JP5163566B2 - Mixing console - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a mixing console suitable for use in audio signal adjustment in a concert or the like.

  A unit in which faders, knobs, switches and the like for adjusting an audio signal of a certain channel in an operation panel of a mixer used for a concert or the like is referred to as a “channel strip”. Patent Document 1 discloses a technique in which a display (touch panel) corresponding to each channel strip is arranged at the rear to display and set parameters related to each channel. Moreover, the structure of a general digital mixer is disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1, for example.

JP-A-7-193389

"DM2000 Instruction Manual" Yamaha Corporation, February 2002

By the way, mixers used for concerts and the like are often installed in audience seats such as concert halls, and the number of seats is reduced as the size increases. The mixer disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a problem that when the number of channel strips is increased, the width is widened, and so many seats are occupied. Further, since the mixer spreads in the horizontal direction, transportation and installation work becomes inconvenient, and there is a problem that the user needs to move in the horizontal direction even during operation. In addition, the mixer disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a problem in that, as the number of channel strips increases, the number (or area) of displays increases in proportion to the number of channel strips. If the display is downsized, the positional relationship between the channel strip and the display cannot be maintained, and the operation becomes complicated.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a mixing console that can be configured in a small size and has high operability.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is characterized by having the following configuration. The parentheses are examples.
2. The mixing console according to claim 1, wherein the audio signal of the first channel group (input first layer) and the audio signal of the second channel group (input second layer) each consisting of a plurality of channels are provided. In order to perform signal processing, a first operation for instructing each parameter value (volume) of the audio signal belonging to the first channel group in a mixing console (1200) instructing a parameter value of each audio signal A first channel strip group (40) comprising a plurality of channel strips each having a child (2), and provided rearward and above the first channel strip group (40) in a front view of the mixing console And a second operator that indicates each parameter value (volume) of the audio signal belonging to the second channel group. 2) each having a second channel strip group (42) comprising a plurality of channel strips, and between the first channel strip group (40) and the second channel strip group (42). A parameter value related to one designated channel group of the first channel group or the second channel group, or parameter values related to both the first channel group and the second channel group. It has a display part (52, 54) to display.
Furthermore, in the configuration according to claim 2, in the mixing console according to claim 1, the first operator (2) is a parameter value of a predetermined type of audio signal belonging to the first channel group ( And the second operator (2) is an operator for indicating each of the predetermined parameter values (volumes) of the audio signals belonging to the second channel group. It is characterized by that.
Furthermore, in the configuration according to claim 3, in the mixing console according to claim 1 or 2, the first channel group or the second channel group may be connected to the display unit (52, 54). It further has a switching instruction detecting means (SEL button 10) for detecting a switching instruction of which parameter value is to be displayed.
Furthermore, in the configuration according to claim 4, in the mixing console according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the channel strip belonging to the first channel strip group (40) is a front view of the mixing console. The channel strips belonging to the second channel strip group (42) are arranged along the left-right direction as viewed from the front of the mixing console. The display screen (52, 54) having the predetermined width is divided into a plurality of frames having the predetermined width arranged along the left-right direction in a front view of the mixing console, Belongs to the first channel strip group (40) and is nth from the left (where 1 ≦ n ≦ first channel) The number of strip groups), the nth channel strip belonging to the second channel strip group (42) from the left, and the nth frame from the left in the display section (52, 54), The mixing console is disposed at the same position in the left-right direction in a front view of the mixing console.
Furthermore, in the configuration according to claim 5, in the mixing console according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the first channel strip group (40) is formed with respect to an installation surface of the mixing console. When the inclination angle is θ1, the inclination angle formed by the display sections (52, 54) is θ2, and the inclination angle formed by the second channel strip group (42) is θ3, each inclination angle is “θ1 < It has a relationship of θ3 <θ2.

  As described above, according to the present invention, the second channel strip group is provided behind and above the first channel strip group, and the display is provided between the first channel strip group and the second channel strip group. Since the portion is provided, it can be configured in a small size, and the positional correspondence between the first and second channel strip groups and the display portion can be maintained, so that high operability can be realized.

It is a block diagram of the acoustic system of one Example of this invention. 2 is a block diagram of consoles 1100 and 1200 and an engine 1300. FIG. It is a block diagram of an algorithm implemented in the engine 1300 or the like. It is a block diagram of the principal part of this algorithm. 2 is a plan view of consoles 1100 and 1200. 5 is a perspective view of a sub console 1200. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a main part of consoles 1100 and 1200. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the left display 52. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a SEND part image, a VIEW part image, and a MENU image. It is a data block diagram in a present Example. 12 is a flowchart of various event processing routines in the main console 1100. 12 is a flowchart of another event processing routine in the main console 1100. 10 is a flowchart of a setup routine of a sub console 1200. 10 is a flowchart of various event processing routines in a sub-console 1200. 10 is a flowchart of a layer selection event processing routine in a sub-console 1200. 10 is a flowchart of a flip button event routine in the sub-console 1200. 10 is a flowchart of another event processing routine in the sub-console 1200. FIG. 11 is an operation explanatory diagram of processing for aligning display parts in consoles 1100 and 1200. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the left display 52 in the modification of the said Example. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the left display 52 in other modifications of the said Example.

1． Hardware Configuration of Embodiment Hereinafter, a configuration of an acoustic system of an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1000 denotes an IP network, which transmits digital voice and various control signals as IP packets. Reference numeral 1300 denotes an engine which receives a plurality of channels of audio signals via the IP network 1000, performs processing such as equalizing, mixing, and effects on the audio signals, and converts the resulting plurality of channels of audio signals into an IP packet. And output via the IP network 1000. Reference numeral 1400 denotes a microphone controller, which converts audio signals input from a plurality of microphones 1402 into IP packets and outputs the IP packets to the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000. Reference numeral 1500 denotes an amplifier controller, which converts an IP packet received from the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000 into a digital signal having a predetermined format and supplies the digital signal to a plurality of amplifiers 1502.

  The amplifier 1502 converts and amplifies the supplied digital signal into an analog signal, and emits the sound through a plurality of speakers 1504 connected to each of the amplifiers 1502. Reference numeral 1600 denotes other audio equipment, which includes, for example, a hard disk recorder. Other audio equipment 1600 inputs and outputs audio signals as IP packets to and from the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000. Reference numeral 1100 denotes a main console operated by a user, which instructs the engine 1300, microphone controller 1400, amplifier controller 1500, etc. to set various parameters. That is, when an operation for instructing parameter setting is performed on the main console 1100, the content is supplied to the engine 1300 as an IP packet of a control signal and reflected in the parameter in the engine 1300.

  A sub-console 1200 is connected to the main console 1100 as necessary. That is, the sub-console 1200 is not connected to the IP network 1000 but directly connected to the main console 1100. The main console 1100 alone can set parameters for all channels in the engine 1300. However, since the number of controls and indicators provided in the main console 1100 is limited, the parameters can be set. The number of channels that can be operated simultaneously is limited. For this reason, by adding the sub-console 1200, the operability of parameter setting can be improved. Although only one sub-console 1200 is shown in the example of FIG. 1, up to four sub-console 1200 can be connected to the main console 1100.

  Next, the detailed configuration of the main console 1100 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 1110 denotes a panel display group, which is composed of a dot matrix display, LEDs and the like provided on the operation panel. Reference numeral 1112 denotes a panel operator group, which includes buttons, knobs and the like provided on the operation panel. Reference numeral 1114 denotes a CPU which controls other components via the CPU bus 1120 based on a program stored in the memory 1116 (ROM and RAM). Note that the RAM of the memory 1116 is provided with a nonvolatile area that retains stored contents even when the power is turned off. Reference numeral 1122 denotes an electric fader group, which is provided for adjusting the signal level of each input / output channel or the like based on a user operation. Furthermore, the electric fader group 1122 is configured such that when an operation command is supplied via the CPU bus 1120, the operation position is automatically set.

  Reference numeral 1124 denotes an audio I / O unit. When an analog audio signal is input, the audio I / O unit converts the analog audio signal into a digital audio signal, outputs the digital audio signal, and outputs the digital audio signal supplied via the audio bus 1130. Is converted into an analog audio signal and output to the outside. Reference numeral 1126 denotes a DSP (digital signal processor), which performs equalizing processing on the audio signal supplied via the audio bus 1130. In the acoustic system of this embodiment, most of the audio signal processing is executed by the engine 1300, but small-scale audio signal processing and input / output such as talkback and monitoring are also executed by the main console 1100. . The audio I / O unit 1124 and the DSP 1126 are for performing such audio signal processing and input / output.

  Reference numeral 1128 denotes a network I / O unit which converts a control signal supplied via the audio bus 1130 and a voice signal supplied via the CPU bus 1120 into an IP packet and outputs the IP packet to the IP network 1000. The IP packet received from is converted into a control signal or an audio signal and output via the CPU bus 1120 or the audio bus 1130. A console I / O unit 1118 inputs and outputs control signals and audio signals to and from the sub-console 1200. Reference numeral 1132 denotes an other I / O unit that inputs and outputs data to and from other devices such as a general-purpose personal computer.

  Next, the detailed configuration of the sub-console 1200 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, 1210 is a panel display group, 1212 is a panel operator group, 1214 is a CPU, 1216 is a memory (ROM and RAM), 1222 is an electric fader group, 1224 is an audio I / O unit, 1230 is an audio bus, The main console 1100 is configured in substantially the same manner as the components 1110, 1112, 1114, 1116, 1122, 1124, 1130. A console I / O unit 1218 inputs and outputs control signals and audio signals to and from the console I / O unit 1118 of the main console 1100.

  Next, the detailed configuration of the engine 1300 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 1310 denotes a panel display group, and 1312 denotes a panel operator group for simple setting and display for the engine 1300. Reference numeral 1314 denotes a CPU, 1316 denotes a memory (ROM and RAM), 1326 denotes a DSP, 1328 denotes a network I / O unit, 1330 denotes an audio bus, 1332 denotes other I / O units, and the component 1114 of the main console 1100, 1116, 1126, 1128, 1130, and 1132 are configured in substantially the same manner. However, since the DSP 1326 is responsible for most of the mixing and equalizing functions of the sound system, it is configured on a larger scale than the DSP 1126. The engine 1300 does not adjust the value of the parameter of the DSP 1326 by itself, and the value of each parameter in the DSP 1326 is adjusted based on the value of the signal processing parameter received from the main console 1100.

2． Next, the content of the algorithm implemented in the engine 1300 and the like will be described with reference to FIG. The algorithm is realized by a program set in the DSP 1326, and the program is loaded from the memory 1316 or the like to the DSP 1326 under the control of the CPU 1314. Various parameters in the algorithm (for example, the on / off state of the switch and the gain of the amplification unit) are control signals supplied from the main console 1100 to the network I / O unit 1328 via the IP network 1000. Is set by the CPU 1314. When a parameter value is changed by operating the sub-console 1200, the parameter value is not directly transmitted from the sub-console 1200 to the engine 1300, but always through the main console 1100. Sent to engine 1300.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 102 denotes an analog input unit. When an analog audio signal of a microphone level or a line level is received, it is converted into a digital audio signal and supplied to the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000. Reference numeral 104 denotes a digital input unit. When a digital audio signal is received, it is converted into a format for the engine 1300 and supplied to the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000. The analog input unit 102 and the digital input unit 104 are realized by the microphone controller 1400 and other audio equipment 1600 in FIG. An analog output unit 128 converts a digital audio signal supplied from the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000 into an analog audio signal and outputs the analog audio signal to the outside. A digital output unit 130 converts a digital audio signal in an internal format supplied from the engine 1300 via the IP network 1000 into a digital audio signal in a predetermined format (AES / EBU, ADAT, TASCAM, etc.) and outputs the digital audio signal. The analog output unit 128 and the digital output unit 130 are realized by an amplifier controller 1500 and other audio equipment 1600.

  The configuration described above is realized by hardware separate from the engine 1300, but the configuration other than the above is realized by a program (including a micro program for the DSP 1326) that operates in the engine 1300. Reference numeral 112 denotes an input channel adjustment unit that adjusts the volume, sound quality, and the like of the “128” input channels based on the operation of the electric faders and other controls of the consoles 1100 and 1200. Reference numeral 110 denotes a stereo input channel adjustment unit that adjusts the volume, sound quality, and the like for a maximum of four stereo input channels. It is assumed that “1” stereo audio signals are composed of left and right “2” audio signals.

  Reference numeral 114 denotes an effect return unit that adjusts the volume and sound quality of the audio signal of the “4” channel. The effect return unit 114 is assigned mainly to the audio signal subjected to the effect processing. Reference numeral 108 denotes an input patch unit which converts digital audio signals supplied from a plurality of input ports such as the input units 102 and 104 into arbitrary input channels of the stereo input channel adjustment unit 110, the input channel adjustment unit 112, and the effect return unit 114. Assign to. Reference numeral 106 denotes a built-in effector unit, which is composed of effectors of up to “8” units. The supplied audio signal is subjected to effect processing such as reverb, delay, modulation, etc., and the result is input via the input patch unit 108. It is supplied to the return unit 114 and the like.

