JP2010019869A - Compact karaoke machine and karaoke machine - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a compact Karaoke machine capable of enjoying Karaoke with the single body and having an almost cubic shape and excellent operability. <P>SOLUTION: A compact Karaoke machine 1 has an almost cubic shape comprised of a front surface FF, a back surface BF, a left side surface LF, a right side surface RF, a top surface TF and an under surface UF. An LCD panel 7 arranged on the front surface FF displays lyrics. Singing voice of a player is input from a microphone 13 of a headset 3. Karaoke performance sound and the singing voice of the player from the microphone 13 are synthesized and output from an earphone 20 of the headset 3. Switches sw1-sw10 to be operated by the player are arranged on the top surface TF. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a compact karaoke apparatus with a display device and related technology.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a portable terminal device that includes a display and includes a microphone and headphones. Lyrics are displayed on the display, and karaoke performance sounds flow through the headphones. The user sings to the microphone in accordance with them. The user can listen to his / her singing voice from the headphones. The shape of the portable terminal device is a flat rectangular parallelepiped. Since portability is an essential requirement, inevitably flatness is required.

JP-A-11-73192

  However, the inventors of the present application focused on the point that they can enjoy karaoke alone while listening to their own singing voice with headphones or earphones. When paying attention to such a point, the high portability required for the above-described portable terminal device is not required, and the degree of freedom in shape increases. When a shape other than the conventional flat rectangular parallelepiped is employed, operability may be a problem depending on the shape. In addition, although high portability is not required, if it is portable, it is convenient because karaoke can be enjoyed anywhere.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a compact karaoke apparatus that can enjoy karaoke by itself and has a substantially cubic shape and excellent operability, and a related technique.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a compact karaoke apparatus and related technology capable of enjoying external video and audio alone.

  Still another object of the present invention is to provide a karaoke apparatus and related technology capable of satisfying a unique presence and a fresh feeling.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the compact karaoke apparatus is a compact karaoke apparatus that the first user can hold in his hand and perform karaoke, as viewed from the first user. A substantially cubic housing comprising a surface, a right side surface, an upper surface and a lower surface; display means disposed on the front surface for displaying an image including at least lyrics; and disposed on the upper surface and operated by the first user; An operation means for receiving an input from a first user; an information processing means for executing a process according to the input received by the operation means; and the video based on at least lyrics data under the control of the information processing means Video generating means for generating karaoke, sound generating means for generating karaoke performance sound based on karaoke performance data under the control of the information processing means, and the first A first microphone for inputting a user's voice, a synthesizer for synthesizing the karaoke performance sound and the voice of the first user inputted from the first microphone, and outputting a synthesized sound; A first earphone that is used and receives the synthesized sound output from the synthesizing means and outputs the synthesized sound.

  According to this configuration, the operability can be improved because the operation means is arranged on the upper surface while the karaoke apparatus has a substantially cubic shape and is held in hand.

  Since it has a substantially cubic shape, it is usually difficult to hold it with one hand unless the hands (palms and fingers) are too large. For this reason, it is assumed that the operation is often performed with both hands. When operating with both hands while looking at the front display means, the left and right sides are usually covered with the left and right palms. For this reason, it is extremely difficult to operate if the operating means are arranged on the left and right side surfaces. Further, if the operation means is arranged on the back surface or the lower surface, it becomes difficult to see the operation means. Furthermore, since the display means is disposed on the front surface and is compact, it is difficult to secure a sufficient space for disposing the operation means on the front surface. On the other hand, when the operation means is arranged on the upper surface, these inconveniences are not caused, but rather, it is most suitable for operation while holding it with both hands and looking at the front display means. That is, by arranging the operation means on the upper surface, it is easier to operate than when the operation means is arranged on another surface.

  Of course, the present invention does not exclude holding and operating with one hand.

  Moreover, since this karaoke apparatus is equipped with a display means and is a compact type, it can be sung while watching the lyrics displayed on the display means by holding it in the hand, and has a headphone and a microphone. Therefore, you can enjoy karaoke with this karaoke device alone. Also, you can enjoy karaoke while listening directly to your singing voice input from the microphone with earphones, and fresh and different from listening to singing voice and karaoke performance sound with speakers installed indoors like ordinary karaoke You can enjoy karaoke with your senses. In addition, using earphones makes it difficult for sound to leak outside, so you can enjoy karaoke to your heart's content without worrying about the surroundings.

  As long as the present invention can be used by holding it, it may be used by placing it on a flat surface, it may be used by hanging on a wall, or other usage modes are possible. It may be.

  Here, in the present specification and claims, the term earphone is used as a general term for a device that converts an audio signal into an audible sound using a speaker close to the ear. The earphone includes an earphone, an earphone, a stereo type, and a monaural type. It also includes bone conduction as well as air conduction.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a battery storage unit in which a cylindrical battery that is long in the axial direction is set, and the battery storage unit is configured such that when the battery is set, the shaft of the battery is connected to the left side surface. And in the housing so as to be orthogonal to the right side surface.

  According to this configuration, the battery storage unit can be arranged without being limited as much as possible by the limitation on the thickness (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface) of the display means arranged on the front surface. Because this battery is long in the axial direction, if the battery housing part is arranged so that the axis is perpendicular to the front surface, the distance from the front surface to the back surface must be increased due to the influence of the thickness of the display means. This hinders compactification. Although the display unit can be avoided and the battery housing portion can be arranged so that the axis of the battery is perpendicular to the front surface, this also prevents compactness.

  Further, the battery storage portion can be arranged without being limited as much as possible by the thickness of the operation means arranged on the upper surface (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface). Because this battery is long in the axial direction, if the battery housing part is arranged so that the axis is perpendicular to the upper surface, the distance from the upper surface to the lower surface must be increased due to the influence of the thickness of the operating means. This hinders compactification. It is possible to avoid the operation means and arrange the battery storage portion so that the axis of the battery is perpendicular to the upper surface, but this also prevents compactness.

  As described above, the battery storage unit is not arranged so that the axis of the battery is orthogonal to the front surface or the upper surface, but is arranged so that the axis of the battery is parallel to both the front surface and the upper surface. Realize.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a slot in which a memory cartridge storing the karaoke performance data and the lyrics data is mounted.

  According to this configuration, it is possible to enjoy karaoke with different music pieces simply by replacing the memory cartridge.

  In this compact karaoke apparatus, the slot is formed in the housing such that when the flat memory cartridge is mounted, the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface. The opening is formed on either the left side surface or the right side surface of the housing.

  According to this configuration, the slot can be mounted without hindering the downsizing of the karaoke apparatus.

  A slot is formed on the side so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the front and back when the memory cartridge is installed, and the slot is between the battery storage and the top (or between the battery storage and the bottom). When the battery is placed, the distance from the upper surface to the lower surface has to be increased due to restrictions on the thickness of the battery compartment (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface) and the thickness of the operating means (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface). It becomes an obstacle. A slot can be formed on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the front surface and the back surface when the battery cartridge is installed, avoiding the battery housing and the operating means, but this also prevents compactness. In this respect, in the present invention, the slot is disposed on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface when the memory cartridge is mounted. It is difficult to be restricted by the thickness of the means (perpendicular to the upper surface).

  When the slot is formed on the back surface, the thickness of the display means (perpendicular to the front surface) is limited, and the distance from the front surface to the back surface must be increased, which hinders downsizing. If there is only a slot, a connector for connecting the memory cartridge is necessary, and there is a case where it is desired to mount an ejector for taking out the memory cartridge. In this case, the thickness of the display means particularly hinders compactification. When a slot is provided on the back so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the side when mounted, the thickness of the battery compartment (perpendicular to the top and perpendicular to the side) and the thickness of the operating means Limits (perpendicular to the top surface). Although a part or all of the display means, the battery housing part, and the operation means can be avoided and a slot can be formed on the back surface, this also prevents compactness. In this respect, according to the present invention, the slot is arranged on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface when the memory cartridge is mounted, so that these disadvantages can be avoided.

  Incidentally, in the present invention, since the connector for connecting the memory cartridge can be disposed between the slot and the side surface, it does not hinder downsizing. This is because in the case of the present invention, there is almost no restriction in the direction perpendicular to the side surface between the slot and the side surface. Further, even when the ejector is mounted, the main part can be arranged between the slot and the side surface to achieve compactness.

  When the slot is formed on the upper surface, the area of the operating means arranged in a planar shape on the upper surface and the thickness (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface) of the battery storage unit are limited. If a slot is provided on the upper surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the side surface when the memory cartridge is mounted, the thickness of the display means (perpendicular to the front surface) is further limited. A slot can be formed on the upper surface while avoiding some or all of the operation means, the battery storage section and the display means, but this also prevents compactness. In this respect, in the present invention, the slot is arranged on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface when the memory cartridge is mounted. hard.

