U.S. patent application number 10/653486 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-04 for system and method for audio control.
Invention is credited to Mac Farlane, Malcolm David.
Application Number | 20040044804 10/653486 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29251299 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040044804 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mac Farlane, Malcolm David |
March 4, 2004 |
System and method for audio control
Abstract
The present invention comprises a system that provides a
convenient and easy-to-use means for controlling audio input and
output for recording. The system includes a first input adapted to
receive a high fidelity microphone such as a low impedance
microphone, and a second input adapted to receive a musical
instrument. The system also includes at least two outputs, each
adapted to transmit analog signals to an input of a sound card (30)
of a computer (20), and electrical circuitry coupling the inputs to
the outputs. More specifically, the system further comprises at
least one additional input adapted to receive analog signals from
an output of the sound card (30) and at least one additional output
adapted to transmit analog signals to a receiver. The electrical
circuitry couples the additional input to the additional output,
and is operable to transmit analog signals from the first and
second inputs to the receiver and to the input of the sound
card(30). The electrical circuitry is further operable to
resistively isolate the analog signals transmitted from the output
of the sound card (30) from the input of the sound card(30).
Inventors: |
Mac Farlane, Malcolm David;
(Jacksonville, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Robin A. Brooks
Brooks Law Firm, LLC
Suite 100-515
25 Highland Park Village
Dallas
TX
75205
US
|
Family ID: |
29251299 |
Appl. No.: |
10/653486 |
Filed: |
September 2, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10653486 |
Sep 2, 2003 |
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09439937 |
Nov 12, 1999 |
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6640257 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
710/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/162 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
710/001 |
International
Class: |
G06F 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An audio control adapter, comprising: a. input circuitry adapted
to receive at least one of a microphone and a musical instrument at
a first input in a first signal channel; b. a first output adapted
to transmit analog signals from the at least one of the microphone
and the musical instrument to a sound card input in the first
signal channel; c. a second input adapted to receive analog signals
transmitted from a sound card output in the first channel; d. ec
coupling the input circuitry and the first output and operable to
transmit analog signals from the at least one of the microphone and
the musical instrument to output circuitry and to the input of the
sound card, e. a second output in the first signal channel adapted
to transmit analog signals to one of a receiver; and f. wherein the
output circuitry is operable to transmit the analog signals from
the input circuitry and the second input to the second output and
to resistively isolate the analog signals transmitted from the
second input from the analog signals transmitted to the first
output.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a. a third input
adapted to receive analog signals from one of second output
circuitry in a second signal channel and a second sound card in the
second signal channel; and b. wherein the output circuitry is
further operable to transmit the analog signals in the second
channel to the second output in the first signal channel and to
resistively isolate the analog signals transmitted from the third
input in the second signal channel from the analog signals
transmitted from the second input in the first signal channel.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a third output
operable to transmit the analog signals from the at least one of
the microphone and the musical instrument in the first signal
channel to second input circuitry in a third signal channel, the
second input circuitry operable to transmit the analog signals from
the at least microphone and the musical instrument to a third sound
card in a third signal channel.
4. The system of claim 1, further comprising monitoring circuitry
coupled to the input circuitry, the first output, and the second
input, the monitoring circuitry operable to monitor at least one
parameter of the analog signals transmitted to one of the first
output and the second input, the monitoring circuitry further
operable to resistively isolate the first output from the second
input, the at least one parameter selected from the group
consisting of amplitude and frequency.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the input
circuitry, the first output, the second input, and the output
circuitry comprise wireless technology to receive analog signals
transmitted via wireless media.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the input circuitry and output
circuitry is further operable to output balanced analog
signals.
7. The system of claim 1, further comprising signal control
circuitry coupled to the input circuitry, the signal control
circuitry operable to cause at least one control function to be
performed on analog signals received from the first input prior to
being transmitted to the first output, the control function
selected from the group consisting of parametric equalization of,
tone modification of, compression of, limiting of, and
incorporating effects to, the analog signals from the first
input.
8. A method for audio control, comprising: a. coupling, in a first
signal channel, a first input to a first output and to output
circuitry the first input operable to receive an analog signals
from at least one of a microphone and a musical instrument, and the
first output adapted to transmit the analog signals from the at
least one of the microphone and the musical instrument to a sound
card input; b. coupling, in the first signal channel, a second
input adapted to receive analog signals from a sound card output to
output circuitry; c. creating resistive isolation in the output
circuitry for, in the first signal channel, the analog signals
transmitted from the second input from the analog signals
transmitted to the first output; and d. coupling, in the first
signal channel, the output circuitry to a second output adapted to
transmit analog signals to a receiver.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising a. coupling a third
input adapted to receive analog signals from one of second output
circuitry in a second signal channel and a second sound card in the
second signal channel to the output circuitry; and b. the output
circuitry being further operable to transmit the analog signals in
the second channel to the second output in the first signal channel
and to resistively isolate the analog signals transmitted from the
third input in the second signal channel from the analog signals
transmitted from the second input in the first signal channel.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising coupling a third
output operable to transmit the analog signals from the at least
one of the microphone and the musical instrument in the first
signal channel to second input circuitry in a third signal channel,
the second input circuitry operable to transmit the analog signals
from the at least microphone and the musical instrument to a third
sound card in a third signal.
