Karaoke equipment

Abstract

To provide a karaoke device that enables control of karaoke performances suitable for various use patterns when used in connection with other karaoke devices via a network.SOLUTION: A karaoke device includes: a registration section for registering in a reservation list song identification information of a song selected by a user associated with identification information of a use mode indicating the use mode of a karaoke device selected by the user; an identification section for identifying a use status of the other karaoke device based on the use mode implementation status transmitted from the other karaoke device; and a performance control section that controls karaoke performance of a piece of music corresponding to piece of music identification information, and also transmits the implementation status of the use mode to the other karaoke device, based on the use mode associated with the piece of music identification information registered in the reservation list and the identified implementation status.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a karaoke machine. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art A karaoke system has been proposed in which a plurality of karaoke devices are connected to one another via a network so that they can communicate with each other, allowing users at different locations to enjoy singing duets together.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for providing a duet / chorus karaoke control method at multiple locations that allows users at multiple remote locations to share video and audio signals from both locations.

[0004] In addition, Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose a technology for adjusting the reservation order of karaoke songs for network singing at each karaoke performance terminal and starting the performance of karaoke songs simultaneously at each karaoke performance terminal, thereby enabling efficient network singing. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2005-077485 A [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-167581 A [Patent Document 1] JP 2014-199373 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, when karaoke devices connected to each other via a network are used, duet singing or chorus singing is not always performed.

[0007] For example, karaoke singing may be performed separately on one karaoke device and another karaoke device, or singing voice based on karaoke singing performed on one karaoke device may be distributed and enjoyed on another karaoke device.

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a karaoke machine which, when connected to other karaoke machines via a network, allows karaoke performance control in accordance with various usage patterns. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] One invention for achieving the above object is a karaoke device connected to another karaoke device so as to be able to communicate with the other karaoke device, the karaoke device having a registration unit which links song identification information of a song selected by a user with identification information of a usage mode which indicates the usage manner of the karaoke device selected by the user and registers the linked information in a reservation list, an identification unit which identifies the usage status of the other karaoke device based on the implementation status of the usage mode of the other karaoke device transmitted from the other karaoke device, and a performance control unit which controls the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information based on the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list and the identified usage status, and which transmits the implementation status of the usage mode to the other karaoke device. Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the following specification and drawings. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, when the karaoke device is connected to other karaoke devices via a network, karaoke performance can be controlled in accordance with various usage patterns. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a plurality of karaoke devices according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram showing a karaoke device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram showing a karaoke main body of the karaoke device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a flowchart showing the process of the karaoke device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a flowchart showing the process of the karaoke device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a karaoke main body of the karaoke device according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] First Embodiment A karaoke device according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, karaoke device K1 and karaoke device K2 are connected via a network N so as to be able to communicate with each other, for example, by a P2P method.

[0014] The karaoke machines have functions for playing and singing karaoke songs. Each karaoke machine is installed in a different karaoke store or in a different karaoke room in the same karaoke store. In this embodiment, the karaoke machine K2 corresponds to the "other karaoke machine."

[0015] A user U1 shown in FIG. 1 is a user who uses a karaoke device K1, and a user U2 is a user who uses a karaoke device K2.

[0016] ==Karaoke Equipment== Since the karaoke device K1 and the karaoke device K2 have the same configuration, the following description will be given taking the karaoke device K1 as an example.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 2, the karaoke device K1 includes a karaoke main unit 10, a speaker 20, a display device 30, a microphone 40, a remote control device 50, and an image capture means 60.

[0018] The karaoke main unit 10 performs various controls related to karaoke performance and singing, such as karaoke performance control of the selected song, display control of lyrics and background images, and processing of audio signals input through the microphone 40. The speaker 20 is configured to emit sound based on a sound emission signal from the karaoke main unit 10. The display device 30 is configured to display videos and images on a display screen based on a signal from the karaoke main unit 10. The microphone 40 is configured to collect the singing voice of the user singing karaoke, convert it into an analog audio signal, and input it to the karaoke main unit 10. The remote control device 50 is a device for performing various operations on the karaoke main unit 10.

[0019] The image capturing means 60 is a camera capable of capturing an image of the user. One karaoke device transmits an image of the user captured by the camera to another karaoke device communicably connected thereto.