  When the slot is formed on the lower surface, there are restrictions on the thickness of the battery housing (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface) and the thickness of the operating means (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface). If a slot is provided on the lower surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the side surface when the memory cartridge is mounted, the thickness of the display means (perpendicular to the front surface) is further limited. A slot can be formed on the lower surface while avoiding all or a part of the battery storage unit, the operation unit, and the display unit, but this also hinders downsizing. In this respect, in the present invention, the slot is arranged on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface when the memory cartridge is mounted. hard. In addition, providing a slot on the lower surface is difficult for the user to use.

  When the slot is formed on the front surface, the area of the display means is limited. If a slot is provided on the front surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the side surface when the memory cartridge is mounted, the thickness of the battery housing portion (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface) is further limited. Although a part or all of the display means, the operation means, and the battery housing portion can be avoided and a slot can be formed on the front surface, this also hinders downsizing. In this respect, according to the present invention, the slot is arranged on the side surface so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface when the memory cartridge is mounted. hard.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a connector to which a connector of the memory cartridge mounted in the slot is connected, and an ejector for taking out the memory cartridge connected to the connector of the slot, the connector being The slot and the side surface of the left side surface and the right side surface where the opening of the slot is not formed, and at least a part of the ejector includes the connector of the slot; It arrange | positions between the said side surface in which the said opening of the said slot is not formed.

  According to this structure, a connector and an ejector can be arrange | positioned in the empty space between a slot and a side surface, and it can contribute to compactization.

  In this compact karaoke apparatus, the slot is disposed between the upper surface and the battery storage unit.

  According to this configuration, the slot can be disposed near the upper surface.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a first substrate on which the information processing unit, the video generation unit, and the audio generation unit are mounted. The first substrate is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface, and the upper surface. And the slot.

  According to this structure, a board | substrate can be mounted without preventing compactness of this karaoke apparatus. Since the slot and the battery storage portion are arranged as described above, if the first substrate requiring a relatively large area is arranged in parallel to the side surface or in parallel to the front and back surfaces, the first Since the substrate is orthogonal to the slot and the battery storage portion, the volume of the housing must be increased so as not to be orthogonal, which is contrary to compactness. On the other hand, in the present invention, since the first substrate is arranged in parallel to the slot and the battery housing portion, it is possible to avoid an increase in the volume of the housing and to arrange the first substrate in an empty space. Further, since the information processing means is arranged in the vicinity of the operation means, the wiring between them can be shortened. As a result, wiring defects in the manufacturing process can be prevented as much as possible.

  In this compact karaoke apparatus, the connector of the slot is mounted on the first substrate.

  According to this configuration, a physical path for data transmission / reception performed between the information processing unit, the video generation unit and the audio generation unit mounted on the first substrate and the memory cartridge connected to the connector of the slot is established. The noise can be reduced as much as possible.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a second substrate on which an electronic component included in the operation unit is mounted, and the second substrate is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface, and the upper surface and the first substrate. Between.

  According to this configuration, since the second substrate is stacked in parallel with the first substrate, the second substrate can be mounted without hindering the downsizing of the karaoke apparatus. In particular, the area of the second substrate depends on the number of electronic components such as switches to be mounted. However, as these numbers increase, the area becomes relatively large, and as in the case of the first substrate, Goes against compactification. By laminating the second substrate in parallel with the first substrate, this can be avoided as in the case of the first substrate.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a plurality of terminals, and at least some of the plurality of terminals are formed on the back surface.

  According to this structure, it can prevent as much as possible that the cable extended from it obstructs a play by forming a terminal in a back surface.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a third substrate on which the terminals formed on the back surface are mounted, and the third substrate is disposed parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface and on the lower surface side from the slot. Is done.

  According to this configuration, the terminal can be formed on the back surface using the empty space efficiently. In addition, when other terminals are connected to the terminals of the third substrate, a force is applied to the terminals of the third substrate in a direction perpendicular to the back surface, compared with the case where the third substrate is disposed in parallel with the front surface and the back surface. Thus, sufficient strength can be secured with a simple configuration.

  In this compact karaoke apparatus, the terminal mounted on the third board includes a first microphone terminal for connecting the first microphone and a first earphone terminal for connecting the first earphone. .

  The compact karaoke apparatus includes a video output terminal for outputting the video generated by the video generation means to an external device, and an audio for outputting the synthesized sound output by the synthesis means to a speaker installed outside. And an output terminal.

  According to this configuration, not only display means and earphones installed in this karaoke apparatus, but also images are displayed on external devices, and synthesized sound is output to an external speaker, so that general karaoke can be performed. I can enjoy it.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a video input terminal for inputting video from the outside and an audio input terminal for inputting audio from the outside, and the video input from the video input terminal is displayed on the display The sound displayed on the means and input from the sound input terminal is output from the first earphone.

  According to this configuration, an image is input from the outside, displayed on the mounted display means, an audio is input from the outside, and is output to the first earphone. Can be enjoyed at.

  In this compact karaoke apparatus, the video input terminal and the audio input terminal are included in the connector of the slot, and when the television tuner is mounted in the slot, the video input terminal and the audio input terminal are Each is connected to a video output terminal and an audio output terminal of the television tuner.

  According to this configuration, by connecting the television tuner, it is possible to enjoy television broadcasting with the display means and the earphone of the karaoke apparatus.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes volume control means for controlling the volume of the voice of the first user input from the first microphone, and the synthesis means is input from the karaoke performance sound and the first microphone. Then, the sound of the first user whose volume is controlled by the volume control means is synthesized and a synthesized sound is output.

  According to this configuration, while maintaining the volume of the karaoke performance sound from the earphone, it is possible to adjust only the sound that is input from the microphone and output to the earphone, that is, the volume of your own singing sound. Can further change the above fresh sensation.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a second microphone for inputting a voice of a second user and a second earphone used for the second user, wherein the synthesizing means includes the karaoke performance sound, the first karaoke sound, The first user's voice inputted from the microphone and the second user's voice inputted from the second microphone are synthesized to output a synthesized sound, and the first earphone and the second earphone are The synthesized sound is output.

  According to this configuration, at least two people can enjoy karaoke. In particular, listening to the other person's singing with earphones, you can enjoy a unique sense of presence and a fresh feeling. In this case, it may be a duet or a solo. In the case of a duet, coupled with listening to one's singing with the earphone, the other party's singing is also heard with the earphone, which also provides a unique presence and a fresh feeling.

  The compact karaoke apparatus further includes a fourth substrate on which an amplifier for amplifying a signal is mounted, and the fourth substrate is disposed in parallel to the front surface and the rear surface and on the lower surface side from the slot.

  According to this configuration, since the fourth substrate is parallel to the front surface and the back surface, the fourth substrate is connected to the battery housing portion and the back surface without increasing the distance between the front surface and the back surface for the fourth substrate. Can be placed between.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, the compact karaoke apparatus is a compact karaoke apparatus that can be held by a user in his / her hand and includes display means, video generation means, audio generation means, A microphone, a synthesizing unit, an earphone, a video input terminal, and an audio input terminal, and has at least a karaoke mode and an external input mode. In the karaoke mode, the display unit includes an image including at least lyrics. The video generation means generates the video based on at least lyrics data, the audio generation means generates karaoke performance sound based on karaoke performance data, and the microphone Voice is input, and the synthesis means synthesizes the karaoke performance sound and the voice of the user input from the microphone. A synthesized sound is output, and the earphone is used by the user, inputs the synthesized sound output by the synthesizing unit, and outputs the synthesized sound. In the external input mode, the video input terminal Is input from the outside, the display means displays the video input from the video input terminal, the audio input terminal inputs audio from the outside, and the earphone is input from the audio input terminal The sound is output.

  According to this configuration, since the display means is mounted and it is a compact type, it can be sung while holding the hand and watching the lyrics displayed on the display means, and also has headphones and a microphone. You can enjoy karaoke with this karaoke device alone. Also, you can enjoy karaoke while listening directly to your singing voice input from the microphone with earphones, and fresh and different from listening to singing voice and karaoke performance sound with speakers installed indoors like ordinary karaoke You can enjoy karaoke with your senses. In addition, using earphones makes it difficult for sound to leak outside, so you can enjoy karaoke to your heart's content without worrying about the surroundings.

  In addition, video can be input from the outside, displayed on the installed display means, audio can be input from the outside, and output to the earphone, so that the external video and audio can be enjoyed by this karaoke device alone. .

  As long as the present invention can be used by holding it, it may be used by placing it on a flat surface, it may be used by hanging on a wall, or other usage modes are possible. It may be.

  In the compact karaoke apparatus, in the external input mode, a television video is input from the outside to the video input terminal, and a television sound is input from the outside to the audio input terminal.

  According to this configuration, the television broadcast can be enjoyed with the display means and the earphone of the karaoke apparatus.

