Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to personal vocal monitor systems.

Background

It can be difficult for a vocal performer, for example a singer, to hear themselves clearly on stage. This can lead to vocal performance concerns and/or vocal health concerns. For example, over-singing can lead to a loss of voice and, potentially, career- ending vocal problems.

A public address (PA) system is audience-facing and does not serve as a personal vocal monitor for a performer. In particular, the PA mix is optimised for the audience and not for the performer.

Some venues have a performer-facing stage monitor system via which a sound engineer can create a monitor mix for the performer. However, the monitor mix may include sound from musical instruments and may not be optimised for a vocal performer. For example, the monitor mix may be undesirably bass-heavy as a result of the stage monitor system using a single, full-range loudspeaker, rather than a vocally- optimised loudspeaker. Further, stage monitor systems can be difficult to transport because of their size and weight. In addition, the performer has limited control, in practice, over the monitor mix and is reliant upon the sound engineer to tailor the monitor mix for the performer.

A performer may use in-ear monitors (IEMs). However, IEMs can leave a performer feeling disconnected from the audience and can lead to unnatural performances. IEMs are also generally used in larger venues.

Existing personal vocal monitors can provide a monitor mix tailored for a vocal performer.

Summary

According to first embodiments, there is provided a personal vocal monitor system, comprising:

a handheld microphone comprising: a volume control user interface;

a controller operable to generate volume control command data in response to user interaction with the volume control user interface; and

an output interface operable to transmit the volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance by a performer, to enable the performer to control a volume at which the vocal performance is played back to the performer via a personal vocal monitor. According to second embodiments, there is provided a personal vocal monitor system, comprising:

data processing equipment comprising:

an input interface arranged to receive, from an output interface of a handheld microphone having a volume control user interface, volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance; and

an output interface arranged to transmit, to a personal vocal monitor, (a) the volume control command data and the vocal performance data and/or (b) volume-adjusted vocal performance data based on the volume control command data and the vocal performance data, whereby to enable a performer using the handheld microphone to control a volume at which the vocal performance is played back to the performer via the personal vocal monitor.

According to third embodiments, there is provided a personal vocal monitor system, comprising:

a personal vocal monitor comprising an input interface configured to receive: volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance, the volume control command data and the vocal performance data having been transmitted from an output interface of a handheld microphone having a volume control user interface; and/or volume-adjusted vocal performance data based on the volume control command data and the vocal performance data, whereby to enable a performer using the handheld microphone to control a volume at which the vocal performance is played back to the performer via the personal vocal monitor. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 shows a block diagram of an example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a front view of an example of a microphone in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 3 shows a schematic representation of a front perspective view of the example microphone shown in Figure 2;

Figure 4 shows a schematic representation of a right-hand side view of the example microphone shown in Figure 2;

Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of a front perspective view of another example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of an example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 5 in a first configuration;

Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 6 in a second configuration;

Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a front perspective view of another example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 5;

Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of an underneath perspective view of another example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 5;

Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a front view of an example part of an example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of a right-hand side view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 10;

Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 10; Figure 13 shows a schematic representation of a rear view of a portion of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 10;

Figure 14 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of an example portion of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 10;

Figure 15 shows a schematic representation of an underneath perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 10 in a first configuration;

Figure 16 shows a schematic representation of an underneath perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 15 in a second configuration;

Figure 17 shows a schematic representation of a front view of another example part of an example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 18 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 17 in a first configuration;

Figure 19 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 18 in a second configuration;

Figure 20 shows a schematic representation of a front view of another example part of an example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 21 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example part of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 20;

Figure 22 shows a schematic representation of a front perspective view of another example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment;

Figure 23 shows a schematic representation of a rear perspective view of the example personal vocal monitor system shown in Figure 22; and

Figure 24 shows a schematic representation of an above view of another example of a personal vocal monitor system in accordance with an embodiment. Detailed Description

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown schematically an example of a personal vocal monitor system 100. In accordance with some examples described herein, the personal vocal monitor system 100 enables a performer to have enhanced control over their vocal performance, compared to existing personal vocal monitors. In particular, in accordance with some examples described herein, the performer can control the volume at which the vocal performance is played back to them. The volume at which the vocal performance is played back to the performer is referred to herein as the “feedback volume”. In accordance with some examples described herein, the performer can control the volume in real-time during a performance. The personal vocal monitor system 100 can give performers control over their own sound, for example to improve vocal performance and/or protect vocal health. Further, the personal vocal monitor system 100 can give performers control over their own sound and provides equipment they can bring with them to a performance, without compromising the sound mix the audience hears from the PA system. The personal vocal monitor system 100 may thereby enhance vocal performance and health.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises a microphone 200. In this example, the microphone 200 comprises an input interface 201, a controller 202 and an output interface 203. In this example, the input interface 201 comprises a transducer element configured to convert sound corresponding to a vocal performance to vocal performance data. The vocal performance data may comprise an electrical signal, a digital representation of the vocal performance etc. In this example, the input interface 201 also comprises a volume control user interface, described in more detail below. In this example, the controller 202 is operable to generate volume control command data in response to interaction, by the performer, with the volume control user interface. The volume control command data may, for example, indicate a command from the performer to increase or decrease the feedback volume. In this example, the output interface 203 is operable to transmit the volume control command data and the vocal performance data. In this example, the microphone 200 is a wireless microphone and the output interface 203 comprises a wireless output interface. In other examples, the microphone 200 is not a wireless microphone. For example, the microphone 200 may be wired. In this example, the wireless output interface 203 comprises a radio-frequency (RF) transmitter. In this example, the wireless output interface 203 comprises a Bluetooth™ interface. In this specific example, the wireless output interface 203 comprises a Bluetooth™ 5 interface. Bluetooth™ 5 can provide high-quality, wireless transmission of audio data at ranges of up to several hundred metres, can support data transfer rates of up to 2Mbps, and can support twin channel communications. A wireless personal vocal monitor system may be easier and quicker for the performer to set up than a wired personal vocal monitor system. A wireless personal vocal monitor system may give a performer more on-stage freedom of movement than a wired personal vocal monitor system. A wireless personal vocal monitor system may reduce the risk associated with a performer tripping over and/or inadvertently unplugging wires or cables compared to a wired personal vocal monitor system.

