Information processing device, method, and program

Abstract

The present invention provides an information processing device, method, and program that allow for easy application of set values ​​to electronic musical instruments. [Solution] The electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20, which is an information processing device, comprises a flash ROM 213, which is a storage unit that stores the impedance of the electronic musical instrument and a setting value that includes at least one parameter value from among gain, equalizer, and effect for the electronic musical instrument in association with each other; an instrument input terminal 22a, which is a connection unit that connects to the electronic musical instrument; and a processor 211, which is a control unit. The processor 211 measures the impedance of the electronic musical instrument connected to the instrument input terminal 22a using an impedance measuring unit 240, and based on the measured impedance, obtains the corresponding setting value from the flash ROM 213 and sets an appropriate audio characteristic correction value for the electronic musical instrument.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, method, and program.

Background Art

[0002] An electronic musical instrument assistance device for correcting the sound of an electronic musical instrument is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In Patent Document 1, a user inputs information on the model of an electronic musical instrument connected to the electronic musical instrument assistance device to the electronic musical instrument assistance device. The electronic musical instrument assistance device controls the output of an audio signal (such as timbre and sound quality) by referring to an attribute table corresponding to the input model.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the electronic musical instrument assistance device described in Patent Document 1, the user needs to input information on the model every time the electronic musical instrument to be played is changed. Therefore, it is difficult for the user to quickly switch the electronic musical instrument to be played.

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure have been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, method, and program that can easily apply set values to an electronic musical instrument.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An information processing apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a storage unit that stores the impedance of an electronic musical instrument and a setting value for the electronic musical instrument in association with each other, a connection unit connected to the electronic musical instrument, and a control unit. The control unit measures the impedance of the electronic musical instrument connected to the connection unit and, based on the measured impedance, obtains the corresponding setting value from the storage unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an information processing device, method, and program are provided that can easily apply set values ​​to an electronic musical instrument. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This figure shows the configuration of a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the external appearance of an electronic musical instrument auxiliary device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic musical instrument auxiliary device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an impedance measurement circuit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows an equivalent circuit with a cable connected to an electronic musical instrument according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows an equivalent circuit with a cable connected to an electronic musical instrument according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure shows preset data according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows a process performed by an electronic musical instrument auxiliary device in one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] This is the subroutine for the audio characteristic correction process (step S107) shown in Figure 8. [Figure 10] This is a subroutine for the preset registration process (step S108) shown in Figure 8. [Figure 11]This is a subroutine for the impedance characteristic measurement process (step S301) shown in Figure 10. [Figure 12] This is a subroutine for the preset automatic selection process (step S109) shown in Figure 8. [Figure 13] This is the subroutine for the preset manual selection process (step S110) shown in Figure 8. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following description relates to an information processing apparatus, method, and program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Common or corresponding elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted or simplified as appropriate. In each figure, the configuration is shown enlarged, reduced, or omitted as appropriate for the sake of explanation. To improve the visibility of the drawings, elements in the figures are shown with lines other than solid lines (such as dashed lines or dotted lines) as necessary.

[0010] As shown in Figure 1, System 1 comprises an electronic instrument 10, an electronic instrument auxiliary device 20, an effect pedal 30, and an amplifier 40. The electronic instrument 10 is connected to the input terminal of the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20. The effect pedal 30 is connected to the output terminal of the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20. The output terminal of the effect pedal is connected to the amplifier 40.

[0011] In this embodiment, the electronic instrument 10 is an electric guitar. The electronic instrument 10 outputs an electrical signal (audio signal) corresponding to playing operations (in other words, string vibrations) to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20. The electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 applies correction processing to the audio signal input from the electronic instrument 10 and outputs it to the effect pedal 30. The effect pedal 30 adds sound effects to the audio signal input from the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 and outputs it to the amplifier 40. The amplifier 40 is, for example, a guitar amplifier with a built-in speaker. The amplifier 40 amplifies the audio signal input from the effect pedal 30 and outputs it from the speaker.

[0012] For example, the electronic musical instrument 10 may be an electronic stringed instrument other than an electric guitar. The electronic musical instrument 10 may also be another type of electronic musical instrument such as an electronic percussion instrument, an electronic wind instrument, or an electronic keyboard instrument. For example, the effect pedal 30 may be connected to another type of device such as a PA (Public Address) device or studio equipment instead of or in addition to the amplifier 40. Thus, the configuration of the system 1 has flexibility and can be changed as appropriate.

[0013] Here, the output and tone color characteristics of electronic musical instruments vary depending on the type (such as guitar, bass, etc.) and model. Therefore, when connecting electronic musical instruments of different types and models to an effect pedal or amplifier, fine adjustment is required for each electronic musical instrument.