  For example, in the external input mode, a television tuner is connected to the video input terminal and the audio input terminal.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the karaoke apparatus includes a video generation unit that generates a video based on at least lyrics data, a voice generation unit that generates a karaoke performance sound based on the karaoke performance data, A first microphone for inputting the voice of one user; a second microphone for inputting the voice of a second user; the karaoke performance sound; the voice of the first user input from the first microphone; A second synthesizing unit that synthesizes the voice of the second user input from the microphone and outputs a synthesized sound; and a first unit that is used by the first user and that inputs the synthesized sound and outputs the synthesized sound. 1 earphone and a second earphone that is used by the second user and that inputs the synthesized sound and outputs the synthesized sound.

  According to this configuration, at least two people can enjoy karaoke. In particular, listening to the other person's singing with earphones, you can enjoy a unique sense of presence and a fresh feeling. In this case, it may be a duet or a solo. In the case of a duet, coupled with listening to one's singing with the earphone, the other party's singing is also heard with the earphone, which also provides a unique presence and a fresh feeling.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the karaoke apparatus includes a video generation unit that generates a video based on at least lyrics data, a voice generation unit that generates a karaoke performance sound based on karaoke performance data, and a user. A microphone that inputs the voice of the user, a volume control unit that controls the volume of the voice of the user input from the microphone, the karaoke performance sound, and a volume that is input from the microphone and controlled by the volume control unit. A synthesis unit that synthesizes the user's voice and outputs a synthesized sound; and an earphone that is used by the user to input the synthesized sound and output the synthesized sound.

  According to this configuration, karaoke can be enjoyed while listening directly to the singing voice input from the microphone with the earphone, and the singing voice and karaoke performance sound can be listened to by a speaker installed indoors like ordinary karaoke. Can enjoy karaoke with a different fresh feeling. Moreover, while maintaining the volume of the karaoke performance sound from the earphone, it is possible to adjust only the sound that is input from the microphone and output to the earphone, that is, the volume of your own singing sound. Changes can be added to the senses. In addition, using earphones makes it difficult for sound to leak outside, so you can enjoy karaoke to your heart's content without worrying about the surroundings.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is incorporated.

  FIGS. 1A and 1B, FIG. 2, FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are diagrams for explaining the appearance and functions of a compact karaoke system according to an embodiment of the present invention. . With reference to FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, this compact karaoke system includes a compact karaoke apparatus 1 and a headset 3. The player (user) wears the headset 3, listens to the karaoke performance sound output from the compact karaoke device 1, and watches the lyrics displayed on the LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) panel 7 of the compact karaoke device 1. Sing and enjoy karaoke. In this case, the singing sound is given from the microphone 13 to the compact karaoke apparatus 1, synthesized with the karaoke performance sound, and given to the earphone 20. Therefore, the player can listen to his / her singing voice through the earphone 20.

  The compact karaoke apparatus 1 has a substantially cubic shape including a front FF, a back BF (see FIG. 2), a left side LF (see FIG. 2), a right side RF, an upper surface TF, and a lower surface UF (see FIG. 3A). have.

  An LCD panel 7 for displaying lyrics and the like is disposed on the front FF. An operation unit is disposed on the upper surface TF, and the operation unit includes ten switches sw1 to sw10. The switches sw1 and sw2 are operated when the cap is shared and the player changes the tempo of the song. Pressing the switch sw1 slows down the tempo, and pressing the switch sw2 speeds up the tempo. The switch sw3 is a cancel key, and is operated, for example, when the player stops karaoke in the middle of a song. The switches sw4 and sw5 are operated when the cap is shared and the player adjusts the volume of the song. Pressing the switch sw4 decreases the volume, and pressing the switch sw5 increases the volume. The switch sw6 is an echo key, and is operated when the player changes the type of echo (no echo, reproduces a bathroom, reproduces a large hall, reproduces Yamahiko). The switch sw7 is an effect key, and is operated when the player changes the effect type (high voice, low voice, vibrato). The switches sw8 and sw9 are operated when the cap is shared and the player selects an item on the screen or changes a key (key). Pressing the switch sw8 increases the key, and pressing the switch sw9 decreases the key. The switch sw10 is a determination key, and is operated when the item selected by the player is confirmed.

  The right side surface RF is provided with an opening 25 of the slot 9 along its upper edge. A memory cartridge 5 is inserted into the slot 9. The depth of the slot 9 is designed so that the right side surface RF and the end surface of the memory cartridge 5 are flush with each other when mounted. Further, the shape of the opening 25 of the slot 9 is reverse convex, and the cross-sectional shape of the memory cartridge 5 is also the same reverse convex shape as the opening 25 of the slot 9. In this way, the memory cartridge 5 is prevented from being reversely inserted by making it vertically asymmetric.

  Referring to FIG. 2, a battery lid 27 is provided on the left side LF, and a battery box 35 described later is disposed on the inside thereof. For example, four AA batteries are set in the battery box 35. In this case, two cylindrical batteries are set so that the central axis of the cylindrical battery intersects with the right side surface RF and the left side surface LF perpendicularly, and two vertically.

  Further, on the rear surface BF, an operation unit 29 of an ejector 49 (described later) for taking out the memory cartridge 5 mounted in the slot 9 is provided along the upper edge. The attached memory cartridge 5 can be taken out by sliding the operation portion 29 to the left side LF side. Further, on the back surface BF, a first microphone jack MJ1, a first earphone jack EJ1, a second microphone jack MJ2, and a second earphone jack EJ2 are arranged in a horizontal line below the operation unit 29. Further, along the lower edge of the back surface BF, an AV jack AVJ for outputting a video signal and an audio signal to an external television monitor (not shown), a power jack PWJ for inputting a power supply voltage from the outside, and a power source The switches PSW are arranged in a horizontal line.

  With reference to Fig.3 (a), the stand 31 is provided in the lower surface UF. When the stand 31 is stored (the state shown in FIG. 3A), the stand 31 and the lower surface UF are flush with each other. However, as shown in FIG. 3B, the stand 31 can be erected and placed on the flat surface 32. Of course, it is also possible to place the stand 31 on the plane 32 while storing it. Further, the lower surface UF is provided with a nut 33 for fixing to a tripod or the like.

  Returning to FIG. 1B, the headset 3 includes a headband 15 and an earphone 20. Earphone 20 includes cases 11 </ b> L and 11 </ b> R attached to both ends of headband 15. Cases 11L and 11R incorporate speakers 8L and 8R (see FIG. 11 described later), respectively, and are in close contact with the player's ear when worn. Furthermore, a microphone 13 is attached to the case 11L.

  A cable 19 extends from the case 11L. The cable 19 is a case of the output cable 21 for outputting the audio signal (singing sound) input from the microphone 13 to the compact karaoke apparatus 1 and the audio signal (karaoke performance sound and singing sound) input from the compact karaoke apparatus 1. It includes an input cable 23 for feeding to 11L and 11R speakers 8L and 8R. A microphone plug MP is provided at the tip of the output cable 21, and an earphone plug EP is provided at the tip of the input cable 23. The microphone plug MP and the earphone plug EP are respectively inserted into the microphone jack MJ1 and the earphone jack EJ1 of FIG. Of course, it may be inserted into the microphone jack MJ2 and the earphone jack EJ2.

  A volume controller 17 for adjusting the volume of the sound input from the microphone 13 is attached in the middle of the cable 19. Thereby, the player can adjust only the volume of the sound (your singing sound) from the microphone 13 among the sounds (karaoke performance sound and singing sound) heard from the earphone 20 by the volume controller 17. Of course, the volume controller 17 may be configured to adjust the overall volume of the sound heard from the earphone 20.

  Next, the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 will be described.

  FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 4, the compact karaoke apparatus 1 includes a board 37 on which switches sw1 to sw10 are mounted, a main board 39 on which main electronic components such as a processor 51 described later are mounted, and a slot in which the memory cartridge 5 is mounted. Unit 50, LCD panel 7, microphone jack MJ, MJ2 and earphone jack EJ1, EJ2 board 41, board 43 on which amplifier 67 and the like described below are mounted, power board 45 on which power jack PWJ and the like are mounted, In addition, a battery box 35 is incorporated. The slot unit 50 includes a slot 9, a connector 47 and an ejector 49. The connector 47 is disposed in the back of the slot 9 (relative to the opening 25) and is mounted on the main board 39. A specific configuration of the ejector 49 will be described later.

  FIG. 5 is an illustrative view for explaining an assembly procedure of the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 5, slot unit 50 is arranged between the upper surface of battery box 35 and upper surface TF. The main board 39 is disposed between the upper surface of the slot unit 50 and the upper surface TF. The substrate 37 is disposed between the upper surface of the main substrate 39 and the upper surface TF. The substrate 41 is disposed between the battery box 35 and the back surface BF so as to be parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF. The board | substrate 45 is arrange | positioned between the battery box 35 and the back surface BF so that it may become plane parallel with the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF. The board | substrate 43 is arrange | positioned between the battery box 35 and the back surface BF so that it may become perpendicular | vertical to the board | substrates 41 and 45, ie, may be in parallel with the front surface FF and the back surface BF. The LCD module 59 is disposed on the opposite side of the substrate 43 across the battery box 35 so as to be parallel to the front surface FF.