[0020] In this embodiment, the karaoke device K1 transmits an image of the user U1 to the karaoke device K2. The karaoke device K2 can display the received image on the display screen of the display device 30. Similarly, the karaoke device K2 transmits an image of the user U2 to the karaoke device K1. The karaoke device K1 can display the received image on the display screen of the display device 30.

[0021] 3, the karaoke machine 10 according to this embodiment includes a storage means 10a, a communication means 10b, an input means 10c, a performance means 10d, and a control means 10e. Each of these components is connected to a bus B via an interface (not shown).

[0022] [Storage means] The storage means 10a is a large-capacity storage device for storing various data, such as a hard disk drive, etc. The storage means 10a stores music data.

[0023] The song data is provided with song identification information for identifying each song. The song identification information is information unique to each song, such as a song ID for identifying the song. The song data includes accompaniment data, reference data, etc. The accompaniment data is data that is the source of the karaoke performance sound. The reference data is data that indicates the main melody of the song performed as karaoke. The storage means 10a also stores background image data such as background images displayed on the display device 30 during karaoke performance, and song attribute information (singer name, genre, etc.).

[0024] [Communication means / input means] The communication means 10b provides an interface for communication with the karaoke device K2 and the remote control device 50. The input means 10c is configured to allow the user to input various instructions. The input means 10c is a button or the like provided on the karaoke main unit 10. Alternatively, the remote control device 50 may function as the input means 10c.

[0025] [Means of performance] Based on the control of the control means 10e, the performance means 10d performs karaoke performance of music pieces and processes audio signals input through the microphone 40. The performance means 10d includes a sound source, a mixer, an amplifier, etc. (none of which are shown).

[0026] [Control Means] The control means 10e performs various controls on the karaoke device K1. The control means 10e includes a CPU and a memory (neither of which are shown in the figures). The CPU executes programs stored in the memory to realize various functions.

[0027] In this embodiment, the CPU of the karaoke device K1 executes a program stored in the memory, whereby the control means 10e functions as a registration section 100, a specification section 200, and a performance control section 300.

[0028] (Registration Department) The registration unit 100 associates the music identification information of the music selected by the user with the identification information of the usage mode selected by the user, and registers them in the reservation list.

[0029] The usage mode indicates the manner in which the karaoke device is used. The identification information of the usage mode is information specific to each usage mode, such as a mode ID for identifying the mode.

[0030] In this embodiment, the usage modes include a normal mode, a distribution mode, and a duet mode.

[0031] The normal mode is a mode for singing karaoke using only the karaoke device. In the normal mode, only the image captured by the imaging means 60 is transmitted to other karaoke devices. The distribution mode is a mode for live-streaming karaoke singing performed using the karaoke device to other karaoke devices. In the distribution mode, not only the image but also the karaoke performance sound and singing voice are transmitted to other karaoke devices. The duet mode is a mode for performing duets or choruses with users of other karaoke devices. In the duet mode, not only the image but also the singing voice is transmitted to other karaoke devices. Also, not only the image but also the singing voice is received from other karaoke devices. The transmission of the singing voice and the like will be described in the second embodiment.

[0032] For example, assume that a user U1 using karaoke device K1 selects song X1 via remote control device 50 and selects "normal mode" as the usage mode. In this case, the registration unit 100 associates the song ID of song X1 with the mode ID of normal mode and registers them in the reservation list. The reservation of a karaoke performance is completed by associating the song identification information of the song with the identification information of the usage mode and registering them in the reservation list.

[0033] Here, if a song is reserved in the normal mode or the distribution mode on another karaoke device while only the video is being transmitted in the normal mode, the other karaoke device can immediately start the karaoke performance, but if a song is reserved in the duet mode, synchronous performance is required, so the other karaoke device puts the karaoke performance on standby. Also, if a song is reserved in any mode on another karaoke device while the video, karaoke performance sound, and singing voice are being transmitted in the distribution mode, the other karaoke device puts the karaoke performance on standby, since transmission in the distribution mode is given priority. Also, if a song is reserved in any mode on another karaoke device while the video and singing voice are being transmitted in the duet mode, the other karaoke device is in the middle of synchronous performance. Therefore, the other karaoke device puts the karaoke performance of the reserved song on standby.

