Abstract: The hard disc is provided with two areas for storing file system management information and content management information. The disc recorder records double file system management information and content management information onto the hard disc. Further, information indicating a procedure for updating file system management information is described in a flash descriptor, and a procedure for updating content management information is described in a robust descriptor.

Abstract: A multi-function consumer music system includes one or more of a disc drive, e.g., for CDs, non-volatile storage for textual title and track information about the CDs and storing recorded content, and a communication link to receive broadcast or direct transmissions of recorded content. Also included is a communication device, such as an interface to a cellular telephone, an 802.11b network, or a Bluetooth network, that communicates with a remote database to obtain the textual information and a link to cover art from the remote database and displays the obtained data (plus the cover art obtained using the link) to the user. If recorded content is played back to the user when the system is not in communication with the remote database, information for identifying the content is stored and requested when the system is back in communication with the database.

Abstract: The audio information recording apparatus records audio information onto an information recording medium, with the audio information sectioned into predetermined data units (AOBUs). When soundless data and audio data are sequentially recorded as audio information onto the information recording medium, recoding is performed such that soundless data and audio data are separated from each other at a boundary between predetermined data units (AOBUs).

Abstract: A recording apparatus configured to receive analog video and audio signals, digitize and compress the same, and record the compressed audio and video signals on a digital recording medium such as an optical disk. As the audio and video signals are received and recorded, time segments of the audio signals are analyzed for certain features such as whether the time segment corresponds to instrumental music, vocal music or conversational speech. A table of contents is then generated corresponding to the feature analysis and digitally stored on the storage medium. As a result, the recorded audio is characterized over time, e.g., on a frame by frame basis. A high degree of versatility is thereby provided in the playback process, such as the ability to skip portions having certain audio types or to quickly scroll to desired portions of the recorded audio programs. Reproducing apparatuses enable the user to selectively reproduce segments of the recorded audio and video.

Abstract: A music reproducing apparatus is provided by which audio data or the like can be downloaded into an internal memory with ease. A connector portion that can be connected to a predetermined card slot of a data processing apparatus, an audio data memory, an audio reproducing circuit and an audio data outputting section are integrally incorporated within a card-type housing of a music reproducing apparatus and hence the music reproducing apparatus can be easily connected to a data processing apparatus such as a personal computer apparatus.

Abstract: A multi-channel audio reproducing apparatus includes audio power amplifiers, the number of which is smaller than the number of channels required for a multi-channel format of input audio signals. The multi-channel audio reproducing apparatus includes a decoder for decoding input audio signals, a plurality of audio power amplifiers, and a signal processor, arranged between the decoder and the plurality of audio power amplifiers, for receiving decoder output signals of a plurality of channels of a multi-channel format at the input channels thereof and for outputting, at the output channels thereof, audio signals of channels of the number smaller than the number of the plurality of audio power amplifiers. A controller controls the signal processor in response to setting information of the connection and installation of a plurality of speakers to which the outputs of the plurality of audio power amplifiers are respectively supplied.

Abstract: A hybrid recording medium includes a read-only area in which a file is previously recorded, and a write area capable of updating and recording the file, characterized in that volume configuration information 21 and VTOC 22 about a file system are recorded in the write area is used in an information record apparatus.

Abstract: A content distribution system is provided in a pseudo closed space like public facilities or establishments. The content distribution system includes a content distribution apparatus distributing content formed of digital information, and a plurality of users present within the pseudo closed space use respective portable content reception apparatuses to receive and reproduce the content. The content distribution apparatus also distributes a signal for enabling the content to be reproduced continuously by the content reception apparatus. Even if the content reception apparatus has received the content, it cannot reproduce the content when its user leaves the pseudo closed space and accordingly the reception apparatus cannot receive that signal from the content distribution apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ultraviolet-curable composition having satisfactory protective performance even in endurance testing at high temperature and high humidity in an optical recording medium having for its reflective film Ag or a metal and/or alloy having Ag for its main component, and an optical recording medium in which it is applied. A cured film of an ultraviolet-curable composition, for which the pH value of a 1 wt % methanol solution of said ultraviolet-curable composition is within the range of 4.5 to 6.8, is coated onto a reflective film in the form of a protective film.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for applying at the location of a studio reproducible data, for example sound data, on a data carrier, wherein at least a part of the data is produced by an interpreter, for example a vocalist, at the interpreter's location and transmitted to the studio. Different interpretations can be synchronized and evaluated by the interpreter before being applied to the data carrier. Printed information can also be transmitted from the interpreter's location or another location to the studio in conjunction with the transmission of sound data.