  Reference numeral 116 denotes a MIX bus group composed of “96” MIX buses. When these MIX buses are individually indicated, they are expressed as “MIX bus 116-n” (1 ≦ n ≦ 96). In each MIX bus, digital audio signals supplied to the MIX bus among the digital audio signals of each input channel, each stereo input channel, and each effect return (hereinafter referred to as “input channel etc.”) are mixed. In each input channel or the like, whether or not an audio signal is supplied to the MIX bus can be set for each MIX bus. In the case of supply, a send level or a fade mode (pre-fade / post-fade) for each MIX bus is set. ) Etc. can also be set independently for each system. Reference numeral 118 denotes a stereo bus, which is composed of “1” stereo buses. The configuration of the stereo bus is the same as that of the MIX bus.

  A stereo output channel unit 120 adjusts the level of the mixing result and the sound quality on the stereo bus. Reference numeral 122 denotes a MIX output channel section that adjusts the level of the mixing result and the sound quality of each MIX bus. A matrix bus group 123 includes a “48” channel matrix bus for further mixing the output signals of the stereo output channel section 120 and the MIX output channel section 122. A matrix output channel section 124 adjusts the level of the mixing result and the sound quality in the matrix bus group 123. An output patch unit 126 assigns output signals of the stereo output channel unit 120, the MIX output channel unit 122, and the matrix output channel unit 124 to the output units 128 and 130 or an arbitrary unit of the built-in effector unit 106.

  Next, details of the algorithm configuration in the input channel adjustment unit 112, the stereo output channel unit 120, and the MIX output channel unit 122 will be described with reference to FIG. In the figure, reference numeral 112-n denotes an nth input channel adjustment unit, which adjusts sound quality and volume in the nth input channel (1 ≦ n ≦ 128). Reference numeral 122-m denotes an m-th MIX output channel section, which performs sound quality / volume adjustment in the m-th MIX output channel (1 ≦ m ≦ 96). In the n-th input channel adjustment unit 112-n, reference numeral 150 denotes a sound quality adjustment unit that performs gate processing, compressor processing, equalizer processing, and the like on the n-th input channel. Here, “gate processing” is processing that automatically cuts unnecessary noise, “compressor processing” is processing that compresses or expands the dynamic range, and “equalizer processing” is a parametric equalizer. Is a process for setting the frequency characteristics of the audio signal of each channel.

  A channel delay unit 152 delays the audio signal of the nth input channel as necessary. A volume adjustment unit 154 adjusts the gain of the audio signal of the nth input channel. An on / off switching unit 156 switches on / off the entire nth input channel. Reference numerals 162-1 to 162-96 denote signal switching units, which switch audio signals that can be output from the nth input channel to the "96" MIX buses according to the fade mode. That is, when the fade mode is set to “pre-fade”, the output signal of the channel delay unit 152 is selected, and when set to “post-fade”, the output signal of the on / off switching unit 156 is selected. Reference numerals 164-1 to 164-96 denote send level adjusting units that adjust the gain, that is, the send level of the signal output to each MIX bus.

  Reference numerals 166-1 to 166-96 denote send on / off switching units, which set on / off states of audio signal supply to the respective MIX buses. Reference numeral 158 denotes a stereo send on / off switching unit that switches whether or not the audio signal of the nth input channel is supplied to the stereo bus 118. Reference numeral 160 denotes a PAN setting unit that sets a left / right volume balance when the audio signal is supplied to the stereo bus 118. Next, 170 in the stereo output channel section 120 is a sound quality adjustment section, which performs limiter processing, compressor processing, equalizer processing (frequency characteristic adjustment), etc. in the stereo output channel. Reference numerals 172-L and R denote volume control units that adjust the left and right output gains of the stereo output channel. Reference numerals 174-L and R denote on / off switching units for switching the left and right on / off states of the stereo output channel.

  Reference numerals 176-L and R denote channel delay units, which delay the audio signal of the stereo output channel as necessary. Next, in the m-th MIX output channel section 122-m, reference numeral 180 denotes a sound quality adjustment section, which performs a limiter process, a compressor process, an equalizer process, etc. in the m-th MIX output channel in the same manner as the sound quality adjustment section 150 described above. A volume adjusting unit 182 adjusts the output gain of the m-th MIX output channel. An on / off switching unit 184 switches the on / off state of the m-th MIX output channel. A channel delay unit 186 delays the audio signal of the m-th MIX output channel as necessary.

3． External configuration of consoles 1100 and 1200
3.1. Overall Shape Next, FIG. 5 shows a plan view when the consoles 1100 and 1200 are arranged side by side. The operation panel (upper plate) of the main console 1100 has a rectangular flat plate-like front panel 1102 horizontally arranged at the front portion and a rectangular flat plate-like rear panel arranged so as to be lifted rearward at the rear portion. 1104. Further, the sub-console 1200 includes a rectangular flat plate-shaped front panel 1202 provided at the front portion, a rectangular flat plate-shaped rear panel 1206 provided at the rear portion, and a rectangular flat plate-shaped middle panel disposed therebetween. 1204. Although details will be described later, the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 are arranged on the rear panel 1206 and the front panel 1202, and the “display portion” shared by the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 is configured on the middle panel 1204. Left and right displays 52 and 54 are provided.

  Then, both the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 have both the left and right display strips 52 and 54 so that the information can be easily confirmed when any information of the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 is displayed on the left and right displays 52 and 54. 54 so as to be adjacent to 54. That is, the upper channel strip group 42 is disposed so as to face one side of the “display portion”, and the lower channel strip group 40 is disposed so as to face the other side of the “display portion”. Specifically, the upper channel strip group 42 is disposed adjacent to the upper side of the “display unit” and its lower side faces the upper side of the “display unit”. Further, the lower channel strip group 40 is disposed adjacent to the lower side of the “display unit” and the upper side thereof faces the lower side of the “display unit”. As illustrated, the consoles 1100 and 1200 are configured to have the same depth (length in the front-rear direction).

  Here, a perspective view of the sub-console 1200 is shown in FIG. In FIG. 6, straight lines L1, L2, and L3 are straight lines parallel to the installation surface of the sub-console 1200 and are drawn for reference. Since the front panel 1202 is horizontal to the installation surface, the angle θ1 formed with the installation surface is “0 °”. The middle panel 1204 is greatly inclined with respect to the installation surface so that the front is lowered, and forms an angle θ2 with the installation surface. Further, the rear panel 1206 is gently inclined with respect to the installation surface so that the front is lowered, and forms an angle θ3 with the installation surface. Therefore, the relationship between these angles is “θ1 <θ3 <θ2”. Thereby, in the front view of the sub-console 1200, the rear panel 1206 is positioned rearward and upward with respect to the front panel 1202.

3.2. Main console 1100
Returning to FIG. 5, in the front panel 1102 of the main console 1100, reference numeral 72 denotes a sound quality adjustment unit, and for one channel selected exclusively (hereinafter referred to as “selected channel”), the sound quality adjustment unit 150, 170, 180 and channel delay units 152, 176-L, R, 186, and the like, which are configured with various operators and indicators for detailed setting of parameters. That is, the sound quality adjusting unit 72 includes a knob for setting delay times in the channel delay units 152, 176-L, R, and 186, and low frequency, medium and low frequencies for performing equalizer processing (adjustment of frequency characteristics), “4” knobs for designating “4” types of frequencies of high and low frequencies and high frequencies, “4” knobs for setting gains for the “4” types of frequencies, “4” knobs for setting the Q value (peak sharpness) for a kind of frequency, a knob for setting a threshold level for performing gate processing, and the audio signal level is below the threshold level. A knob or the like is provided for setting the attenuation characteristics of the case. The configuration of the sound quality adjustment unit 72 is the same as that disclosed in Non-Patent Document 1, for example.

  Reference numerals 70-1 to 70-16 denote channel strips, each of which includes an operator for setting various parameters such as a fader level for the channel "16" belonging to the designated "layer". These channel strips are collectively referred to as a “main channel strip group 70”. Here, “layer” will be described. As described above, in this embodiment, the input channel adjustment unit 112 processes the audio signal of “128” channel, the MIX output channel unit 122 processes “96” channel, and the matrix output channel unit 124 processes the “48” channel audio signal. it can. A group obtained by dividing these channels by “16” in order of channel number is a “layer”. In other words, the input channel is divided into “8” layers, the MIX output channel is divided into “6” layers, and the matrix output channel is divided into “4” layers.

  Accordingly, the main channel strip group 70 itself has only controls and displays corresponding to “16” channels. However, by switching the “layer” assigned to the main channel strip group 70, the parameters of an arbitrary channel can be changed. It can be set at 70. In the channel strip 70-1, reference numeral 2 denotes an electric fader, which adjusts the fader level of the channel assigned to the channel strip 70-1 (gains of the volume adjusting units 154, 182 and the like in FIG. 4) based on a user operation. To do. Further, when layer switching or the like occurs, the electric fader 2 is automatically driven to a position corresponding to a fader level in a newly assigned channel. Further, the electric fader 2 is provided with a touch sensor, and even when the user just touches the hand, that fact is detected.

  A character display 4 is a channel number assigned to the channel strip 70-1 (eg, “CH 1”, “CH 2”, etc.) and a channel name (eg, “VOCAL 1”, “GUITER 2”). ”). Reference numeral 6 denotes a CUE button, which switches whether to include the audio signal of the channel related to the channel strip 70-1 in the audio signal monitored by the user. Reference numeral 8 denotes an f button (function button) to which various functions are assigned according to the user's designation. Reference numeral 10 denotes a SEL button for designating the channel as a selected channel.

  An on / off button 12 is used to switch the entire channel on / off state (on / off state of the stereo send on / off switching unit 158, on / off switching unit 184 in FIG. 4). Reference numerals 14 and 18 denote knobs that increase or decrease the value of the assigned parameter by being rotated by the user. Here, an enlarged view of the channel strip 70-1 is shown in FIG. As shown in the drawing, an LED group 14 a composed of a plurality of LEDs is arranged around the knob 14 in a substantially horseshoe shape. This LED group 14a displays the level of the parameter related to the knob 14 according to its lighting state. On the other hand, no LED group is arranged around the knob 18. This is because the level of the parameter assigned to the knob 18 is displayed on the display immediately above it (details will be described later).

  On the other hand, since the parameters related to the knob 14 can be set without being related to the display content of the display, a dedicated LED group 14 a is arranged around the knob 14. Moreover, each button 6, 8, 10, 12 mentioned above is comprised by the substantially transparent member, and LED is embed | buried in the inside. Then, the embedded LED is turned on or off depending on the on / off state of the parameters related to the buttons 6, 8, 10, and 12. When layer switching or the like occurs, the LED group 14a is turned on / off based on the parameter value (level) in the newly assigned channel. Further, the LEDs inside the buttons 6, 8, 10, and 12 are also turned on / off based on parameters in the newly assigned channel. The configuration of the channel strip 70-1 has been described above, but the channel strips 70-2 to 70-16 are configured in the same manner.

  Returning to FIG. 5, reference numeral 74 denotes a small display, which is composed of a dot matrix display and a touch panel affixed to the upper surface thereof. The small display 74 is for displaying and operating scene recall and user-defined functions. 76-L and 76-R are channel strips dedicated to the stereo output channel section 120. In these channel strips, components 2, 6, 8, 10, and 12 similar to those of the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 are provided. However, since the channel strips 76-L and 76-R are exclusively used for the stereo output channel section 120, the character display 4 is not provided and the send levels and the like are not adjusted, so the knobs 14 and 18 are also provided. Not provided.

  Next, in the rear panel 1104 of the main console 1100, reference numeral 80 denotes a send level adjusting unit. When the selected channel is an input channel or the like, the send level from the selected channel to each MIX bus (the send level in FIG. 4). The gains of the adjustment units 164-1 to 164-96 are set. Here, the above-described sound quality adjustment unit 72 and the send level adjustment unit 80 are collectively referred to as “selected channel adjustment units (72, 80)”. The significance of providing the selected channel adjustment unit (72, 80) will be described. Since the channel strip 70-1 and the like are provided with only a limited number of operators, it takes time to adjust all the signal processing parameters of the assigned channel. Therefore, a selected channel adjustment unit (72, 80) is provided to easily adjust various parameters of the assigned channel. When the user presses the SEL button 10 in any channel strip, the channel assigned to the channel strip is selected as the selected channel and assigned to the selected channel adjustment unit (72, 80). As described above, the selected channel adjustment unit (72, 80) is provided with a number of operators for adjusting various parameters of the selected channel. Therefore, when parameters are set using these operators. Thus, the work efficiency of parameter setting can be improved.

  The selected channel is selected exclusively and only one channel can be designated at any time for all input channels in the system. In other words, the channel selected by the SEL button 10 is the only selected channel among all the channels of the same type. When a certain channel is set as a selected channel, the SEL button 10 is turned on in the channel strip to which the channel is assigned, and all other SEL buttons 10 are turned off. 82 is a left main display, and 84 is a right main display, each of which is composed of a dot matrix display and a touch panel affixed to the upper surface thereof. The left and right main displays 82 and 84 are each divided into a plurality of areas, and the functions differ for each area. At the left end of the left main display 82, 82a is a selected channel area, which displays and sets various parameters in the selected channel together with the sound quality adjustment unit 72 and the send level adjustment unit 80.

