Parametric Audio Decoding With User Control of Component Amplitudes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional parametric audio encoding methods at low bit rates result in reduced sound quality, and existing decoding apparatuses are complex, limiting user control over sound effects and accuracy of signal restoration.
Innovation Solution
An audio signal decoding apparatus and method that extracts and adjusts parameters of component signals (transient, sinusoidal, and noise) based on user input, allowing independent amplitude adjustments in frequency bands, and synthesizes signals accordingly for accurate restoration and enhanced user control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If parametric encoding method is used to encode audio signal at low bit rate, then bit rate is reduced, but sound quality is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The audio signal is segmented into three distinct component signals: transient signals, sinusoidal signals, and noise signals. Each component is processed separately through dedicated analysis and synthesis paths, allowing optimized parameter encoding for each signal type while maintaining overall sound quality at low bit rates
Solution Approach 2:
The invention encodes specific parameters for each component signal type (e.g., amplitude, frequency, phase for sinusoidal signals; envelope characteristics for transient signals; spectral properties for noise signals) rather than encoding the entire signal waveform, achieving compact representation that maintains sound quality
2Ease of operation
If conventional parametric decoding apparatus is used, then decoding function is provided, but apparatus configuration is complex and user control over sound effects is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and separates the parameter adjustment functionality directly into the decoding apparatus itself, allowing users to control sound effects parameters (amplitude, frequency, phase) of each component signal independently without requiring external equalizer modules or additional processing equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The decoding apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions: it decodes the parametric audio signal, synthesizes the component signals, and provides user-adjustable sound effect control all within a single integrated system, eliminating the need for separate equalizer modules
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for decoding a parametric-encoded audio signal are provided. According to the present invention, parameters extracted from a bitstream of a parametric encoded audio signal are adjusted by a user and component signals are synthesized based on the adjusted parameters to be displayed to a user so that a user can adjust the amplitudes of the component signals to apply various sound effects according to the user's desire. In addition, since an equalizer function is embodied in a codec of an audio reproduction apparatus, additional equalizer modules are not required and thus complexity of the audio reproduction apparatus can be reduced.