  As described above, as shown in FIG. 6, the board 37, the main board 39, the slot unit 50, the battery box 35, the board 41, the board 43, the board 45, and the LCD module 59 are just fit in a cube. Built.

  The substrate 37, the main substrate 39, the slot unit 50, the battery box 35, the substrate 41, the substrate 43, the substrate 45, and the LCD module 59 constructed in this way are sandwiched from above and below by the housing TH and the housing UH, and The housing FH and the housing BH are sandwiched from the front and the rear, and are accommodated in the housings TH, UH, BH, and FH. As a result, as shown in FIG. 1A, a compact karaoke apparatus 1 having a substantially cubic housing can be formed.

  A rectangular opening for exposing the LCD panel 7 is formed on a surface corresponding to the front surface FF of the housing FH. Openings for exposing the operation portion 29 of the ejector 49, the microphone jacks MJ and MJ2, the earphone jacks EJ1 and EJ2, the AV jack AVJ, the power jack PWJ, and the power switch PSW are provided on the surface corresponding to the rear surface BF of the housing BH. Is formed.

  In addition, a notch is formed on the surface corresponding to the upper surface TF of the housings FH and BH so that the housing TH fits perfectly. On the surface corresponding to the lower surface UF of the housings FH and BH, a notch is formed so that the housing UH fits perfectly. On the surface corresponding to the right side surface RF of the housings FH and BH, a notch is formed so that the slot 9 fits snugly. On the surface corresponding to the left side surface LF of the housings FH and BH, a notch is formed so that the battery lid 27 fits snugly.

  Next, details of the ejector 49 will be described.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the ejector 49 provided in the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 7, the ejector 49 includes an operation member 150, a rotation member 164, a flat plate-like cartridge push-out member 152, springs 154 and 162, stoppers 156 and 158, a cylindrical member (shaft) 160, and a guide 66. including. FIG. 7 shows a state in which the memory cartridge 5 is mounted in the slot 9.

  The operation member 150 is formed with a fixed operation portion 29 exposed from the opening of the back surface BF and operated by the player. When the operating portion 29 is pushed in the direction of the arrow 168 (rightward on the paper) against the elastic force of the spring 162 attached to the rotating member 164, the operating member 150 is moved in the direction of the arrow 168 (rightward on the paper). Slide. Then, since the tip end of the operation member 150 is in contact with one end of the rotation member 164, the rotation member 164 rotates counterclockwise about the column member 160. Then, since the other end of the rotating member 164 is in contact with the right edge of the cartridge push-out member 152, the cartridge push-out member 152 slides in the direction of the arrow 170 (the left side in the drawing).

  Further, since one end of the spring 154 is in contact with the right edge of the cartridge push-out member 152 and the other end of the spring 154 is in contact with the stopper 156, the spring 154 is elastically applied to the cartridge push-out member 152. A force is applied in the direction of arrow 172. For this reason, even after the rotation member 164 rotates counterclockwise to the limit, the cartridge push-out member 152 further slides in the direction of the arrow 172 (the left direction on the paper).

  Thus, the rotation member 164 and the spring 154 ensure a sufficient slide width of the cartridge push-out member 152. The left edge of the cartridge push-out member 152 is in contact with the right edge of the memory cartridge 5, and the loaded memory cartridge 5 is thus moved in the direction of the arrow 174 (left direction in the drawing) by the cartridge push-out member 152 sliding in this way. Fully extruded and easy to remove. The cartridge push-out member 152 slides in the direction of the arrow 174 along the guide 66. Further, the elastic force of the spring 162 works in the direction of rotating the rotating member 164 clockwise. Therefore, when the force applied to the operation member 150 is released, the operation member 150 is pushed back to the original position by one end of the rotating member 164. In this case, the other end of the rotating member 164 is restricted by the stopper 158.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 will be described.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 8, this compact karaoke apparatus 1 includes a processor 51, a memory 53 (hereinafter referred to as “main body memory 53”), a bus 55, a converter 57, an LCD module 59, a switch group 48, and mixers 65, 69L. 69R, amplifiers 67, 77L, 77R, amplifier unit 73, first microphone jack MJ1, second microphone jack MJ2, first earphone jack EJ1, second earphone jack EJ2, external output AV jack AVJ, and connector 47. .

  The LCD module 59 includes an LCD driver 61 and an LCD panel 7. The amplifier unit 73 includes amplifiers 75L and 75R. The first earphone jack EJ1 includes terminals 60L and 60R. Second earphone jack EJ2 includes terminals 62L and 62R. AV jack AVJ includes terminals TL, TR and VDI. The switch group 48 includes switches sw1 to sw10. In the figure, the terminals LP, RP, and VP are described separately from the connector 47, but this is for ease of understanding. The terminals LP, RP, and VP are a plurality of terminals included in the connector 47. It is a part.

  The memory cartridge 5 includes a memory 81 (hereinafter referred to as “cartridge memory 81”) and a connector 83. By mounting the memory cartridge 5 in the slot 9 of the compact karaoke device 1, the connector 83 of the memory cartridge 5 and the connector 47 of the compact karaoke device 1 are electrically connected.

  Here, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the main body memory 53 and the cartridge memory 81, they are expressed as “memory MEM”. The memory MEM includes a memory, a ROM, a RAM, and / or a flash memory that are necessary according to the system specifications.

  The processor 51, the main body memory 53, the bus 55, the converter 57, and the connector 47 are mounted on the main board 39. The switch group 48 is mounted on the substrate 37. The amplifiers 67, 77L and 77R, the amplifier unit 73, and the mixers 65, 69L and 69R are mounted on the substrate 43. The first microphone jack MJ1, the first earphone jack EJ1, the second microphone jack MJ2, and the second earphone jack EJ2 are mounted on the substrate 41. The external output AV jack AVJ, the power jack PWJ (see FIG. 2), and the power switch PSW (see FIG. 2) are mounted on the substrate 45. The LCD driver 61 is fixed in the vicinity of the LCD panel 7.

  Although not shown, the processor 51 includes various functional blocks such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a graphics processor, a sound processor, and a DMA controller, and an A / D converter and an infrared signal that are used when an analog signal is captured. And an input / output control circuit for receiving an input digital signal such as a key operation signal and supplying an output digital signal to an external device, and an internal memory.

  The CPU executes a computer program stored in the memory MEM. The digital signal from the A / D converter and the digital signal from the input / output control circuit are given to the CPU, and the CPU executes necessary operations in accordance with these signals in accordance with the computer program. The graphics processor performs the graphic processing required by the calculation result of the CPU on the image data stored in the memory MEM to generate the video signal VDI. The sound processor performs sound processing necessary for the sound data stored in the memory MEM according to the calculation result of the CPU, and generates audio signals ALI and ARI. The internal memory is constituted by a RAM, for example, and is used as a working area, a counter area, a register area, a temporary data area, and / or a flag area.

  A bus 55 is connected to the processor 51, and a main body memory 53 and a cartridge memory 81 are coupled to the bus 55. Therefore, the processor 51 can access the main body memory 53 and the cartridge memory 81 through the bus 55, and can load and execute programs and data from them, and can write data.

  The main body memory 53 stores a boot program BP1, a warning message display program NP, karaoke image data, and karaoke music data.

  The boot program BP1 is a program for booting the system when the memory cartridge 5 is not attached, and is executed by the processor 51. The warning message display program NP is activated by the boot program BP1 when the memory cartridge 5 is not mounted, whereby the processor 51 generates a video signal VDI including a warning message. Karaoke image data and karaoke music data are data commonly used for each karaoke piece. Karaoke image data includes title screen data, basic background screen data, frame and icon data, and font data, and karaoke music data includes basic sound source data.

  Karaoke data is stored in the cartridge memory 81. The karaoke data includes background image data, song title image data, lyrics data, score data, and the like. The cartridge memory 81 stores a boot program BP2, a karaoke program, common data, and the like. The boot program BP2 is a program for booting the system when the memory cartridge 5 is mounted, and is executed by the processor 51. The karaoke program is a program that is executed by the processor 51 when the memory cartridge 5 is mounted, and performs processing such as sequence control, video display control, A / D conversion and sound processing, and music reproduction control. The common data is image data and music data that are used in common regardless of the type of music.

  The processor 51 executes the karaoke program in the cartridge memory 81 and stores the karaoke data (background image data, song title image data and lyrics data) and common data (image data) stored in the cartridge memory 81 and the main body memory 53. Necessary processing is performed on the karaoke image data, and a video signal VDI representing the lyrics and the background image is generated. Further, the processor 51 executes the karaoke program in the cartridge memory 81, karaoke music data (basic sound source data) stored in the main body memory 53, karaoke data (score data) and common data (music data) in the cartridge memory 81. Based on the above, the audio signals ALI and ARI representing the karaoke performance sound are generated. The sound source data and the musical score data are sometimes collectively referred to as karaoke performance data.