Abstract: A method of interconnecting a dual media component assembly for an automotive vehicle instrument panel includes the steps of mounting a first component to a first surface of a unitary bracket, fixing a second component to a second surface of the unitary bracket so as to create a dual component subassembly, and placing the subassembly within a chassis for mounting within the instrument panel.

Abstract: The invention relates to an entertainment system having a playback device for retrieving data from a recording medium and for generating a signal corresponding to the data, wherein the playback device includes a transparent door which covers the recording medium. The system further includes a speaker for converting the signal into acoustical energy and a display device for displaying operational information regarding the system, such as the track number of the selection being played back, time remaining, track title, volume level, the sound and/or CD play mode which has been selected and others, on the door.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the user interface of a multi-track recording device is described. An alphanumeric track display output a network track number for each track in the multi-track recording device. A display mode switch switches the track display to output other relevant status information regarding whether a track utilizes a standard gain and whether a track is slipped.

Abstract: An adapter enables the playback of various audio devices such as compact disc players and the like through a cassette player of either the front or side loading type. The adapter is provided with a user removable partial cover which permits repositioning of its external electrical conductor which is connected to the audio device. In this manner, the electrical conductor may be positioned so as not to interfere with the internal mechanisms within the cassette player during use.

Abstract: An electronic equipment controlled by a plurality of operation buttons, for example, for reproducing audio signal of a disc player, an audio tape recorder, a tuner, or an amplifier, etc. provides control circuits. A plurality of operation buttons are composed of: basic operation buttons for basic action of the electronic equipment, such as starting or stopping reproducing of the reproducing unit of a recording medium, music selection, and tuner selection and switching volume adjusting operation of an amplifier; additional function buttons associated with basic operation, such as random reproducing of a reproducing unit of a recording medium, adjusting of equalizing characteristic, and switching adjusting operation of tone quality or sound field, etc.. The control circuits are provided in the electronic equipment, and in the normal operation mode, switches overall operation in response to operation of both basic action and additional function buttons.

Abstract: A protocol for transferring audio data and control/status data between audio functional units. The protocol involves multiplexing the audio data and control/status data. The multiplexed data is then transferred between a first audio unit and a second audio unit on two wires, each corresponding to the direction of data flow, and according to a clock rate and a synchronization pattern on third and fourth wires respectively.

Abstract: A lyrics adapter allows a standard cassette player to play tapes for karaoke that contain the lyrics to the music and timing data associated therewith that are recorded as audio tones on the tape. The adapter detects silent periods greater than a predetermined length on the audio signals from the cassette player and converts the subsequent audio tones into a digital signal. When an end of message (EOM) code is detected, the adapter connects the audio signals containing music to external speakers. As the music plays, a central processing unit (CPU) calculates the elapsed time from the EOM code and transfers the data corresponding to the lyrics that are to displayed at that time thereby displaying the lyrics in real time and in synchronization with the music as it is being played.

Abstract: A portable audio unit has a main unit, such as a CD player or tape recorder. The main unit is connected to a control unit by a cable. Audio and control signals are transmitted by the cable. The control unit has a connector for an earphone. Audio signals are transmitted by the cable from the main unit, to the control unit and to a connected earphone. Control signals are transmitted from the control unit to the main unit for controlling functions such as volume, power, tape-play, etc. The main unit has a built-in winder that stores and retrieves the cable. The control unit may be attached to the main unit when the cord is wound up and stored. With the control unit attached and the cable stored in side the main unit, the portable audio unit may still be operated by the control unit which forms a built-in control panel. With the cable extended, the control unit may be used as a remote control permitting the main unit to be placed in a handbag or pocket.

Abstract: A portable audio device having the functions of a cassette tape recorder, a compact disc player and an AM/FM tuner includes a slimmed body provided with the cassette tape recorder, the compact disc player and the AM/FM tuner, and at least one cover, provided on the slimmed body, for covering the cassette tape recorder and the compact disc player. The slimmed body and the at least one cover are formed to resemble a notebook.

