The FR-1x is Roland's compact entry into the V-Accordion world, and it's a genuinely clever instrument. With 26 piano-style keys and 72 bass buttons, it's sized for younger players and adults who want a lighter, more portable accordion without giving up sound quality. The onboard sounds are sampled from high-end acoustic accordions, and with 128-note polyphony, everything rings out full and clear.

Built-in speakers with bass reflex deliver surprisingly good volume for practice and small venues, and the USB port lets you load custom sounds and play along with backing tracks. The user interface is straightforward -- no deep menus to navigate. If you're teaching accordion to a younger student or want a travel-friendly instrument for casual playing and practice, the FR-1x gives you Roland's acclaimed V-Accordion technology in the smallest, lightest package available.