Although not depicted in Figure 1, in this example the microphone 200 comprises a battery. In this example, the battery of the microphone 200 is a rechargeable battery. In this example, the battery may be recharged wirelessly. This may enable the microphone 200 to provide fully wireless operation without interruption. In some examples, the microphone 200 comprises different components to those depicted, by way of example, in Figure 1.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises data processing equipment 300. In this example, the data processing equipment 300 comprises an input interface 301, a controller 302 and an output interface 303. In this example, the data processing equipment 300 is in the form of a hub and will generally be referred to hereinafter as such. In this example, the input interface 301 comprises a wireless input interface. In this example, the wireless input interface 301 comprises an RF receiver. In this example, the wireless input interface 301 comprises a Bluetooth™ interface. In this specific example, the wireless input interface 301 comprises a Bluetooth™ 5 interface. As such, in this example, the microphone 200 can communicate with the hub 300 wirelessly, via a Bluetooth™ 5 connection. In this example, the output interface 303 comprises a wireless output interface and a wired output interface. In other examples, the output interface 303 comprises one but not both of a wireless output interface and a wired output interface. Having both wireless and wired output interfaces provides additional flexibility compared to having only one type of output interface.

Although not depicted in Figure 1, in this example the hub 300 comprises an amplifier. In addition, although not depicted in Figure 1, in this example, the hub 300 also comprises a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery in the hub 300 may be selected to have, for example, at least a six-hour battery life. This may provide sufficient battery life for typical performances conducted by the performer. The rechargeable battery in the hub 300 may provide power to one or more components of the personal vocal monitor system 100 in addition to the hub 300 itself. For example, as will be described in more detail below, the rechargeable battery in the hub 300 may provide power to the microphone 200 for recharging the rechargeable battery of the microphone 200. In some examples, the hub 300 comprises different components to those depicted, by way of example, in Figure 1.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises a personal vocal monitor 400. In this example, the vocal performance monitor 400 comprises an input interface 401, a controller 402 and an output interface 403. In this example, the input interface 401 comprises a wired input interface. The personal vocal monitor 400 may comprise one or more loudspeaker units and/or one or more IEMs, described in more detail below. In some examples, the personal vocal monitor 400 comprises different components to those depicted, by way of example, in Figure 1.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises electronic equipment 500. In some examples, the electronic equipment 500 comprises a mixing console. In some examples, the electronic equipment 500 comprises a PA system. In some examples, the electronic equipment 500 comprises a vocal performance recording system. In some examples, the electronic equipment 500 comprises a vocal performance analytics system.

In this example, a performer conducts a vocal performance, which is captured via the transducer element of the input interface 201 of the microphone 200. The vocal performance may comprise singing and/or speech. The performer may, for example, be a singer, a public speaker etc. In this example, the performer also controls the feedback volume via interaction with the volume control user interface of the input interface 201 of the microphone 200. In this example, the controller 202 of the microphone 200 causes volume control command data and vocal performance data representing the vocal performance to be transmitted via the output interface 203 of the microphone 200. The volume control command data and the vocal performance data may be transmitted at the same time as each other or at different times. The volume control command data may be transmitted when the performer is not presently performing (for example singing). For example, the performer may control the feedback volume before their performance starts. In such examples, the performer may, for example, set the feedback volume to a predetermined level such that the performer is likely to be able to hear themselves sufficiently clearly when the performance starts.

In this example, the volume control command data and the vocal performance data are transmitted wirelessly to the input interface 301 of the hub 300. In this example, the controller 302 of the hub 300 receives the volume control command data and the vocal performance data wirelessly from the microphone 200.

In this example, the controller 302 of the hub 300 causes the volume control command data and the vocal performance data to be transmitted via the output interface 303 of the hub 300 to the input interface 401 of the vocal performance monitor 400. In this example, the controller 402 of the vocal performance monitor 400 receives the volume control command data and adjusts the feedback volume of the vocal performance monitor 400 based on the volume control command data. For example, the controller 402 of the vocal performance monitor 400 may increase or decrease the feedback volume. In this example, the controller 402 of the vocal performance monitor 400 causes the vocal performance data to be output via the output interface 403 of the vocal performance monitor 400 at the adjusted feedback volume.