[0014] For example, consider the case where the user switches the electronic musical instrument being played from an electric guitar with a large output to an electric guitar with a small output. In this case, there is a volume difference from the electric guitar that was being played immediately before. To reduce this volume difference, the user needs to increase the input gain of the effect pedal or amplifier at the timing of switching the electric guitar. Also, depending on the electronic musical instrument, there are tone color characteristics such as a lack of low frequencies or excessive high frequencies that are ear-piercing. With such tone color characteristics as they are, it is difficult for the user to handle during performance. Therefore, the user needs to finely adjust the equalizer, for example, at the timing of switching the electric guitar.

[0015] Therefore, a method of using an effector capable of recording a plurality of setting patches is conceivable. In this method, even for the same family of tone colors, setting patches for the tone color are prepared for each electronic musical instrument and used appropriately. However, in this method, for the same family of tone colors, it is necessary to prepare setting patches for the types and models of electronic musical instruments. Therefore, there is a risk that the patch memory capacity will be insufficient. Taking an effector capable of recording 100 types of setting patches as an example. When preparing setting patches for five electric guitars, only 20 types of tone colors can be recorded for one electric guitar. <>

[0016] Also, when changing the settings of a patch that records the same type of timbre, it is necessary to perform the change operation as many times as the number of corresponding musical instruments. For example, if you want to lower the delay level of the distortion lead guitar sound, you need to repeat the same change operation for the settings patches of the corresponding number of electronic musical instruments. This increases the burden on the user for managing and adjusting the settings patches.

[0017] Also, for example, during performance, the user needs to select setting patches with different numbers for each electronic musical instrument even if they have the same type of timbre. For example, even if the user remembers that patch numbers 1 and 2 are clean tone and distortion respectively, if there are as many of these timbres as the number of electronic musical instruments, the numbers to be remembered increase and mistakes may occur. Therefore, the stress on the user during performance increases, and there is a risk that the user cannot concentrate on the performance.

[0018] From the above, generally, users do not want to increase the number of setting patches. Therefore, for example, the user compromises by intensively using a specific electronic musical instrument and not achieving the optimal settings when using other electronic musical instruments. If the user still experiences inconvenience, for example, the user readjusts the setting patches on the spot every time the electronic musical instrument is changed. Therefore, it has been difficult to quickly switch the setting values for the electronic musical instrument in accordance with the change of the electronic musical instrument.

[0019] Therefore, the electronic musical instrument assistance device 20 according to the present embodiment is configured to be able to easily and quickly switch the setting values for the connected electronic musical instrument 10. Hereinafter, the system 1 including the electronic musical instrument assistance device 20 will be described in detail. >

[0020] The electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 is an example of an information processing device and an example of a computer. The electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 is, for example, a compact pedal-type device. As shown in Figure 2, the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 is equipped with a device input terminal 22a, a device output terminal 22b, and a power input terminal 22c. The device input terminal 22a is an example of a connection part that connects to the electronic musical instrument 10. The electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 does not have a power switch. The electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 automatically starts up when a DC power supply is connected to the power input terminal 22c and power is supplied, and shuts down when the power supply is interrupted.

[0021] A display device 24 and various controls are provided on the panel of the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20. The various controls include adjustment buttons 26BU and 26BD for the low frequencies (bass), adjustment buttons 26MU and 26MD for the mid frequencies (middle), adjustment buttons 26TU and 26TD for the high frequencies (treble), adjustment buttons 26GU and 26GD for the amplification factor (level gain), a preset number display unit 26P, preset selection buttons 26SU and 26SD, a preset registration button 26R, and an automatic preset selection switch 26SW (e.g., a footswitch). The controls that increase or decrease values ​​(low frequency, mid frequency, high frequency, amplification factor, preset number) by a predetermined value are denoted by the codes U and D, respectively.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 comprises a processor unit 210, a user interface unit 220, an audio characteristics control unit 230, and an impedance measurement unit 240. The various parts of the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 are connected by a bus 250.

[0023] The processor unit 210 comprises a processor 211, RAM (Random Access Memory) 212, and flash ROM (Read Only Memory) 213. The processor 211 reads programs and data stored in the flash ROM 213. The processor 211 comprehensively controls the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 by using the RAM 212 as a work area. The processor 211 is, for example, a single processor or a multi-processor, and includes at least one processor. In a configuration including multiple processors, the processor 211 may be packaged as a single device, or it may consist of multiple physically separated devices within the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20. The processor 211 may be called, for example, a control unit, CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processor Unit), or MCU (Micro Controller Unit).