11. The method of claim 8, further comprising coupling monitoring
circuitry to the input circuitry, the first output, and the second
input, the monitoring circuitry operable to monitor at least one
parameter of the analog signals transmitted to one of the first
output and the second input, the monitoring circuitry further
operable to resistively isolate the first output from the second
input, the at least one parameter selected from the group
consisting of amplitude and frequency.
12. The method of claim 8, further comprising at least one of the
input circuitry, the first output, the second input, and the second
output comprising wireless technology operable to receive analog
signals via wireless media.
13. The method of claim 8, further comprising the input circuitry
and output circuitry being further operable to output balanced
analog signals.
14. The method of claim 8, further comprising a. coupling signal
control circuitry to the input circuitry; and b. causing at least
one control function to be performed in the signal control
circuitry on analog signals received from the first input prior to
being transmitted to the first output, the control function
selected from the group consisting of parametric equalization of,
tone modification of, compression of, limiting of, and
incorporating effects to, the analog signals from the first input.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application claims priority benefit under 35 USC 120 to
co-pending U.S. Patent Application entitled "System and Method for
Audio Control," Ser. No. 09/439,937, filed Nov. 12, 1999.
RELATED APPLICATION
[0002] This application is related to co-pending U.S. Patent
Application entitled "System and Method for Audio Control," filed
Sep. 2, 2003.
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates to information handling systems,
specifically to a system and method for audio control.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Information handling systems or computers are commonly used
with sound cards to provide audio capability. Such sound cards are
typically used in conjunction with an operating system and music
application software. These sound cards have a coder/decoder or
analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion capability. Such
a capability allows translation between the digital signals
utilized by the computer and analog input or output audio signals.
Computer users can thus record and enhance analog audio signals by
utilizing the music application software to further process the
digitized audio signals or by mixing in other digital or digitized
signals. In this way, users can produce multi-media products such
as music, advertisements, and sound effects for playback or for
storing to mass media for distribution.
[0005] This type of computer-based sound card audio input and
output system has typically suffered from a number of
disadvantages. For example, these systems suffer from the
disadvantage that additional adapters are required in order to use
a number of components required to simultaneously proof and monitor
a production of a multi-media product. For example, the use of high
fidelity microphones such as XLR type low impedance microphones,
line-level inputs, and MIDI inputs and outputs requires additional
adapters.
[0006] One approach, described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,630,175, provided
for adding audio inputs into a stereo computer system. This design
requires the use of an additional sound card. Another disadvantage
to this approach is that the microphones that may be used with such
a system are limited to those that are low-fidelity or low quality.
In an effort to overcome these disadvantages, audio mixing consoles
must be used to preamplify low impedance microphone inputs or to
use more than one input simultaneously. For example, in order to
mix a microphone and a guitar into a recording, an audio mixing
console must typically be used. Yet another disadvantage is that
this approach does not provide a way to hear the playback or a way
to control the music application software while away from the
computer. Another disadvantage is that this approach may not
effectively isolate signals from the sound card, and a user may not
monitor and playback the same stereo inputs and outputs while
recording, without re-recording the combined signals output from
the sound card through the input of the sound card.
[0007] Therefore, a need has arisen for a system and method for
audio control that overcomes the disadvantages and deficiencies of
the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In accordance with the present invention, a system and
method for audio control are provided which may substantially
eliminate or reduce the disadvantages and problems associated with
prior devices used in controlling audio input and output.
[0009] The present invention comprises an adapter that provides a
convenient and easy-to-use means for controlling audio input and
output for recording. In accordance with one aspect of the
invention an audio control system has a first input, each adapted
to receive a high fidelity microphone, such as a low impedance
microphone, and a second input adapted to receive a musical
instrument. The system also has at least two outputs, each adapted
to transmit analog signals to an input of a sound card of a
computer, and electrical circuitry coupling the inputs to the
outputs.
[0010] In another embodiment, the system has an additional input
adapted to receive analog signals from an output of the sound card,
and at least one additional output adapted to transmit analog
signals to a receiver together with electrical circuitry coupling
the additional input to the additional output. The electrical
circuitry is operable to transmit analog signals from the first and
second inputs to the receiver and to the input of the sound card,
the electrical circuitry further operable to resistively isolate
the analog signals transmitted from the output of the sound card
from the input of the sound card.
[0011] In another embodiment, the system has a controller input
adapted to receive a recording controller, and a controller output
adapted to couple to the computer together with electrical
circuitry coupling the controller input to the controller
output.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method is disclosed for controlling audio input and output. The
method includes coupling a first input adapted to receive a high
fidelity microphone to a first channel of a sound card of a
computer. The method then couples a second input adapted to receive
a musical instrument to a second channel of the sound card. In a
further embodiment, the method further comprises coupling a MIDI
device to the computer.
[0013] The present invention may also permit playback while
recording, while eliminating feedback of combined signals output
from the sound card back to the input of the sound card, so that
they are not re-recorded. Another technical advantage is a method
for audio control that does not rely entirely on software controls.