In this example, the controller 302 of the hub 300 also causes the vocal performance data to be transmitted via the output interface 303 of the hub 300 to the electronic equipment 500. In this example, the controller 302 of the hub 300 does not cause the volume control command data to be transmitted to the electronic equipment 500. However, in other examples, the volume control command data may be transmitted to the electronic equipment 500. The vocal performance data may be transmitted to the electronic equipment 500 in various different ways. For example, the vocal performance data may be transmitted wirelessly (for example, by Bluetooth™) or by a wired connection. This provides flexible set-up options. As such, in this example, a volume level of the vocal performance data transmitted to the electronic equipment 500 is independent of the volume control command data received from the microphone 200. In this example, the vocal performance data transmitted to the electronic equipment 500 is unaffected by the adjustment by the performer of the feedback volume. As such, the performer may control the feedback volume in real-time, without directly affecting the volume of, for example, the PA mix heard by the audience.

In some examples, the controller 302 of the hub 300 generates volume-adjusted vocal performance data using the volume control command data and the vocal performance data received via the input interface 301 of the hub 300. Generating the volume-adjusted vocal performance data may comprise adjusting (for example increasing or decreasing) the amplitude (or“volume level”) of the representation of the vocal performance in the vocal performance data. In such examples, the controller 302 of the hub 300 may cause the volume-adjusted vocal performance data to be transmitted via the output interface 303 of the hub 300 to the input interface 401 of the personal vocal monitor 400. In such examples, the controller 402 of the personal vocal monitor 400 may cause the volume-adjusted vocal performance data to be output via the output interface 403 of the personal vocal monitor 400. In such examples, the controller 302 of the of the hub 300 may cause the (unadjusted) vocal performance data to be transmitted via the output interface 303 of the of the hub 300 to the electronic equipment 500.

In some examples, the controller 202 of the microphone 200 causes both the volume control command data and the vocal performance data to be transmitted to the input interface 301 of the hub 300. In some examples, the controller 202 of the microphone 200 causes one or both of the volume control command data and the vocal performance data to be transmitted directly to the input interface 401 of the vocal performance monitor 400, as an alternative to or in addition to causing the volume control command data and the vocal performance data to be transmitted to the input interface 301 of the hub 300. For example, the controller 202 of the microphone 200 may cause the volume control command data to be transmitted directly to the input interface 401 of the vocal performance monitor 400 and may cause the vocal performance data to be transmitted to the input interface 301 of the hub 300. The controller 302 of the hub 300 may process the vocal performance data and transmit the processed vocal performance data to the input interface 401 of the vocal performance monitor 400. Such processing by the controller 302 of the hub 300 may comprise applying one or more effects to the vocal performance data, for example. Such processing by the controller 302 of the hub 300 may comprise transmitting the vocal performance data to one or more other components of the personal vocal monitor system 100. The one or more other components of the personal vocal monitor system 100 may applying one or more effects to the vocal performance data and return the resulting vocal performance data to the hub 300. An example of the other component of the personal vocal monitor system 100 is the mobile computing device described in more detail below.

The example controllers 202, 302, 402 described above may take different forms. For example, the controllers 202, 302, 402 may comprise microprocessors. The microphone 200, hub 300 and/or personal vocal monitor 400 may comprise one or more memories. One or more computer programs comprising computer-readable instructions may be stored in the one or more memories. The controllers 202, 302, 402 may be configured to execute the computer-readable instructions and perform at least some of the methods and techniques described herein as result.

Referring to Figures 2 to 4, there is shown schematically an example of a microphone 200. The microphone 200 may be used during a vocal performance by a performer. The microphone 200 may provide the performer with more control over their vocal performance than existing microphones.

In this example, the microphone 200 is a handheld microphone. Another type of microphone is a headset microphone. A handheld microphone is configured to be held in the hand of a performer. A handheld microphone may, however, be clipped onto a microphone clip of a microphone stand.

In this example, the handheld microphone 200 comprises a housing (or“body”), which comprises a gripping portion 210 and a non-gripping portion 220. The gripping portion 210 is the portion of the microphone 200 intended to be gripped by the performer and the non-gripping portion 220 of the microphone 200 is the portion of the microphone 200 intended not to be gripped by the performer. In this example, the non gripping portion 220 comprises various user-interaction elements 230, 240, 250, 260 described in more detail below. By arranging the user-interaction elements 230, 240, 250, 260 in the non-gripping portion 220, rather than in the gripping portion 210, inadvertent interaction by the performer with the user-interaction elements 230, 240, 250, 260 may be reduced.

