Audio Preamplifier Dual Gain Paths for Distortion-Free Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-end audio preamplifiers face challenges in adjusting audio signal levels without introducing distortion or delay, as existing solutions often compromise on signal quality during level adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A preamplifier system comprising a transient adjustment line made of semiconductors and a steady adjustment line with a digitally controlled parametric coil transformer, along with a controller that switches between the two lines based on gain setting changes, ensuring distortion-free and delay-free signal adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single adjustment line is used for level control, then the device complexity is reduced, but distortion or delay is introduced during signal adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The audio signal path is segmented into two separate adjustment lines: a transient adjustment line for handling signal changes and a steady adjustment line for maintaining stable signals. Each line is optimized for its specific function, allowing the system to adjust level without introducing distortion or delay by routing signals through the appropriate path based on their temporal characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between the transient and steady adjustment lines based on the characteristics of the input signal. The switching mechanism allows the preamplifier to adapt its adjustment path in real-time, selecting the optimal line for each signal segment to maintain high fidelity while enabling level control.
2Measurement precision
If digital control is used for the coil transformer, then the adjustment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or analog control mechanisms with a digitally controlled parametric coil transformer. This substitution enables precise gain adjustment through digital signaling, improving adjustment precision while the integrated digital control architecture manages the complexity through standardized digital interfaces and control logic.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system allows for precise adjustment of audio signal levels without distortion or delay, supporting both attenuation and amplification with granular control, ensuring high fidelity and minimal artifacts.
Implementation Method 1
a coil with multiple selectable windings
Data Source
AI summary
A preamplifier system to adjust the level of an audio signal, said system comprising a transient adjustment line and a steady adjustment line, each receiving the input of the preamplifier system, each adjustment line having an input and an output, said system further comprising a setting device to produce a setting adjustment value, a controller to receive the setting adjustment value and to control the transient adjustment line and the steady adjustment line, a switching module connected an output of the preamplifier system and to the output of the transient adjustment line and output of the steady adjustment line, the transient adjustment line being made of semiconductors and the steady adjustment line being made of a coil with multiple selectable windings.