Another technical advantage of the present invention is a method
that allows the use of high-fidelity recording equipment without
the need for additional complex mixing circuitry or adapters.
[0014] A further technical advantage of the present invention is a
system that allows for remote control and monitoring of a recording
session. Another technical advantage of the present invention is an
adapter that permits hands-free control and quick and convenient
access to inputs, outputs and controls for a recording session.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
the objects and advantages thereof, reference is now made to the
following descriptions taken in connection with the accompanying
drawings in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an audio control system of the
present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2A is a front view of an audio control system of the
present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2B a back view of an audio control system shown in FIG.
1;
[0019] FIGS. 2C and 2D illustrate another embodiment of an audio
control system using the teachings of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment for a hand controller that
may be used in the embodiment in FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment for a foot controller that
may be used in the embodiment in FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 5A illustrates a preferred embodiment for electrical
circuitry that may be used to couple inputs to outputs for channel
one of an audio input and output adapter;
[0023] FIG. 5B illustrates another embodiment for electrical
circuitry that may be used to couple inputs to outputs for channel
one of an audio input and output adapter;
[0024] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a preferred embodiment for
electrical circuitry that may be used to couple inputs to outputs
of an audio input and output adapter; and
[0025] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate one embodiment for a headset and
electrical circuitry that may be used in the embodiment in FIG.
1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] The present invention and its advantages are best understood
by referring to FIGS. 1-7B of the drawings, like numerals being
used for like and corresponding parts of the various drawings.
[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an audio control system of the
present invention. Audio control system 10 comprises a standard
computer 20 coupled to audio input and output (I/O) adapter 40.
Various audio input devices such as a high-fidelity, low impedance
microphone 110, high-fidelity, high impedance device 120 such as a
microphone, phonograph input, or musical instrument for example a
guitar, and Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) piano
keyboard 60 are coupled to computer 20 through audio I/O adapter
40. Similarly, audio out devices, such as stereo headphones 80,100
are also coupled to computer 20 through audio I/O adapter 40. Foot
controller 51 and hand controller 52 control the operation of
system 10 via audio I/O adapter 40. Headset 700 may also be coupled
to computer 20 through audio I/O adapter 40. Audio control system
10 allows a user to quickly and conveniently access many of these
inputs, outputs, and controls at the front of computer 20 or audio
I/O adapter 40. These inputs, outputs and controls are discussed
below in further detail.
[0028] Computer 20 includes such typical components as standard
sound card 30, processor 25, memory or disk storage 23, mouse 35,
keyboard 36, and monitor 45.
[0029] Audio I/O adapter 40 is described in further detail in
conjunction with FIGS. 2A and 2B. A second embodiment for audio I/O
adapter 40 is described in conjunction with FIGS. 2C and 2D.
Controllers such as hand controller 52 and foot controller 51 are
described in further detail in conjunction with FIGS. 3 and 4.
Electrical circuitry used in audio I/O adapter 40 is described in
conjunction with FIGS. 5A-6B. Electrical circuitry used to couple
handset 700 to audio I/O adapter is described in conjunction with
FIGS. 7A and 7B.
[0030] In operation, a user can utilize audio control system 10 for
recording by controlling computer 20, utilizing a compatible
operating system and music application software. For example, the
user may simultaneously record guitar, voice, and a MIDI input such
as trumpets. The user may do so by selecting an internal soundbank
or soundfont in the music application software using MIDI keyboard
60, mouse 35, or ASCII keyboard 36, while viewing monitor 45.
[0031] For example, the user may releasably couple a musical
instrument such as guitar 120 and high-fidelity, XLR microphone 110
into front view of chassis 200 of audio I/O adapter 40, as shown in
FIG. 2A. Audio control system 10 permits the user to hear and
monitor the voice, guitar, and trumpets being recorded by means of
stereo headphone 80, which is releasably coupled to audio adapter
40. In this embodiment, guitar 120 will be heard on one side
(channel one) and the voice on the other (channel two). Then, for
example, trumpets from MIDI keyboard 60 may be heard in both
channels of headphone 80.
[0032] The user can also control recording of such audio inputs
without being seated near computer 20 by using suitable
controllers, such as foot controller 51 and hand controller 52. For
example, to playback, undo, or edit the recording after the session
is finished, either hand controller 52 or ASCII keyboard 36 may be
used in conjunction with mouse 35 and monitor 45. Hand controller
52 and foot controller 51 are discussed in further detail in
conjunction with FIGS. 3 and 4. The user can also perform telephone
calls without being seated near computer 20 by using headset 700,
which is discussed in further detail in conjunction with FIGS. 7A
and 7B.
[0033] It is within the scope of the invention for audio control
system 10 to permit more than one user to simultaneously record and
monitor a recording session. In addition, the user may record
additional instrument tracks that may later be edited into the
recording. Further, other embodiments of audio control system 10
may permit simultaneous recording of multiple instruments such as
guitar 120. The user may use audio control system 10 to make an
audio recording that can be saved on any suitable storage media
device, including, but not limited to CDs, and other suitable
optical and magnetic media. Such suitable devices may be coupled to
computer 20 and may include devices that are adapted to receive
videos, cassettes, CDs, or other mass media storage systems.
