The FR-3 can simulate up to 10 different accordions, each including 12 Treble registers, 7 Bass/Chord registers, and 7 Free Bass registers (Free Bass and Bass/Chord are mutually exclusive). For these high-quality sounds, Roland sampled traditional acoustic accordions to provide an instrument that can emulate various accordion types, complete with their specific tuning characteristics. And although it is an electronic instrument, the FR-3 faithfully responds to bellows movement and pressure for authentic expression. Stronger inward and outward movements create a richer, fuller sound, while lighter movements make the sound softer and quieter. There’s even a unique bellows resistance regulator that can be set to match the player’s strength or preference. Increasing or decreasing the bellows resistance is a matter of selecting one of four positions using a conveniently located wheel.

The FR-3 is ideal for students. And not just because it is the smallest accordion in the world to provide a Free Bass mode, but also because it boasts an adjustable metronome. Thanks to the instrument’s MIDI functionality, students can even record their performance on their computer. Practising has never been easier or more efficient!

The V-Accordion includes 10 orchestral sounds (including Trombone, Trumpet, Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Violin, etc.) that can be used together with the traditional accordion sounds in one of four selectable modes.

The FR-3 comes with a 3x7-segment LED for monitoring the current sound selections and setting a host of parameters. The illuminated Roland logo is interactive in that it changes color depending on the accordion Set and section (accordion or orchestra) you select. You can even choose your favourite color (from among 26 options), which may prove invaluable when you play in an accordion ensemble with several FR-3 users.

The FR-3 can be connected to various external devices (sequencer, arranger keyboards, etc.) using the onboard MIDI socket. Combined with a wireless system you can connect to the external outputs, the FR-3 can be used on the biggest stages while granting its player absolute freedom of movement. The FR-3 also provides a headphone socket.

The FR-3 doesn’t have speakers and is therefore the lightest member of the V-Accordion family. Moreover it has a compartment for optional AA-type batteries (rechargeable).

Now thanks to the new Version 2.0 operating system the FR-3 contains 10 memories where you can store your settings. Working with those memories has the advantage that you can recall frequently used settings at the press of a button.

The FR-3 comes with 16 Musette micro tuning presets programmable for each Set.