[0034] (Specific part) The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the other karaoke device based on the implementation status of the usage mode of the other karaoke device transmitted from the other karaoke device.

[0035] The status of use is information including the mode of use being performed in the karaoke device. The status of use is information indicating whether the karaoke device is in use (karaoke performance), unused, or on standby, and, if in use or on standby, the mode of use being performed or on standby. The identified status of use is stored in the storage means 10a.

[0036] For example, assume that karaoke device K2 is performing karaoke of song X2 in normal mode. If the usage status of karaoke device K1 is unused or karaoke is being performed in normal mode, karaoke device K2 transmits to karaoke device K1 the mode ID of normal mode and start information indicating the start of karaoke performance of song X2 as the implementation status. On the other hand, if the usage status of karaoke device K1 is in distribution mode and karaoke is being performed, karaoke device K2 transmits to karaoke device K1 the mode ID of normal mode and standby information indicating that normal mode is in standby mode as the implementation status. After that, if the usage status of karaoke device K1 becomes unused, karaoke device K2 transmits to karaoke device K1 the mode ID of normal mode and start information indicating the start of karaoke performance of song X2 as the implementation status.

[0037] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "in use" and "normal mode", or "on standby" and "normal mode" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 stores the identified usage status in the storage means 10a.

[0038] On the other hand, when the karaoke performance of the piece X2 ends in the normal mode, the karaoke device K2 transmits, as the implementation status, the mode ID of the normal mode and end information indicating the end of the karaoke performance of the piece X2 to the karaoke device K1.

[0039] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "unused" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 updates the usage status of the karaoke device K2 stored in the storage means 10a from "in use" and "normal mode" to "unused."

[0040] Also, for example, assume that karaoke device K2 performs live distribution of song X2 to karaoke device K1 in distribution mode. Here, if the usage status of karaoke device K1 is unused or karaoke is being played in normal mode, karaoke device K2 transmits the mode ID of the distribution mode and start information indicating the start of distribution to karaoke device K1 as the implementation status. On the other hand, if the usage status of karaoke device K1 is the distribution mode and karaoke is being played, karaoke device K2 transmits the mode ID of the distribution mode and standby information indicating that the distribution mode is in standby state to karaoke device K1 as the implementation status. After that, if the usage status of karaoke device K1 becomes unused, karaoke device K2 transmits the mode ID of the distribution mode and start information indicating the start of karaoke performance of song X2 to karaoke device K1 as the implementation status.

[0041] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "in use" and "distribution mode", or "on standby" and "normal mode" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 stores the identified usage status in the storage means 10a.

[0042] On the other hand, when the live distribution ends in the distribution mode, the karaoke device K2 transmits, as the implementation status, the mode ID of the distribution mode and end information indicating the end of the distribution to the karaoke device K1.

[0043] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "unused" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 updates the usage status of the karaoke device K2 stored in the storage means 10a from "in use" and "distribution mode" to "unused."

[0044] Alternatively, for example, assume that the karaoke device K2 sings a duet or chorus of the song X2 with the user U1 of the karaoke device K1 in the duet mode. If the usage status of the karaoke device K1 is unused, the karaoke device K2 transmits to the karaoke device K1 the mode ID of the duet mode and start information indicating the start of karaoke performance of the song X2 as the implementation status. On the other hand, if the usage status of the karaoke device K1 is in the normal mode or the distribution mode during karaoke performance, the karaoke device K2 transmits to the karaoke device K1 the mode ID of the duet mode and standby information indicating that the duet mode is in standby mode as the implementation status. After that, if the usage status of the karaoke device K1 becomes unused, the karaoke device K2 transmits to the karaoke device K1 the mode ID of the duet mode and start information indicating the start of karaoke performance of the song X2 as the implementation status.

[0045] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "in use" and "duet mode", or "on standby" and "duet mode" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 stores the identified usage status in the storage means 10a.

[0046] When the duet singing or chorus singing is completed in the duet mode, the karaoke device K2 transmits, as the implementation status, the mode ID of the duet mode and end information indicating the end of the duet to the karaoke device K1.

[0047] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 as "unused" based on the received implementation status. The identifying unit 200 updates the usage status of the karaoke device K2 stored in the storage means 10a from "in use" and "duet mode" to "unused."