Coupling of such devices to computer 20 is discussed in further
detail in conjunction with FIG. 6.
[0034] FIGS. 2A and 2B show front and back views of one embodiment
of audio control system 10 of the present invention. Audio I/O
adapter 40 has digital control inputs such as MIDI IN 206, audio
inputs such as LO Z 209, Hi Z 210, audio outputs such as stereo
headphone jacks 208, readouts 212, 230 and various control switches
207, 270 and 280, all of which are integrated into the chassis 200
of computer 20, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Computer 20 has
electronic control cards 202, CD ROM drive 204, and disk drive 203.
Electronic control cards 202 include motherboard 214, sound card
30, and various other application specific cards 218, 220 and
222.
[0035] It is also within the scope of the invention for audio
control system 10 to comprise an audio I/O adapter 40 which is not
integrated with computer 20. Audio I/O adapter 40 as shown in FIG.
1 also comprises a plurality of inputs and outputs adapted to
transmit signals to and from computer 20 (not explicitly shown),
and electrical circuitry coupling the inputs to the outputs (not
explicitly shown). Such inputs and outputs and circuitry are
discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 5A-6B.
[0036] FIG. 2A is a front view of audio control system 10 of the
present invention. Computer 20 typically includes data control
inputs 205 for releasably coupling to mouse 35 and keyboard 36.
Additional devices such as hand controller 52 and foot controller
51 can also releasably couple to input 205. Headset 700 may also
releasably couple to an input 701(not explicitly shown), as
discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 7A and 7B. The user may use CD
ROM drive 204 and/or disk drive 203 for reading or writing to and
from audio control system 10.
[0037] In this embodiment, audio adapter 40 comprises a plurality
of inputs, outputs and readouts for a first and a second stereo
channel of audio I/O adapter 40, channels one and two. Each of the
inputs 206, 209, and 210 comprises a receptacle adapted to
releasably couple to a suitable analog or digital audio input
device. Such receptacles are known to those skilled in the art. For
example, digital input 206 may releasably couple to MIDI piano
keyboard 60, and inputs 209 may releasably receive high-fidelity,
balanced and non balanced low impedance microphones 110 for
channels one and two. One such microphone 110 may be an XLR
type.
[0038] Similarly, audio input 210 may releasably receive
high-fidelity, balanced and non balanced high impedance
microphones, as well as musical instruments such as guitar 120 for
channels one and two. Audio input 210 desirably provides a wide
range of gain control to accommodate such input devices. In this
embodiment, inputs 210 are standard one-quarter inch phone jacks
that may releasably receive suitable devices for providing high
quality audio inputs.
[0039] Audio receivers such as for example, stereo speakers or
headphones 80 and 100 can releasably couple to audio outputs 208.
Outputs 208 may be any suitable receptacles, such as standard
stereo headphone jacks for providing two-channel playback
capability. The user may control the volume of audio playback into
headphones 80 and 100 by any suitable control switch, such as
rotatable knobs 207.
[0040] In this embodiment, separate and identical readouts 212
provided for monitoring and controlling desired gain and volume in
channels one and channel two. Thus, knobs 270 and 280 control the
audio input volume and gain, respectively.
[0041] One embodiment for readouts 212 is a standard volume unit
(VU) decibel meter. Such meters enable the user to visually verify
and control desirable volume and gain for a channel. Readout
displays can be graphically changed by switch 263, audio overload
or clipping is verified by indicators 230, and may be reset by
button 262. Any suitable readout 212 such as a VU meter may be used
for its ease and accessibility. Such readouts do not take up
display space on monitor 45, and are not as sluggish to respond as
software-controlled meters. Such readouts can be controlled by a
number of suitable mechanical or electrical control switches,
knobs, buttons, or levers.
[0042] The user may also select between line-level inputs 209, 210,
and 305, and preamplified inputs for channels one and two, by
utilizing selector switches 260. Such inputs are discussed in
further detail in conjunction with FIG. 2B.
[0043] FIG. 2B is a back view of audio control system 10 of the
present invention. Audio control system 10 includes audio inputs
and outputs, in addition to typical communication ports and
elements found in computer 20.
[0044] In this embodiment, separate and identical audio inputs and
outputs are provided for channels one and channel two. Each of the
audio inputs and outputs 301-306, 381, 380 comprises a receptacle
adapted to releasably couple to a suitable digital audio control
input or output device. Such receptacles are known to those skilled
in the art. For example, input/outputs 380 and 381 provide two-way
MIDI communications to audio control system 10.
[0045] Audio inputs 301, 305 are adapted to releasably receive
suitable line-level audio inputs that are typically used for
signals that need not be processed or amplified for gain or volume
adjustment. Similarly, inputs 303 provide the user the capability
to receive audio input from an external sound card (not explicitly
shown). Similarly, outputs 302, 304, and 306 releasably couple to
suitable line-level audio outputs. Outputs 302 may releasably
couple to line-level combined audio output signals, which are
summed and may be subject to minimal cross-talk noise in pre mix
stages, so that the user may monitor them, for example, with stereo
headphones 80. In this embodiment, all of these inputs and outputs
are standard phono jacks.
