Digital Audio Circuit Emulation Variability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current digital audio plugins that emulate analog circuits lack variability between channels and instances, failing to accurately replicate the unique characteristics of physical analog hardware.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based method is introduced to incorporate variability into digitally modeled circuits by selecting component values from a range of potential values associated with nominal values, allowing for unique channel and instance variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a single golden unit is modeled with identical DSP algorithms across multiple channels or instances, then manufacturing precision and consistency are improved, but variability and realism of analog emulation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing variability specifically to component parameters (resistor values, capacitor values, transistor characteristics) while maintaining the overall circuit architecture and DSP algorithms consistent. This allows each channel or instance to have unique local characteristics that mimic analog variations without compromising the global structural integrity and reproducibility of the emulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by randomly selecting component values from defined ranges around nominal values (e.g., resistors ±1%, capacitors ±5%). This transforms the static, identical parameters across all instances into dynamic, variable parameters that reproduce analog hardware variations, thereby improving realism while maintaining manufacturing consistency through controlled randomization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mathematical distributions are used to model component tolerances, then variability is introduced, but the emulations remain static and theoretical rather than dynamic and hyper-realistic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing time-varying component parameters that change during audio processing. Instead of static random values, the system introduces temporal variations through modulation signals, drift simulations, and dynamic recalibration, transforming the emulation from a fixed theoretical model to a living, breathing system that behaves like real analog hardware over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through modulation signals (LFOs, envelope followers) that systematically vary component parameters at specific rates and patterns. This creates rhythmic, predictable variations that mirror the natural fluctuations in analog circuits due to thermal effects, power supply ripple, and component aging, adding layers of realism beyond simple random variation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If component values are selected from a range of potential values, then realism and uniqueness of each instance are improved, but computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by selectively introducing variability only to critical components that have the greatest impact on sonic characteristics (e.g., feedback resistors, coupling capacitors, transistor beta values). Not all components are randomized; only those that significantly affect the audio output are varied, reducing the total computational burden while maintaining perceptual realism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by pre-generating and storing sets of component values that represent realistic variations, then selecting from these pre-computed sets during runtime. This avoids real-time complex calculations by using pre-simulated or measured data from actual analog components, thereby reducing processing requirements while preserving authenticity.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-based method is provided for introducing variability into digitally modeled circuits. Such a method includes acquiring a first circuit model corresponding to an audio circuit, identifying, in the first circuit model, at least one component having at least one variable value, identifying a nominal value associated with the at least one variable value of the at least one component, and selecting a first selected component value from a plurality of potential component values associated with the nominal value for the at least one variable value. The first selected component value typically differs from the nominal value. The method further includes incorporating the first selected component value into the first circuit model in place of the nominal value. Audio output is generated by processing audio by way of the first circuit model. Also provided is a system for implementing the method and a corresponding digital emulation.