Roland FR4X

[Stuart26]

No one in N. Ireland stocks this accordion. I am interested in buying this model. Does any member in N. I. have this accordion and would be willing to let me try it for 10 minutes ?

Thanks,
Stuart

 

[JerryPH]

I’m sorry that I don’t know anyone in your area, but 10 minutes is akin to looking at a Ferrari you want to purchase… while looking through a glass pane, from across the street, 10 minutes won’t be near enough to go through 1/100th of the sonic possibilities nor give you ANY kind of idea if this is for you or not. As a minimum, I’d suggest finding someone that owns one (as you have done) and testing and talking to the owner for an afternoon… as long as they are knowledgeable about it as well.

 

[Alan Sharkis]

I agree with Jerry. The FR-4x has capabilities that even exceed what is described in its reference manual. Some of its characteristics, however, can be viewed as advantageous by some and as shortcomings by others. That’s why spending a good deal of time with one before purchasing it is a wise move.

 

[Airy]

No one in N. Ireland stocks this accordion. I am interested in buying this model. Does any member in N. I. have this accordion and would be willing to let me try it for 10 minutes ?

@Stuart26 I as well agree with @JerryPH and @Alan Sharkis.

So, why not buy at an online music shop? Most shops have a 30-day return policy. At least in Germany ALL online shops have this return policy by law, how is the situation in N.I.?

30 days to check any versatile and complex electronic device is far more appropriate than having it only for a few minutes or even hours.
For example you may not like the factory sounds or the balance between treble and chords volume at first sight. But may be you'll like it far better after you did a little tweaking in the configuration. Or you can try some of the free sound banks some generous people did put together and share freely.

 

[Alan Sharkis]

This also makes good sense. Roland ships its V-Accordions in very secure cartons and I don’t think a Roland is likely to be damaged in shipment if the original carton and fillers are used, if that’s a concern. Some dealers may even pick uip the return shipping costs if it turns out not to be the accordion for you. You can always download all the publications that Roland issues about the FR-4x ahead of, or during the trial period.

 

[Stuart26]

Thanks for all the useful replies. I think I'll try an on-line shop.
Stuart

 

[JerryPH]

Make sure you ask about return policies... last thing you want to find out is that some unscrupulous dealer has a 15% restocking fee for returns.