  The converter 57 receives the control of the processor 51, converts the video signal VDI of the analog video signal format generated by the processor 51 into a video signal DVF of the digital video signal format, and supplies it to the LCD driver 61. The LCD driver 61 drives the LCD panel 7 and displays an image corresponding to the video signal DVF.

  The microphone plug MP of the headset 3 is inserted into the first microphone jack MJ1. In addition, a microphone plug of another headset is inserted into the second microphone jack. Then, the mixer 65 synthesizes the audio signal MC1 input from the first microphone jack MJ1 and the audio signal MC2 input from the second microphone jack MJ2, and provides the resultant to the amplifier 67 as the audio signal MX1. Of course, since the microphone plug MP may be inserted only into the first microphone jack MJ1, or the microphone plug may be inserted only into the second microphone jack MJ2, in this case, the mixer 65 receives the input audio. The signal MC1 or MC2 is output to the amplifier 67 as the audio signal MX1.

  The amplifier 67 amplifies the audio signal MX1, and outputs the amplified audio signal MX1 to the processor 51 and the mixers 69L and 69R as the audio signal MX2. The processor 51 echo-processes the input audio signal MX2 and outputs it as audio signals ALI and ARI together with the karaoke performance sound.

  The mixer 69L synthesizes the audio signal MX2 from the first microphone jack MJ1 and / or the second microphone jack MJ2 and the left channel audio signal ALI generated by the processor 51, and produces the audio signal MIXL as amplifiers 75L and 77L. Output to. The amplifier 75L amplifies the input audio signal MIXL and outputs it as a left channel audio signal EL to the terminal 60L of the first earphone jack EJ1 and the terminal 62L of the second earphone jack EJ2.

  On the other hand, the mixer 69R synthesizes the audio signal MX2 from the first microphone jack MJ1 and / or the second microphone jack MJ2 and the right channel audio signal ARI generated by the processor 51 to produce an audio signal MIXR as an amplifier 75R. And 77R. The amplifier 75R amplifies the input audio signal MIXR and outputs it as a right channel audio signal ER to the terminal 60R of the first earphone jack EJ1 and the terminal 62R of the second earphone jack EJ2.

  The processor 51 outputs a volume control signal VLC to the amplifier unit 73 in response to the operation of the switches sw4 and sw5 by the player. The amplifier unit 73 controls the amplification factors of the amplifiers 75L and 75R according to the volume control signal VLC.

  The amplifier 77L amplifies the input audio signal MIXL and outputs the amplified audio signal MIXL to the terminal 64L of the external output AV jack AVJ as the left channel audio signal TL. The amplifier 77R amplifies the input audio signal MIXR and outputs it to the terminal 64R of the external output AV jack AVJ as the right channel audio signal TR. The video signal VDI generated by the processor 51 is applied to the terminal 64V of the external output AV jack AVJ. Therefore, an image corresponding to the video signal VDI generated by the processor 51 is obtained by connecting the external output AV jack AVJ and the external input AV jack (not shown) of the television monitor 2 by an AV cable (not shown). Is displayed on the television monitor 2, and the audio signal TL obtained by synthesizing the audio signal MC1 from the first microphone jack MJ1 and / or the audio signal MC2 from the second microphone jack MJ2 and the audio signals ALI and ARI of the processor 51, and Sound corresponding to TR can be output from a speaker (not shown) of the television monitor 2.

  Instead of mounting the memory cartridge 5 in the slot 9, the connector unit of the television tuner 4 can be mounted in the slot 9. The outer shape of this connector unit is formed to be the same as the outer shape of the memory cartridge 5 so that it can be mounted in the slot 9. The connector unit includes a connector 6. Therefore, when the connector unit of the television tuner 4 is installed in the slot 9, the connector 6 and the connector 47 of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 are electrically connected.

  Then, the video signal VDE received by the television tuner 4 is given to the terminal VP of the connector 47. The video signal VDE is supplied to the converter 57, converted from an analog video signal format to a digital video signal format, and supplied to the LCD driver 61 as a video signal DVF. The LCD driver 61 drives the LCD panel 7 and displays an image corresponding to the video signal DVF. Accordingly, an image corresponding to the video signal VDE received by the television tuner 4 can be viewed on the LCD panel 7.

  Audio signals ALE and ARE received by the television tuner 4 are applied to terminals LP and RP of the connector 47, respectively. The audio signal ALE is supplied to the amplifier 75L. The amplifier 75L amplifies the audio signal ALE and supplies it as an audio signal EL to the terminal 60L of the first earphone jack EJ1 and the terminal 62L of the second earphone jack EJ2. The audio signal ARE is given to the amplifier 75R. The amplifier 75R amplifies the audio signal ARE and supplies it as an audio signal ER to the terminal 60R of the first earphone jack EJ1 and the terminal 62R of the second earphone jack EJ2. Therefore, it is possible to listen to the sound corresponding to the audio signals ALE and ARE received by the television tuner 4 with the earphone 20 of the headset 3 connected to the first earphone jack EJ1. Of course, the sound can also be heard with an earphone connected to the second earphone jack EJ2.

  Here are some examples of how to distribute karaoke data. First, karaoke data is stored in advance in the memory cartridge 5 and the memory cartridge 5 is sold. Second, the memory cartridge 5 in which karaoke data is not stored is sold, and the karaoke data is written into the memory cartridge 5 by downloading. In this case, the price of the karaoke data can be charged to the memory cartridge 5 in advance or charged at the time of downloading. Hereinafter, a second example will be described.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram for explaining a procedure for downloading karaoke data. Referring to FIG. 9, the user terminal 200 includes a processor 202, a memory 204, a bus 210, a communication device 208, an interface (I / F) 206, a display device 212, an input device 214, and an auxiliary storage device 216. The auxiliary storage device 216 is, for example, a hard disk device. The input device 214 is a keyboard and a mouse. However, the input device 214 is not limited to these.

  The writer 100 includes an MPU (micro processing unit) 108, a bus 110, an interface (I / F) 112, and a connector 114 electrically connected to the connector 83 of the memory cartridge 5. Here, for example, when a USB cable is used as the cable 102, each of the interface 112 and the interface 206 includes a USB controller.

  Now, upon receiving an input from the user via the input device 214, the processor 202 of the user terminal 200 sends a music menu transmission request to the WEB server 400 via the communication device 208 and the network 300. Upon receiving this transmission request, the WEB server 400 transmits a music menu to the user terminal 200 via the network 300.

  When the user selects a song using the input device 214, the processor 202 of the user terminal 200 transmits information on the selected song (selected song information) to the WEB server 400 via the communication device 208 and the network 300. The WEB server 400 acquires karaoke data of the music indicated by the selected music information transmitted by the user terminal 200 from the database server 500 and transmits the karaoke data to the user terminal 200 via the network 300.

  The processor 202 of the user terminal 200 temporarily stores the received karaoke data in the auxiliary storage device 216. Then, the processor 202 transfers the karaoke data from the auxiliary storage device 216 to the memory 204, and further transmits the karaoke data to the writer 100 via the bus 210, the interface 206, and the cable 102.

  The MPU 108 of the writer 100 transfers the karaoke data transmitted by the processor 202 of the user terminal 200 to a memory (not shown) inside the MPU 108 via the interface 112 and the bus 110, and further, the karaoke data is transferred to the bus. Write to the memory 81 of the memory cartridge 5 connected to 110. Furthermore, the MPU 108 of the writer 100 reads the written karaoke data from the memory 81 and transmits the read karaoke data to the user terminal 200 via the bus 110, the interface 112, and the cable 102.

  The processor 202 of the user terminal 200 stores the karaoke data read and transmitted by the MPU 108 of the writer 100 in the auxiliary storage device 216. Then, the processor 202 compares the karaoke data transmitted from the WEB server 400 with the karaoke data transmitted from the writer 100, and checks whether or not the data is normally written in the memory 81. If it is determined that the writing has been normally performed, the processor 202 of the user terminal 200 notifies the WEB server 400 that the karaoke data has been normally written to the memory 81 via the communication device 208 and the network 300. (Normal write notification).

  The WEB server 400 receives a normal writing notification from the user terminal 200. The WEB server 400 counts the number of karaoke data normally written in the memory 81 for each music piece by receiving the normal writing notification. The copyright fee paid by the service provider can be calculated based on this count value.

  In this embodiment, an OTPROM (one time programmable read only memory) is used as an example of the memory 81. The OTPROM is a ROM that can be written only once. However, the same data can be written to the same area.

  When not used, the OTPROM 81 includes blank areas a1 to ak (k is a natural number) and a written area aw. Here, when the blank areas a1 to ak are comprehensively expressed, they are represented as a blank area aK.