  Reference numerals 82b and 84b denote navigation areas, and icons corresponding to the above-described layers (input channel “8” layer, MIX output channel “6” layer, matrix output channel “4” layer) are displayed. When one of these icons is pressed by the user, “16” channels belonging to the layer are assigned to the main channel strip group 70. Reference numerals 82e and 84e denote channel display areas, each of which is formed from a frame of “eight” (total of “16”) provided at positions facing the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 (the same position in the left-right direction). In each frame, channel numbers and channel names of channels assigned to the corresponding channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 are displayed.

  Reference numerals 82c and 84c denote parameter areas, each of which is composed of “8” (total of “16”) frames provided adjacent to each frame of the channel display areas 82e and 84e (in the same position in the left-right direction). In each frame, the contents of various parameters related to the corresponding channel strips 70-1 to 70-16, buttons for setting, and the like are displayed. The images displayed in the parameter areas 82c and 84c are divided into a VIEW part image and a SEND part image, and the images of both parts are arranged side by side in the front-rear direction (or up-down direction). In the parameter areas 82c and 84c, an area where the SEND part image is displayed is referred to as a SEND part image area, and an area where the VIEW part image is displayed is referred to as a VIEW part image area. Here, the VIEW part image is, for example, as shown in FIG. 9 (d), and the SEND part image is, for example, as shown in any of FIGS. 9 (a) to 9 (c). Details of these images will be described later.

3.3. Sub console 1200
Returning to FIG. 5, in the front panel 1202 of the sub-console 1200, 40-1 to 40-16 are lower channel strips, and the same component 2 as the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 of the main console 1100 described above. , 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 are provided. These components 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 are arranged in line with the same components in the main console 1100. That is, they are arranged so that the positions in the front-rear direction are the same. The widths of the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 in the left-right direction are also the same as the widths of the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16. Thus, the operator can operate the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 with the same operational feeling as that of the channel strip on the main console 1100. Hereinafter, the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 are collectively referred to as a “lower channel strip group 40”.

  Further, a total of "16" knobs 18 are provided behind the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 and adjacent thereto. The knob 18 is arranged so as to be aligned with the knob 18 in the main console 1100, that is, in the same position in the front-rear direction, but in the sub-console front panel 1202, the knob 18 Are not included in the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16. This is because the knob 18 is shared between the layer assigned to the front panel 1202 and the layer assigned to the rear panel 1206, and thus has a function independent of the channel assigned to the lower channel strip group 40. Because there are cases. Next, reference numeral 44 denotes a lower layer selection unit, which includes buttons having functions such as selecting a layer to be assigned to the lower channel strip group 40.

  Here, a detailed configuration of the lower layer selection unit 44 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7 (c), reference numeral 20 denotes a sensor-on-fader button for switching the function of the electric fader 2 and the function of the knob 14 in the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16. 22, 24, and 26 are layer type selection buttons for selectively selecting a layer type (input channel, MIX output channel, or matrix output channel) to be assigned to the lower channel strip group 40. The selected type button is lit in green, and the other two buttons are lit in white. Reference numerals 28-1 to 28-8 denote layer number selection buttons for alternatively selecting the first to eighth layers of the type selected by the selection buttons 22 to 26. The button related to the selected layer is lit green, the button related to the existing (selectable) layer is lit white, and the button related to the nonexistent (non-selectable layer) is turned off. The

  As described above, since only “6” layers are provided in the MIX output channel in this embodiment, when the MIX output channel is selected as the layer type, the layer number selection buttons 28-7 and 28- 8 is turned off, and operations on these buttons are ignored. Similarly, since the matrix output channel is provided with only “4” layers, when the matrix output channel is selected as the layer type, the layer number selection buttons 28-5 to 28-8 are turned off, and these buttons Operations on are ignored. Reference numeral 30 denotes a flip button for replacing layers assigned to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42.

  Returning to FIG. 5, in the rear panel 1206 of the sub-console 1200, 42-1 to 42-16 are upper channel strips, and the same component 2 as the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 of the main console 1100 described above. , 6, 8, 10, 12 are provided. Hereinafter, the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-16 are collectively referred to as an “upper channel strip group 42”. However, the character display 4 and the knobs 14 and 18 in the main channel strip group 70 are not provided in the upper channel strip group 42. The reason for this will be explained. First, even if a character display is provided between the electric fader 2 and the CUE button 6 in the upper channel strip group 42, it is in a position that is difficult for the operator to see, and the upper channel strip in the middle panel 1204 as will be described later. Since the channel numbers and channel names related to 42-1 to 42-16 are displayed, the character display in the channel strip is omitted. Further, as described above, the knob 18 is not provided to be shared with the one on the front panel 1202, and the knob 14 is provided to be located at a place where it is difficult to operate even if provided. Absent.

  The components in the upper channel strip 42-n (1 ≦ n ≦ 16) are arranged in line with the corresponding components of the lower channel strip 40-n. That is, they are arranged so that the positions in the left-right direction are the same. Accordingly, the width of the upper channel strip 42-n is the same as the width of the lower channel strip 40-n. Thus, the operator can operate the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-16 with an operation feeling similar to that of the channel strips on the main console 1100 and the sub-console / front panel 1202. Next, reference numeral 46 denotes an upper layer selection unit that selects a layer to be assigned to the upper channel strip group 42. Like the lower layer selection unit 44, the upper layer selection unit 46 is provided with buttons 22 to 26 and 28-1 to 28-8 shown in FIG. Button 20 and flip button 30 are not provided.

  As described above, the layers assigned to the channel strip groups 40, 42, and 70 are set in the layer selection units 44 and 46 and the navigation areas 82b and 84b, respectively, but these layer selections are independent of each other. For this reason, for example, it is possible to assign the same layer to all of the channel strip groups 40, 42 and 70. In this case, when an operator of a channel (for example, the electric fader 2) is operated in any of the channel strip groups 40, 42 and 70, the parameter (for example, fader level) of the channel is changed based on the operation result. Based on the changed parameter, the corresponding operation amount (for example, the operation position of the electric fader 2) in the other channel strip group also automatically follows and changes.

  Next, in the middle panel 1204 of the sub-console 1200, 52 is a left display, and 54 is a right display, each comprising a dot matrix display and a touch panel affixed to the upper surface thereof. In plan view when the main console 1100 and the sub-console 1200 are arranged side by side as shown in FIG. 5, the lower sides (front ends) of the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100 and the sub-console The lower sides (front ends) of the left and right displays 52 and 54 of 1200 are aligned. The left and right displays 52 and 54 are each divided into a plurality of regions. First, 52a and 54a are upper channel display areas in the upper part of the left and right displays 52 and 54, and positions facing the respective channel strips 40-1 to 40-16, 42-1 to 42-16 (the same position in the left and right direction). Each frame is composed of “8” (total of “16”) frames, and each frame includes channels of channels assigned to the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-16 of the rear panel 1206. The number and channel name are displayed. The upper channel display areas 52 a and 54 a are arranged at positions adjacent to the rear panel 1206. This is because each channel assigned to the upper channel strip group 42 provided on the rear panel 1206 is displayed on the upper channel display areas 52a and 54a, so that any one of the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-16 is displayed. This is because an arrangement that makes it easy to confirm whether a channel is assigned is adopted.

  In the lower part of the left and right displays 52 and 54, 52c and 54c are lower channel display areas, and positions along the vertical direction (front and rear direction) with respect to the respective frames of the upper channel display areas 52a and 54a (the same in the left and right directions). (16) frames provided in the position), and the channel icons of the channels assigned to the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 of the front panel 1202 are displayed in each frame. The This channel icon displays a channel number and a channel name. The lower channel display areas 52c and 54c are arranged at positions adjacent to the front panel 1202. This is because each channel assigned to the lower channel strip group 40 provided on the front panel 1202 is displayed in the lower channel display areas 52c and 54c, so that any of the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 is displayed. This is because an arrangement has been adopted that makes it easy to confirm whether or not any channel is assigned. In addition, the areas other than those described above of the left and right displays 52 and 54 are parameter areas 52b and 54b, which extend in the vertical direction (front-rear direction) with respect to the upper and lower channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, and 54c. It is composed of a total of “16” frames provided at the position (the same position in the left-right direction), and corresponds to the channel corresponding to the lower channel strip group 40 (hereinafter referred to as the lower channel) or the upper channel strip group 42. The contents of various parameters related to only one of the channels to be performed (hereinafter referred to as the upper channel), setting buttons, and the like are displayed.

  Thus, since the left and right displays 52 and 54 are shared by the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42, no display is provided above (or behind) the upper channel strip group 42. The lower channel strip 40-n (1 ≦ n ≦ 16), the upper channel strip 42-n, and the nth frame from the left in the parameter areas 52b and 54b are the left-right direction in the front view of the sub-console 1200. Are arranged at the same position and have the same width. Next, on the right side of the right display 54, a plurality of buttons 62 to 68 are provided. These details are shown in FIG. 7 (b). Reference numeral 64 denotes a MENU button. When this button is pressed, menus for various settings are displayed on the left and right displays 52 and 54. Reference numeral 66 denotes a VIEW button, and reference numeral 68 denotes a SEND button for switching parameters displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b.

  Reference numeral 62 denotes a SHIFT button which, when pressed together with the buttons 64, 66, 68, changes the function of these buttons. The left and right displays 52 and 54 provided in the sub-console 1200 are smaller than the left and right main displays 82 and 84 provided in the main console 1100 and have a narrower depth (length in the front-rear direction). In the areas 52b and 54b, it is impossible to display images of both the VIEW part and the SEND part at the same time as the parameter areas 82c and 84c of the main console 1100. Therefore, one of the VIEW part and the SEND part is selected and displayed. Hereinafter, a part (VIEW part or SEND part) displayed on the sub-console 1200 is referred to as a “display part”. The VIEW button 66 selects a VIEW part as a display part, and the SEND button 68 is a button for selecting a SEND part.

  Here, display examples on the left display 52 are shown in FIGS. Since the left and right displays 52 and 54 are shared with the front and rear panels 1202 and 1206 (or with respect to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42), it is necessary to specify which side is being displayed. Hereinafter, the front panel 1202 (lower channel strip group 40) side is referred to as “lower side”, the rear panel 1206 (upper channel strip group 42) side is referred to as “upper side”, and “upper side” and “lower side” Of these, the side where the parameter is displayed is called “display side”, and the side where the parameter is not displayed is called “non-display side”. 8A and 8B, the lower channel strip group 40 (see FIG. 6) has an input first layer (first to sixteenth input channels), and the upper channel strip group 42 has an input second layer ( It is assumed that the 17th to 32nd input channels) are assigned.

  Therefore, the channel numbers “CH1” to “CH8” of the first half “8” channel of the input first layer are displayed in the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8 in the lower channel display area 52c, and the upper channel display. In the area 52a, channel numbers “CH17” to “CH24” of the first half “8” channel of the input second layer are displayed in the channel icons 304-1 to 304-8. In FIG. 8, only the channel number is displayed in the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8 and 304-1 to 304-8 for the purpose of drawing. Both the channel number and the channel name are displayed on the icon.

  Next, in FIG. 8A, “8” SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are displayed in the parameter area 52b. These SEND part images correspond to the front panel 1202 (lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-8). In order to show this, the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are displayed in close contact with the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8 associated with the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-8. A rectangular non-display portion 338 filled with black is formed between 304-1 and 304-8. On the other hand, when the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 corresponding to the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-8 are displayed in the parameter area 52b, the display state is as shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 8B, in order to show that the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 correspond to the rear panel 1206 (upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-8), the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-200 are shown. −8 is displayed in close contact with the channel icons 304-1 to 304-8 related to the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-8, and black between the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8. A rectangular non-display portion 340 filled with is formed. In the right display 54, the same image as described above is displayed for the remaining channels (9th to 16th, 25th to 32nd input channels). Displaying a rectangular black image to form the non-display portions 338 and 340 is equivalent to generating a “blank portion where nothing is displayed” in other words. In other words, the display mode in the parameter area 52b described above indicates that various parameters are displayed on the side (upper side or lower side) displayed in the parameter area 52b.

  “Move” refers to associating the display contents with the displayed side or the displayed side. “Associated” refers to the displayed side or the displayed side. The parameter display part (SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 in the above example) is connected continuously to the channel display of the display, and the display is not connected to the non-display side (the other side) and is discontinuous. It is to make. As a result, blank portions (no display portions 338 and 340) for displaying nothing are provided between the non-display side and the parameter display portion. That is, the “distance between the displayed side and the parameter side displayed closest to that side” is displayed as “the non-displayed side and the side closest to that side”. Shorter than the distance to the side of the parameter. Furthermore, in other words, “merge” means that the parameter display portion is displayed closer to the selected panel than the unselected panel of the front and rear panels 1202 and 1206, and the parameter area 52 b is displayed. , 54b, there is no space between the side (upper side or lower side) close to the selected panel and the parameter display portion. More precisely, there is also a space between the side near the selected panel and the parameter display part, but between the side close to the non-selected panel and the parameter display part. Compared to blanks, the width is extremely narrow and negligible, so it does not fall under “blanks” in claims.

