Programmable Signal Processing System for Stringed Instruments

The patent divides the signal processing system into two distinct parts: an analog signal processing circuit for real-time processing without delay, and a digital control circuit for managing setup parameters and configurations. This segmentation allows the analog circuit to handle audio signals immediately while the digital circuit manages non-time-critical functions, thus resolving the contradiction between versatility and signal delay.

The patent introduces a controllable switch as an intermediary component that connects the analog signal processing circuit to the output. This switch is controlled by the digital control circuit, allowing digital management of signal routing without introducing delay into the critical audio path. The intermediary enables digital versatility while preserving analog real-time processing quality.

The system segments signal processing functions into analog and digital domains. The analog signal processing circuit maintains high-fidelity audio processing without conversion artifacts, while the digital control circuit handles only parameter management. This segmentation preserves sound quality by avoiding AD/DA conversion in the critical audio path while still providing digital versatility for setup and configuration.

The controllable switch acts as an intermediary that allows digital control over analog signal paths. This enables versatile signal routing and processing configuration through digital means while the actual audio processing remains in the high-quality analog domain, thus maintaining sound quality while achieving versatility.

The patent segments the processing functions by placing time-critical audio processing in the low-power analog domain and non-time-critical parameter management in the digital domain. The analog signal processing circuit operates continuously with minimal power consumption, while the digital control circuit can enter sleep modes when not actively adjusting parameters, thus achieving high sound quality with reduced overall energy consumption.

The digital control circuit operates periodically rather than continuously, updating setup parameters only when needed and allowing the analog circuit to handle continuous audio processing independently. This periodic operation of the digital component significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining sound quality through the always-on analog processing path.