[0048] (Performance control unit) The performance control unit 300 controls the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list based on the usage mode linked to the song identification information and the identified usage status, and also transmits the implementation status of the usage mode to other karaoke devices.

[0049] Here, when the usage modes include normal mode, distribution mode, and duet mode, the performance control unit 300 controls the karaoke performance according to each mode and the implementation status of the usage mode in the other karaoke devices, and transmits the implementation status of any of the usage modes to the other karaoke devices.

[0050] Specifically, when the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is normal mode or distribution mode and the identified usage status is unused or normal mode is being performed, the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information and transmits the implementation status indicating that performance has started in normal mode or distribution mode to other karaoke devices.

[0051] For example, assume that the song ID of song X1 and the mode ID of the normal mode are associated with each other and registered in the reservation list.

[0052] When the karaoke performance of the song X1 comes, the performance control unit 300 checks the usage status of the karaoke device K2 identified by the identification unit 200.

[0053] If the usage status of the karaoke device K2 is "unused" or "normal mode in progress", the performance control unit 300 reads out the music data of the music piece X1 from the storage means 10a. Then, the performance control unit 300 controls the performance means 10d to start the karaoke performance of the music piece X1, and transmits the mode ID of the normal mode and the implementation status indicating the start of the performance in the normal mode to the karaoke device K2.

[0054] In addition, if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is normal mode or distribution mode and the identified usage status is that the distribution mode is in progress, an implementation status indicating that the normal mode or distribution mode is in standby is transmitted to the other karaoke device, and the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information after receiving information from the other karaoke device that the distribution mode has ended, and transmits an implementation status indicating that performance has started in normal mode or distribution mode to the other karaoke device.

[0055] For example, assume that the song ID of song X2 and the mode ID of the distribution mode are associated with each other and registered in the reservation list.

[0056] When the karaoke performance of the song X2 is to be performed, the performance control unit 300 checks the usage status of the karaoke device K2 identified by the identification unit 200.

[0057] Here, when the usage status of the karaoke device K2 is "distribution mode in progress", it means that live distribution is being performed from the karaoke device K2, and the karaoke device K1 gives priority to watching the live distribution. Therefore, the performance control unit 300 does not start the karaoke performance of the song X2. In addition, the performance control unit 300 transmits the mode ID of the distribution mode and the implementation status indicating that the karaoke device K2 is on standby in the distribution mode.

[0058] On the other hand, after the live distribution in the distribution mode is completed, the karaoke device K2 transmits information to the karaoke device K1 that the distribution mode has been completed. In this case, the karaoke device K2 becomes in an "unused" state.

[0059] Therefore, after receiving information from the karaoke device K2 that the distribution mode has ended, the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song X2, and transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of the distribution mode and an implementation status indicating the start of performance in the distribution mode.

[0060] In addition, if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is duet mode and the identified usage status is standby for duet mode, the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song being performed in the other karaoke devices, and transmits an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode to the other karaoke devices.

[0061] For example, assume that the song ID of song X3 and the mode ID of the duet mode are associated with each other and registered in the reservation list.

[0062] When the karaoke performance of the song X3 is to be performed, the performance control unit 300 checks the usage status of the karaoke device K2 identified by the identification unit 200.

[0063] When the usage status of the karaoke apparatus K2 is "standby for duet mode," the karaoke apparatus K2 is in a standby state for the duet mode, i.e., the user U2 of the karaoke apparatus K2 wishes to sing karaoke in the duet mode.

[0064] For example, suppose that the song ID of song X3 and the mode ID of duet mode are linked and registered at the top of the reservation list of karaoke device K2. If the usage status of karaoke device K1 is "normal mode in progress" or "distribution mode in progress", karaoke device K2 transmits the mode ID of duet mode, standby information indicating that duet mode is in standby mode, and the song ID of song X3 that is desired to be sung at karaoke, when transmitting the usage status. Registration unit 100 links the received mode ID of duet mode and the song ID of song X3 to the usage status ("normal mode in progress" or "distribution mode in progress") and registers them at the top of the reservation list.