Four. Specific Examples of Various Images Next, specific examples of various images displayed in the parameter areas 82c and 84c of the main console 1100 and the parameter areas 52b and 54b of the sub-console 1200 will be described with reference to FIGS. I will explain. In the SEND part, one type of SEND part image is selected from a plurality of types of images according to the designated “display mode”. 9A to 9C show SEND part images 200, 210, and 220 as specific examples thereof. The SEND part image 200 shown in FIG. 9A is for displaying / setting the send level from the input channel to each MIX bus when the corresponding channel strip is assigned to the input channel.

  As described above, in this embodiment, "96" MIX buses 116-1 to 116-96 are provided, but MIX buses 116-1 and 116-2, 116-3 and 116- are provided. As shown in FIG. 4, a “stereo group” can be formed by pairs of two systems. Character strings such as “STG1” and “STG2” in the SEND part image 200 indicate the number of this stereo group. Reference numerals 202-1 to 202-16 denote level display images, which display the send levels of the stereo groups STG1 to STG16 (the average value of the send levels for the two MIX buses constituting the pair) in the form of a pie chart.

  Here, when the user presses any one of the level display images 202-1 to 202-16, this is detected by the touch panel, and the corresponding stereo group becomes “selected”. For the stereo group in the selected state, the corresponding level display image is changed to an image simulating a knob. In the illustrated example, the stereo group STG7 related to the level display image 202-7 is in a selected state. For the stereo group in the selected state, its parameter (in this case, the send level) can be adjusted by the knob 18 immediately below the SEND part image 200.

  Next, the SEND part image 210 shown in FIG. 9B is for displaying / setting PAN (right and left volume balance) for each stereo group described above. PAN display images 212-1 to 212-16 display the left and right volume balance of the stereo groups STG <b> 1 to STG <b> 16 by an arc-shaped image and a short line segment representing the position of the sound image on the arc-shaped image. Then, as in the case of the SEND part image 200 (level display), when the user presses any of the PAN display images 212-1 to 212-16, this is detected by the touch panel, and the corresponding stereo group is “selected”. "become. For the selected stereo group, the corresponding PAN display image is changed to an image simulating a knob. For the stereo group in the selected state, the PAN can be adjusted by the knob 18 immediately below the SEND part image 210.

  Next, a SEND part image 220 shown in FIG. 9C is for displaying the output level of the channel assigned to the corresponding channel strip. A meter image 222 displays the output level. Since this output level is the level of the audio signal that is actually output, the height of the meter image 232 changes every moment. Reference numeral 224 denotes a recall safe button that, when pressed by the user, toggles an on / off state of a scene recall mode that specifies whether or not to remove the channel from the scene recall target.

  Next, the VIEW part image 230 shown in FIG. 9D is mainly for displaying a setting state for the corresponding channel. In the VIEW part image 230, reference numeral 234 denotes a microphone power source display unit. When there is a microphone 1402 (see FIG. 1) corresponding to the channel, the power of “+ 48V” is supplied from the microphone controller 1400 to the microphone. Displays whether or not it is being supplied. Reference numeral 236 denotes a phase display unit that displays whether or not the phase of the audio signal is inverted by “180 °” in the sound quality adjustment units 150, 170, and 180 (see FIG. 4) of the channel. A frequency characteristic display unit 240 displays the frequency characteristics set by the sound quality adjustment units 150, 170, and 180 in a graph. The parameters displayed on the VIEW part image 230 cannot be directly edited using the VIEW part image. When these parameters are edited, the sound quality adjustment unit 72 (see FIG. 5) or the selected channel area is selected. Special operations, such as operating 82a, are required.

  Next, the MENU image 260 shown in FIG. 9 (e) is an image displayed on the right end portion of the right display 54 when the MENU button 64 (see FIG. 7 (b)) is pressed on the sub-console 1200. , For setting the display mode in the SEND part. That is, the MENU image 260 displays button images 262 to 272 corresponding to various display modes. When any button image is pressed, this is detected via the touch panel, and a display mode corresponding to the button image is selected. Among these button images, the button images 264, 270, and 272 correspond to the above-described operation modes of meter display, level display, and balance display (SEND part images 220, 200, and 210), respectively. The MENU image 260 is a pop-up image. When displayed, the MENU image 260 is displayed so as to overlap the VIEW part image or the SEND part image (so as to hide a part of the VIEW part image or the SEND part image). When is closed, the original VIEW part image or SEND part image is restored.

Five. Example data structure
5.1. Signal Processing Parameter Next, the data configuration in the present embodiment will be described. First, the data configuration of the signal processing parameter will be described with reference to FIG. “Signal processing parameters” are constants that determine the characteristics of various signal gains, switch on / off states, limiters, compressors, equalizers, etc. in the algorithms shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. Refers to all parameters that affect. A set of parameter values currently set for the group of signal processing parameters (currently set in the DSP 1326 of the engine 1300 and used for signal processing) is referred to as “current data”. Such current data 1150 is stored in a predetermined area (current area) of the memory 1116 of the main console 1100.

  Further, current data at a certain point in time can be stored as scene data 1154 in another area (scene area) in the memory 1116. A plurality of types of scene data can be stored, and arbitrary scene data can be restored to the current area by a predetermined operation. Such an operation is referred to as “scene recall”, which enables signal processing parameters in a new scene to be reproduced with a single touch when changing the stage. Current data 1350 is also stored in the memory 1316 in the engine 1300, and parameters of the DSP 1326 are set based on the current data 1350. When the engine 1300 is started, the current data 1150 is copied from the main console 1100, and the current data 1350 has the same contents as the current data 1150. After that, when the current data 1150 is changed by operating various operators on the consoles 1100 and 1200 or scene recall, the changed contents are immediately notified to the engine 1300 and the changed contents are reflected in the current data 1350 in the engine 1300. . Thus, the current data 1150 and the current data 1350 are synchronized so as to always maintain a constant content.

  In the sub-console 1200, two layers are selected by the layer selection units 44 and 46, so that the signal processing parameter 1252 that is a portion related to the two layers of the current data is stored in the memory 1216. When the parameter 1252 is changed by the operation of the sub console 1200, the change content is immediately notified to the main console 1100, and the current data 1150 (the signal processing of the part corresponding to the parameter 1252 is reflected) to reflect the change content. The parameter 1152) is changed. Conversely, when a change occurs in the parameter 1152 in the main console 1100, the change content is immediately notified to the sub-console 1200, and the parameter 1252 is changed to reflect the change content. In this specification, the operation for ensuring the consistency or consistency of data stored in two places is expressed as “synchronize”.

5.2. The specific example of the image data template SEND part image has been described above with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C. However, these SEND part images are constant with a portion that varies depending on signal processing parameters and the like. Divided into parts. For example, in the SEND part image 200 (level display) in FIG. 9A, the level display images 202-1 to 202-16 vary depending on the signal processing parameters, and “STG1” which is the name of the stereo group. The character string of “STG16” also changes depending on the display range setting state. However, background portions other than those do not change depending on the signal processing parameters and the display range setting state. This non-changing portion is stored as image data called “template”.

  Similarly, templates exist in the VIEW part image and the channel icon. A list of these templates is shown in FIG. A plurality of types of SEND part templates 1160 (the same number as the number of types of SEND part images) are provided. On the other hand, a VIEW part template 1162 and a channel icon template 1164 are provided one by one. These templates 1160, 1162, and 1164 are stored in a ROM area in the memory 1116 of the main console 1100 and a ROM area in the memory 1216 of the sub-console 1200, respectively.

5.3. Display Control Data Display control data for performing various display controls is stored in the nonvolatile area of the memory 1116 of the main console 1100 and the nonvolatile area of the memory memory 1216 of the sub-console 1200, respectively. These display control data are retained even when the power of the consoles 1100 and 1200 is turned off, and are reproduced when the power is turned on next time. Details of the display control data will be described with reference to FIG.
First, in the main console 1100, reference numeral 1170 denotes current layer information representing a layer (layer type and layer number) currently assigned to the main channel strip group 70. Reference numeral 1172 denotes sub-console allocation information, which represents the layer (layer type and layer number) of “2” allocated in each of one or more sub-console 1200. Reference numeral 1176 denotes lower display part information representing whether the part displayed on the lower side in the parameter areas 82c and 84c is a VIEW part or a SEND part. Reference numeral 1178 denotes current display mode information, which indicates the display mode of the SEND part (which SEND part image in FIGS. 9A to 9C is selected).

  Next, in the sub-console 1200, 1270 is current layer information, which represents a layer (layer type and layer number) currently assigned to each of the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42. Reference numeral 1274 denotes current display side information representing the display side (upper side or lower side) in which parameters are displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b. Reference numeral 1276 denotes current display part information representing whether the part displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b is the VIEW part or the SEND part. Reference numeral 1278 denotes current display mode information representing the display mode of the SEND part.

  When the current layer information 1270 is changed by layer selection or the like in the sub-console 1200 while the consoles 1100 and 1200 are activated, the change result is immediately notified to the main console 1100 to reflect the change result. Thus, the sub-console allocation information 1172 is updated. Further, the lower display part information 1176 on the main console 1100 and the current display part information 1276 on the sub-console 1200 are synchronized, and the current display mode information 1178 and 1278 on both consoles 1100 and 1200 are also synchronized. That is, when the information is updated on one side, the content is notified and reflected on the other side. Thus, the lower display part information 1176 and the current display part information 1276 are always matched, and the current display mode information 1178 and 1278 are always matched.

6． Next, operations in the consoles 1100 and 1200 will be described with reference to flowcharts and the like. Among the flowcharts, those related to the routine executed by the main console 1100 are displayed with [M] at the head. Also, those related to the routine executed by the sub-console 1200 are displayed with [S] at the top. Also, those related to routines executed by both consoles 1100 and 1200 display [MS] at the top. That is, for such routines, corresponding programs are stored in the memories 1116 and 1216 of the consoles 1100 and 1200, respectively, and are executed by the CPUs 1114 and 1214, respectively.

6.1. Event processing in the main console 1100
6.1.1. Event processing for layer selection (and startup) (Figure 11)
In the navigation areas 82b and 84b of the main console 1100, when an icon for designating any layer is pressed, a layer selection event processing routine shown in FIG. This routine is also started when the main console 1100 is powered on or when a predetermined initialization operation is performed. In this case, the routine is started assuming that the layer stored as the current layer information is designated.

  When the process proceeds to step SP70 in FIG. 11A, the channel assigned to the main channel strip group 70 is specified based on the designated layer. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP72, a channel icon template 1164 (see FIG. 10B) stored in the ROM area of the memory 1116 is read out and used for image editing provided in the RAM area. Transferred to the buffer area. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP74, channels assigned to the channel strips 70-1 to 70-16 are specified based on the current layer information 1170 (see FIG. 10C). Thereby, the channel number and channel name of these channels are specified.

  Then, the character image representing the specified channel number and channel name and the template 1164 in the buffer area are combined to generate a channel icon image corresponding to each channel strip. Is displayed in the channel display areas 82e and 84e. That is, even if another image is already displayed in the channel display areas 82e and 84e, this is overwritten by the newly generated channel icon image. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP76, a SEND part update subroutine shown in FIG. 11C is called. When the process proceeds to step SP90 in FIG. 11 (c), the SEND part image template 1160 (see FIG. 10 (b)) to be displayed is read based on the current display mode information 1178 (see FIG. 10 (c)). And transferred to the buffer area for image editing.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP92, a parameter display image related to the SEND part is generated based on the signal processing parameters of the corresponding channel (in this case, each channel currently assigned to the main channel strip group 70). Then, the parameter display image is combined with the template 1160 in the buffer area to generate a SEND part image corresponding to each channel strip, and these SEND part images are generated in a predetermined area (in this case, the parameter SEND part image areas in the areas 82c and 84c). That is, even when another image is already displayed in the display area of the SEND part image in the parameter area, this is overwritten by the newly generated SEND part image. When the above processing is completed, the processing returns to the calling source routine (in this case, the layer selection event processing routine (FIG. 11A)).

  When the process next proceeds to step SP78 in FIG. 11A, the VIEW part update subroutine shown in FIG. 11D is called. When the process proceeds to step SP96 in FIG. 11D, the VIEW part image template 1162 is read and transferred to the image editing buffer area. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP98, a parameter display image related to the VIEW part is generated based on the signal processing parameters of the corresponding channel (in this case, each channel currently assigned to the main channel strip group 70). Then, the parameter display image is combined with the template in the buffer area to generate a VIEW part image corresponding to each channel strip. The VIEW part image is a predetermined area (in this case, the parameter area). 82c and 84c (VIEW part image area). That is, even when another image is already displayed in the display area of the VIEW part image in the parameter area, this is overwritten by the newly generated VIEW part image. When the above processing is completed, the processing returns to the calling source routine (in this case, the layer selection event processing routine (FIG. 11A)). In FIG. 11A, when the process proceeds to step SP80, an image of a part other than the above is displayed as necessary, and the process of this routine ends.

6.1.2. SEND part display mode change event processing (Figure 11 (b))
When a predetermined operation is performed on the main console 1100, the MENU image 260 (see FIG. 9E) is displayed on the right main display 84. When any one of the button images 262 to 272 is pressed in the MENU image 260, a SEND part display mode change event routine shown in FIG. 11B is started. In the figure, when the process proceeds to step SP81, a newly designated display mode is set for the current display mode information 1178 (see FIG. 10C), and the MENU image 260 on the right main display 84 is deleted. . Next, when the process proceeds to step SP82, the SEND part update subroutine (FIG. 11 (c)) is called so that the SEND part image related to the new display mode is displayed.