  The blank area aK is an area where no data is written when the user purchases the OTPROM 81 (when shipped from the factory). In principle, one piece of karaoke data is written in one blank area aK. However, it is possible to write karaoke data for one song in a predetermined number of blank areas aK. Thus, karaoke data is written in units of blank areas aK.

  Moreover, since it is OTPROM81, karaoke data can be written only in the blank area aK which is not stored. That is, once karaoke data is written in a certain blank area aK, it cannot be written again in the blank area aK. Furthermore, in other words, one-time writing is possible.

  In the already written area aw, the karaoke program, common data, identification information (ID) of the memory cartridge 5, information on the number of writable songs, a status table, cartridge capacity, And the cartridge name are written. The cartridge name is given to determine the type of the memory cartridge 5. The memory cartridge 5 is for karaoke in the above example, but there may be a game cartridge or other uses. In order to distinguish these, the cartridge name is stored in the memory cartridge 5. The already written area aw stores a program and data corresponding to the type of the memory cartridge 5.

  The state table includes a plurality of state flags, and this state flag is provided for each blank area aK. This state flag indicates the writing state of the corresponding blank area aK. There are four writing states: “unused (empty)”, “writing in progress”, “writing normal”, and “writing abnormal”.

  The writer 100 writes the karaoke data and index information acquired from the user terminal 200 in the blank area aK of the OTPROM 81. This karaoke data includes background image data, song title image data, lyrics data, and score data. The index information is storage position information of background image data, song title image data, lyrics data, and score data written in the blank area aK. In this embodiment, the name of a blank area is used, but it is of course not blank after karaoke data or index information is written.

  FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are external perspective views of the writer 100 of FIG. With reference to these drawings, a slot 104 for mounting the memory cartridge 5 is formed on the back surface of the writer 100. A connector 114 is disposed behind the opening 106 of the slot 104.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the headset 3 in FIG. Referring to FIG. 11, the cable 21 that connects the microphone 13 and the microphone plug MP includes a signal line 16 and a ground line 18. A volume controller 17 is provided in the middle of the signal line 16. The volume controller 17 is composed of a variable resistor. In addition, speakers 8L and 8R are built in cases 11L and 11R, respectively.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, since the operation unit (switches sw1 to sw10) is arranged on the upper surface TF, the karaoke device 1 has a substantially cubic shape that is held in hand and performs karaoke. Operability can be improved.

  Since it has a substantially cubic shape, it is usually difficult to hold it with one hand unless the hand (palm and finger) is very large. For this reason, it is assumed that it is often operated with both hands. When the operation is performed while holding the LCD panel 7 of the front FF with both hands, the left and right side surfaces LF and RF are usually covered with the left and right palms. For this reason, it is extremely difficult to operate if the operation units are arranged on the left and right side surfaces LF and RF. Further, if the operation unit is arranged on the back surface BF or the lower surface UF, it is difficult to see the operation unit. Furthermore, since the LCD panel 7 is disposed on the front FF and is compact, it is difficult to secure a sufficient space for arranging the operation unit on the front FF. On the other hand, when the operation unit is arranged on the upper surface TF, these inconveniences are not caused, but rather, it is most suitable for operation while holding the LCD panel 7 of the front FF with both hands. That is, by arranging the operation unit on the upper surface TF, it is easier to operate compared to the case where the operation unit is arranged on another surface.

  The karaoke apparatus 1 is equipped with the LCD panel 7 and is compact, so that it can be sung while holding the hand and watching the lyrics displayed on the LCD panel 7, and the earphone 20 and the microphone 13. Therefore, the karaoke apparatus 1 alone can enjoy karaoke. Also, it is possible to enjoy karaoke while listening directly to the singing voice input from the microphone 13 with the earphone 20, which is different from the case of listening to the singing voice or karaoke performance sound through a speaker installed indoors as in general karaoke. You can enjoy karaoke with a fresh feeling.

  In addition, since the volume of the karaoke performance sound from the earphone 20 is maintained, only the sound input from the microphone 13 and output to the earphone 20, that is, the volume of the own singing sound can be adjusted by the volume controller 17. Further changes can be made to the fresh sensation according to taste. Furthermore, since it is difficult for sound to leak outside by using the earphone 20, it is possible to enjoy karaoke as much as possible without having to worry about the surroundings.

  The karaoke apparatus 1 can be operated with one hand, or karaoke can be performed with one hand. Further, the karaoke apparatus 1 may be used by being placed on a horizontal surface such as a desk, or may be used by being hung on a vertical surface such as a wall, or may be used in other modes. .

  In the present embodiment, the battery box 35 in which a cylindrical battery that is long in the axial direction is set so that the axis of the battery is orthogonal to the left side LF and the right side RF when the battery is set. In the housing.

  In this way, the battery box 35 can be disposed without being limited as much as possible by the thickness of the LCD panel 7 disposed in the front FF (in the direction perpendicular to the front FF). Since the battery is long in the axial direction, if the battery box 35 is arranged so that the axis is perpendicular to the front surface FF, the distance from the front surface FF to the back surface BF must be increased due to the influence of the thickness of the LCD panel 7. This hinders compactification. The battery box 35 can be arranged so that the axis of the battery is perpendicular to the front surface FF while avoiding the LCD panel 7, but this also prevents compactness.

  In addition, the battery box 35 can be disposed without being limited as much as possible by the thickness of the operation unit disposed on the upper surface TF (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface TF). Since the battery is long in the axial direction, if the battery box 35 is arranged so that the axis is perpendicular to the upper surface TF, the distance from the upper surface TF to the lower surface UF must be increased due to the influence of the thickness of the operation unit. This hinders compactification. The battery box 35 can be arranged so that the axis of the battery is perpendicular to the upper surface TF while avoiding the operation unit, but this also prevents compactness.

  As described above, the battery box 35 is not arranged so that the axis of the battery is orthogonal to the front surface FF or the upper surface TF, but is arranged so that the axis of the battery is parallel to both the front surface FF and the upper surface TF. Realize compactness.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, it is possible to enjoy karaoke of different musical compositions simply by replacing the memory cartridge 5.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is formed such that when the flat memory cartridge 5 is mounted, the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF. The opening is formed in the right side surface RF.

  In this way, the slot 9 can be mounted without hindering the compactness of the karaoke apparatus 1.

  A slot is formed in the right side surface RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the front surface FF and the rear surface BF when the memory cartridge 5 is mounted, and between the battery box 35 and the upper surface TF (or the battery box 35 and the lower surface). When the slot 9 is disposed between the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF, the slot 9 is disposed between the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the distance between them, which hinders downsizing. The slot 9 can be formed on the right side surface RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the front surface FF and the rear surface BF when the battery box 35 and the operation unit are avoided. Hinders In this respect, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is arranged on the right side RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF when mounted, so the thickness of the battery box 35 ( It is difficult to receive restrictions on the vertical direction of the upper surface TF and the thickness of the operation unit (in the vertical direction of the upper surface TF).

  When the slot 9 is formed on the back surface BF, the thickness of the LCD panel 7 (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface FF) is limited, and the distance from the front surface FF to the back surface BF must be increased, which hinders downsizing. . If only the slot 9 is used, a connector 47 for connecting the memory cartridge 5 is required, and an ejector 49 for taking out the memory cartridge 5 must be mounted. In this case, in particular, the thickness of the LCD panel 7 hinders downsizing. When the slot 9 is provided on the back surface BF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the left side surface LF and the right side surface RF when mounted, the thickness of the battery box 35 (perpendicular to the top surface TF, on the left side) And the thickness of the operation portion (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface TF) is limited. Although the LCD panel 7, the battery box 35, and a part or all of the operation unit can be avoided and the slot 9 can be formed on the back surface BF, this also prevents compactness. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is disposed on the right side RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF at the time of mounting, so these problems can be avoided. .

  Incidentally, in the present embodiment, since the connector 47 for connecting the memory cartridge 5 is disposed between the slot 9 and the left side LF, it does not hinder downsizing. This is because in the present embodiment, there is almost no restriction in the direction perpendicular to the left side LF between the slot 9 and the left side LF. Even when the ejector 49 is mounted, the main part (in the above example, the part other than the operation member 150 of the ejector 49) is disposed between the slot 9 and the left side surface LF, so that compactness can be realized.

  When the slot 9 is formed on the upper surface TF, the area of the operation unit arranged in a plane on the upper surface TF and the thickness of the battery box 35 (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface TF) are limited. When the slot 9 is provided on the upper surface TF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the left side surface LF and the right side surface RF when mounted, the thickness of the LCD panel 7 (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface FF) is further increased. Will be subject to restrictions. Although the operation unit, the battery box 35, and the LCD panel 7 may be partially or entirely avoided and the slot 9 may be formed on the upper surface TF, this also prevents compactness. In this regard, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is disposed on the right side surface RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF when mounted. In addition, it is difficult to receive restrictions from the LCD panel 7.

