Download Improving the robustness of the iterative solver in state-space modelling of guitar distortion circuitry Iterative solvers are required for the discrete-time simulation of nonlinear behaviour in analogue distortion circuits. Unfortunately, these methods are often computationally too expensive for realtime simulation. Two methods are presented which attempt to reduce the expense of iterative solvers. This is achieved by applying information that is derived from the specific form of the nonlinearity. The approach is first explained through the modelling of an asymmetrical diode clipper, and further exemplified by application to the Dallas Rangemaster Treble Booster guitar pedal, which provides an initial perspective of the performance on systems with multiple nonlinearities.
Download Physical Model Parameter Optimisation for Calibrated Emulation of the Dallas Rangemaster Treble Booster Guitar Pedal In this work we explore optimising parameters of a physical circuit model relative to input/output measurements, using the Dallas Rangemaster Treble Booster as a case study. A hybrid metaheuristic/gradient descent algorithm is implemented, where the initial parameter sets for the optimisation are informed by nominal values from schematics and datasheets. Sensitivity analysis is used to screen parameters, which informs a study of the optimisation algorithm against model complexity by fixing parameters. The results of the optimisation show a significant increase in the accuracy of model behaviour, but also highlight several key issues regarding the recovery of parameters.
Download Comparison of Germanium Bipolar Junction Transistor Models for Real-time Circuit Simulation The Ebers-Moll model has been widely used to represent Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs) in Virtual Analogue (VA) circuits. An investigation into the validity of this model is presented in which the Ebers-Moll model is compared to BJT models of higher complexity, introducing the Gummel-Poon model to the VA field. A comparison is performed using two complementary approaches: on fit to measurements taken directly from BJTs, and on application to physical circuit models. Targeted parameter extraction strategies are proposed for each model. There are two case studies, both famous vintage guitar effects featuring germanium BJTs. Results demonstrate the effects of incorporating additional complexity into the component model, weighing the trade-off between differences in the output and computational cost.
Download Potentiometer law modelling and identification for application in physics-based Virtual Analogue circuits Physical circuit models have an inherent ability to simulate the behaviour of user controls as exhibited by, for example, potentiometers. Working to accurately model the user interface of musical circuits, this work provides potentiometer ‘laws’ that fit to the underlying characteristics of linear and logarithmic potentiometers. A strategy of identifying these characteristics is presented, exclusively using input/output measurements and as such avoiding device disassembly. By breaking down the identification problem into one dimensional, search spaces characteristics are successfully identified. The proposed strategy is exemplified through a case study on the tone stack of the Big Muff Pi.