  As a result, the SEND part image in the display mode is displayed in the SEND part image area in the parameter areas 82c and 84c. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP84, a message for notifying this new display mode is transmitted to one or a plurality of sub-console 1200, and the process of this routine ends. Although details will be described later, in each sub-console 1200, when the message is received, the current display mode information 1278 of the SEND part is changed, and the display modes in all the consoles 1100 and 1200 are the same. To be aligned.

6.1.3. Receiving part selection message (Figure 12 (a))
Although details will be described later, when the VIEW button 66 or the SEND button 68 is operated on the sub-console 1200, a message notifying the selected part (VIEW part or SEND part) is transmitted to the main console 1100. When the message is received by the main console 1100, a part selection message reception event routine shown in FIG. When the process proceeds to step SP120 in FIG. 12A, whether or not the part (VIEW part or SEND part) notified by the message matches the part displayed on the lower side of the main console 1100. Is determined. That is, in the parameter areas 82c and 84c of the main console 1100, the images of the VIEW part and the SEND part are arranged side by side in the up-down direction (in other words, the front-rear direction). It is determined whether the existing part matches the part notified by the message.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP122, the process branches according to the determination result of step SP120. First, if the part displayed on the lower side of the main console 1100 is different from the part notified by the message, the process proceeds to step SP124, and the VIEW part is displayed in the parameter areas 82c and 84c of the main console 1100. The vertical relationship between the image area and the SEND part image area is switched, the VIEW part image area is overwritten in the VIEW part image area after the replacement, and the SEND part image is overwritten in the SEND part image area after the replacement. The At that time, a part (VIEW part or SEND part) newly displayed on the lower side is written in the lower display part information 1176 (see FIG. 10C). As a result, the SEND part image and the VIEW part image whose top and bottom relations are switched are displayed in the parameter areas 82c and 84c. On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP122, step SP124 is skipped.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP125, a part selection message is transmitted to the other sub-console so as to select the part displayed on the lower side of the main console 1100. As described above, since a plurality of sub-console 1200 can be connected to the main console 1100, a message for selecting a part from one of the sub-console 1200 is transmitted to the main console 1100. In this case, a part selection message is transmitted from the main console 1100 to the other sub-console 1200. This part selection message is a message for requesting the sub-console 1200 to match the current display part information 1276 with the value (VIEW part or SEND part) of the lower display part information 1176 of the main console 1100. Thus, the process of this routine ends.

6.1.4. SEND part display mode change instruction reception event processing (Fig. 12 (b))
Although details will be described later, when the current display mode information 1278 of the SEND part is changed in the sub-console 1200, a message notifying the changed display mode is transmitted to the main console 1100. When the message is received by the main console 1100, the display mode change instruction reception event routine of the SEND part shown in FIG. When the process proceeds to step SP126 in FIG. 12B, it is determined whether or not the mode notified by the message is different from the display mode in the main console 1100.

  If they are different, it is determined as “YES”, and the process proceeds to step SP127. Here, the display mode specified in the message is set for the current display mode information 1178 (see FIG. 10C). Next, when the process proceeds to step SP128, the SEND part update subroutine (FIG. 11 (c)) is called so that the SEND part image related to the new display mode is displayed. The SEND part image in the display mode is displayed in the SEND part image area.

  On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP126, steps SP127 and SP128 are skipped. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP129, the current display mode information 1278 (see FIG. 10C) is displayed on the sub-console other than the sub-console 1200 that has transmitted the message to the main console 1100. A display mode change instruction message instructing to select a mode is transmitted. Thus, the process of this routine ends.

6.1.5. Event processing for selected channel / parameter change (Figure 12 (c))
When the operators corresponding to the signal processing parameters such as the electric fader 2, the CUE button 6, the on / off button 12, the knobs 14 and 18 are operated on the main console 1100, the selected channel / channel shown in FIG. The parameter change event processing routine is started. This routine is performed when a scene recall operation is performed on the main console 1100, when a remote operation is performed from an external device, or when a parameter change message for notifying a parameter change is received from the sub console 1200. Is also activated. The “selected channel” does not directly affect the audio signal depending on the designation, and is not included in the “signal processing parameter”, but the selected channel is designated in the current data 1150. Contains information. When a selected channel is designated on the main console 1100 (when any SEL button 10 is pressed in the main channel strip group 70), or a selected channel for requesting designation of a selected channel from the sub-console 1200 Even when the designation request message is received, this routine is started.

  In FIG. 12C, when the process proceeds to step SP180, the current data 1150 (FIG. 10 (FIG. 10) is reflected to reflect the operation amount of the operator, the recalled parameter, and the parameter notified from the sub-console 1200 or the external device. a) is updated. In particular, when this routine is started by designating a selected channel, in step SP180, a channel newly designated as the selected channel is used instead of the channel previously stored as the selected channel in the current data 1150. Is memorized. In other words, the channel that was previously the selected channel is no longer the selected channel, and the newly designated selected channel becomes the only selected channel. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP182, the engine 1300 is notified of the changed portion of the current data 1150. As a result, the current data 1350 in the engine 1300 becomes the same as the current data 1150 in the main console 1100. In the engine 1300, the parameters of the DSP 1326 are reset based on the change result of the current data 1350, and the signal processing parameters are actually reflected in the audio signal. Note that when this routine is started in accordance with the designation of the selected channel, no change is made to the signal processing parameter, so that no substantial processing is performed in step SP182.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP184, the display contents on the left and right main displays 82 and 84, the display contents on the main channel strip group 70, and the like are changed according to the signal processing parameter or the selected channel designation result. . In particular, when a selected channel is designated, in step SP184, a newly designated selected channel is assigned to the selected channel adjusting unit (72, 80), that is, the sound quality adjusting unit 72 and the send level adjusting unit 80. Assigned. That is, based on the current signal processing parameters in the new selected channel, the display contents of various displays, the operation amounts of various controls (for example, the lighting / extinguishing state of LEDs arranged in a horseshoe shape around the knob, etc.) ) Is updated. Thereafter, when an operation such as turning a knob or pressing a button is performed in the selected channel adjustment unit (72, 80), the corresponding signal processing parameter in the new selected channel is changed. .

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP186, the related sub-console 1200 is notified of the parameter change content. That is, the layer assigned to each sub-console is determined based on the sub-console assignment information 1172 (see FIG. 10C), and the signal processing parameter 1152 related to that layer (see FIG. 10A). Is changed, a parameter change message to that effect is notified to the sub-console. However, when the selected channel is changed, regardless of the contents of the sub-console allocation information 1172, the selected channel change message indicating the change of the selected channel is notified to all the sub-console 1200. Thus, the processing of this routine ends. Although details will be described later, when the selected channel change message is transmitted to each sub-console 1200, the sub-console 1200 performs processing such as updating the current display side information 1274 and switching the display side. It is executed according to the situation.

6.2. Sub console 1200 event processing
6.2.1. Setup process (Figure 13)
When the power of the sub-console 1200 is turned on or when a predetermined initialization operation is performed, a setup routine shown in FIG. 13 is started in the sub-console. In the figure, when the process proceeds to step SP100, the channel icon template 1164 stored in the ROM area of the memory 1216 is read out and transferred to the image editing buffer area provided in the RAM area. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP102, the channel assigned to each channel strip is specified based on the current layer information 1270 assigned to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40,. Thereby, channel numbers and channel names of these channels are specified. Then, the character image representing the specified channel number and channel name and the template in the buffer area are combined to generate a channel icon image corresponding to each channel strip. It is displayed in the channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, 54c of the left and right displays. That is, even when another image is already displayed in the channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, 54c, this is overwritten by the newly generated channel icon image.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP104, the current display side is confirmed based on the current display side information 1274 (see FIG. 10C) in the memory 1216. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP106, a message requesting to transfer signal processing parameters related to the upper and lower layers recorded in the current layer information 1270 is transmitted from the sub-console 1200 to the main console 1100. . When signal processing parameters are returned from the main console 1100, these parameters are stored in the memory 1216. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP108, the currently selected display part (VIEW part or any SEND part) is confirmed based on the current display part information 1276 in the memory 1216.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP110, it is determined whether or not the currently selected part is a SEND part based on the confirmation result of step SP108. If "YES" is determined here, the process proceeds to a step SP112, and the above-described SEND part update subroutine (FIG. 11 (c)) is called. The processing of this subroutine is the same as the processing in the main console 1100, but in step SP92, the signal of each channel assigned to the “current display side” (this is indicated by the current display side information 1274). A parameter display image is generated based on the processing parameter, and the SEND part image synthesized by the parameter display image and the template is a position (for example, FIG. 8) corresponding to the “current display side” in the parameter areas 52b and 54b. The difference is that the positions of SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 shown in (a) and (b) are overwritten.

  On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP110 of the setup routine, the process proceeds to step SP114, and the above-described VIEW part update subroutine (FIG. 11 (d)) is called. The processing of this subroutine is the same as that of the main console 1100. However, in step SP98, a parameter display image is generated based on the signal processing parameters of each channel assigned to “current display side”. The VIEW part image synthesized by the parameter display image and the template 1162 (see FIG. 10B) is different in that it is overwritten at a position corresponding to the “current display side” in the parameter areas 52b and 54b. . Next, when the process proceeds to step SP116 in the setup routine, images of portions other than those described above, such as images in the non-display portions 338 and 340 in FIGS. 8A and 8B (rectangular black images), etc. Is displayed (in other words, the non-display portions 338 and 340 which are blank portions where nothing is displayed are formed), and the processing of this setup routine ends.

6.2.2. Event processing for selection of selected channel (Fig. 14 (a), (b))
When one of the SEL buttons 10 is pressed in the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 on the sub-console 1200, the sub-console SEL button press event routine shown in FIG. Is done. In the figure, when the process proceeds to step SP10, the selected channel is a message requesting that the channel related to the SEL button 10 (input / output channel assigned to the channel strip to which the SEL button 10 belongs) be set as the selected channel. A request message is sent to the main console 1100. This routine ends the routine.

  Thereafter, in the main console 1100, the above-described selected channel / parameter change event processing routine (FIG. 12C) is started. As a result, when the channel is set as the selected channel, a selected channel change message for specifying a new selected channel is transmitted from the main console 1100 to the sub-console 1200. This message is not only a response to the above-mentioned step SP10 but also a case where the selected channel is changed as a result of pressing any SEL button 10 on the main console 1100 as described above. Are also transmitted to the sub-console 1200.

  When the message is received by the sub-console 1200, the CPU 1214 of the sub-console 1200 starts the selected channel notification event processing routine shown in FIG. 14B, when the process proceeds to step SP20, whether or not the selected channel indicated in the received message is related to the own device, that is, any channel assigned to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42. Is determined as the selected channel. If “NO” is determined here, the processing of this routine ends without performing substantial processing.

  On the other hand, if “YES” is determined in step SP20, the process proceeds to step SP22, and whether or not the selected channel is included in the channel assigned to the channel strip group on the current display side (upper or lower). Is determined. If "YES" is determined here, the process proceeds to step SP26, the SEL button 10 related to the channel is turned on, the SEL buttons 10 related to other channels are turned off, and the process of this routine is finished. To do. Therefore, in such a case, the display contents on the left and right displays 52 and 54 are not particularly changed.

  On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP22, the display side change subroutine shown in FIG. 14D is started. In FIG. 14D, when the process proceeds to step SP40, the side having the target channel (in this case, the selected channel) is set as the display side. That is, the current display side information 1274 (see FIG. 10C) is updated so that the side to which the target channel belongs becomes the current display side information 1274. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP42, the display mode on the left and right displays 52 and 54 is set to a new display side. For example, in the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the positions of the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are on the side corresponding to the display side in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Is set. That is, the parameter display images (SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 in the above example) in the parameter areas 52b and 54b are brought to the opposite side in the parameter areas 52b and 54b. That is, by removing the space between the current non-display side and the parameter display image in the upper and lower sides of the parameter areas 52b and 54b and creating a space between the current display side and the parameter display image, The display image is brought to the new display side and associated with the new display side.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP44, the display contents on the left and right displays 52 and 54 are changed to display contents corresponding to the display side. In the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the display level of the send level display section in each of the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 is made to match the send level on the new display side. Be changed. In this way, in step SP44, the contents of the parameter display image are displayed based on the parameter values on the gathered side, that is, the new display side. As a result, if the display mode before being moved is as shown in FIG. 8 (a), this is changed as shown in FIG. 8 (b), and conversely, the display mode before being moved is changed to FIG. 8 (b). If this is the case, this is changed as shown in FIG. As described above, when the processing of the display side change subroutine (FIG. 14D) is completed and the processing returns to the routine of FIG. 14B, in step SP26, the SEL button 10 related to the selected channel is turned on and this routine is performed. This processing is also terminated.