[0065] After the karaoke performance of the song in the "normal mode" or "distribution mode" is completed, the performance control unit 300 reads out the song data of the song X3 from the storage means 10a. Then, the performance control unit 300 controls the performance means 10d to start the karaoke performance of the song X3 in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song X3 performed in the karaoke device K2, and transmits the mode ID of the duet mode and the implementation status indicating the start of the performance in the duet mode to the karaoke device K2. Note that a known method can be used for the karaoke performance synchronization process.

[0066] In addition, if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is duet mode and the specified usage status is unused, the performance control unit 300 instructs the other karaoke device to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the other karaoke device, starts karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed in the other karaoke device, and transmits an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode to the other karaoke device.

[0067] For example, assume that the song ID of song X3 and the mode ID of the duet mode are associated with each other and registered in the reservation list.

[0068] When the karaoke performance of the song X3 is to be performed, the performance control unit 300 checks the usage status of the karaoke device K2 identified by the identification unit 200.

[0069] If the usage status of the karaoke device K2 is "unused", the performance control unit 300 instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song X3, which corresponds to the song identification information registered in the reservation list of the karaoke device K1, at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2. In response to the instruction, the karaoke device K2 associates the song ID of the song X3 with the mode ID of the duet mode and registers it at the top of the reservation list.

[0070] The performance control unit 300 reads out the music data of the music piece X3 from the storage unit 10a. Then, the performance control unit 300 controls the performance unit 10d to start the karaoke performance of the music piece X3 in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the music piece X3 performed by the karaoke device K2, and transmits the mode ID of the duet mode and an implementation status indicating the start of the performance in the duet mode to the karaoke device K2.

[0071] In addition, if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is duet mode and the specified usage status is that normal mode or distribution mode is in progress, the performance control unit 300 instructs the other karaoke device to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the other karaoke device, transmits an implementation status indicating that it is waiting in duet mode to the other karaoke device, and after receiving information from the other karaoke device that the normal mode or distribution mode has ended, starts a karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song being performed on the other karaoke device, and transmits an implementation status indicating that performance in duet mode has started to the other karaoke device.

[0072] For example, assume that the song ID of song X3 and the mode ID of the duet mode are associated with each other and registered in the reservation list.

[0073] When the karaoke performance of the song X3 is to be performed, the performance control unit 300 checks the usage status of the karaoke device K2 identified by the identification unit 200.

[0074] Here, if the usage status of the karaoke device K2 is "normal mode in progress" or "distribution mode in progress", the song X3 cannot be played in synchronous fashion, and therefore the duet mode cannot be used with the user U2 of the karaoke device K2.

[0075] Therefore, the performance control unit 300 does not start the karaoke performance of the song X3. Meanwhile, the performance control unit 300 instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song X3 corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list of the karaoke device K1 at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2, and transmits the mode ID of the duet mode and an implementation status indicating that the song is on standby in the duet mode. Based on the instruction, the karaoke device K2 associates the song ID of the song X3 with the mode ID of the duet mode and registers it at the top of the reservation list.

[0076] After the karaoke singing in the normal mode or the live distribution in the distribution mode is finished, the karaoke device K2 transmits information to the karaoke device K1 that the normal mode or the distribution mode is finished. In this case, the karaoke device K2 becomes "unused".

[0077] The performance control unit 300 reads out the music data of the music piece X3 from the storage unit 10a. Then, the performance control unit 300 controls the performance unit 10d to start the karaoke performance of the music piece X3 in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the music piece X3 performed by the karaoke device K2, and transmits the mode ID of the duet mode and an implementation status indicating the start of the performance in the duet mode to the karaoke device K2.

[0078] When the performance of the duet mode song is finished, the usage status of each karaoke machine becomes unused. Therefore, for example, if the next song in the distribution mode is registered in the reservation list of both the first karaoke machine and the other karaoke machine, each of the first karaoke machine and the other karaoke machine can determine that the usage status of the other karaoke machine is unused. In this case, a problem occurs in that each karaoke machine starts playing in the distribution mode. Therefore, the karaoke machine that instructed the reservation of the duet mode song waits for the karaoke performance of the next song for a predetermined time when the performance of the duet mode song is finished, and the karaoke machine that was instructed to reserve the duet mode song gives priority to the next song, thereby avoiding this problem.

