My invention relates generally to sound amplifier systems for musical instruments and more particularly to an optoelectronic amplifier in which the musical vibrations of the instrument are transmitted by reflected light rays to a photo-electric receiver device and amplified into audible tones.
The principle of transmitting sound by modulated and reflected light rays is old as evidenced by the early patent to Bell et al. U.S. Pat. No. 235,496. It is also well known to utilize a photoelectric cell to convert the modulated light rays into an electronic signal as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,065,352 and 3,733,953.
Conventional electronic amplifier systems for musical instruments possess several deficiencies which are not present in my system. Conventional amplification systems generally utilize a heavy magnetic core positioned within the instrument which not only adds additional weight to the instrument, but also tends to deaden the acoustics of the instrument. Further, conventional systems utilize a cord extending from the instrument to the amplifier units which is sometimes cumbersome for the musician.
My invention solves many of these problems by providing an amplification system for musical instruments wherein very little, if any, additional weight is added to the instruments so that the acoustical characteristics of the instrument is not changed by any significant degree. Further, my amplification system eliminates the need for a cord extending from the instrument to the amplifier or power locations.