  As described above, according to the routines shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, when a new selected channel related to the own device is designated, the side to which the selected channel belongs is always set as the display side. Since the selected channel is designated when detailed setting of parameters is to be performed, it is considered that there is a strong demand for automatically displaying the parameters related to the selected channel on the left and right displays 52 and 54. In the present embodiment, such an operation can be automatically performed by the above processing, so that the user does not need to switch the display side by a manual operation, and high operability can be realized. By the way, the step SP22 determines whether or not the selected channel is included in the channel assigned to the channel strip group on the current display side. Also, “a process for determining whether or not it is necessary to switch the display side” or “a process for determining whether or not a new side has been designated as a parameter display side in the parameter areas 52b and 54b”. Also, assuming that pressing the SEL button 10 is an operation for instructing the display side, this step SP22 is “a process for detecting a display side instruction”.

6.2.3. Event processing for channel icons (Figure 14 (c))
When one of the channel icons is pressed on the left and right displays 52 and 54 of the sub-console 1200, a channel icon pressing event routine shown in FIG. 14C is started. In the figure, when the process proceeds to step SP30, the current display side information 1274 is referred to, and it is determined whether or not the pressed icon is the current display side icon. For example, in FIG. 8A, channel icons 302-1 to 302-8 are the icons on the current display side, and in FIG. 8B, channel icons 304-1 to 304 are displayed. -8 is the icon on the current display side. If "YES" is determined here, the processing of this routine is terminated without performing substantial processing. This is because there is no need to change the display side in such an operation.

  On the other hand, if "NO" is determined in the step SP30, the process proceeds to a step SP32, and it is determined whether or not the selected channel is included in the channel on the current display side. If "YES" is determined here, the processing of this routine is terminated without performing substantial processing. On the other hand, when it is determined as “NO” in step SP32 (that is, when the channel icon on the opposite side to the current display side is pressed and the channel on the current display side does not include the selected channel). The process proceeds to step SP34, and the above-described display side change subroutine (FIG. 14 (d)) is called. However, the “target channel” in FIG. 14D is a channel in which the corresponding channel icon is pressed in this case. By calling this subroutine, the current display side information 1274 is changed to the opposite side to the current side (SP40, 42), and the display content is also changed to the content corresponding to the new display side (SP44).

  In this way, according to the routine of FIG. 14 (c), when the channel on the current display side includes the selected channel, the display side is not switched even if any channel icon is pressed. The side to which the selected channel belongs is always set as the display side. As described above, since the selected channel is designated when the detailed setting of the parameter is to be performed, there is a strong demand to continue displaying the parameters related to the selected channel on the left and right displays 52 and 54. Even if the channel icon on the opposite side is pressed, this is likely to be an erroneous operation. Therefore, according to this routine, a state in which the display side is switched due to an erroneous operation can be suppressed as much as possible, and high operability can be realized. By the way, the above steps SP30 and SP32 respectively determine whether or not the pressed icon is the current display side and whether or not the selected channel is included in the current display side. When both are combined, “a process for determining whether or not it is necessary to switch the display side” or “a process for determining whether a new side has been designated as the parameter display side in the parameter areas 52b and 54b” It ’s also. Also, assuming that the pressing of the channel icon is an operation for instructing the display side, this step SP22 is “a process for detecting the display side instruction”.

6.2.4. Layer selection event processing (Fig. 15)
When an effective one of the layer type selection buttons 22, 24, 26 or the layer number selection buttons 28-1 to 28-8 in the layer selection units 44, 46 is pressed on the sub-console 1200, the layers shown in FIG. The selection event processing routine is started. In FIG. 15, when the process proceeds to step SP50, the layer corresponding to the pressed button is assigned to the corresponding upper or lower channel strip group 40 or 42. That is, in the current layer information 1270 (see FIG. 10C), the information on the side where layer selection has occurred is updated so as to indicate the newly selected layer. Hereinafter, the side on which layer selection has occurred is referred to as a “layer change side”. That is, when the lower layer selection unit 44 is operated, the layer change side is “lower side” and the corresponding layer is assigned to the lower channel strip group 40, while the upper layer selection unit 46 is operated. In this case, the layer change side is “upper side”, and the corresponding layer is assigned to the upper channel strip group 42.

  The processing contents executed in step SP50 will be described in further detail. In the sub-console 1200, only the signal processing parameters of the layers currently allocated to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 are stored. These signal processing parameters are not stored. Therefore, a request message is transmitted from the sub console 1200 to the main console 1100 to transmit the parameter together with the current layer information 1270. The new layer signal processing parameters are returned. At that time, in the main console 1100, the sub-console allocation information 1172 related to the sub-console is updated so as to match the received current layer information 1270.

  In the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 or 42 to which the new layer is assigned, these electric faders 2 (see FIG. 7) are automatically driven based on the returned signal processing parameters, so that these operations are performed. The amount is changed, and the display contents of the character display 4, the lighting / extinguishing state of the buttons 6, 8, 10, 12 and the lighting / extinguishing state of the LED group 14a around the knob 14 are changed. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP51, the channel icon on the layer change side is updated in the channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, and 54c. That is, when the layer change side is the upper side, the icons of the upper channel display areas 52a and 54a are updated. When the layer change side is the lower side, the icons of the lower channel display areas 52c and 54c are updated. Updated. The processing of step SP51 is the same as the processing of steps SP100 and SP102 of the setup routine (FIG. 13) described above.

Next, when the processing proceeds to step SP52, it is necessary to switch the display side based on the current display side indicated by the current display side information 1274 (see FIG. 10C) and the layer change side. Is determined based on the following criteria.
(Criteria 1-1) When the current display side is equal to the layer change side (that is, when both are on the upper side or both are on the lower side), the display side is not switched.
(Criteria 1-2) When the current non-display side is the layer change side and the selected channel is included in the new layer, the current non-display side is switched to the display side. When the selected channel is not included in the new layer, switching on the display side does not occur.

According to the above criteria 1-1 and 1-2, if there is a selected channel in either the upper layer or the lower layer, the side to which the selected channel belongs is held as the display side regardless of which layer is changed. It will be understood. Further, when there is no selected channel on either the upper side or the lower side, switching of the display side does not occur due to the layer change. Further, when the same layer is assigned to the upper side and the lower side, and the selected channel is included in the same layer, switching on the display side occurs.
As described above, when the selected channel is included in the upper or lower layer, there is a strong demand for continuously displaying the parameters related to the selected channel on the left and right displays 52 and 54. According to the present embodiment, when the selected channel is included in the upper layer or the lower layer, the display side is selected so that the parameter of the selected channel is always displayed according to the criteria 1-1 and 1-2. . This eliminates the need for the user to manually perform the selection on the display side, thereby realizing high operability.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP54, it is determined in step SP52 whether or not it is determined that display side switching is necessary. In other words, the above steps SP52 and SP54 are “a process for determining whether or not a new side has been designated as the parameter display side in the parameter areas 52b and 54b”. If it is an operation for instructing the display side, these steps SP52 and SP54 are “processing for detecting a display side instruction”. If "YES" is determined in step SP54, the process proceeds to step SP56, and the current display side information 1274 is updated so that the layer change side is set as a new display side. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP58, the display mode in the parameter areas 52b and 54b is set to a new display side. For example, in the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the positions of the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are on the side corresponding to the display side in FIGS. 8A and 8B. Is set. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP60, the display contents in the parameter areas 52b and 54b are changed to display contents corresponding to the display side. In the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the display level of the send level display section in each of the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 is made to match the send level on the new display side. Be changed.

  On the other hand, if it is not necessary to switch the display side, the process proceeds to step SP62 via step SP54. Here, based on the current display side information 1274 and the layer change side, it is determined whether or not the parameter areas 52b and 54b need to be updated. That is, when the display side and the layer change side are equal (when both are on the upper side or both are on the lower side), it is determined that the display content needs to be updated. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP64, it is determined whether or not it is determined in step SP62 that the display content needs to be updated. If "YES" is determined here, step SP60 is executed, and the display contents in the parameter areas 52b and 54b are changed to display contents corresponding to the display side. As described above, when “NO” is determined in step SP54 and step SP60 is executed via steps SP62 and SP64, the display side is not changed and is newly assigned on the previous display side. Only the display contents of the parameter areas 52b and 54b are changed based on the parameters of the layer. On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP64, the present routine is terminated as it is.

6.2.5. Event processing of flip button 30 (FIG. 16)
When the flip button 30 is pressed in the lower layer selection unit 44 (see FIG. 7) of the sub-console 1200, the flip button event routine shown in FIG. 16 is started. In the figure, when the process proceeds to step SP160, a value indicating the layer assigned to the upper channel strip group 42 (a value specifying the layer) is written in the variable LY1, and the layer assigned to the lower channel strip group 40 is indicated. The value to be written is written to the variable LY2. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP162, the layer indicated by the variable LY2 is assigned to the upper channel strip group 42. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP164, the layer indicated by the variable LY1 is assigned to the lower channel strip group 40.

Next, when the process proceeds to step SP166, the display side is switched according to the following criteria based on the current display side and whether any of the layers assigned to the upper side or the lower side includes the selected channel. It is determined whether or not is necessary.
(Criteria 2-1) If any of the channels related to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 is a selected channel, the display side needs to be switched.
(Criteria 2-2) If the selected channel is not included in the channels related to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42, switching on the display side does not occur.

As described above, if any of the channels related to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 is a selected channel, the side to which the selected channel belongs is always set as the display side. When the flip button 30 is pressed in such a state, the side to which the selected channel belongs is changed to the opposite side. At this time, since the display side is switched according to the reference 2-1, the side to which the selected channel belongs is always set to the display side even after the flip button 30 is pressed.
As described above, when the selected channel is included in the upper layer or the lower layer, there is a strong demand for continuously displaying the parameters related to the selected channel on the left and right displays 52 and 54. Even when the button 30 is pressed, the display side is selected so that the parameters of the selected channel are always displayed. This eliminates the need for the user to manually perform the selection on the display side, thereby realizing high operability.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP168, it is determined in step SP166 whether or not it is determined that display side switching is necessary. In other words, the above steps SP166 and SP168 are also “a process for determining whether or not a new side has been designated as the parameter display side in the parameter areas 52b and 54b”, and the operation of the flip button 30 is performed on the display side. Steps SP66 and SP168 are “processing for detecting a display-side instruction”. If “YES” is determined in step SP168, the processing of steps SP170 to SP174 is executed. This processing is the same as the processing in steps SP56 to SP60 in the layer selection event processing routine (FIG. 15), the current display side information 1274 is changed, and the contents of the parameter areas 52b and 54b are changed to the new display side. Is updated based on the signal processing parameters at.

  On the other hand, if it is not necessary to switch the display side, the process proceeds to step SP176 via step SP168. Here, the display contents of the parameter areas 52b and 54b are based on the signal processing parameters related to the layer assigned to the current display side (the layer assigned to the display side by the above step SP162 or SP164). Be changed. In step SP176, the display side is not changed, and only the display contents of the parameter areas 52b and 54b are changed on the previous display side based on the newly assigned layer parameters. Through this process, this routine ends.

6.2.6. VIEW / SEND part selection event processing (Figure 17 (a), (b))
When the VIEW button 66 is pressed on the sub-console 1200, the VIEW part selection event routine shown in FIG. 17A is started. This routine is also activated when a part selection message (FIG. 12A, step SP125) indicating that a VIEW part should be selected is received from the main console 1100. When the processing proceeds to step SP130 in FIG. 17A, the above-described VIEW part update subroutine (FIG. 11D) is called, and the VIEW part image is displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b of the sub-console 1200. At the same time, the current display part information 1276 (see FIG. 10C) is updated to indicate the VIEW part.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP131, it is determined whether or not the VIEW part selection event routine has been started due to an operation (depression of the VIEW button 66) on the sub-console 1200. If "YES" is determined here, the process proceeds to step SP132, a part selection message notifying that the VIEW part has been selected is transmitted to the main console 1100, and the process of this routine ends. On the other hand, when the VIEW part selection event routine is started based on the part selection message from the main console 1100, “NO” is determined in step SP131, step SP132 is skipped, and the processing of this routine is completed. To do. When step SP132 is executed, the main console 1100 executes the above-described part selection message reception event routine (FIG. 12A). As a result, the lower display part information of the main console 1100 is displayed. 1176 and the current display part information 1276 of the sub-console 1200 both indicate the VIEW part.

  Further, when the SEND button 68 is pressed on the sub-console 1200, a SEND part selection event routine shown in FIG. 17B is started. This routine is also activated when a part selection message (FIG. 12A, step SP125) indicating that a SEND part should be selected is received from the main console 1100. When the processing proceeds to step SP134 in FIG. 17B, the above-described SEND part update subroutine (FIG. 11C) is called, and the SEND part image is displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b of the sub-console 1200. At the same time, the current display part information 1276 (see FIG. 10C) is updated to indicate the SEND part.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP135, it is determined whether or not the SEND part selection event routine has been started due to an operation (depression of the SEND button 68) on the sub-console 1200. If "YES" is determined here, the process proceeds to step SP136, a part selection message notifying that the SEND part has been selected is transmitted to the main console 1100, and the process of this routine is terminated. On the other hand, when the SEND part selection event routine is started based on the part selection message from the main console 1100, “NO” is determined in step SP135, step SP136 is skipped, and the processing of this routine is completed. To do. As in the case of the VIEW part, when step SP136 is executed, the above-described part selection message reception event routine (FIG. 12A) is executed in the main console 1100.