[0024] RAM212 temporarily holds data and programs. RAM212 stores various programs and data read from flash ROM213. Flash ROM213 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM). Flash ROM213 stores the control program 213A. By executing the control program 213A, the processor 211 executes various processes according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

[0025] The user interface unit 220 includes an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 221, an LCD controller 222, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 223, an LED controller 224, a switch panel 225, and a key scanner 226. The LCD 221 constitutes the display device 24. When the LCD controller 222 drives the LCD 221 according to a control signal from the processor 211, a screen corresponding to the control signal (for example, a value such as level gain) is displayed on the LCD 221. The LCD 221 may be replaced with another form of display device, such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence).

[0026] LED223 includes, for example, a 7-segment LED that forms a preset number display unit 26P. The LED controller 224 controls the illumination of LED223 according to a control signal from the processor 211. As a result, for example, a preset number is displayed on the preset number display unit 26P.

[0027] The switch panel 225 includes various controls (adjustment buttons 26BU, 26BD, 26MU, 26MD, 26TU, 26TD, 26GU, 26GD, preset number display unit 26P, preset selection buttons 26SU, 26SD, preset registration button 26R, and preset auto-selection switch 26SW). The key scanner 226 monitors the operation of the various controls. The key scanner 226 outputs an operation signal to the processor 211 corresponding to the operated control. The processor 211 controls the operation of the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 based on the input operation signals.

[0028] The electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 includes a relay 260. The relay 260 is a c-contact relay and connects the electronic instrument 10 to the audio characteristics control unit 230 or the impedance measurement unit 240. The processor 211 normally connects the relay 260 (in other words, the electronic instrument 10) to the audio characteristics control unit 230 (e.g., b-contact). When the key scanner 226 notifies the processor 211 that the preset registration button 26R or the preset auto-selection switch 26SW has been operated, the processor 211 temporarily connects the relay 260 (in other words, the electronic instrument 10) to the impedance measurement unit 240 (e.g., a-contact) (at least until the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 is measured by the impedance measurement unit 240).

[0029] The audio characteristics control unit 230 controls the audio characteristics of the audio signal input from the electronic instrument 10 connected to the device input terminal 22a. The audio characteristics control unit 230 includes an audio characteristics control port 231, tone circuits 232B, 232M, 232T, and an amplification circuit 233. The tone circuits 232B, 232M, and 232T are equalizer circuits for low, mid, and high frequencies, respectively. The amplification circuit 233 is a circuit that adjusts the volume (level) gain.

[0030] The processor 211 controls the tone circuits 232B, 232M, 232T, and the amplification circuit 233 via the audio characteristic control port 231. The audio characteristic control unit 230 is composed of, for example, an analog circuit. The processor 211 controls this analog circuit by digitally adjusting its characteristics (circuit constants).

[0031] When adjustment button 26BU is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232B to increase the low-frequency component (low-frequency gain) by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26BD is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232B to decrease the low-frequency gain by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26MU is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232M to increase the mid-frequency component (mid-frequency gain) by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26MD is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232M to decrease the mid-frequency gain by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26TU is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232T to increase the high-frequency component (high-frequency gain) by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26TD is pressed, processor 211 controls tone circuit 232T to decrease the high-frequency gain by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26GU is pressed, processor 211 controls amplifier circuit 233 to increase the level gain by 1 dB. When adjustment button 26GD is pressed, processor 211 controls amplifier circuit 233 to decrease the level gain by 1 dB.

[0032] The correction values ​​for bass, middle, treble, and level are displayed on the LCD221. When an adjustment button is operated, the processor211 illuminates the LED26 of the preset registration button26R. This informs the user that, for example, at least one of the correction values ​​for bass, middle, treble, and level has been changed from the current preset value.

[0033] The impedance measurement unit 240 measures the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 connected to the device input terminal 22a. The impedance measurement unit 240 includes an input signal control port 241, an impedance measurement circuit 242, and A / D converters 243 and 244. The processor 211 controls the contact connection of the relay 260 via the input signal control port 241.

[0034] The impedance measurement circuit 242 is configured to measure the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 using the automatic balanced bridge method. Specifically, as shown in Figure 4, two points (signal line and GND line) of the electronic instrument 10 are connected to the impedance measurement circuit 242. More specifically, the impedance measurement circuit 242 comprises an oscillator 242a, an operational amplifier 242b, and a feedback resistor 242c. The oscillator 242a is a signal source that generates the measurement signal (sine wave signal). In the circuit diagram, the electronic instrument 10 is connected between the oscillator 242a and the inverting input terminal of the operational amplifier 242b.

