1. A method for processing an audio input to generate a signal for controlling a cochlear implant for a hearing impaired patient, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing an auditory input signal; (b) performing a coherent demodulation of the auditory input signal to generate a frequency shifted signal, using a targeted temporal pitch trajectory comprising a frequency range of about 50 Hz to about 300 Hz; (c) processing the frequency shifted signal to generate a relatively low frequency, slowly varying signal that is compatible with the cochlear implant; and (d) mapping the relatively low frequency, slowly varying signal to at least one of a plurality of cochlear implant stimulation electrodes.