  When the slot 9 is formed on the lower surface UF, the thickness of the battery box 35 (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface TF) and the thickness of the operation unit (in the direction perpendicular to the upper surface TF) are limited. When the slot 9 is provided on the lower surface UF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the left side surface LF and the right side surface RF when the memory cartridge 5 is mounted, the thickness of the LCD panel 7 (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface FF) is further increased. Will be subject to restrictions. The slot 9 can be formed on the lower surface UF by avoiding all or part of the battery box 35, the operation unit, and the LCD panel 7, but this also hinders downsizing. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is disposed on the right side RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF when the slot 9 is mounted. It is difficult to receive restrictions from the LCD panel 7. Also, providing the slot 9 on the lower surface UF is difficult for the user to use.

  When the slot 9 is formed in the front FF, the area of the LCD panel 7 is limited. When the slot 9 is provided in the front surface FF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the left side surface LF and the right side surface RF when mounted, the thickness of the battery box 35 (in the direction perpendicular to the front surface FF) is further increased. Will be subject to restrictions. The slot 9 can be formed in the front FF while avoiding part or all of the LCD panel 7, the operation unit, and the battery box 35, but this also prevents compactness. In this respect, in the present embodiment, the slot 9 is disposed on the right side RF so that the flat surface of the memory cartridge 5 is parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF when mounted. In addition, it is difficult to receive restrictions from the battery box 35.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the connector 47 of the slot unit 50 is disposed between the slot 9 and the left side surface LF where the opening 25 of the slot 9 is not formed. Further, a part of the ejector 49 is disposed between the connector 47 and the left side surface LF where the opening 25 of the slot 9 is not formed. In this way, the connector 47 and the ejector 49 can be arranged in the empty space between the slot 9 and the left side LF, which can contribute to downsizing.

  Further, the slot 9 is disposed between the upper surface TF and the battery box 35. Thereby, the slot 9 can be arrange | positioned near upper surface TF.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the main board 39 is disposed parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF and between the upper surface TF and the slot 9.

  In this way, the main board 39 can be mounted without hindering the compactness of the karaoke apparatus 1. Since the slot 9 and the battery box 35 are arranged as described above, a main board that requires a relatively large area parallel to the left side LF and the right side RF or parallel to the front FF and the back BF. If it is going to arrange | position 39, the main board | substrate 39 must be orthogonal to the slot 9 and the battery box 35, and the volume of a housing must be enlarged so that it may not orthogonally cross, and it is contrary to compactization. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, since the main board 39 is arranged in parallel with the slot 9 and the battery box 35 without being orthogonal to each other, an increase in the volume of the housing can be avoided and the main board 39 can be arranged in an empty space. Further, since the processor 51 is disposed in the vicinity of the operation unit, the wiring between them can be shortened. As a result, wiring defects in the manufacturing process can be prevented as much as possible.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the connector 47 of the slot unit 50 is mounted on the main board 39. Therefore, the physical path of data transmission / reception performed between the processor 51 mounted on the main board 39 and the memory cartridge 5 connected to the connector 47 can be shortened, and noise can be suppressed as much as possible.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the substrate 37 is disposed in parallel with the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF and between the upper surface TF and the main substrate 39.

  Thus, since the board | substrate 37 is laminated | stacked by the surface parallel to the main board | substrate 39, the board | substrate 37 can be mounted, without preventing compactness of this karaoke apparatus 1. FIG. In particular, the area of the substrate 37 depends on the number of electronic components such as switches to be mounted. However, as these numbers increase, the area becomes relatively large. It goes against compactification. By laminating the substrate 37 on the main substrate 39 parallel to the surface, this can be avoided as in the case of the main substrate 39.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, by forming the jacks (MJ1, EJ1, MJ2, EJ2, AVJ, PWJ) on the back surface BF, it is possible to prevent as much as possible that the cable extending therefrom becomes an obstacle to play.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the substrates 41 and 45 are disposed in parallel to the upper surface TF and the lower surface UF and on the lower surface UF side from the slot 9. By doing so, jacks (MJ1, EJ1, MJ2, EJ2, AVJ, PWJ) can be formed on the back surface BF by efficiently using an empty space. Further, when plugs (plugs MP, EP, etc.) are inserted into the jacks (MJ1, EJ1, MJ2, EJ2, AVJ, PWJ) of the boards 41 and 45, a force is applied to the jacks in the vertical direction on the back surface BF. And 45 can be secured with a simple structure as compared with the case where the front and rear FFs 45 are arranged in parallel with the front FF and the back BF.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the terminal 64V for outputting the video signal VDI generated by the processor 51 to the television monitor 2 and the synthesized sounds TL and TR output by the amplifiers 77L and 77R are output to the television monitor 2. Terminals 64L and 64R.

  As a result, not only the LCD panel 7 and the earphone 20 mounted on the karaoke apparatus 1 but also an external television monitor 2 displays an image, and a synthesized sound is output to a speaker of the television monitor 2. You can enjoy classic karaoke.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a terminal VP for inputting the video signal VDE from the external television tuner 4, and terminals LP and RP for inputting the audio signals ALE and ARE from the external television tuner 4, Is provided. The video signal VDE input from the terminal VP is displayed on the LCD panel 7 via the converter 57 and the LCD driver 61, and the audio signals ALE and ARE input from the terminals LP and RP are the first earphone jack EJ1 and Output from the second earphone jack.

  In this way, an image is input from the outside and displayed on the mounted LCD panel 7, an audio is input from the outside, and is output to the first earphone jack EJ1 and the second earphone jack. And voice can be enjoyed by the karaoke apparatus 1. That is, by connecting the television tuner 4, it is possible to enjoy television broadcasting with the LCD panel 7 and the earphone 20 of the karaoke apparatus 1.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, in addition to the microphone jack MJ1 and the earphone jack EJ1, a microphone jack MJ2 and an earphone jack EJ2 are further provided. Thereby, two people can enjoy karaoke. In particular, listening to the other person's singing with earphones, you can enjoy a unique sense of presence and a fresh feeling. In this case, it may be a duet or a solo. In the case of a duet, coupled with listening to one's singing with the earphone, the other party's singing is also heard with the earphone, which also provides a unique presence and a fresh feeling.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the substrate 43 on which the amplifier (67, 75L, 75R, 77L, 77R) and the mixer (65, 69L, and 69R) are mounted is parallel to the front surface FF and the rear surface BF, and the slot 9 It is arranged on the lower surface UF side.

  Thereby, since the substrate 43 is parallel to the front surface FF and the back surface BF, the substrate 43 can be connected to the battery box 35 and the back surface BF without increasing the distance between the front surface FF and the back surface BF. Can be placed between.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the following modifications are possible.

  (1) In the above description, an LCD is used as the display device. However, other types of display devices such as an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display may be used.

  (2) In the above, stereo type earphones are taken as an example, but monaural type may also be used. Further, although the headset is used, the earphone and the microphone can be prepared separately.

  (3) In the above description, the processor 51 and the television tuner 4 output the video signal in the analog video signal format, but can output the video signal in the digital video signal format. In this case, the converter 57 is unnecessary.

  (4) In the above description, sound source data and music score data are prepared as karaoke performance data, and karaoke performance sound is generated from these (for example, MIDI playback), but data obtained by compressing karaoke performance sound can also be used.

  (5) In the above description, the switches sw1 to sw10 are all provided on the upper surface TF. However, a part of the switches sw1 to sw10 can be provided on another surface using an empty space. Further, although the slot 9 is provided on the right side RF, even if it is provided on the left side LF, the above-described effects are not impaired. Further, although the slot 9 is disposed between the battery box 35 and the upper surface TF, the slot 9 may be disposed between the battery box 35 and the lower surface UF. Also in this case, the above effect is not impaired. Furthermore, some or all of the terminals (MJ1, EJ1, etc.) provided on the back surface BF can be provided on the other surface by utilizing the empty space.

  (6) In the above description, the video signal VDE and the audio signals ALE and ARE are input from the television tuner 4. However, these signals can also be input from other external devices such as a DVD player and a personal computer.

  (7) In the above, the microphone jack and earphone jack set provided in the karaoke apparatus 1 was two sets (MC1 and EJ1, and MC2 and EJ2), but one set may be used, or three sets or more. May be.

  (8) In the above description, when the memory cartridge 5 is mounted, the right side surface RF and the end surface of the memory cartridge 5 are flush with each other, and the ejector 49 removes the memory cartridge 5. However, the connector 47 can also be arranged on the right side RF side so that the memory cartridge 5 protrudes from the right side RF when it is mounted without being flush. In this case, since the memory cartridge 5 is directly pulled out by hand, the ejector 49 is not necessarily required. With this configuration, the appearance is slightly worsened, but the empty space in the housing is widened, and the degree of freedom of arrangement of the substrates and the like is increased.

  (9) In the above, the karaoke apparatus 1 and the writer 100 are provided separately. However, the function of the writer 100 can also be installed in the karaoke apparatus 1. In this case, in the karaoke apparatus 1, it is preferable from the viewpoint of space saving and cost that the connector for writing to the memory cartridge 5 and the connector for reading from the memory cartridge 5 are made common.