In some examples, the microphone 200 is configured to enable the performer to interact with some or all of the user-interaction elements 230, 240, 250, 260 with the hand they are using to grip the microphone 200. This can provide the performer with enhanced on-microphone control compared to existing microphones.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a power button 230. The power button 230 may be used to turn the microphone 200 on or off. As such, power may be conserved when the microphone 200 is not being used. In this specific example in which the microphone 200 comprises a rechargeable battery, this can in turn reduce the frequency at which the rechargeable battery of microphone 200 is to be recharged. In some examples, the microphone 200 is turned on or off in response to the power button 230 being pressed. In such examples, the performer can turn the microphone 200 on or off quickly. In some examples, the microphone 200 is turned on or off in response to the power button 230 being held down for a predetermined amount of time. In such examples, the risk of the performer accidentally turning off the microphone 200 during a performance may be reduced. The power button 230 may be caused to illuminate in a given manner when the microphone 200 is powered on and may be caused to illuminate in another manner, or not to illuminate at all, when the microphone 200 is powered off. As such, the performer can readily identify whether the microphone 200 is on or off.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a power indicator 240. In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a rechargeable battery and the power indicator 240 indicates a battery level of the rechargeable battery. As such, the performer can readily identify whether the microphone 200 has sufficient charge for all or part of a performance. If the microphone 200 does not have sufficient charge, the performer can recharge the rechargeable battery. In other examples in which the battery is not a rechargeable battery, the performer may replace, rather than recharge, the battery.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a volume control user interface 250. In this example, the volume control user interface 250 is used to control the feedback volume. As such, the performer can be in control of the feedback volume themselves, for example without having to rely on a sound engineer. For example, the performer can increase the feedback volume themselves if they cannot hear themselves sufficiently clearly and/or loudly via interaction with the volume control user interface 250.

In this example, the volume control user interface 250 comprises a plurality of buttons 251, 252.

In this example, one of the buttons 251 corresponds to a volume-up button 251. In this example, user interaction with the volume-up button 251 causes the controller of the microphone 200 to generate to generate volume control command data comprising a command to increase the feedback volume. Increasing the feedback volume in this way may cause the feedback volume to be incremented by a predetermined amount. Where the feedback volume is currently at a maximum feedback volume level, the feedback volume may not be increased further in response to the volume-up command. The performer may be alerted to the maximum feedback volume level having been reached via an audible and/or visual alert.

In this example, one of the buttons 252 corresponds to a volume-down button 252. In this example, user interaction with the volume-down button 252 causes the controller of the microphone 200 to generate to generate volume control command data comprising a command to decrease the feedback volume. Decreasing the feedback volume in this way may cause the feedback volume to be decremented by a predetermined amount. Where the feedback volume is currently at a minimum feedback volume level, the feedback volume may not be decreased further in response to the volume-up command. The performer may be alerted to the minimum feedback volume level having been reached via an audible and/or visual alert.

In some examples, the volume control user interface 250 comprises a volume- mute button. In such examples example, user interaction with the volume-mute button causes the controller of the microphone 200 to generate volume control command data comprising a command to mute the feedback volume. The performer may be alerted to the feedback volume volume level having been muted via an audible and/or visual alert.

Where the volume control user interface 250 has two buttons, for example the volume-up and volume-down buttons 251, 252, the volume control command data may be a one-bit value. For example, a value of “1” may indicate a volume increase command and a value of“0” may indicate a volume decrease demand. A greater number of bits may be used to convey the volume control command data.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a wireless connectivity control button 260. The wireless connectivity control button 260 may be used to control wireless connectivity of the microphone 200. In this example, in which the microphone has Bluetooth™ functionality, the wireless connectivity control button 260 may be configured to cause the microphone 200 to enter discovery mode. In some examples, the microphone 200 enters discovery mode when the wireless connectivity control button 260 is pressed. In some examples, the microphone 200 enters discovery mode when the wireless connectivity control button 260 is held down for a predetermined time period. The wireless connectivity control button 260 may illuminate in a predetermined manner when the microphone 200 is in discovery mode. For example, the wireless connectivity control button 260 may flash for a predetermined amount of time. In the discovery mode, the microphone 200 may be discovered by, and paired with, other Bluetooth™ devices within range of the microphone 200. In particular, in this example, the microphone 200 may be paired with the hub 300. The microphone 200 may exit discovery mode if the microphone 200 is not paired with another device within a predetermined time period. This can help to conserve battery life. The wireless connectivity control button 260 may illuminate in a predetermined manner when the microphone 200 is paired with another device. For example, the wireless connectivity control button 260 may emit blue light. In other examples, the microphone 200 does not comprise the wireless connectivity control button 260. For example, the microphone 200 may enter discovery mode once the microphone 200 is powered on, without requiring further user input to place the microphone 200 into discovery mode. The microphone 200 may enter discovery mode in this way for a predetermined amount of time following tum-on. This may result in less complicated set up.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a further user-interaction element in the form of a hot button 270. In this example, the hot button 270 is configured to enable the performer to select, while the microphone 200 is powered on, between (a) the volume control user interface 250 being active such that volume control command data is transmitted in response to user interaction with the volume control user interface 250, and (b) the volume control user interface 250 being inactive such that volume control command data is not transmitted in response to user interaction with the volume control user interface 250. The volume control user interface 250 may be illuminated in a given manner when active and may be illuminated in another manner, or not illuminated at all, when inactive. In this example, the hot button 270 is on a base portion of the microphone 200. Arranging the hot button 270 is on a base portion of the microphone 200 may reduce the likelihood of the performer inadvertently pressing the hot button 270 during a performance. As such, in this example, once the microphone 200 has been paired with the hub 300, the performer can press the hot button 270 to allow the feedback volume to be adjusted. The microphone 200 may be configured such that the volume control user interface 250 becomes inactive if the performer does not interact with the volume control user interface 250 within a predetermined period of time from the volume control user interface 250 becoming active. Alternatively or additionally, the microphone 200 may be configured such that the volume control user interface 250 becomes inactive if the performer presses the hot button 270 when the volume control user interface 250 is active.