[0046] It is within the scope of the invention to include
additional inputs and outputs 390, 205 to provide for additional
monitors 45, mouse 35, keyboards 36, hand controllers 52 and foot
controllers 51. Such additional devices facilitate ease of
recording and control of music application software at a separate
location from computer 20. It is also within the scope of the
invention for audio I/O adapter 40 to include suitable inputs and
outputs that are compatible with wireless technology. For example,
one embodiment for audio I/O adapter 40 may include an infrared
detector to permit wireless coupling of a suitably-adapted wireless
mouse 35 to audio I/O adapter 40.
[0047] A plurality of communication input/outputs provides
releasable coupling for suitable standard input and output
communication devices to audio I/O adapter 40. For example, audio
I/O adapter 40 supports a parallel printer at port 352a, a SCSI
input/output bus at port 351a, and serial communications at ports
350a and 353a. Ports 350a and 353a utilize universal and
asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART) circuitry. At least two
monitors 45 may be releasably coupled to video input/outputs
390.
[0048] FIGS. 2C and 2D illustrate front and back views,
respectively, for another embodiment of audio I/O adapter 40.
Similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, this
embodiment of audio I/O adapter 40 includes audio inputs such as LO
Z 209, Hi Z 210, audio outputs such as stereo headphone jacks 208,
readouts 212 and various control switches 260-280, all of which are
integrated into a chassis 200A.
[0049] Audio I/O adapter 40 may releasably couple to sound card 30
of computer 20 (not explicitly shown) at stereo receptacles 660A
and 670A. Inputs and outputs 660 and 670 to sound card 30 are
further discussed in conjunction with FIG. 5A. Audio I/O adapter 40
may also releasably couple to input/output 610 of computer 20 at
receptacle 610A for MIDI input and output. MIDI interface circuitry
is further discussed in conjunction with FIG. 6A. Computer 20 has
electronic control cards 202 which include motherboard 214, sound
card 30, and various other application specific cards 218, 220 and
222.
[0050] This embodiment may comprise a subset of the inputs and
outputs that were discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 2A and 2B. In
this embodiment, a user may utilize audio inputs 209-210 and
similarly monitor recording of audio signals by utilizing readouts
212, 230 and controls 260-280. One stereo headphone 80, which
releasably couple to output 208, may be controlled by knob 207.
Inputs and outputs 301-306 are standard phono jacks and operate as
discussed in FIG. 2B.
[0051] Similarly, inputs 205 support a plurality of mouse 35,
keyboards 36, foot controllers 51 and hand controllers 52. It is
also within the scope of this embodiment to include suitable inputs
and outputs that are compatible with wireless technology.
[0052] In the embodiments as shown in FIGS. 2A-2D, audio I/O
adapter 40 may be enclosed by any suitable chassis 200 or 200A,
such as those used in the manufacture of typical computers, of
sufficient size for a plurality of audio inputs, outputs and
controls. It is within the scope of the invention for audio I/O
adapter 40 to comprise as few or as many inputs, outputs, and
peripherals such as mass storage devices and monitors as are needed
to support a user's needs. As another example, audio I/O adapter 40
may also be used with a laptop computer 20.
[0053] FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment for a controller such as
hand controller 52 as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 1. In this
embodiment, hand controller 52 is generally rectangularly-shaped
and includes a plurality of controls and buttons. Such controls and
buttons may be hard-wired or programmable, and allow the user to
control audio control system 10 while making a recording without
the need to be located near computer 20. Such a controller
facilitates recording while using audio input and adapter 40,
especially for persons who may be disabled or who are recording a
solo session. The user may utilize hand controller 52 to playback
or undo a recording, or edit unwanted pops or noises. In
conjunction with this process, the user may also utilize monitor 45
and software in computer system 20.
[0054] Hand controller 52 may be releasably coupled to audio I/O
adapter 40 at receptacle 205 by means of data control cord 460. In
this embodiment, hand controller 52 includes six keys or switches
500 through 550. These six switches may be assigned standard
recording functions to control application software used in audio
control system 10. Switches 500 through 550 permit the user to
perform standard recording functions such as rewind, record, stop,
pause, fast forward, and play. Switches 500 through 550 may be any
standard mechanical or capacitive type switches.
[0055] Hand controller 52 may also include a plurality of
user-assigned, software programmable keys. In this embodiment,
switches 470 through 490 are such user-assigned, software
programmable keys. These keys may be assignable to perform short
cuts, macros, or any other software function that the user may
typically utilize in operating application software in audio
control system 10. Similarly to buttons 500 through 550, keys 470
through 490 may be any standard mechanical or capacitive type
switches.
[0056] It is also within the scope of the invention for hand
controller 52 to be electrically coupled to audio I/O adapter 40 by
means of any suitable wireless circuitry. Hand controller 52 may
also be voice controlled. Hand controller 52 may be any shape, and
suitably large to accommodate any number of desired switches and
controls.