[0035] The frequency of the measurement signal generated by the oscillator 242a is controlled by the processor 211. In this embodiment, in order to measure the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 with high accuracy, the processor 211 needs to read two voltages (input voltage V1, output voltage V2) measured simultaneously in the impedance measurement circuit 242. For this reason, A / D converters 243 and 244 are connected to each of the two corresponding locations.

[0036] The processor 211 simultaneously performs measurement start control on the A / D converters 243 and 244. The A / D converters 243 and 244 sample and hold the input signal with synchronized hold timings, store charge equivalent to the voltage, and output the AD values ​​(input voltage V1, output voltage V2) obtained by digitally converting that value. As a result, the input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 at the same time are measured.

[0037] In the operational amplifier 242b, the gain is automatically adjusted so that the current Ir flowing through the feedback resistor 242c and the current Ix flowing through the electronic instrument 10 are equal (for example, so that the GND side of the electronic instrument 10 is always virtual ground (potential zero)). The processor 211 obtains the input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 when the measurement signal generated by the oscillator 242a flows into the electronic instrument 10 from the A / D converters 243 and 244, respectively. The processor 211 calculates the impedance Zx of the electronic instrument 10 using the following equation (1).

[0038] Impedance Zx = Resistance R × (Input Voltage V1 / Output Voltage V2) ... (1) Note that resistor R represents the resistance value of the feedback resistor 242c. The value of resistor R is known.

[0039] The equivalent circuit shown in Figure 5 will be explained. As shown in the equivalent circuit of Figure 5, the electronic instrument 10 is equipped with two pickups P and a selector S. The pickups P include a pickup circuit PC, a tone control circuit TC, and a volume control circuit VC. The selector S includes a switch SW. The selector S can be selected from three states by the switch SW: one of the two pickups P is connected, or both are connected.

[0040] The cable CB connecting the electronic instrument 10 and the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 contains very small resistances R2 and R3, as well as capacitance C3. However, the impedance of cable CB is far smaller than the resistance R of the feedback resistor 242c. Therefore, the influence of the impedance of cable CB on the measured impedance of the electronic instrument 10 can be practically ignored. Users do not need to worry about the model number or length of cable CB when measuring the impedance of the electronic instrument 10.

[0041] The pickup circuit PC includes a power supply AC, an inductor L, a resistor R1, and a capacitor C1. The tone control circuit TC includes a variable resistor VR1 and a capacitor C2. The volume control circuit VC includes a variable resistor VR2. The equivalent circuit shown in Figure 5 has the pickup P, the tone control of the tone control circuit TC, and the volume control of the volume control circuit VC as variable elements. The impedance of the electronic instrument 10 changes depending on these variable elements. In order to accurately measure the impedance with the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20, the electronic instrument 10 needs to be set to a specified state. An example of a specified state is when a predetermined pickup P is selected and the tone and volume are set to their maximum values. In actual performance, it is common to set the tone and volume to their maximum values. This can be said to be a common setting for electronic instruments 10 (e.g., electric guitars), so it is not burdensome for the performer. The equivalent circuit of such a specified state (state without variable elements) is shown in Figure 6.

[0042] Table 213B, shown in Figure 7, is stored in the flash ROM 213. Table 213B can store up to 100 types of preset data (array data) (preset numbers 0 to 99). Each preset data is associated with three types of impedance (100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz) and audio characteristic correction values ​​(correction values ​​for bass, middle, treble, and level). The range of each impedance (unit: Ω) is zero to infinity (0 to ∞). The range of the audio characteristic correction values ​​(correction values ​​for bass, middle, treble, and level) (unit: dB) is -12 to +12. The subscript number enclosed in square brackets following the array name indicates the preset number (0 to 99). Thus, the flash ROM 213 (table 213B) is an example of a storage unit that stores the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 in association with the audio characteristic correction values ​​(an example of setting values ​​for the electronic instrument 10).

[0043] When the preset registration button 26R is pressed, the processor 211 measures the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 currently connected to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 at three different frequencies (100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz). The processor 211 associates the three measured impedances with the currently set audio characteristic correction values ​​(bass, middle, treble, and level correction values) and registers (overwrites) them to the currently selected preset number.

[0044] When registering preset data, if the electronic instrument 10 is in the specified state described above, the processor 211 controls the LED 26 to a predetermined state (e.g., off). This allows the user to recognize that the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 has been measured under the correct conditions. In other words, if the LED 26 is not in the predetermined state, the user can recognize that the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 has not been measured under the correct conditions.