In this example, the microphone 200 comprises a wireless power receiver to enable the rechargeable battery of the microphone 200 to be recharged wirelessly. This can facilitate charging of the rechargeable battery of the microphone 200 compared to the rechargeable battery being charged via a charging cable. For example, the rechargeable battery of the microphone 200 may be readily charged during a performance without the performer having to connect a charging cable to the microphone 200.

As such, a performer using the microphone 200 can control the feedback volume based on their interaction with the volume control user interface 250. The performer may thereby be able to have better control of their feedback volume, in real-time during a performance, compared, for example, to a system in which the feedback volume is controlled by a sound engineer. While, in theory, a performer can ask the sound engineer to adjust the feedback volume during a performance, this can detract from the performance and audience enjoyment, especially mid-song for a singer. The performer may also have more reliable control over the feedback volume than where the feedback volume is controlled by a sound engineer as the sound engineer may miss or choose not to follow a request from the performer to adjust the feedback volume. Further, the feedback volume control may be performed in a relatively inconspicuous manner from the perspective of the audience, with a relatively high degree of transparency to the audience, compared, for example to the performer signalling to the sound engineer to adjust the volume. Since the performer will generally be in close proximity to the microphone 200 during a performance, the performer will generally have the volume control user interface 250 within arm’s reach. In addition, feedback volume control may be performed in a more reliable manner compared to systems in which the feedback volume is controlled by a sound engineer as the performer can fine-tune the feedback volume to a preferred level during the performance.

Referring to Figures 5 to 9, there is shown schematically an example microphone stand 600 holding an example microphone 200. As explained above, a handheld microphone may be used on a microphone stand.

In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a wireless power transmitter arrangement. In this example, the wireless power transmitter arrangement comprises a plurality of wireless power transmitters. However, in other examples, the wireless power transmitter arrangement comprises a single wireless power transmitter.

In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a microphone clip (or “microphone cradle”) 610. In this example, the wireless power transmitter arrangement is at least partly in the microphone clip 610. As such, in this example, the microphone 200 can be powered wirelessly while clipped into the microphone clip 610.

In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a mobile computing device holder (or“mobile computing device cradle”) 620. In this example, the wireless power transmitter arrangement is at least partly in the mobile computing device holder 620. In this example, the mobile computing device holder 620 is configured to hold a mobile computing device 700. As such, in this example, the mobile computing device 700 can be powered wirelessly while mounted in the mobile computing device holder 620. Examples of mobile computing devices include, but are not limited to, smartphones and tablet computing devices. The performer may use the mobile computing device 700 to control one or more aspects of the vocal performance. For example, the performer may use the mobile computing device 700 to cause a backing track to be played. The backing track may be stored on the computing device 700 or may be streamed. The performer may use the mobile computing device 700 to select one or more vocal tone settings. The performer may use the mobile computing device 700 to apply one or more vocal effects. The performer may use the mobile computing device 700 to record a performance. The mobile computing device 700 may be configured to analyse a vocal performance. Such analysis may occur in real-time during a performance and/or may occur after the performance has been completed. Such analysis may, for example, provide feedback on tuning, straining etc. A dedicated software application may be provided for the mobile computing device 700 in order to provide the mobile computing device 700 with this functionality. The dedicated software application may, for example, be downloaded from a software application repository. Vocal performance settings may be pre-programmed for different songs. For example, a performer may pre-program, ahead of a performance, first vocal tone and/or vocal effect settings for a first song, second vocal tone and/or vocal effect settings for a second song and so on. During the performance, the performer can cycle through the pre-programmed settings, rather than having to configure the settings in real-time for each song.

In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a base 630. In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a power cable 640. In this example, the power cable 640 is used to provide power to the wireless power transmitter arrangement. For example, the power cable 640 may run inside the microphone stand 600 to the wireless power transmitter arrangement. In this example, the power cable

640 comprises a plug 641 at a distal end of the power cable 640. In this example, the plug 641 comprises a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. In this example, the plug

641 can be connected to the hub 300 to allow direct tethering and charging from the hub 300. In this example, a self-retracting cable reel 650 is arranged in the base 630. In this example, the power cable 640 is arranged on the self-retracting cable reel 650. As such, in this example, the power cable 640 can be readily stored when not in use. In this example, the self-retracting cable reel 650 is arranged in a compartment 660 in the base 630. In this example, the compartment 660 comprises a wall 670 extending from the underside of the base 630 of the microphone stand 600. In this example, the wall 670 has an opening 671 for the power cable 640. This can provide enhanced stability to the microphone stand 600 compared to the opening 671 not being provided. In this example, the base 630 of the microphone stand 600 comprises two dedicated feet 680. In this example, the wall 670 also serves as a third foot for the microphone stand 600.