[0079] ==About the operation of the karaoke machine== Next, a specific example of the operation of the karaoke device K1 in this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are flow charts showing the operation of the karaoke device K1. The karaoke device K1 is communicably connected to the karaoke device K2. The usage modes are the normal mode, the distribution mode, and the duet mode.

[0080] The registration unit 100 links the song ID of the song selected by the user with the mode ID of the usage mode selected by the user, which indicates the usage manner of the karaoke device, and registers them in the reservation list (the song ID and the mode ID are linked and registered; step 10).

[0081] The identifying unit 200 identifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 based on the implementation status of the usage mode of the karaoke device K2 transmitted from the karaoke device K2 (identifying the usage status of the karaoke device K2; step 11).

[0082] If the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is normal mode or distribution mode (Y in step 12) and the usage status identified in step 11 is that the distribution mode is in progress (Y in step 13), the performance control unit 300 transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of the normal mode or distribution mode and the implementation status indicating that the device is on standby in the normal mode or distribution mode (transmits the usage mode and the implementation status indicating that the device is on standby to the karaoke device K2; step 14).

[0083] When receiving information from karaoke device K2 indicating that the distribution mode has ended (Y in step 15), the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list (start karaoke performance; step 16). In addition, the performance control unit 300 transmits to karaoke device K2 the mode ID of normal mode or distribution mode, and the implementation status indicating the start of performance in normal mode or distribution mode (transmits the usage mode and the implementation status indicating in use to karaoke device K2; step 17).

[0084] If the usage mode associated with the music identification information registered in the reservation list is normal mode or distribution mode (Y in step 12) and the usage status identified in step 11 is unused or normal mode is in progress (N in step 13), the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the music corresponding to the music identification information registered in the reservation list (start karaoke performance, step 16).The performance control unit 300 also transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of normal mode or distribution mode and the implementation status indicating the start of performance in normal mode or distribution mode (transmits the usage mode and the implementation status indicating in use to the karaoke device K2, step 17).

[0085] On the other hand, if the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode (if N in step 12) and the usage status identified in step 11 is standby in the duet mode (if Y in step 18), the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed in the karaoke device K2 (synchronize the karaoke performance with the karaoke device K2 and start the performance; step 19). In addition, the performance control unit 300 transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of the duet mode and the implementation status indicating the start of performance in the duet mode (transmits the usage mode and the implementation status indicating in use to the karaoke device K2; step 17).

[0086] Furthermore, if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is duet mode (if N in step 12) and the identified usage status is unused, normal mode or distribution mode (if N in step 18), the performance control unit 300 instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2 (instruction to register the song at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2; step 20).

[0087] If the identified usage status is unused (Y in step 21), the performance control unit 300 instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song at the top of the reservation list and starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed by the karaoke device K2 (starting karaoke performance in synchronization with the karaoke device K2; step 19).

[0088] Furthermore, if the identified usage status is that the normal mode or distribution mode is being implemented (N in step 21), the performance control unit 300 transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of the duet mode and an implementation status indicating that the device is on standby in the duet mode (transmitting the usage mode and the implementation status indicating that the device is on standby to the karaoke device K2; step 22).

[0089] Then, when the performance control unit 300 receives information from the karaoke device K2 indicating that the normal mode or the distribution mode has ended (Y in step 23), it starts the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed by the karaoke device K2 (starting the karaoke performance by synchronizing it with the karaoke device K2; step 19).The performance control unit 300 also transmits to the karaoke device K2 the mode ID of the duet mode and the implementation status indicating the start of performance in the duet mode (transmitting the usage mode and the implementation status indicating that the mode is in use to the karaoke device K2; step 17).

[0090] As is clear from the above, the karaoke device K1 according to the present embodiment is connected to the karaoke device K2 so as to be able to communicate with each other. The karaoke device K1 includes a registration unit 100 that links the music identification information of a music piece selected by a user with the identification information of a usage mode selected by the user, and registers the linked information in a reservation list, a specification unit 200 that specifies the usage status of the karaoke device K2 based on the usage status of the usage mode of the karaoke device K2 transmitted from the karaoke device K2, and a performance control unit 300 that controls the karaoke performance of a music piece corresponding to the music identification information based on the usage mode linked to the music identification information registered in the reservation list and the specified usage status, and transmits the usage status of the usage mode to the karaoke device K2.

