Dynamic Stereo Width Modulation via Middle-Side Gain Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current static stereo width adjustment methods in two-channel audio systems fail to provide a consistent immersive experience, as they do not dynamically adjust the side signal relative to the middle signal, leading to suboptimal sound reproduction in less-than-ideal speaker configurations.
Innovation Solution
A method that splits a two-channel audio input signal into low frequency, middle, and side signals, where the middle signal is used to dynamically modulate the side signal's gain, ensuring the side signal's level is maintained or increased, and further processing includes delaying high frequency signals relative to midrange frequencies to enhance stereo width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If static stereo width adjustment is used, then the system is simple to operate, but the immersive experience is inconsistent across different audio signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static stereo width adjustment into a dynamic system by automatically analyzing the side signal content and adjusting the stereo width in real-time. The system dynamically adapts the stereo width based on the actual audio signal characteristics, ensuring consistent immersive experience across different music genres and audio sources while maintaining operational simplicity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the side signal levels and uses this information to automatically adjust the stereo width parameter. This closed-loop control ensures that the stereo width optimization is adaptive and maintains consistency across varying audio inputs without requiring manual intervention.
2Reliability
If dynamic stereo width adjustment is implemented, then the immersive experience is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the audio signal processing into distinct stages: side signal extraction, side signal analysis, stereo width determination, and output mixing. This modular approach allows the complex dynamic adjustment process to be broken down into manageable functional blocks, making the system easier to implement and control while achieving consistent immersive experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the audio processing system to automatically analyze and adjust its own parameters without external intervention. The system self-determines the optimal stereo width by analyzing the side signal content and automatically applies the adjustment, reducing the need for complex user interfaces or manual configuration while maintaining processing sophistication.
3Reliability
If low frequency signals are adjusted for stereo width, then the stereo effect is enhanced, but the phase relationships are distorted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different processing strategies to different frequency ranges. Specifically, it excludes low frequency signals from stereo width adjustment while applying dynamic adjustment only to mid and high frequency ranges. This localized approach preserves the phase relationships and spatial integrity of bass frequencies while enhancing the stereo effect in frequency ranges where directional perception is most effective.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides methods and systems for digitally processing audio signals in two-channel audio systems and/or applications. In particular, the present invention includes a first filter structured to split a two-channel audio input signal into a low frequency signal and a higher frequency signal. A M/S splitter is then structured to split the higher frequency signal into a middle and a side signal. A detection module is then configured to create a detection signal from the middle signal, which is used in a compression module configured to modulate the side signal to create a gain-modulated side signal. A processing module is then structured to combine the low frequency signal, middle signal, and the gain-modulated side signal to form a final output signal.