In this example, the microphone stand 600 comprises a foldable microphone stand stem 690. In this example, the folding microphone stand 600 allows the height of the microphone stand 600 to be readily adjusted, for example for storage. In some examples, the height of the microphone stand 600 may be adjusted in a different manner, for example by the microphone stand 600 being telescopic. In this example, the foldable microphone stand stem 690 has three interlocking elements 691 comprising top, middle and bottom interlocking elements 691. In this example, the bottom interlocking element 691 is secured to the base 630 of the microphone stand, the middle interlocking element 691 is slotted into the top of the bottom interlocking element 691, and the top interlocking element 691 is slotted into the top of the middle interlocking element 691. A microphone boom 692 is slid into a channel through the top interlocking element 691. The height of the microphone boom 692 may be adjusted by sliding the microphone boom 692 in the channel.

Referring to Figures 10 to 16, there is shown schematically an example personal vocal monitor stand 800 holding an example personal vocal monitor 400 and having, at a base 810 of the vocal monitor stand 800, an example hub 300.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor 400 comprises a loudspeaker unit 410. As such, in this example, the vocal monitor stand 800 comprises a loudspeaker unit stand 800. The loudspeaker unit 410 may enable the performer to hear a vocally- optimised monitor mix, without having to wear an IEM. However, in some examples, the performer may use the loudspeaker unit 410 in conjunction with one or more IEMs. In this example, the loudspeaker unit 410 is mounted off-the-ground on the loudspeaker unit stand 800. Raising the loudspeaker unit 410 closer to the performer can result in clearer sound for the performer than if the loudspeaker unit 410 were on the ground. However, a raised loudspeaker unit 410 can be unstable in view of its weight and can obscure the performer. In this example, the loudspeaker unit 410 is in the region of 0.5 metres to 1 metre in height. This may provide relatively clear sound while not significantly obscuring the performer and while providing a reasonable degree of stability. In this example, the loudspeaker unit 410 is tiltably mounted on the loudspeaker unit stand 800. As such, the angle of the loudspeaker unit 410 can be adjusted, such that the loudspeaker unit 410 is angled upwards towards the performer. Angling the loudspeaker unit 410 towards the performer can provided clearer sound for the performer, compared to the loudspeaker unit 410 not being angled towards the performer. Having the loudspeaker unit 410 positioned below the performer may result in the loudspeaker unit 410 being relatively unobtrusive. Further, by being able to tilt the loudspeaker unit 410, the loudspeaker unit 410 can be used by performers of different heights. The loudspeaker unit 410 may comprise a vocally-focussed speaker array.

The height-adjustable nature of the example microphone stand 600 and loudspeaker unit stand 800 may enable the microphone 200 and loudspeaker unit 410 respectively to be arranged in the best positions for seated and standing performances. Moving the loudspeaker unit 410 closer to the ears of the performer reduces the sound pressure level (SPL) used compared to the loudspeaker unit 410 being at a greater distance from the ears of the performer. This, in turn, means a smaller speaker unit can be used. This can reduce the obscuring of the performer and can also reduce potential ear damage to the performer. For example, reducing the distance between the loudspeaker unit 410 and the ears of the performer by one metre halves the SPL requirement. This can enhance performance compared to a floor-mounted speaker.

In this example, the loudspeaker unit 410 comprises a volume control user interface 420. In this example, the volume control user interface 420 of the loudspeaker unit 410 is additional to the volume control user interface 250 of the microphone 200. Adjusting the feedback using the volume control user interface 250 of the microphone 200 may be less noticeable to an audience, but providing the volume control user interface 420 on the loudspeaker unit 410 provides additional flexibility for feedback volume adjustment, for example if the performer is not using the microphone 200 when they wish to adjust the feedback volume. In this example, the volume control user interface 420 is operable to enable the feedback volume to be controlled based on user input received via the volume control user interface 420. In this example, the volume control user interface 420 comprises a volume-up button 421. In this example, user interaction with the volume-up button 421 causes the feedback volume to be increased. In this example, the volume control user interface 420 comprises a volume-down button 422. In this example, user interaction with the volume-down button 422 causes the feedback volume to be decreased. In this example, the volume control user interface 420 comprises a volume level indicator 423. In this example, the volume level indicator 423 indicates the current feedback volume level. The volume level indicator 423 may, for example, indicate the current feedback volume level as a whole number from zero to eleven inclusive. A feedback volume level of zero may indicate that the feedback volume is muted, a feedback volume level of one may indicate a minimum audible feedback volume and a feedback volume level of eleven may indicate a maximum feedback volume. A different number of feedback levels could be used. A larger number of feedback levels may enable subtler changes in feedback volume to be made compared to a smaller number of feedback levels. As such, the performer can readily identify the current feedback volume level. For example, if the performer can see that the feedback volume level is currently at the maximum level, the performer may determine that they cannot increase the feedback volume further and may, for example, avoid pressing the volume-up button 421.

In this example, the hub 300 comprises a power socket 310. In this example, the power socket 310 comprises a USB socket. In this example, the plug 641 of the power cable 640 of the microphone stand 600 can be connected to the power socket 310 of the hub 300 to provide power to the microphone stand 600. In this example, the hub 300 comprises several jack sockets 320. In this example, the hub 300 comprises an XLR socket 330. In some examples, at least one of the jack sockets 320 and/or the XLR socket 330 comprises an input socket to allow audio to be input to the hub 300. For example, a musical instrument may be connected via a cable to the input socket. In some examples, at least one of the jack sockets 320 and/or the XLR socket 330 comprises an output socket to allow audio to be output by the hub 300. For example, vocal performance data may be output to the electronic equipment 500 via the output socket. In this example, the hub 300 comprises a power button 340. In this example, the hub 300 comprises a wireless connectivity control button 350. In this example, the hub 300 does not comprise any loudspeakers.