[0045] Even when the preset auto-selection switch 26SW is pressed, the processor 211 measures the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 currently connected to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 at three different frequencies (100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz). The processor 211 searches table 213B for preset data in which impedance values ​​are registered such that the difference for all three measured impedances is less than ±1%. The processor 211 retrieves the preset data that matches the search criteria and applies the audio characteristic correction values ​​(bass, middle, treble, and level correction values) registered in the retrieved preset data to the tone circuits 232B, 232M, 232T, and the amplification circuit 233. If the processor 211 does not find any preset data that matches the search criteria, it does not change the preset data.

[0046] Thus, in this embodiment, preset data is recalled only when the condition (the difference is less than ±1%) is met for all of the multiple types of impedance measurements. Since the recall of incorrect preset data is avoided, the appropriate audio characteristic correction value can be reliably applied to each circuit.

[0047] For example, if the electronic instrument 10 is not in the specified state described above, preset data matching the search criteria may not be found. In this case, the processor 211 controls the LED 26 to a predetermined other state (e.g., blinking state). That is, if the processor 211 cannot obtain the corresponding preset data (an example of a setting value, such as an audio characteristic correction value) from the flash ROM 213 (table 213B), it may notify the user to set the electronic instrument 10 to a specified state (an example of an appropriate state).

[0048] If a user wishes to arbitrarily change the audio characteristic correction value, they can, for example, press the preset selection button 26SU to recall the preset data with the next higher number and apply the audio characteristic correction value to each circuit, or press the preset selection button 26SD to recall the preset data with the next lower number and apply the audio characteristic correction value to each circuit.

[0049] Using Figures 8 to 13, a process performed by the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 (processor 211) in one embodiment of this disclosure will be explained. When the DC power supply is connected to the power input terminal 22c and power supply to the electronic musical instrument auxiliary device 20 begins, the process in Figure 8 begins to be executed. When this power supply is interrupted, the process in Figure 8 ends.

[0050] The steps in the flowcharts shown in the embodiments of this disclosure may be reordered, to the extent that they do not contradict each other. For example, the embodiments of this disclosure present the processing of various steps in an exemplary order, but are not limited to this order. Furthermore, the steps in the flowcharts shown in the embodiments of this disclosure may be performed in parallel or concurrently, to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0051] As shown in Figure 8, the processor 211 performs an initialization process (step S101). During the initialization process, for example, the variables preset, ip0, ip1, ip2, bs, md, tr, and gn are set to their initial values ​​(e.g., zero). The variable preset indicates the preset number. The variable preset can take values ​​from 0 to 99. The variables ip0, ip1, and ip2 indicate the impedances of the electronic instrument 10, each of the three types (100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz). The variables ip0, ip1, and ip2 can take values ​​from 0 to infinity. The variables bs, md, tr, and gn indicate the low-frequency gain, mid-frequency gain, high-frequency gain, and level gain, respectively. The variables bs, md, tr, and gn can take values ​​from -12 to +12.

[0052] The processor 211 waits for various operations (audio characteristic correction operation, preset registration operation, automatic preset selection operation, manual preset selection operation) (steps S102 to S105). If no operation is detected, the processor 211 performs other routine processing (LCD 221 display control, communication processing, etc.) (step S106), returns to the process in step S102, and waits for various operations again.

[0053] If an audio characteristic correction operation is performed (step S102: YES), the processor 211 executes the audio characteristic correction process (step S107). The subroutine for the audio characteristic correction process (step S107) is explained using Figure 9.

[0054] In the audio characteristic correction process (step S107), the processor 211 updates the corresponding variables in accordance with the audio characteristic correction operation (step S201). Specifically, when adjustment buttons 26BU, MU, TU, and GU are pressed, the processor 211 increments variables bs, md, tr, and gn by 1, respectively. When adjustment buttons 26BD, MD, TD, and GD are pressed, the processor 211 decrements variables bs, md, tr, and gn by 1, respectively. If a variable is at its maximum value (+12), no increment is performed, and if a variable is at its minimum value (-12), no decrement is performed.

[0055] The processor 211 controls the audio characteristics control unit 230 based on the updated variables (step S202). For example, if the variable bs is incremented by 1, the processor 211 controls the tone circuit 232B to increase the low-frequency gain by 1 dB. If the variable gn is decremented by 1, the processor 211 controls the amplification circuit 233 to decrease the level gain by 1 dB. In this way, the processor 211 can set audio characteristics correction values ​​(examples of set values) based on user operations on each adjustment button.