  (10) In the above description, karaoke data is stored in the memory cartridge 5. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and arbitrary programs and data such as game programs, movies, and music can be stored.

FIG. 1A is an external perspective view of a compact karaoke apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention and a memory cartridge 5 attached thereto. FIG. 1B is an external perspective view of the headset 3 according to the embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 shown in FIG. Fig.3 (a) is an external appearance perspective view from the lower surface UF side of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of Fig.1 (a). FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a state where the stand 31 of FIG. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 5 is an illustrative view for explaining an assembly procedure of the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a housing that houses the internal structure of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. 4. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the ejector 49 provided in the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an electrical configuration of the compact karaoke apparatus 1 of FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram for explaining a procedure for downloading karaoke data. FIG. 10A is an external perspective view of the writer 100 of FIG. FIG. 10B is an external perspective view from the back side of the writer 100 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the electrical structure of the headset 3 of FIG.1 (b).

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Compact karaoke apparatus, 2 ... Television monitor, 3 ... Headset, 4 ... Television tuner, 5 ... Memory cartridge, 7 ... LCD panel, 8L, 8R ... Speaker, 9 ... Slot, 11L, 11R ... Case, 13 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 15 ... Headband, 17 ... Volume controller, 19 ... Cable, 20 ... Earphone, 21 ... Output cable, 23 ... Input cable, 27 ... Battery cover, 29 ... Operation part, 31 ... Stand, 33 ... Nut, 37 , 39, 41, 43, 45 ... substrate, 35 ... battery box, 6, 47, 83, 114 ... connector, 48 ... switch group, 49 ... ejector, 50 ... slot unit, 51 ... processor, 53 ... main unit memory, 55 ... Bus, 57 ... Converter, 59 ... LCD module, 61 ... LCD driver, 65, 69L 69R ... Mixer, 67, 75L, 75R, 77L, 77R ... Amplifier, 73 ... Amplifier unit, 81 ... Cartridge memory, 100 ... Writer, 200 ... User terminal, 300 ... Network, 400 ... WEB server, 500 ... Database server, sw1 ~ Sw10 ... switch, FF ... front, BF ... rear, TF ... upper surface, UF ... lower surface, LF ... left side, RF ... right side, TH, UH, FH, BH ... housing, MP ... microphone plug, EP ... earphone plug , MJ1 ... first microphone jack, MJ2 ... second microphone jack, EJ1 ... first earphone jack, EJ2 ... second earphone jack, AVJ ... external output AV jack, LP, RP, VP ... terminal.

Claims (23)

A compact karaoke apparatus that a first user can hold in hand and perform karaoke,
A substantially cubic housing composed of a front surface, a back surface, a left side surface, a right side surface, an upper surface and a lower surface as viewed from the first user;
Display means arranged on the front surface and displaying an image including at least lyrics;
An operating means disposed on the upper surface and operated by the first user to receive an input from the first user;
Information processing means for executing processing according to the input received by the operation means;
Under the control of the information processing means, video generating means for generating the video based on at least lyrics data;
Under the control of the information processing means, based on karaoke performance data, voice generation means for generating karaoke performance sound;
A first microphone for inputting the voice of the first user;
Synthesizing means for synthesizing the karaoke performance sound and the voice of the first user input from the first microphone, and outputting a synthesized sound;
A compact karaoke apparatus comprising: a first earphone that is used by the first user and receives the synthesized sound output by the synthesizing unit and outputs the synthesized sound. It further includes a battery storage unit in which a long cylindrical battery is set in the axial direction,
2. The compact karaoke according to claim 1, wherein when the battery is set, the battery housing portion is disposed in the housing such that the axis of the battery is orthogonal to the left side surface and the right side surface. apparatus.   The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising a slot in which a memory cartridge storing the karaoke performance data and the lyrics data is mounted. The slot is formed in the housing such that when the flat memory cartridge is mounted, the flat surface of the memory cartridge is parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface,
The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the opening of the slot is formed on either the left side surface or the right side surface of the housing. A connector to which a connector of the memory cartridge mounted in the slot is connected;
An ejector for taking out the memory cartridge connected to the connector of the slot;
The connector is disposed between the slot and a side surface of the left side surface and the right side surface where the opening of the slot is not formed,
5. The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 4, wherein at least a part of the ejector is disposed between the connector of the slot and the side surface of the slot where the opening is not formed.   The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the slot is disposed between the upper surface and the battery storage unit. A first board on which the information processing means, the video generation means and the sound generation means are mounted;
The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first substrate is disposed parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface and between the upper surface and the slot.   The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the connector of the slot is mounted on the first board. A second substrate on which electronic components included in the operation means are mounted;
The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the second substrate is disposed parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface and between the upper surface and the first substrate. A plurality of terminals;
The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 4, wherein at least some of the plurality of terminals are formed on the back surface. A third substrate on which the terminal formed on the back surface is mounted;
11. The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the third substrate is disposed parallel to the upper surface and the lower surface and closer to the lower surface than the slot. The terminal mounted on the third substrate is
A first microphone terminal for connecting the first microphone;
The compact karaoke apparatus of Claim 11 containing the 1st earphone terminal for connecting the said 1st earphone. A video output terminal for outputting the video generated by the video generation means to an external device;
The compact karaoke apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising an audio output terminal for outputting the synthesized sound output from the synthesizing unit to a speaker installed outside. Video input terminal for inputting video from outside,
An audio input terminal for inputting audio from the outside,
The video input from the video input terminal is displayed on the display means,
The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the voice input from the voice input terminal is output from the first earphone. The video input terminal and the audio input terminal are included in the connector of the slot,
15. The compact karaoke according to claim 14, wherein when the television tuner is installed in the slot, the video input terminal and the audio input terminal are respectively connected to a video output terminal and an audio output terminal of the television tuner. apparatus. A fourth board on which an amplifier for amplifying the signal is mounted;
13. The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the fourth substrate is arranged in parallel to the front surface and the back surface and on the lower surface side from the slot. A volume control means for controlling the volume of the voice of the first user input from the first microphone;
The synthesizing unit synthesizes the karaoke performance sound and the voice of the first user, which is input from the first microphone and whose volume is controlled by the volume control unit, and outputs a synthesized sound. The compact karaoke apparatus according to any one of 1 to 16. A second microphone for inputting the voice of the second user;
A second earphone used by the second user,
The synthesizing unit synthesizes the karaoke performance sound, the voice of the first user input from the first microphone, and the voice of the second user input from the second microphone to generate a synthesized sound. Output
The compact karaoke apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the first earphone and the second earphone output the synthesized sound. A compact karaoke device that a user can hold in hand and perform karaoke,
A display unit, a video generation unit, an audio generation unit, a microphone, a synthesis unit, an earphone, a video input terminal, and an audio input terminal;
Having at least a karaoke mode and an external input mode,
In the karaoke mode, the display means displays a video including at least lyrics, the video generation means generates the video based on at least lyrics data, and the sound generation means is based on karaoke performance data. Generating a karaoke performance sound, the microphone inputs the user's voice, and the synthesizing unit synthesizes the karaoke performance sound and the user's voice input from the microphone and outputs a synthesized sound. The earphone is used by the user and inputs the synthesized sound output by the synthesizing means, and outputs the synthesized sound,
In the external input mode, the video input terminal inputs video from the outside, the display means displays the video input from the video input terminal, and the audio input terminal inputs audio from the outside. The earphone is a compact karaoke apparatus that outputs the sound input from the sound input terminal.   20. The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 19, wherein in the external input mode, a television video is input from the outside to the video input terminal, and a television sound is input from the outside to the audio input terminal.   21. The compact karaoke apparatus according to claim 20, wherein a television tuner is connected to the video input terminal and the audio input terminal in the external input mode. Video generation means for generating video based on at least lyrics data;
Sound generating means for generating karaoke performance sound based on karaoke performance data;
A first microphone for inputting the voice of the first user;
A second microphone for inputting the voice of the second user;
Synthesizing means for synthesizing the karaoke performance sound, the voice of the first user input from the first microphone, and the voice of the second user input from the second microphone and outputting a synthesized sound When,
A first earphone used by the first user to input the synthesized sound and output the synthesized sound;
A karaoke apparatus comprising: a second earphone that is used by the second user, inputs the synthesized sound, and outputs the synthesized sound. Video generation means for generating video based on at least lyrics data;
Sound generating means for generating karaoke performance sound based on karaoke performance data;
A microphone that inputs the user's voice;
Volume control means for controlling the volume of the user's voice input from the microphone;
A synthesizing unit that synthesizes the karaoke performance sound and the user's voice input from the microphone and whose volume is controlled by the volume control unit;
A karaoke apparatus comprising: an earphone that is used by the user to input the synthesized sound and output the synthesized sound.

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