[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment for a controller such as
foot controller 51 as shown in the embodiment in FIG. 1. Foot
controller 51 enables a user to perform basic recording functions
without the need to directly access or be seated next to mouse 35,
keyboard 36, or monitor 45 of audio control system 10. Use of foot
controller 51 also frees up the user's hands to perform other tasks
while recording. Foot controller 51 may be releasably coupled to
audio I/O adapter 40 at input 205 by means of data control cord
580.
[0058] In this embodiment, foot controller 51 comprises depressible
foot pedal 600, depressible switch 590, and data control cord 580.
Foot controller 51 is generally rectangularly-shaped. In this
embodiment, depressible switch 590 corresponds to a software
assigned value for record. Thus, when a user depresses switch 590,
data is transferred through data control cord 580 to instruct
application software used in computer system 20 to record audio
inputs once switch 590 is depressed. Similarly, when a user is done
recording, the user may depress foot pedal 600. Depressing foot
pedal 600 sends data through data control cord 580 to instruct
sound recording software and computer system 20 to play back a
desired track.
[0059] It is also within the scope of the invention for foot
controller 51 to be electrically coupled to audio I/O adapter 40 by
means of any suitable wireless circuitry. Foot controller 51 may
also be voice controlled. Foot controller 51 may be any shape, and
suitably large to accommodate any number of desired controls such
as buttons.
[0060] FIGS. 5A-6A illustrate preferred embodiments for electrical
circuitry that may be used in audio I/O adapter 40 to couple inputs
and outputs as discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 1-2D. In this
embodiment, such electrical circuitry comprises input selection
circuitry A, volume monitoring circuitry B, output circuitry C,
MIDI interface circuitry G and peripheral interface circuitry J.
Input selection circuitry A, volume monitoring circuitry B and
output circuitry C are discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 5A and
5B. MIDI interface circuitry G and peripheral interface circuitry J
are discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 6A and 6B. FIG. 6B
illustrates typical devices that may releasably couple to the
circuitry discussed in FIG. 6A.
[0061] FIG. 5A illustrates exemplary coupling of inputs to outputs
for channel one in audio I/O adapter 40 by input selection
circuitry A, volume monitoring circuitry B, and output circuitry C.
In this embodiment, inputs and outputs for channel two would be
coupled by separate and identical circuitry A, B, and C. Other
embodiments may couple electrical circuitry for channel one to
channel two. Although direct connections are illustrated for
various elements, many elements may be coupled through other
elements without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0062] Input selection circuitry A is coupled to a plurality of
receptacles and to volume monitoring circuitry B. Input selection
circuitry A processes audio signals received at inputs 209, 210,
and 305 from user-selected input devices, such as high-fidelity,
low impedance microphone 110, high-fidelity, high impedance
microphone or guitar 120, and a line-level audio device.
[0063] Input selection circuitry A processes input audio signals
from either microphone 110 or instrument 120. Input selection
circuitry A isolates inputs 209 and 210 by means of capacitive and
resistive coupling, and couples the receptacles to
user-controllable gain and volume pre-amplification circuitry. The
user may utilize such gain and volume pre-amplification circuitry
to adjust the gain and volume of the audio signal input to inputs
209 and 210 by using devices such as knobs 270 and 280, as
discussed in conjunction with FIG. 2A. The audio signal passes
through the pre-amplification circuitry, to volume monitoring
circuitry B. The audio signal may also pass to output 304 for the
user to monitor or for external signal effects processing.
[0064] Input selection circuitry A is also operable to select and
process input audio signals from input 305 by a variety of methods
known to those skilled in the art, such as switch 260. Input 305 is
adapted to receive a line-level audio input signal, which directly
couples to volume monitoring circuitry B.
[0065] In this embodiment, volume monitoring circuitry B comprises
an amplifier and circuitry associated with readouts 212, 230 and
associated controls, such as a VU meter, indicators 212, 230,
button 262, and switch 263. Volume monitoring circuitry B couples
inputs 209, 210, and 305 to output 660 and to output circuitry C.
Volume monitoring circuitry B may be any suitable circuitry that
permits the user to monitor readouts of the audio inputs such as
volume and gain. Output 660 is adapted to releasably couple to the
analog input of channel one of sound card 30 for analog to digital
conversion, and for further processing in computer 20.
[0066] Output circuitry C comprises audio mixing circuitry and
volume amplification circuitry. Output circuitry C is coupled to
sound card 30 output 670, which is adapted to releasably couple to
the output for channel one of sound card 30. Output circuitry C
also couples outputs 660, 670 and volume monitoring circuitry B to
outputs 208, 302, and 306. Such coupling permits the user to
virtually simultaneously listen to an audio signal as it is
processed from inputs 209 and 210, 305 through input selection
circuitry A and volume monitoring circuitry B, inputs 301, 303,
305, and 671, and sound card 30 output 670. The user may listen to
the audio signal using any suitable amplifier, such as stereo
headphones 80 and 100, which comprise two-channel coupling for
stereo sound. Output circuitry C also directly couples output 670
from the output of channel one of sound card 30 for suitable
line-level output 306. Such an output is typically a standard RCA
plug, requires no volume monitoring, and is discussed in
conjunction with FIG. 2B.