[0056] The processor 211 controls the display on the LCD 221 based on the updated variables (step S203). For example, if the variable bs is incremented from +6 to +7, the processor 211 changes the low-frequency gain display from +6 to +7. For example, if the variable gn is decremented from 0 to -1, the processor 211 changes the level gain display from 0 to -1. The processor 211 lights up the LED 26 of the preset registration button 26R (step S204). This informs the user that the updated audio characteristic correction values ​​are not yet registered in table 213B.

[0057] If a preset registration operation is performed (i.e., the preset registration button 26R is pressed) (step S103: YES), the processor 211 executes the preset registration process (step S108). The subroutine for the preset registration process (step S108) is explained using Figure 10.

[0058] In the preset registration process (step S108), the processor 211 performs an impedance characteristic measurement process (step S301). In the impedance characteristic measurement process (step S301), the impedance of the electronic instrument 10 connected to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 is measured at three different frequencies (100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz).

[0059] The processor 211 registers (overwrites) preset data to the preset number indicated by the variable preset (step S302). Specifically, the processor 211 stores a value in each element of the array. That is, the processor 211 stores the variables ip0, ip1, ip2, bs, md, tr, and gn in IP0[preset], IP1[preset], IP2[preset], BS[preset], MD[preset], TR[preset], and GN[preset], respectively. In other words, the processor 211 stores the three types of impedance values ​​(100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz) measured in step S301 and the current audio characteristic correction values.

[0060] In this way, the processor 211 measures the impedance of the connected electronic instrument 10 based on the operation of the preset registration button 26R (an example of a first trigger), and stores the measured impedance and the current audio characteristic correction value (an example of a set value) in the flash ROM 213 (table 213B).

[0061] Any reference to elements using designations such as “First,” “Second,” etc., as used in this disclosure, does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations are used for convenience to distinguish between two or more elements. Therefore, references to the First and Second elements do not imply, for example, that only two elements are adopted, or that the First element must precede the Second element.

[0062] The processor 211 turns off the LED 26 of the preset registration button 26R (step S303). This informs the user that the audio characteristic correction values ​​currently set in the audio characteristic control unit 230 match the audio characteristic correction values ​​of the preset data for the currently selected preset number.

[0063] The subroutine for the impedance characteristic measurement process (step S301) will be explained using Figure 11. In the impedance characteristic measurement process (step S301), the processor 211 sequentially measures three types of impedance (100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz).

[0064] Specifically, the processor 211 sets the values ​​of each variable (variable j, variable V1, variable V2) to zero (step S401). The processor 211 sets the frequency of the measurement signal generated by the oscillator 242a to 100 Hz (step S402). The processor 211 operates the A / D converters 243 and 244 to obtain the input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 when the 100 Hz measurement signal is passed to the electronic instrument 10 (step S403). The processor 211 adds the obtained values ​​of input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 to variables V1 and V2, respectively (step S404), and increments variable j by 1 (step S405).

[0065] The processor 211 repeats the process in steps S403 to S406 until the variable j reaches 10 (i.e., until a YES determination is made in step S406). The variables V1 and V2 obtained by repeating the process are the sum of the input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 values ​​for 10 times, respectively. The processor 211 substitutes the input voltage V1 and output voltage V2 values ​​for 10 times into equation (1) above to calculate the impedance Zx at 100Hz and assigns the calculated value to the variable ip0 (step S407). This gives the impedance at 100Hz (=ip0) as the average value of 10 times. In this embodiment, since the average value of 10 times is obtained, the measurement error of the impedance is suppressed.

[0066] In Figure 11, although omitted for convenience, the processor 211 performs the same processing as in steps S401 to S407 for 1kHz and 10kHz in sequence. As a result, the impedances for 1kHz and 10kHz (=ip1, ip2) are also obtained as the average value of 10 measurements, similar to the impedance for 100Hz.

[0067] If an automatic preset selection operation is performed (i.e., the automatic preset selection switch 26SW is pressed (stepped)) (step S104: YES), the processor 211 executes the automatic preset selection process (step S109). The subroutine for the automatic preset selection process (step S109) is explained using Figure 12.

[0068] The processor 211 sets the value of variable i to zero (step S501). The processor 211 performs impedance characteristic measurement processing similar to that in Figure 11 (step S502).

[0069] IP0[i], IP1[i], and IP2[i] represent the impedance array data for preset number i at 100Hz, 1kHz, and 10kHz, respectively. The processor 211 searches table 213B for preset data in which impedance values ​​are registered such that the difference for all three types of impedance measured in step S502 is less than ±1% (steps S503 to S505).

