Roland FR-3b/3sb V-Accordion

Roland Updated: 2009-02-23 RSS
Roland FR-3b/3sb V-Accordion

With the FR-3/3s, Roland introduced the first compact V-Accordion to the market. With the FR-3b/3sb, Roland launches the first compact 92- button-type Accordion. The FR-3b/3sb ("b" stands for button) offers the same flexibility and portability of the compact FR-3s model and the amazing expressiveness of the Roland button-type V-Accordions.

Now, thanks to the new Version 2.0 operating system, the FR-3b and FR-3sb come with 10 programmable user programs that can be backed up on your PC together with 16 Musette micro tuning presets programmable for each Set.

* 92-button keyboard with the ability to change the layout of the Treble button keyboard
* 7 new Orchestral Chord/Orchestral Free Bass registers with new sounds
* Onboard MIDI socket
* The FR-3sb/3b  has a compartment for optional AA-type batteries (one-way or rechargeable)
* Bellows Resistant Regulator
* The FR-3sb  features an onboard digital amplifier and two speakers. The FR-3b doesn't have speakers, and is therefore the lightest member of the V-Accordion family (it is just as flexible, however, as the FR-3sb)

92-button-type Accordion
The FR-3b/3sb features a 92-button keyboard with 6 preset Treble button modes (C-Griff Europe, C-Griff 2, B-Griff Bajan, B-Griff Fin, D-Griff 1, D-Griff 2). Players can easily change the note assignments by selecting the button mode that best suits their playing style. They can even remove and reposition the button caps so as to make the button layout correspond to their selected mode. The FR-3sb comes with a set of pro-quality neodymium speakers built in.

Educational Features
The FR-3 Series is the smallest accordion series in the world to provide a Free Bass Mode – perfect for students. All models in the FR-3 series contain a metronome that helps you to develop your sense of rhythm and timing. Thanks to the instruments' MIDI functionality, students can even record their performance on their computer. Practicing has never been easier or more efficient!

Accordion Simulations and Orchestral Sounds
The FR-3b/3sb boasts a 64-voice polyphonic sound engine that can simulate up to 10 accordions, each with 12 Treble registers, 7 Bass/Chord registers, and 7 Free Bass registers (Free Bass and Bass/Chord are mutually exclusive). The FR-3 series is the smallest accordion series in the world to provide a Free Bass Mode and metronome — perfect for students. The FR-3b and FR-3sb V-Accordions also include 10 orchestral sounds (Trombone, Trumpet, Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Violin, etc.) that can be played separately or in combination with the traditional accordion sounds.

LED Display and Multicolor Roland Logo
The FR-3b/3sb features a 3x7-segment LED for monitoring the current sound selections, and for setting a host of parameters. The illuminated Roland logo is interactive: You can change the color depending on the accordion set and section (accordion or orchestra) you select. Choose your favorite color from among 26 options!

Ins and Outs
The FR-3b/3sb can be connected to various external devices (sequencers, arranger keyboards, etc.) using the onboard MIDI jack. Combined with a wireless the FR-3sb/3b can be used on big stages as well in pubs, restaurants, or even outdoor festivals while granting its player absolute freedom of movement. Both the FR-3b and the FR-3sb provide a headphone jack, while the FR-3sb comes with a set of professional-quality neodymium speakers Built-in.

Travel Companion
To protect the FR-3-series V-Accordions, Roland offers an optional companion travel bag. The BAG-FR-3 is made of a high-quality Cordura fabric, and is resistant to abrasions, tears, and scuffs. The EVA foam interior protects the V-Accordion from shock and impact. The bag includes hand and shoulder straps, plus a large outside pocket for carrying batteries, AC adapter, music books, etc.