In this example, the hub 300 is arranged to receive the vocal performance data and the volume control command data from the microphone 200. In some examples, the hub 300 is arranged to transmit, to the loudspeaker unit 410, the vocal performance data and the volume control command data. The hub 300 may transmit such data via a wired connection and/or via a wireless connection, depending, for example, on the connectivity between the hub 300 and the loudspeaker unit 410.

In some examples, the hub 300 is arranged to transmit, to the loudspeaker unit 410, volume-adjusted vocal performance data based on the vocal performance data and the volume control command data. Such examples may be effective where the loudspeaker unit 410 has limited functionality and cannot, for example, adjust the feedback volume itself.

In some examples, the hub 300 is arranged to modify an acoustic characteristic setting that affects how the vocal performance is played back to the performer via loudspeaker unit 410 in response to determining, by analysing the vocal performance data, that an acoustic characteristic associated with the vocal performance is different from a target acoustic characteristic. As such, the hub 300 can intelligently adjust the sound played back to the performer to be closer to a target (or“benchmark”) sound. Examples of acoustic characteristics include, but are not limited to, vocal tone characteristics and vocal effect characteristics. In some examples, the hub 300 adjusts an equalisation setting towards a target equalisation setting. This may involve reducing one or more equalisation settings corresponding to one or more given frequency bands. The hub 300 and/or the mobile computing device 700 may be configured to detect undesired feedback and reduce the offending frequencies to stifle the feedback loop before it becomes audible to the performer. This may be performed in real time. A consistent vocal sound for the performer may be achieved by setting a benchmark tone as heard by the performer. In some examples, the performer records a test voice using the hub 300 and/or using the mobile computing device 700 and can adjust the sound as heard by the performer. The microphone 200 and/or the mobile computing device 700 listens to the sound, matches it to the previous benchmark tone, and makes the relevant adjustments. This can compensate for the particular room or setting acoustics.

In some examples, the hub 300 is arranged to use the modified acoustic characteristic setting to transmit to the loudspeaker unit 410 data indicative of the modified acoustic characteristic setting. In such examples, the loudspeaker unit 410 may apply the modified acoustic characteristic setting to the vocal performance played back to the performer. In some examples, the hub 300 is arranged to use the modified acoustic characteristic setting to generate the volume-adjusted vocal performance data based further on the modified vocal performance effect setting. In such examples, the hub 300 can, itself, apply the modified acoustic characteristic setting to the vocal performance played back to the performer.

In this example, loudspeaker unit stand 800 comprises a power cable 820. In this example, the power cable 820 is a retractable power cable 820. In this example, the power cable 820 comprises a plug 821 at a distal end of the power cable 820. In this example, the base 810 of the loudspeaker unit stand 800 comprises a compartment 830 configured to store the plug 821. In this example, the compartment 830 comprises a wall 840 extending from the underside of the base 810 of the loudspeaker unit stand 800. In this example, the wall 840 has a notch 841 for the power cable 820. In this example, the compartment 830 comprises holes corresponding to the pins of the plug 821. In this example, the plug 821 can be connected to the holes in the compartment 830 as if the plug 821 were being connected to a corresponding wall socket. In this example, the base 810 of the loudspeaker unit stand 800 comprises two dedicated feet 850. In this example, the wall 840 also serves as a third foot for the loudspeaker unit stand 800. In this example, the hub 300 comprises a rechargeable battery, which is charged via the power cable 820. As such, in this example, the power cable 820 can be retracted into the compartment 830 once the rechargeable battery is sufficiently charged. This can reduce the risk of the performer tripping over the power cable 820 during a performance. In this example, the loudspeaker unit 410 is powered by the rechargeable battery of the hub 300, for example via a power charging cable between the hub 300 and the loudspeaker unit 410 within the loudspeaker unit stand 800. The folding and/or sliding microphone stand 600 may allow electrical power to be transmitted mechanically through the joints of the microphone stand 600 to allow the microphone clip 610 to wirelessly charge the microphone 200 and/or the mobile computing device 700 to be charged from an integrated, rechargeable battery in the hub 300. In this example, the hub 300 and loudspeaker unit 410 are in separate housings. The components of the hub 300 and loudspeaker unit 410 could instead be provided in a single housing. However, having such a larger housing mounted off the ground may make the loudspeaker unit stand 800 less stable and/or may obstruct the view of the performer by the audience. Having such a larger housing mounted on the ground may result in less desirable vocal performance play back characteristics, since the loudspeakers would be a greater distance from the performer. Separating the hub 300 and loudspeaker unit 410 into separate housings provides a relatively stable, relatively unobtrusive and relatively high-quality play back characteristic personal vocal monitor system.