  As a result, the lower display part information 1176 of the main console 1100 and the current display part information 1276 of the sub-console 1200 both indicate the SEND part. Here, the overall operation when the VIEW button 66 is pressed on one sub-console 1200 when a plurality of sub-console 1200 is connected to the main console 1100 will be described. First, in the sub-console, the VIEW part image is displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b by executing step SP130. Since this operation is caused by “the VIEW button 66 has been pressed”, step SP 132 is executed, and a part selection message notifying that the VIEW part has been selected is transmitted to the main console 1100.

  In the main console 1100, the part selection message reception event routine (FIG. 12 (a)) is activated, and the display contents of the parameter areas 82c and 84c are updated so that the VIEW part image is positioned on the lower side (step SP124). The part selection message is transmitted to the other sub-console 1200 so as to select the VIEW part (step SP125). As a result, also in the other sub-console 1200, the VIEW part selection event routine (FIG. 17 (a)) is activated, and the above step SP130 is executed, so that the VIEW part image is displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b. The As a result, in all of the main console 1100 and the plurality of sub-console 1200, the lower display part information 1176 and the current display part information 1276 (see FIG. 10 (c)) coincide to indicate the VIEW part. The parts displayed on the sub-console (the part displayed on the lower side in the main console 1100) are aligned with the VIEW part.

  As described with reference to FIG. 5, in a plan view when the main console 1100 and the sub-console 1200 are arranged side by side, the lower sides (front ends) of the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100 and the sub-console The bottom sides (front ends) of the left and right displays 52 and 54 of the console 1200 are aligned. Here, the height (length in the front-rear direction) of the channel display areas 82e and 84e in the main console 1100, and the height (length in the front-rear direction) of the lower channel display areas 52c and 54c in the sub-console 1200, Almost coincide, the lower sides of the parameter areas 82c and 84c and the lower sides of the parameter areas 52b and 54b are substantially aligned.

  When a VIEW part is selected on the sub-console 1200, a VIEW part image is also displayed below the left and right main displays 82, 84 of the main console 1100. As shown in FIG. In all the consoles 1100 and 1200, the VIEW part images are displayed so as to be substantially aligned in the left-right direction. Further, in the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100, the SEND part image is arranged simultaneously above the VIEW part image, whereas in the left and right displays 52 and 54 of the sub console 1200, , SEND part images are not displayed. Similarly, when the SEND part is selected on the sub-console 1200, the SEND part image is also displayed below the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100, as shown in FIG. In all the consoles 1100 and 1200, the SEND part images are displayed so as to be aligned substantially in a straight line in the left-right direction.

  In the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100, the VIEW part image is arranged side by side above the SEND part image, whereas in the left and right displays 52 and 54 of the sub console 1200, , VIEW part images are not displayed. As shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the heights of the left and right displays 52 and 54 of the sub-console 1200 are lower than the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100, and the VIEW part image and the SEND part are displayed. The height is such that only one of the selected images can be displayed. On the other hand, the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100 have a size (height) capable of displaying the VIEW part image and the SEND part image at the same time. The VIEW part image and the SEND part image are displayed in the front-rear direction. They are displayed side by side at the same time.

  As described above, in the sub-console 1200 of this embodiment, one of the VIEW part image and the SEND part image can be selected and displayed on the left and right displays 52 and 54. Therefore, the height of the left and right displays 52 and 54 ( The length in the front-rear direction can be made lower than the left and right main displays 82 and 84 of the main console 1100. As a result, while the depth of the sub console 1200 is the same as that of the main console 1100, the number of channel strip groups 40 and 42 twice as large as that of the main console 1100 can be arranged along the front-rear direction, and a narrow space A large number of channel strips can be arranged efficiently.

  Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, the display parts in the lower part of each display can be aligned in the consoles 1100 and 1200, so that the display contents on the consoles 1100 and 1200 are made uniform. Can do. Further, as described above, the horizontal widths of the channel strips 40-1 to 40-16 and 42-1 to 42-16 in the sub-console 1200 are the same as the channel strips 70-1 to 70- in the main console 1100. 16 and the arrangement of the controls in the channel strip is the same, so that commonality between the main console 1100 and the sub-console 1200 can be ensured on both sides of the operation / viewing, and is high. Operability can be realized.

6.2.7. SEND part display mode change event processing (Figure 17 (c))
In addition, when the display mode of the SEND part is changed in the sub-console 1200, that is, when any one of the button images 262 to 272 is pressed in the MENU image 260 (see FIG. 9E), FIG. The SEND part display mode change event routine shown in c) is started. This routine is also activated when a display mode change instruction message (see FIG. 12B, step SP129) is transmitted from the main console 1100 to the sub-console 1200. When the process proceeds to step SP138 in FIG. 17C, the newly designated display mode is set for the current display mode information 1278. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP140, it is determined whether or not a SEND part image is being displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b.

  If “YES” is determined in step SP140, the process proceeds to step SP142, and the SEND part update subroutine (FIG. 11 (c)) is called so that the SEND part image related to the new display mode is displayed. Thus, the SEND part image in the display mode is displayed in the parameter areas 52b and 54b of the sub-console 1200. When the SEND part image is not displayed (that is, when the VIEW part image is displayed), step SP142 is skipped. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP143, it is determined whether or not the SEND part display mode change event routine is activated due to an operation on the sub-console 1200 (an operation on the MENU image 260). If “YES” is determined here, the process proceeds to step SP144, and a message notifying the new display mode is transmitted to the main console 1100. As described above, in the main console 1100, the current display mode information 1178 is updated in accordance with this message, so that the current display mode information 1178 and 1278 in both consoles 1100 and 1200 match. On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP143, step SP144 is skipped, and the processing of this routine ends.

6.2.8. Event processing for parameter operation / notification (Fig. 17 (d))
When the operator corresponding to the signal processing parameter such as the electric fader 2, the CUE button 6, the on / off button 12, the knobs 14 and 18 is operated on the sub-console 1200, the parameter change event shown in FIG. A processing routine is started. This routine is also activated when a parameter change message is transmitted from the main console 1100 (FIG. 12C, step SP186). When the process proceeds to step SP146 in FIG. 17D, the parameter 1252 (see FIG. 10A) is changed based on the operation amount of the operator or the content of the parameter change message. Next, when the process proceeds to step SP148, the display contents of the parameter areas 52b and 54b, the display state in the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42, and the like are changed according to the parameter change result.

  Next, when the process proceeds to step SP50, the parameter change event processing routine (FIG. 17 (d)) is activated due to an operation (operation of the upper and lower channel strip groups 40, 42, etc.) in the sub-console 1200. It is determined whether or not. If “YES” is determined here, the process proceeds to step SP152, and a parameter change message indicating the change contents of the signal processing parameter is notified to the main console 1100. On the other hand, if “NO” is determined in step SP150, step SP152 is skipped, and the processing of this routine ends.

7． Modifications The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made as follows, for example.
7.1. Variations on mechanical structure
(1) In the above embodiment, the angle θ1 formed between the sub-console / front panel 1202 and the installation surface is “0 °”, but θ1 may be a value other than “0 °”. . That is, the front panel 1202 may be slightly inclined. In the above embodiment, the angle θ3 of the rear panel 1206 is selected to be “θ1 <θ3”, but may be “θ1 ≧ θ3”. That is, as long as the relationship of “θ1 <θ2” and “θ3 <θ2” can be maintained, the angles θ1, θ2, and θ3 may be changed as appropriate. Note that the front panel 1202, the middle panel 1204, and the rear panel 1206 may be arranged in the same plane. Further, the number of channel strips in the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 may be different.

(2) In the above-described embodiment, devices such as the consoles 1100 and 1200, the engine 1300, the microphone controller 1400, the amplifier controller 1500, and other audio equipment 1600 are accommodated in separate casings, and these devices are connected to the IP. Although connected by the network 1000, all or part of these devices may be housed in the same housing.

7.2. Deformation related to SEL button press event in sub-console 1200
(1) In the above embodiment, when any SEL button 10 is pressed on the sub-console 1200, a selected channel designation request message is transmitted to the main console 1100 (FIG. 14 (a), step SP10). ) In response to reception of the selected channel change message, processing such as changing the display side is performed (FIG. 14B, steps SP24 and SP26). However, the processing of steps SP24 and SP26 may be executed immediately when any SEL button 10 is pressed on the sub console 1200 without waiting for a response from the main console 1100.

(2) In the above embodiment, the process of changing the display side is executed when the selected channel change message is transmitted from the main console 1100 to the sub console 1200. In the console 1200, the display side does not necessarily have to be switched corresponding to the selected channel. That is, in determining the display side, the selected channel may be ignored.

7.3. Modification of display mode according to the display side of the left and right displays 52 and 54
(1) In the above embodiment, it is easy to determine which of the upper and lower channel strip groups 40, 42 the parameters displayed in the parameter areas 52b, 54b in the left and right displays 52, 54 of the sub-console 1200 are. As described in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the display mode is changed according to the current display side. In realizing this feature, various display modes other than the display modes described in the embodiments can be employed. For example, in the above embodiment, the upper and lower channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, 54c are secured in the left and right displays 52, 54 of the sub-console 1200, and the channel names of the channels related to the upper and lower channel strip groups 40, 42 are secured. Although the channel number is displayed, only one of the channel name or the channel number may be displayed. Further, these channel display areas 52a, 54a, 52c, 54c themselves may be omitted, and the entire left and right displays 52, 54 may be used as the parameter areas 52b, 54b. An example is shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 19A, guide lines 342 and 344 extending in the left-right direction are displayed on the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the display screen of the left display 52, respectively. The non-display portions 338 and 340 are formed between the guide lines 342 and 344 and the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8. In this example, based on whether the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are displayed in proximity to the guide lines 342 and 344, the user sees whether the display side is the upper side or the lower side. Can be grasped.

(2) In the example of FIG. 19A, the display positions of the guide lines 342 and 344 are fixed regardless of the display side, but the guide lines can be displayed at different positions depending on the display side. An example is shown in FIG. In FIG. 19B, when the display side is the upper side, the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are displayed close to the upper end of the left display 52, and a guide line 346 extending in the left-right direction is displayed below the SEND part images 200-1. A non-display portion 348 is formed further below the guide line 346. Further, when the display side is the lower side in FIG. 19B, the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are displayed close to the lower end portion of the left display 52, and the guideline 350 extending in the left-right direction is displayed above the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8. Is displayed, and a non-display portion 352 is formed further above the guideline 350. In this example, the display side is set to the upper side or the lower side based on whether the SEND part images 200-1 to 200-8 are positioned upward or downward with respect to the guideline 346 or 350 displayed. The user can grasp at a glance which is the case.

(3) The display side can also be represented by graying out a part of the display screen. An example is shown in FIG. In the figure, the meshed portion is displayed in a normal display color, and the other portions are grayed out. In FIG. 19 (c), when the display side is the upper side, the upper channel display area 52a is displayed in the normal display color, while the lower channel display area 52c is grayed out. When the display side is the lower side, the lower channel display area 52c is displayed in a normal display color, while the upper channel display area 52a is grayed out. In this example, since the side displayed in the normal display color is the display side, the user can grasp at a glance whether the display side is the upper side or the lower side.

(4) Further, in the modification of FIG. 19C, as in the above-described embodiment (FIG. 8), the upper channel display area 52a, parameter area from the top of the display screen of the left display 52 to the bottom. 52b and the lower channel display area 52c are secured in sequence, but if the area on the display side of the channel display areas 52a and 52c is displayed in the normal display color and the other area is grayed out, each area 52a, The positions of 52b and 52c may be different. An example is shown in FIG. In the figure, the meshed portion is displayed in the normal display color, and the other portions are grayed out. In FIG. 19D, as in FIG. 19C, when the display side is the upper side, the upper channel display area 52a is displayed in the normal display color, while the lower channel display area 52c is grayed out. Has been. When the display side is the lower side, the lower channel display area 52c is displayed in a normal display color, while the upper channel display area 52a is grayed out. Accordingly, similarly to the case of FIG. 19C, the user can grasp at a glance whether the display side is the upper side or the lower side.

  The modified example according to the embodiment (FIG. 8) and FIGS. 19A to 19D has common features. That is, both of these embodiments and modifications are “a first region whose outer edge is a rectangle” in the display screen of the left display 52 and “a lower side than the first region, When the display side is the lower side, the first area is filled with the first color, and the display side is the upper side. Filling the second region with the second color. In the modification of the above embodiment (FIG. 8) and FIGS. 19A and 19B, the non-display portions 338 and 352 are “first regions”, and the non-display portions 340 and 348 are “first”. 2 region ", and the first color and the second color are both" black ". In other words, these non-display portions 338, 340, 348, 352 are blank portions that display nothing. That is, an example of generating a “blank portion where nothing is displayed” is “displaying a rectangular black image”.

  19C and 19D, in the upper channel display area 52a, the portion excluding “characters” representing the channel number and channel name is the “first area”. Similarly, in the lower channel display area 52c, a portion excluding “characters” indicating the channel number and the channel name is a “second area”, and both the first color and the second color are “gray”. Is. That is, in the modified examples of FIGS. 19C and 19D, the entire channel display area 52a or 52c is not filled with gray of the same brightness, but “characters” representing channel numbers and channel names are used. The constituent parts are slightly different in lightness, and the image is constructed so that these characters can be read. However, the background portion of the character has almost the same color, and the outer edges of the first and second regions are always “rectangular” having a predetermined size regardless of the content of the character. In the above embodiment (FIG. 8) and the modified examples of FIGS. 19 (a) and 19 (b), the first and second colors are the same color, but they may be different colors. .