[0070] Specifically, the processor 211 determines whether the array data (IP0[i], IP1[i], IP2[i]) of preset number i satisfies the conditions (step S503). That is, the processor 211 determines whether the value of IP0[i] falls within a range of ±1% (a range greater than 0.99 × (impedance measurement ip0 at 100Hz) and less than 1.01 × (impedance measurement ip0)). The processor 211 determines whether the value of IP1[i] falls within a range of ±1% (a range greater than 0.99 × (impedance measurement ip1 at 1kHz) and less than 1.01 × (impedance measurement ip1)). The processor 211 determines whether the value of IP2[i] falls within a range of ±1% (a range greater than 0.99 × (impedance measurement ip2 at 10kHz) and less than 1.01 × (impedance measurement ip2)).

[0071] If any one of the conditions for IP0[i], IP1[i], or IP2[i] is not met (step S503: NO), the preset data for the current preset number i does not correspond to the connected electronic instrument 10. In this case, the processor 211 increments the variable i by 1 (step S504). The processor 211 determines whether the variable i is 99 or greater (step S505). If the variable i is less than 99 (step S505: NO), the processor 211 returns to step S503 to perform the determination process for the preset data for the next preset number i. If the variable i is 99 or greater (step S505: YES), the processor 211 terminates this subroutine because no matching preset data was found.

[0072] If IP0[i], IP1[i], and IP2[i] all satisfy the conditions (step S503: YES), the processor 211 sets the value of variable i to the variable preset (step S506). The processor 211 sets the values ​​stored in the preset data (array data) of the preset number indicated by the variable preset to each variable (step S507). Specifically, the processor 211 sets the values ​​of IP0[preset], IP1[preset], IP2[preset], BS[preset], MD[preset], TR[preset], and GN[preset] to variables ip0, ip1, ip2, bs, md, tr, and gn, respectively.

[0073] Thus, the processor 211 measures the impedance of the connected electronic instrument 10 and, based on the measured impedance, obtains the corresponding audio characteristic correction value (an example of a setting value) from the flash ROM 213 (table 213B), which is an example of a memory unit. In addition, the processor 211 measures the impedance of the connected electronic instrument 10 based on the operation of the preset auto-selection switch 26SW (an example of a second trigger) and, based on the measured impedance, obtains the corresponding audio characteristic correction value (an example of a setting value) from the flash ROM 213 (table 213B), which is an example of a memory unit.

[0074] Furthermore, a flash ROM 213 (table 213B), which is an example of a memory unit, stores the impedance corresponding to each of several frequencies (for example, 100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz) in association with an audio characteristic correction value (an example of a set value). The processor 211 measures the impedance of the connected electronic instrument 10 for each of the several frequencies and, based on the impedance corresponding to each of the measured frequencies, retrieves the corresponding audio characteristic correction value (an example of a set value) from the flash ROM 213 (table 213B).

[0075] The processor 211 controls each circuit of the audio characteristics control unit 230 (tone circuits 232B, 232M, 232T, and amplification circuit 233) based on the set variables bs, md, tr, and gn (step S508). The processor 211 displays the preset number (the number indicated by the variable preset) on the LCD 221 (step S509) and terminates this subroutine.

[0076] If a preset manual selection operation is performed (i.e., the preset selection button 26SU or 26SD is pressed) (step S105: YES), the processor 211 executes the preset manual selection process (step S110). The subroutine for the preset manual selection process (step S110) is illustrated using Figure 13.

[0077] In the preset manual selection process (step S110), the processor 211 updates the variable preset in response to the operation on the preset selection button 26SU or 26SD (step S601). For example, if the preset selection button 26SU is pressed, the processor 211 increments the variable preset by 1. For example, if the preset selection button 26SD is pressed, the processor 211 decrements the variable preset by 1. If the variable preset is at its maximum value (99), no increment is performed, and if the variable preset is at its minimum value (0), no decrement is performed.

[0078] The processor 211 sets the values ​​stored in the preset data (array data) of the preset number indicated by the variable preset to each variable (step S602). Specifically, the processor 211 sets the values ​​of IP0[preset], IP1[preset], IP2[preset], BS[preset], MD[preset], TR[preset], and GN[preset] to variables ip0, ip1, ip2, bs, md, tr, and gn, respectively.

[0079] The processor 211 controls each circuit of the audio characteristics control unit 230 (tone circuits 232B, 232M, 232T, and amplification circuit 233) based on the set variables bs, md, tr, and gn (step S603). The processor 211 displays the preset number (the number indicated by the variable preset) on the LCD 221 (step S604) and terminates this subroutine.