[0091] According to the karaoke device K1, the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list can be controlled according to the usage status of the karaoke device K2 connected to the karaoke device K2 in a communicable manner. In other words, according to the karaoke device K1 of this embodiment, when it is used in a state where it is connected to other karaoke devices via a network, it is possible to control the karaoke performance according to various usage situations.

[0092] More specifically, in the karaoke device K1 according to the present embodiment, the usage modes include a normal mode, a distribution mode, and a duet mode. When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the normal mode or the distribution mode and the specified usage status is unused or in the normal mode, the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information and transmits an implementation status indicating the start of performance in the normal mode or the distribution mode to the karaoke device K2. When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the normal mode or the distribution mode and the specified usage status is in the distribution mode, the performance control unit 300 transmits an implementation status indicating a standby state in the normal mode or the distribution mode to the karaoke device K2. After receiving information from the karaoke device K2 that the distribution mode has ended, the performance control unit 300 starts karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information and transmits an implementation status indicating the start of performance in the normal mode or the distribution mode to the karaoke device K2. When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode and the specified usage status is in the standby state in the duet mode, the performance control unit 300 and transmits to the karaoke device K2 an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode, and if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode and the specified usage status is unused, instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2, and starts karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song in the karaoke device K2, and transmits to the karaoke device K2 an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode, and if the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode and the specified usage status is unused, instructs the karaoke device K2 to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the karaoke device K2, andThe karaoke device K2 transmits an implementation status indicating that the karaoke device K2 is on standby in the duet mode, and after receiving information from the karaoke device K2 indicating that the normal mode or the distribution mode has ended, the karaoke device K2 starts karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed by the karaoke device K2, and transmits an implementation status indicating that performance has started in the duet mode to the karaoke device K2.

[0093] According to the karaoke device K1, the timing to start karaoke performance of a song can be controlled according to the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list and the usage status of the karaoke device K2 that is communicably connected. Therefore, it is possible to start karaoke performance in the distribution mode or duet mode while taking into account the usage status of the other karaoke devices.

[0094] <Second embodiment> Next, a karaoke device according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The karaoke device according to this embodiment can transmit singing voices based on karaoke singing performed in sync with karaoke performance to another karaoke device connected for communication. Detailed description of the same configuration as that of the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0095] ==Karaoke Equipment== [Control Means] In this embodiment, the CPU of the karaoke device K1 executes a program stored in the memory, whereby the control means 10e functions as a registration section 100, a specification section 200, a performance control section 300, and a transmission section 400 (see FIG. 6).

[0096] (Transmitter) When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the distribution mode, the transmitting unit 400 transmits to the other karaoke device a karaoke performance sound based on the karaoke performance of the song and a singing voice based on the karaoke singing in accordance with the karaoke performance. When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode, the transmitting unit 400 transmits to the other karaoke device a singing voice based on the karaoke singing in accordance with the karaoke performance of the song performed in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed in the other karaoke device.

[0097] As described in the first embodiment, when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the distribution mode, the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information.

[0098] For example, as described in the first embodiment, the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song X2. The user U1 sings the karaoke through the microphone 40 along with the karaoke performance of the song X2.

[0099] The transmitting unit 400 transmits to the karaoke device K2 karaoke performance sounds based on the karaoke performance of the piece of music X2 and singing voices based on the karaoke singing along with the karaoke performance. The karaoke device K2 mixes the received karaoke performance sounds and singing voices and outputs the mixed sounds from the speaker 20.

[0100] On the other hand, as described in the first embodiment, when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode, the performance control unit 300 starts the karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song being performed on another karaoke device.

[0101] For example, as described in the first embodiment, the karaoke device K2 performs karaoke performance of the piece of music X3.

[0102] The performance control unit 300 of the karaoke device K1 reads out the song data of the song X3 from the storage means 10a. Then, the performance control unit 300 controls the performance means 10d to start the karaoke performance of the song X3 in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song X3 performed by the karaoke device K2. The user U1 sings karaoke along with the karaoke performance of the song X3 through the microphone 40.