[0067] Audio mixing circuitry permits selection and amplification
of signals received from volume monitoring circuitry B and from
signals received from sound card 30. The audio mixing circuitry
couples such inputs through output circuitry C to outputs 302, 208,
and 306. Signals are directly coupled from audio mixing circuitry
to any suitable line-level output or amplified by volume
amplification circuitry. Such circuitry obviates the need for an
additional complex mixing console, and resistively isolates signals
received from sound card 30 from the input of sound card 30. In
this embodiment, a suitably-sized resistor R2 attenuates analog
signals transmitted from sound card 30 as they are transmitted to
outputs 208, 302. A second suitable resistor R1 further resistively
isolates such analog signals from the input of sound card 30 by
attenuating such analog signals and thus prevents them from being
re-recorded at the input of sound card 30. Similarly, R2 attenuates
signals transmitted from volume monitoring circuitry B and
resistively isolates them from the output of sound card 30.
[0068] Output circuitry C may also be configured to process
additional signals. For example, outputs from one channel of
additional sound cards (not explicitly shown) may also be processed
through audio mixing circuitry at one or more inputs 671. Further,
signals may similarly be directly output to input/output 306 and
directly input to input 305 for releasable coupling to such an
external sound card. Additional inputs such as inputs 209, 210 and
305 may also be coupled through additional or similar input
selection circuitry A and volume monitoring circuitry B to
additional inputs 671 in output circuitry C, and to sound card
input 660. Some or all of these inputs may be, for example, summed
or multiplexed as desired to sound card 30, and are only limited by
the capacity of sound card 30. Alternatively, some or all of these
inputs may also each be coupled to an additional sound card (not
explicitly shown). For each additional input channel processed
using additional input selection circuitry A and volume monitoring
circuitry B, an additional output channel may also be utilized. For
example, each such additional output channel may be coupled to
output 670 of sound card 30, or to an output of the additional
sound card that corresponds to an additional input channel. In such
embodiments, additional resistors R1 and R2 may also resistively
isolate signals from sound card 30, or an additional sound card, as
previously discussed. These embodiments may provide additional
flexibility in accessing sound card banks and to create custom
sound banks using standard, inexpensive sound cards.
[0069] FIG. 5B illustrates another embodiment for electrical
circuitry that may be used to couple inputs to outputs for channel
one of an audio input and output adapter. In this embodiment, audio
I/O adapter 40 comprises circuitry in addition to the elements
described in FIG. 5A.
[0070] For example, in some embodiments of the invention, switch
S60 may be coupled between the input 660 and output 670 of sound
card 30, and volume monitoring circuitry B. Such a configuration
allows the user to monitor both sound card 30 inputs and outputs by
using volume monitoring circuitry B.
[0071] It is also within the scope of the invention to couple and
isolate input 660 and output 670 of sound card 30 by suitable means
such as resistors as an alternative to or in addition to switch
S60. Such a suitable configuration may allow the user to sum and
simultaneously monitor all the signals being processed within audio
I/O adapter 40. Other suitable isolation methods and circuitry may
also be used.
[0072] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a preferred embodiment for
electrical circuitry coupling additional inputs and outputs of
audio I/O adapter 40. Such electrical circuitry comprises MIDI
interface G circuitry and peripheral interface circuitry J, and
couples the remaining inputs of audio I/O adapter 40 to the
remaining outputs. MIDI interface circuitry G couples input/output
610 to input 206, which is adapted to receive MIDI devices such as
piano keyboard 60. Peripheral interface circuitry J couples to
output 625 inputs 205, which are adapted to receive additional
keyboards 36, and hand and foot controllers 52 and 51. Such devices
are illustrated by example in FIG. 6B.
[0073] MIDI interface circuitry G is also operable to couple
input/output 610 to a plurality of suitable MIDI devices via
input/outputs 206, 380 and 381. Such coupling permits additional
access to other MIDI and MIDI-controlled devices. It is also within
the scope of the invention for such coupling to support direct MIDI
to and from the Internet via MIDI interface circuitry G.
[0074] In this embodiment, the electrical circuitry used in audio
I/O adapter 40 also directly couples a plurality of input
receptacles to outputs. For example, ports 350a-353a are coupled to
outputs 350b-353b, respectively. These inputs and outputs are
standard I/O plugs and receptacles.
[0075] Peripheral interface circuitry J couples inputs adapted to
receive peripherals, such as keyboard 36, to output 625, and
further couples output 625 to computer 20 at inputs 620, 630 and
640, and output 650. For example, peripheral interface circuitry J
couples to input 630 at least one input 205 a mouse 35. It is also
within the scope of the invention to couple additional devices such
as mouse 35 at input 205 to input 630.
[0076] Peripheral interface circuitry J couples output 625 to input
205 a keyboard 36 and a hand controller 52 and/or foot controller
51. It is within the scope of the invention for peripheral
interface circuitry J to couple additional devices such as hand
controller 52, foot controller 51, and keyboard 36 at additional
inputs 205 to output 625. Peripheral interface circuitry J also
couples a monitor 45 to inputs and outputs 640 and 650 at video
input and outputs 390.
[0077] It is within the scope of the invention to couple a
plurality of devices through SCSI input/output bus port 351a. Such
a plurality is limited only by the processing capacity of computer
20. Such devices include, but are not limited to, devices suitable
to read and/or write a variety of media, such as production-quality
tape, compact disk, floppy drive media storage, and mass storage.