[0080] According to this embodiment, the user can easily set appropriate audio characteristic correction values ​​for the electronic instrument 10 connected to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20. The user does not need to perform adjustment tasks such as setting audio characteristic correction values ​​each time the electronic instrument 10 is connected. The user does not need to worry about inconveniences that may occur when using an effector that can record multiple setting patches (such as the creation of complicated setting patches or the waste of memory due to an increase in the number of setting patches). Since the audio characteristic correction values ​​are set automatically, the user does not need to remember appropriate audio characteristic correction values ​​for the electronic instrument 10. The user can concentrate on playing.

[0081] Furthermore, some conventional effectors would recall a corresponding setting patch when the user played the electronic instrument 10 and produced a sound. However, some users, for example, may feel uncomfortable performing such patch recall operations in front of an audience, such as during a live performance. In the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 according to this embodiment, appropriate audio characteristic correction values ​​are automatically recalled without requiring such operations. The user can, for example, play smoothly without feeling stressed.

[0082] The above is a description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure. For example, embodiments of the present application include combinations of embodiments explicitly shown in the specification or obvious embodiments as appropriate.

[0083] In the above embodiment, the automatic preset selection process (step S109) is initiated when the automatic preset selection switch 26SW is pressed. In another embodiment, the automatic preset selection process (step S109) may be initiated based on a different trigger. For example, to further reduce the user's operational burden, the automatic preset selection process (step S109) may be initiated when the electronic instrument 10 is connected to the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20.

[0084] In the above embodiment, if no suitable preset data is found during the automatic preset selection process (step S109) (in other words, if an unregistered electronic instrument 10 is connected), the subroutine terminates. In another embodiment, if an unregistered electronic instrument 10 is connected, the registration process for this electronic instrument 10 may be performed, and the three impedance values ​​(100Hz, 1kHz, 10kHz) measured during the subroutine and the current audio characteristic correction values ​​may be stored in table 213B. In yet another embodiment, a predetermined preset data may be called.

[0085] The electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 is not limited to a compact pedal-type device. The electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 may, for example, be built into the input stage of an amplifier 40. The electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 may, for example, be built into the input stage of an effects pedal 30 such as a multi-effects unit, or it may be built into the first stage of the analog input of an electronic keyboard or electronic piano equipped with effects functions. When built into an effects pedal 30 or an electronic device equipped with effects functions, the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 may set effects (e.g., chorus, flanger, tremolo, compressor, etc.) in addition to, or instead of, gain (level) and equalizer (bass, middle, treble) for the connected electronic instrument 10. That is, the audio characteristic correction values ​​that can be set by the electronic instrument auxiliary device 20 (an example of set values) may include at least one parameter value from among gain, equalizer, and effects. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0086] 1: System, 10: Electronic instrument, 20: Electronic instrument auxiliary device, 30: Effect pedal, 40: Amplifier, 210: Processor unit, 230: Audio characteristics control unit, 240: Impedance measurement unit

Claims

1. A storage unit that stores the impedance of an electronic instrument and a set value for the electronic instrument in association with each other, A connection part connected to the aforementioned electronic musical instrument, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, The impedance of the electronic instrument connected to the aforementioned connection is measured, Based on the measured impedance, the corresponding set value is obtained from the storage unit. Information processing device.

2. The control unit, The aforementioned setting values ​​can be set based on user operations. Based on the first trigger, the impedance of the electronic instrument connected to the connection part is measured, and the measured impedance is stored in the storage unit in association with the current set value. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, Based on the second trigger, the impedance of the electronic instrument connected to the connection part is measured, and based on the measured impedance, the corresponding set value is obtained from the storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The memory unit stores the impedance corresponding to each of the multiple frequencies in association with the set value. The control unit, The impedance of the electronic instrument connected to the connection part is measured for each of the plurality of frequencies. Based on the impedance corresponding to each of the measured multiple frequencies, the corresponding set value is obtained from the storage unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The control unit, If the corresponding setting value cannot be obtained from the storage unit, the electronic instrument is notified to set to an appropriate state. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned setting value includes at least one parameter value from among gain, equalizer, and effect. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned electronic instrument is an electronic string instrument. An information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. When connected to an electronic musical instrument, the impedance of the connected electronic musical instrument is measured. Based on the measured impedance, the computer is instructed to perform a process of retrieving the corresponding setting value from a storage unit that stores the impedance of the electronic instrument and the setting value for the electronic instrument in association with each other. method.

9. When connected to an electronic musical instrument, the impedance of the connected electronic musical instrument is measured. Based on the measured impedance, the computer is instructed to perform a process of retrieving the corresponding setting value from a storage unit that stores the impedance of the electronic instrument and the setting value for the electronic instrument in association with each other. program.

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