Abstract: A cassette adapter has a cassette which is inserted into a cassette insertion portion of a signal playback device. The cassette is provided with an operation state detection means and a control signal output means. An acoustic device is controlled corresponding to an operation state on the basis of the signal detected with the control signal output means, thereby controlling the operation of the acoustic device in synchronization with the playback device.

Abstract: A sound repeater unit is to be used with an audio input equipment, such as a cassette or video tape recorder, and an audio output equipment, such as a television set or a loudspeaker. The audio input equipment has a control unit which is actuated so as to operate the audio input equipment in a paused state. The sound repeater unit includes a pause control circuit receiving an activating signal from the control unit and a programmable signal repeating circuit controlled by the pause control circuit so as to record continuously an audio frequency output of the audio input equipment while overwriting a previously recorded audio frequency output of the latter. The pause control circuit further controls the signal repeating circuit so as to output repeatedly a portion of the audio frequency output, which portion was recorded within a predetermined time period immediately before the audio input equipment was paused.

Abstract: A data reproducing apparatus includes a reproducing section for reproducing digital data and whose reproducing state is controlled by a signal transmitted in a wireless fashion to thereby output reproduced data as digital data, and a control section for transmitting a reproducing position information to the reproducing section in a wireless fashion and decoding the digital data from the reproducing section such that, when it is determined that the data is necessary data, the data is stored in the control section, wherein a track number information near the position in which the necessary data is recorded is transmitted from the control section to the reproducing section through a wireless signal to thereby reproduce the necessary data.

Abstract: Audio subliminal recordings are made in which in addition to using a primary carrier, such as music, two audio channels are used to deliver subliminal messages to the brain. On one channel, accessing the left brain hemisphere, the message delivered is meaningfully spoken, forward-masked, permissive affirmations delivered in a round-robin manner by a male voice, a female voice and a child's voice. On the other channel, accessing the right brain, directive messages, in the same voices, are recorded in backward-masked (or meta-contrast). The three voices are recording in round-robin fashion with full echo reverberation. The audio tracks are mixed using a special processor which converts sound frequencies to electrical impulses and tracks the subliminal message to synchronize the subliminal message in stereo with the primary carrier.

Abstract: In order to utilize standard tape players in automobiles to play compact disks, CD adapters are provided which play the CD output through the tape system of the automobile. This invention provides an in-line audio enhancement encapsulated device, manually operable by a driver to switch in the audio enhancement circuitry and adjust the audio signals produced in an efficient and safe manner so that it can be operated while a car is driven without the driver taking his eyes off the road. A bass boost circuit (24) is specifically disclosed to enhance the low frequency audio signals procuced by the automobile's audio system.

Abstract: A synchronizing system for use with a plurality of digital signal reproducers includes a plurality of digital signal reproducers, each having a digital I/O modulator, a digital I/O demodulator and a decoder; a digital signal multiplexer supplied with the output signal from the plurality of digital signal reproducers, and for producing a frame synchronizing signal, a plural channel of digital signals; the digital signal multiplexer including a clock pulse generator, a word synchronizing signal generator, a digital I/O modulator and a digital I/O demodulator. The corresponding digital I/O modulator and digital I/O demodulator are coupled to each other so as to synchronize the plurality of digital signal reproducers.

Abstract: A combination portable magnetic tape cassette player and multiband radio receiver in which the sensitive elements of the radio receiver are arranged within a hinged, plastic cover of the combined apparatus and the circuitry of the radio receiver is formed on a printed circuit board having an AM band antenna mounted thereto, whereby the AM receiver antenna is electro-magnetically unshielded by the plastic cover and the combined tape player and radio receiver is of a size substantially equal to that of the tape player alone.

Abstract: A combination portable magnetic tape cassette player and multiband radio receiver in which the sensitive elements of the radio receiver are arranged within a hinged, plastic cover of the combined apparatus and the circuitry of the radio receiver is formed on a printed circuit board having an AM band antenna mounted thereto, whereby the AM receiver antenna is electromagnetically unshielded by the plastic cover and the combined tape player and radio receiver is of a size substantially equal to that of the tape player alone.