trove of instruments for dynamic musical exploration.
The iconic V-Accordion, enhanced with many improvements requested by professional accordionists
The newly developed Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology emulates the true response of an acoustic accordion's bellows in every register
Simple and convenient, charging the built-in battery with an AC adapter
A wide selection of accordion sounds from around the world, plus 180 orchestral and percussion sounds and world-class Virtual Tone Wheel organ sounds
Four powerful multi-effects engines (MFX), with dedicated MFX for Accordion, Orchestra 1, Orchestra 2, and Orchestra Chord section
New user interface, large easy-to-read colour screen, intuitive layout, three programmable chin switches to control a wide variety of functions
The 1400 user memories across 14 banks allow saving custom settings for any situation
Built-in looper to create instant accompaniment
Recording and playback of audio files directly from USB; USB port for connection to a computer
True acoustic response with Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology The recently developed Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology for the FR-8x represents a real advancement for digital accordionists. In an acoustic accordion, sounds are produced by the reeds, which vibrate with the airflow generated by the bellows movement; the bellows resistance varies constantly depending on how much reed is selected and how many notes are played. In the FR-8x, the Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology automatically adjusts the airflow transfer in the bellows in real-time based on the selected register and the number of notes played, replicating the familiar and comfortable feel of an acoustic accordion. The Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology can be easily disabled for accordionists who prefer the feel of the previous V-Accordion.
Redesigned interface with colour screen and intuitive panel The FR-8x comes with a completely redesigned user interface that is more powerful and easier to use than ever before. A large colour screen facilitates the display and editing of various parameters, while the restructured panel layout ensures fast intuitive operation through dedicated buttons and potentiometers. Three new programmable chin switches allow control over a variety of functions, such as changing registers, selecting user programs, and more: all without lifting your hands off the keys. In addition, the 1400 user memories allow for storing custom settings.
All-in-One operation and built-in battery charging The FR-8x is a complete standalone instrument, with a rechargeable battery and built-in stereo amplification system. Battery charging is simply done by connecting the AC adapter to the FR-8x, allowing you to play uninterrupted during the charging process. Additionally, all device connections are now located right on the instrument, including MIDI, USB, as well as audio outputs for connecting to external amplification or a recording system.
Extensive World-Class sound collection In addition to the complete selection of authentic accordion sounds from around the world, the FR-8x is equipped with over 180 orchestral and percussion sounds, providing the power to expand music into uncharted territory. Traditional instruments such as string and brass instruments are included, plus electric and acoustic guitars, choirs, church organs, harps, ethnic sounds, synthesizers, and a wide range of drum kits. With the Virtual Tone Wheel sound engine, you can access stunning organ sounds using the Treble (upper), Chord (lower), Bass (pedal) sections and customize through control potentiometers for any music style. Four internal memory zones (each 8 MB) allow loading new sounds from the Roland sound library.
Zones, Layers, and Drums With the FR-8x, layering and zone configuration options are possible in the right-hand modes. Whole, zone, low, and high modes allow playing with four different tones simultaneously. The left-hand mode now also includes layering capability. The programmable drum function offers performance in a new dimension, allowing the playback of percussion sounds manually with the Bass and Chord buttons.
Multi-effects and built-in looper Explore new dimensions with the four independent multi-effects (MFX) engines of the FR-8x, offering processing for the Accordion, Orchestra 1, Orchestra 2, and Orchestra Chord sections. Each engine offers 84 different effects, providing a wide range of accessories from subtle to dramatic. With the built-in looper, you can instantly record and playback your performances using a selection of sounds from the FR-8x, thus allowing you to obtain accompaniment for improvisation.
Audio file playback via USB, recording, and more The USB port allows playback of audio files MP3/WAV. Just connect the USB stick to the front panel, then select the desired song with very simple controls. With a simple button press, your performances can be recorded directly onto the USB memory, making it perfect for archiving, evaluation, or education. Through the USB port on the side panel, you can connect the FR-8x accordion to a computer for data storage, customizing sound sets, or for software updates.