[0103] The transmitting unit 400 transmits the singing voice based on the karaoke singing performed along with the karaoke performance of the piece X3 to the karaoke device K2. The karaoke device K2 can mix the received singing voice with karaoke performance sounds and emit the resulting sound from the speaker 20. The performance control unit 300 of the karaoke device K1 can perform a similar process to mix the singing voice of the user U2 with the karaoke performance sounds and emit the resulting sound from the speaker 20.

[0104] As is clear from the above, the karaoke device K1 according to the present embodiment has a transmitting unit 400 that transmits karaoke performance sounds based on the karaoke performance of a song and singing voices based on the karaoke singing performed in accordance with the karaoke performance to another karaoke device when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the distribution mode, and transmits singing voices based on the karaoke singing performed in accordance with the karaoke performance of a song performed in the other karaoke device to the other karaoke device when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is the duet mode. With such a karaoke device K1, users of the other karaoke devices can enjoy live distribution from the karaoke device K1. Also, with such a karaoke device K1, users of the karaoke device K1 and users of the other karaoke devices can enjoy duet singing and chorus singing.

[0105] <Other> The above embodiment is presented as an example, and does not limit the scope of the invention. The above configurations can be implemented in appropriate combinations, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. The above embodiment and its modifications are included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims, as well as the scope and gist of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 100 Registration Department 200 Specific section 300 Performance control section 400 Transmitter K1, K2 Karaoke equipment

Claims

1. A karaoke machine communicably connected to another karaoke machine, a registration unit which associates song identification information of a song selected by a user with identification information of a usage mode selected by the user, the identification information indicating a usage mode of the karaoke apparatus, and registers the associated song identification information in a reservation list; an identification unit for identifying a usage status of the other karaoke device based on an implementation status of a usage mode of the other karaoke device transmitted from the other karaoke device; a performance control unit that controls karaoke performance of a song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list based on a usage mode associated with the song identification information and the specified usage status, and transmits an implementation status of the usage mode to the other karaoke device; A karaoke device having the above configuration.

2. The usage modes include a normal mode, a distribution mode, and a duet mode; The performance control unit includes: when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is a normal mode or a distribution mode and the specified usage status is unused or normal mode is being performed, starting a karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information and transmitting an implementation status indicating the start of performance in normal mode or distribution mode to the other karaoke devices; when the usage mode linked to the music identification information registered in the reservation list is a normal mode or a distribution mode and the specified usage status is that the distribution mode is being performed, transmit an implementation status indicating that the normal mode or the distribution mode is on standby to the other karaoke device, and after receiving information from the other karaoke device that the distribution mode has ended, start karaoke performance of the music corresponding to the music identification information, and transmit an implementation status indicating that performance has started in the normal mode or the distribution mode to the other karaoke device; when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is a duet mode and the specified usage status is a standby status for the duet mode, start a karaoke performance of the song corresponding to the song identification information in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed in the other karaoke device, and transmit an implementation status indicating the start of performance in the duet mode to the other karaoke device; when the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is a duet mode and the specified usage status is unused, instruct the other karaoke device to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the other karaoke device, start karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song performed in the other karaoke device, and transmit an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode to the other karaoke device; when the usage mode linked to the song identification information registered in the reservation list is a duet mode and the specified usage status is a normal mode or a distribution mode being implemented, instruct the other karaoke device to register the song corresponding to the song identification information registered in the reservation list at the top of the reservation list of the other karaoke device, transmit an implementation status indicating that the other karaoke device is on standby in duet mode, and after receiving information from the other karaoke device that the normal mode or the distribution mode has ended, start a karaoke performance of the song in synchronization with the karaoke performance of the song being implemented in the other karaoke device, and transmit an implementation status indicating the start of performance in duet mode to the other karaoke device.

2. The karaoke apparatus according to claim 1,

3. When the usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in the reservation list is a distribution mode, a karaoke performance sound based on a karaoke performance of the song and a singing voice based on a karaoke singing performed in accordance with the karaoke performance are transmitted to the other karaoke device, 3. The karaoke device according to claim 2, further comprising a transmitting unit for transmitting to said other karaoke device, when a usage mode associated with the song identification information registered in said reservation list is a duet mode, a singing voice based on a karaoke singing performed in synchronization with a karaoke performance of the song being performed in said other karaoke device.

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