Referring to Figures 17 to 19, there is shown schematically another example personal vocal monitor 400.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor 400 comprises a pair of IEMs 430. More generally, however, the personal vocal monitor 400 may comprise at least one IEM 430 and, in some examples, comprises only one IEM 430. In this example, one of the IEMs 430 comprises a microphone. In this example, the microphone is arranged on a boom 440. In this example the boom 440 is detachable from the earpiece 450. In this example, the boom 440 can be plugged into the earpiece 450. In this example, one of the IEMs 430 comprises a volume control user interface 460. In this example, the volume control user interface 460 comprises volume-up and volume-down buttons 461, 462. In this example, one of the IEMs 430 comprises a power button 470. In this example, each of the IEMs 430 comprises a rechargeable battery. In some examples, the rechargeable battery can be charged wirelessly.

Referring to Figures 20 and 21, there is shown schematically another example personal vocal monitor 400.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor 400 comprises a pair of IEMs 440. In this example, the IEMs 440 do not comprise a microphone.

Referring to Figures 22 and 23, there is shown schematically another example personal vocal monitor system 100.

In this example, the plug 641 of the power cable 640 of the microphone stand has been connected to the power socket 310 of the hub 300.

Referring to Figure 24, there is shown schematically another example personal vocal monitor system 100.

In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises a standard sized, airline-style trolley (or“cabin baggage trolley”) 900. In this example, the trolley 900 has wheels. This can facilitate portability and transportation of the personal vocal monitor system 100 by the performer. In this example, the personal vocal monitor system 100 has been disassembled and, when disassembled, fits inside the airline-style trolley 900. This facilitates safe and personal transport of the components of the personal vocal monitor system 100 by aircraft. In this example, the microphone stand 600 is foldable and can readily be folded to fit within the trolley 900. In this example, the entire personal vocal monitor system 100 has been designed to enable the components items a singer might use to be stored in a relatively small space, corresponding to a cabin-sized luggage trolley. This may not possible if existing vocal performance components (for example, existing microphone stands, existing personal vocal monitors etc.) were combined. In this example, the components of the personal vocal monitor system 100 work together as an inter-connected system, in which the performer may select the most suitable components for different venues. For example, the performer may not wish to use the IEMs 430 in smaller, more intimate venues.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples. Further embodiments are envisaged.

In specific examples described above, a handheld microphone comprises a volume control user interface, a controller operable to generate volume control command data in response to user interaction with the volume control user interface and an output interface operable to transmit the volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance by a performer. However, more general examples relate to a microphone (whether or not handheld) comprising a volume control user interface, a controller operable to generate volume control command data in response to user interaction with the volume control user interface and an output interface operable to transmit the volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance by a performer. For example, such functionality may be provided in a headset microphone, for example in an IEM.

In specific examples described above, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises a single microphone 200. In some examples, the personal vocal monitor system 100 comprises multiple microphones. In some such examples, the personal vocal monitor 400 outputs data originating from the multiple microphones. For example, one of the microphones may be used by a singer and another microphone may capture sound from a lead instrument, both of which are played back to the singer via the personal vocal monitor 400. Although the personal vocal monitor 400 may be optimised for vocals, a singer may nevertheless wish to have some instrument playback via the personal vocal monitor 400.

In specific examples described above, the microphone 200 is specifically designed to implement at least some of the features described herein. In other examples, at least some such features may be applied to an existing microphone. For example, for an existing microphone with an XLR plug, an adaptor with an XLR socket may be connected to the XLR plug of the microphone, with the adaptor providing the at least some of the functionality described herein. For example, the adaptor may comprise a volume control user interface.

In specific examples described above, a performer can manually control the feedback volume via the volume control user interface 250 on the microphone 200. In some examples, the feedback volume may be adjusted automatically, for example in real time. For example, the personal vocal monitor 400 may adjust the feedback volume based on the strength of the signal between the personal vocal monitor 400 and the microphone 200. For example, where the strength of the signal between the personal vocal monitor 400 and the microphone 200 is relatively strong, the microphone 200 may be assumed to be relatively close to the personal vocal monitor 400 and a relatively low feedback volume may be used. Where the strength of the signal between the personal vocal monitor 400 and the microphone 200 is relatively weak, the microphone 200 may be assumed to be relatively far from the personal vocal monitor 400 and a relatively high feedback volume may be used. In some examples, the position of the microphone 200 may be determined. For example, Bluetooth™ position-sensing may be used to sense the position of the microphone 200 and, hence, the position of the performer when the performer is holding the microphone 200. For example, if the performer moves away from the personal vocal monitor 400 by a given distance (for example one metre), then the SPL may be adjusted to increase the decibel (dB) output. In addition to, or as an alternative to, adjusting the feedback volume in this way, the vocal tone may be adjusted in this way.

In specific examples described above, the microphone 200 comprises a volume control user interface 250. In some examples the microphone comprises a vocal tone control user interface via which the performer can control vocal tone settings. In some examples the microphone comprises a vocal effect control user interface via which the performer can control vocal effect settings.

In specific examples described above, the microphone 200 transmits volume control command data and vocal performance data representing a vocal performance. The feedback volume may be adjusted by downstream equipment based on the volume control command data. In some examples, the microphone 200 generates volume- adjusted vocal performance data based on the volume control command data and the vocal performance data and transmits the volume-adjusted vocal performance data to a downstream device.

It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.