Roland FR 8X BK

The definitive fusion of technology and tradition

With the brilliant new FR-8x piano model, Roland has perfected the synergy between the playability of a traditional accordion and the power of modern digital technology. The latest pinnacle of the V-accordion piano class is packed with features and innovations developed by the world's top players. It brings unprecedented expressiveness and versatility to every accordion player. Innovative Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology offers realistic acoustic accordion bellows response. An expanded sound set, four powerful multi-effects, a built-in looper and much more represent a bottomless treasure chest facilitating dynamic musical expression. Seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with the familiar traditional expression of an acoustic instrument, the FR-8x brings a new era of creative freedom for players wherever they are.

The flagship model of the piano-style V-Accordion features a host of enhancements demanded by accordionists

Newly developed Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology emulates the response of real acoustic accordion bellows in every register

Simple and convenient charging of the built-in battery via AC adapter

Large selection of accordion sounds from around the world, plus 180 orchestral and percussion sounds as well as premium Virtual Tone Wheel organ sounds

Four powerful multi-effects processors (MFX) with special effects for Accordion, Orchestra 1, Orchestra 2 and Orchestra Chord sections

All-new user interface including a large, easy-to-read color display. Intuitive panel layout and three programmable switches tailored for chin use. These can be used to control a range of functions hands-free.

1,400 user memories allow players to store their own settings for each performance.

Built-in looper for instant accompaniment creation

Record and playback audio via USB memory; USB port for connection to a computer

Available in red and black

Realistic acoustic instrument response thanks to Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology

Developed specifically for the FR-8x piano type, Dynamics Bellows Behavior technology is a breakthrough for digital accordionists. In an acoustic accordion, sounds are created by vibrating reeds due to the airflow driven by the bellows. The resistance of the bellows continuously changes according to how many reeds the player activates the registers and how many notes are played at once. On the FR-8x piano type, Dynamic Bellows Behavior technology automatically adjusts the air transfer inside the bellows in real time according to the selected register and the number of notes played, exactly replicating the familiar and predictable bellows behavior of an acoustic accordion. Dynamic Bellows Behavior can simply be turned off if the player prefers the bellows behavior of previous V-Accordion models.

Enhanced interface with colour display and intuitive panel layout

The FR-8x piano type features a completely redesigned user interface that is much more efficient and easier to use than before. The large recessed colour display makes it easier to view and edit various parameters. The new panel layout then offers quick intuitive execution of operations with dedicated buttons and knobs. Three all-new, programmable switches allow you to control various functions with your chin, (e.g., changing the register, selecting user programs, and more) without taking your hands away from the keyboards. There are also 1400 user program memories, which is more than enough space to store custom settings quickly recalled in any situation with the touch of a finger.

All-in-one operation and built-in battery charging

The FR-8x keyboard type is a completely self-contained instrument with built-in battery charging and its own stereo sound system. Charging the battery is done by simply plugging the included AC adapter directly into the FR-8x, so you can play uninterrupted while it's charging. Another change is the relocation of all the connectors to the right side of the instrument, including MIDI, USB and audio jacks, where you can plug in both an external amp and a recording system.

An expanded set of premium sounds

In addition to a full selection of authentic accordion sounds from around the world, the FR-8x keyboard is equipped with over 180 orchestral and percussive sounds to take your playing into previously unexplored musical realms. The selection includes traditional instruments such as strings and brass, electric and acoustic guitars, choirs, church organ, harpsichord, ethnic sounds, synthesizers and a wide variety of drum kits. With the Virtual Tone Wheel processor, you can play great organ sounds in the Treble (upper manual), Chord (lower manual) and Bass (pedal) sections with harmonic pulls to adjust the organ sound for the appropriate musical style. Four internal memories (8 MB each) are used to load new sounds from Roland sound libraries.

Zones, layers and drums

The FR-8x keyboard accordion now provides more layering and zone options for right-hand keyboard modes than ever before. Whole, Zone, High and Low modes offer the ability to play up to four different sounds in layers simultaneously. Also, the left hand keyboard modes now include a layering option. The programmable Drum function takes accordion performance to a whole new level. It allows you to play percussive sounds manually, using the Bass and Chord buttons.

Powerful multi-effects and built-in Looper

Explore the all-new sonic textures of the FR-8x's four independent multi-effects processors with separate processing in each section: Accordion, Orchestra 1, Orchestra 2 and Orchestra Chord. Each processor has 84 different effect types, offering a wide range of sound enrichment from subtle to dramatic. Thanks to the built-in looper, you can directly record and layer your playing using a huge selection of different sounds from the FR-8x's diverse range of gear to create impressive backing arrangements on the spot during improvisation.

Play and record tracks via USB and much more

A handy MP3/WAV file player lets you work with pre-recorded music tracks during practice and live playing with accompaniment thanks to an optional USB memory stick. Simply plug the USB memory into the front panel connector and then just select and play tracks using the separate easy-to-access controls. At the touch of a button, you can also upload your accordion playing directly to the USB memory, ideal for archiving, reviewing and teaching. Thanks to the USB host port on the side panel, you can connect the FR-8x to a computer for data storage and V-Accordion user sound sets or easy installation of ongoing software updates.