Such expandability facilitates the use of audio adapter control
system 10 to make sound recordings on a large scale, and on
production-quality media. Such a configuration also envisions the
use of audio control system 10 with standard media devices
available to most consumers, utilizing technologies as they become
available.
[0078] Furthermore, it is also within the scope of the invention to
couple additional controls, peripherals, and audio and digital
input and/or output channels to audio control system 10. For
example, additional monitors 45, keyboards 36, mouse 35, and hand
and foot controllers 52 and 51 are also within the scope of the
invention. Such expansion is limited only by the underlying
software and hardware.
[0079] Other types of processing and input/output may also be used,
such as optical processing and optical buses. Microphone inputs
such as 209 and 210 may have phantom power. Audio control system 10
may also be used to perform cancellation functions, which include,
for example, removing lead vocal data from recorded stereo
soundtracks. Audio control system 10 may also comprise additional
controls such as parametric equalizers, tone controls, compressor
or limiters, effects, and routing.
[0080] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate one embodiment for a headset and
electrical circuitry that may be used in the embodiment in FIG. 1.
Headset 700 enables a user to communicate using voice communication
such as answering a telephone call, without the need to directly
access or be seated next to mouse 35, keyboard 36, or monitor 45 of
audio control system 10, and frees up the user's hands to perform
other tasks.
[0081] In this embodiment, audio I/O adapter 40 comprises adapter
710, volume monitoring circuitry B2, and switches 720 and 721, in
addition to the elements discussed in detail in FIGS. 5A through
6A. Switch 720 couples output 730 of adapter 710 to volume
monitoring circuitry B and to the analog input of channel one of
sound card 30 for analog to digital conversion, and for further
processing in computer 20. Similarly, switch 721 couples the output
of channel one of sound card 30 to volume monitoring circuitry B2
and to input 731 of adapter 710 to process incoming caller signals.
As illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, switches 720 and 721 are set to
communicate with stereo headset 700.
[0082] Adapter 710 comprises at least one standard audio input 701
to releasably couple to a suitable analog audio input device such
as a suitable multi-pin jack. Adapter 710 may also comprise one or
more additional controls such as buttons or switches 702 and 703,
to provide suitable or user-programmable functions such as call
screening or blocking. It is also within the scope of the invention
for adapter 710 to comprise a standard hook and cradle device (not
explicitly shown) device to connect to a standard telephone
receiver, in addition to or as an alternative to headset 700.
Adapter 710 comprises suitable volume amplification circuitry to
process audio signals to and from sound card 30 at output 730 and
input 731, respectively. Adapter 710 also comprises suitable logic
coupled to switches 720 and 721 and to output 625, which may in
some embodiments be coupled to computer 20 at input 620, as
illustrated in FIG. 6A. Adapter 710 may also comprise or be coupled
to suitable interface circuitry 736 to process signals to and from
input 731 and outputs 625 and 730.
[0083] Headset 700 may be releasably coupled to audio I/O adapter
40 at input 701 by means of a suitable data control cord 704, or
may be wirelessly coupled to audio I/O adapter 40. In this
embodiment, headset 700 may be any suitable device allowing voice
communication, such as a headset as illustrated in FIG. 7B, or a
standard telephone receiver.
[0084] In operation, headset 700 may be activated for example, to
receive or place a voice call. One embodiment of the invention may
include a sensor 750 coupled to adapter 710 to control switches 720
and 721. Sensor 750 may also be coupled to adapter 710 by means of
control cord 704. Sensor 750 may sense a user's presence and
inductively activate headset 700. Activation of headset 700 may
invoke adapter 710 to mute the output of other audio and digital
signals present in system 10, and may further activate computer
software through output 625. Adapter 710 processes audio signals
received through adapter 710 and switch 720 at output 730, and
receives audio signals through switch 721 at input 731,
respectively. It is also within the scope of the invention for
adapter 710 to comprise suitable logic to redirect signals of other
devices to headset 700, or to make all inputs and outputs
simultaneously active. Such logic may be implemented in software,
firmware, or hardware, and may be, for example, manually
controlled, to predefine or select redirection to headset 700 of
any number of additional controls, inputs and outputs.
[0085] It is also within the scope of the invention for volume
monitoring circuitry B2 and switches 720 and 721 to reside in
adapter 710, in addition to or rather than in audio I/O adapter 40.
In such an embodiment, adapter 710 may releasably couple to audio
I/O adapter 40. Similarly, the elements comprising adapter 710 may
be incorporated into audio I/O adapter 40. For example, the
embodiments as illustrated in FIGS. 2C and 2D may incorporate input
701 and switches 702, 703, to couple to and control headset 700.
Similarly, volume monitoring circuitry B2, switches 720 and 721 and
the circuitry residing in adapter 710 may also be suitably
incorporated into the circuitry as illustrated and discussed in
FIG. 5A.
[0086] While the invention has been particularly shown and
described by the foregoing detailed description, it will be
understood by those skilled in the art that various other changes
in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention.
* * * * *