7.4. In the above embodiment, the parameter areas 52b and 54b of the sub-console 1200 and the parameter areas 82c and 84c of the main console 1100 are aligned at the bottom. However, they may be arranged so that the upper sides of these displays are aligned. In this case, of the VIEW part or the SEND part, the display part selected on the sub console 1200 may be displayed on the upper side on the main console 1100.

Of the VIEW part and SEND part displayed on the main console 1100, the same part as the display part of the sub-console 1200 does not necessarily need to be aligned with the display part of the sub-console 1200. The display position of the VIEW part and the SEND part is set so that the display part of the sub-console 1200 is closer to the display part of the sub-console 1200 in the front-rear direction than the other part. It is good to decide.
If there is no need to align the VIEW part or SEND part display position between the consoles 1100 and 1200, step SP124 in FIG. 12A may be omitted.

7.5. In the above embodiment, the display contents of the left and right displays 52 and 54 in the sub-console 1200 are interlocked with the display contents of the left and right main displays 82 and 84 in the main console 1100. The display contents may not be necessarily linked, and the display contents may be independently selected on the main console 1100 and each sub-console 1200. In the above embodiment, the image data template (see FIG. 10B) is the same for both consoles 1100 and 1200, but the display content of the sub-console 1200 is the same as the main console 1100. If it can be set independently, the contents unique to the sub-console 1200 may be displayed.

  As an example, a “pseudo channel strip mode” that simulates a channel strip can be set as a display mode displayed only on the sub-console 1200. In this mode, images as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B are displayed on the left display 52. In these drawings, the display contents of the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8 and 304-1 to 304-8 are the same as those in FIG.

  Next, in FIG. 20A, “8” pseudo channel strip images 330-1 to 330-8 are displayed in the parameter area 52b. Since these pseudo channel strip images correspond to the lower channel strip group 40, the pseudo channel strip images 330-1 to 330-8 are channel icons 302-1 to 302-1 related to the lower channel strips 40-1 to 40-8. A non-display portion 330 is formed between the channel icons 304-1 to 304-8. On the other hand, when the pseudo channel strip images 330-1 to 330-8 corresponding to the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-8 are displayed in the parameter area 52b, the display state is as shown in FIG. . In FIG. 20 (b), since the pseudo channel strip image corresponds to the upper channel strip group 42, the pseudo channel strip images 330-1 to 330-8 are displayed on the channel channels related to the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-8. The icons 304-1 to 304-8 are displayed in close contact with each other, and a non-display portion 340 is formed between the channel icons 302-1 to 302-8.

  In the pseudo channel strip image 330-1 in FIG. 20A, reference numeral 312 denotes a fader level display unit, which displays the fader level of the corresponding channel by an image simulating the fader. Reference numerals 314 and 316 denote button images, and 322 denotes a button image group. These constitute a total of “6” button images. These button images can be arbitrarily assigned signal processing parameters for switching the “on / off state” in the corresponding channel. When the user presses any button image, this is detected via the touch panel, and the on / off state of the corresponding parameter is switched.

  Reference numerals 318 and 320 denote parameter display units, which display a total of “5” parameters that are arbitrarily assigned in a pie chart shape. The parameters assigned to the parameter display units 318 and 320 are parameters that take a continuous “parameter value” in the corresponding channel. Further, when the user presses the parameter display units 318 and 320 or the fader level display unit 312, the display unit is selected (for example, highlighted), and the knob 18 located immediately below the pseudo channel strip image 330-1. The parameter corresponding to is assigned. Thereby, the user can operate the parameter by operating the knob 18.

  In the right display 54, the same image as described above is displayed for the remaining channels (9th to 16th, 25th to 32nd input channels). Although various modes are possible for the state switching method in FIGS. 20A and 20B, for example, the layer selection units 44 and 46 (see FIG. 6) can be used. That is, if the last operated side of the layer selection units 44 and 46 is the lower layer selection unit 44, the lower channel strip group 40 is selected and the screen of FIG. 20 (a) is displayed, and the last operation is performed. If the other side is the upper layer selection unit 46, the upper channel strip group 42 may be selected and the screen of FIG. 20B may be displayed.

  In this operation mode, parameters that can be set using the actual operators on the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42, for example, fader levels, are also displayed on the left and right displays 52 and 54. Such a display is performed. The significance will be described again with reference to FIG. In the sub-console 1200 shown in FIG. 6, when the operator sits on a chair and takes a suitable posture to operate the lower channel strip group 40, the upper channel strip group 42 is difficult to reach. It becomes necessary to stand up for operation. Therefore, as described above, if the function of the upper channel strip group 42 can be replaced by the knob 18 on the front panel 1202 and the left and right displays 52 and 54, the operator can sit on the upper channel strip group 42 while sitting down. It becomes possible to adjust the parameters of the channel concerned.

  Further, if the electric fader 2 on the lower channel strip 40-1 and the electric fader 2 on the upper channel strips 42-1 to 42-16 are simultaneously operated for adjusting the volume balance, both electric faders are used. Since the interval of 2 is separated, it is somewhat difficult to operate. At this time, if the volume balance can be adjusted by operating one of the electric faders 2 and the knob 18 using this operation mode, the distance between the two operating elements can be reduced.

7.6. Other variations
(1) In the above embodiment, one or more sub-console 1200 is connected to the main console 1100, but the sub-console 1200 is connected to the IP network 1000, and the main console 1100 and the sub-console 1200 are connected to each other. May communicate via the IP network 1000. In such a configuration, the sub-console 1200 can be easily installed at a location away from the main console 1100.

(2) The channel strip groups 40 and 42 in the above embodiment are common in that the electric fader 2, the CUE button 6, the f button 8, the SEL button 10 and the on / off button 12 are provided. .
However, the channel strip is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, instead of the electric fader 2, a simple fader that cannot be automatically driven (moving along a straight track and increasing or decreasing the audio signal level of the corresponding channel) may be adopted. The constituent elements 6, 8, 10, and 12 may be omitted.

(3) In the above embodiment, only one parameter of the upper and lower channel strip groups 40, 42 is displayed in the parameter areas 52b, 54b of the sub-console 1200, but can be displayed in the parameter areas 52b, 54b. Alternatively, the parameters of both the upper and lower channel strip groups 40 and 42 may be displayed.

(4) In the above embodiment, the current data 1150 is stored in the main console 1100 (see FIG. 10), and the sub-console 1200 has only the parameter 1252 related to the assigned upper and lower two layers as the signal processing parameter. It was remembered. However, the sub-console 1200 may hold current data equivalent to the current data 1150. In this case, if any signal processing parameter is changed in any of the consoles 1100 and 1200, the content is immediately notified to the other, and the same content may be maintained as current data.

2: electric fader (first and second operation elements), 4: character display, 6: CUE button, 8: f button, 10: SEL button (selection button), 12: on / off button, 14a: LED group, 14, 18: Knob, 20: Sensors on fader button, 22, 24, 26: Layer type selection button, 28-1 to 28-8: Layer number selection button, 30: Flip button, 40 : Lower channel strip group (first channel strip group), 40-1 to 40-16: Lower channel strip, 42: Upper channel strip group (second channel strip group), 42-1 to 42-16: Upper Channel strip, 44: lower layer selection unit (layer allocation unit), 46: upper layer selection unit (layer allocation unit), 52, 54: left and right display (display) , Sub display), 52a, 52c: channel display area, 52a, 54a: upper channel display area, 52b, 54b: parameter area, 52c, 54c: lower channel display area, 62: SHIFT button, 64: MENU button, 66: VIEW button (part selection means), 68: SEND button (part selection means), 70: main channel strip group, 70-1 to 70-16: channel strip, 72: sound quality adjustment section, 74: small display, 76-L, 76-R: channel strip, 80: send level adjustment unit, 82, 84: left and right main display, 82a: selected channel area, 82b, 84b: navigation area, 82c, 84c: parameter area, 82e, 84e: Channel display area, 102 Analog input unit 104: Digital input unit 106: Built-in effect unit 108: Input patch unit 110: Stereo input channel adjustment unit 112: Input channel adjustment unit 112-n: nth input channel adjustment unit 114: Effect return section, 116: MIX bus group, 116-1 to 116-96: MIX bus, 118: stereo bus, 120: stereo output channel section, 122: MIX output channel section, 122-m: m-th MIX output channel section, 123: Matrix bus group, 124: Matrix output channel section, 126: Output patch section, 128: Analog output section, 130: Digital output section, 150, 170, 180: Sound quality adjustment section, 152: Channel delay section, 154: Volume Adjustment unit, 156: On / off switching unit, 158: Stereo Send on / off switching unit, 160: PAN setting unit, 162-1 to 162-96: signal switching unit, 164-1 to 164-96: send level adjusting unit, 166-1 to 166-96: send on / off switching unit, 172 -L, R: Volume adjustment unit, 174-L, R: On / off switching unit, 176-L, R: Channel delay unit, 182: Volume adjustment unit, 184: On / off switching unit, 186: Channel delay unit, 200, 210 , 220: SEND part image, 200-1 to 200-8: SEND part image, 202-1 to 202-16: level display image, 212-1 to 212-16: PAN display image, 222: meter image, 224: Recall Safe Button, 230: VIEW Part Image, 234: Microphone Power Supply Display Unit, 236: Phase Display Unit, 240: Frequency Characteristic Display Unit, 26 : MENU image, 262 to 272: button image, 302-1 to 302-8, 304-1 to 304-8: channel icon, 312: fader level display section, 314, 316: button image, 318, 320: parameter Display unit, 322: Button image group, 330-1 to 330-8: Pseudo channel strip image, 338, 340: No display unit, 342, 344: Guideline, 346, 350: Guideline, 348, 352: No display unit, 1000: IP network, 1100: Main console, 1102: Front panel, 1104: Rear panel, 1110: Panel display group, 1112: Panel operator group, 1114: CPU, 1116: Memory, 1118: Console I / O section 1120: CPU bus, 1122: Electric fader group, 1124: Audio I O unit, 1126: DSP, 1128: network I / O unit, 1130: audio bus, 1132: other I / O unit, 1150: current data, 1160, 1162, 1164: template, 1170: current layer information, 1172: sub Console assignment information, 1176: Lower display part information, 1178, 1278: Current display mode information, 1200: Sub-console, 1202: Front panel, 1204: Middle panel, 1206: Rear panel, 1212: Panel operator group, 1214 : CPU, 1216: Memory, 1224: Audio I / O unit, 1230: Audio bus, 1252: Parameter, 1270: Current layer information, 1276: Current display part information, 1300: Engine, 1310: Panel display group, 1312: Panel operator group, 1314: CPU 1316: Memory, 1326: DSP, 1328: Network I / O unit, 1330: Audio bus, 1332: Other I / O unit, 1350: Current data, 1400: Microphone controller, 1402: Microphone, 1500: Amplifier controller, 1502: Amplifier, 1504: Speaker, 1600: Other audio equipment.

Claims (5)

In a mixing console for instructing parameter values of each audio signal in order to perform signal processing on the audio signal of the first channel group and the audio signal of the second channel group, each of which includes a plurality of channels,
A first channel strip group consisting of a plurality of channel strips, each having a first operator that indicates each parameter value of the audio signal belonging to the first channel group;
Each has a second operator that is provided behind and above the first channel strip group in front view of the mixing console and that indicates each parameter value of the audio signal belonging to the second channel group. A second group of channel strips comprising a plurality of channel strips;
Provided between the first channel strip group and the second channel strip group, and displays parameter values relating to one of the first channel group or the designated second channel group of the second channel group. Or a display unit for displaying parameter values relating to both the first and second channel groups. The first operation element is an operation element that indicates a predetermined type of parameter value of an audio signal belonging to the first channel group,
2. The mixing console according to claim 1, wherein the second operator is an operator that indicates each of the predetermined parameter values of the audio signals belonging to the second channel group. The switching instruction detecting means for detecting a switching instruction as to which parameter value of the first channel group or the second channel group is to be displayed on the display unit. The mixing console according to 1 or 2. The channel strips belonging to the first channel strip group are arranged along the left-right direction in front view of the mixing console and each have the same predetermined width,
Channel strips belonging to the second channel strip group are arranged along the left-right direction in front view of the mixing console and each have the predetermined width.
The display screen in the display unit is divided into a plurality of frames having the predetermined width arranged in the left-right direction in the front view of the mixing console,
The nth channel strip belonging to the first channel strip group from the left (where 1 ≦ n ≦ the number of channels of the first channel strip group) and the nth channel from the left belonging to the second channel strip group The mixing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the strip and the nth frame from the left in the display unit are arranged at the same position in a left-right direction of the mixing console when viewed from the front. console. The inclination angle formed by the first channel strip group with respect to the installation surface of the mixing console is θ1, the inclination angle formed by the display unit is θ2, and the inclination angle formed by the second channel strip group is θ3. 5. The mixing console according to claim 1, wherein the inclination angles have a relationship of “θ1 <θ3 <θ2”.

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