multichannel encoder, method for encoding input signals, encoded data content, data bearer, and operable decoder for decoding encoded output data

摘要

MULTI-CHANNEL ENCODER, METHOD FOR CODING INPUT SIGNS, ENCODED DATA CONTENT, DATA CARRIER, AND OPERATING DECODER FOR CODING OUTPUT is described as a multichannel encoder (10; 600) for processing N-channel input signals. input to generate corresponding output signals carried on M output channels along with complementary parametric data; M and N are integers where N M. The encoder (10,600) includes a downlink mixer to downlink the input signals to generate the corresponding output signals, the encoder also including an analyzer for processing the input signals to generating the parameter data, said parametric data describing mutual differences between the N input signal channels to enable regeneration during decoding one or more of the N input signal channels from the M output signal channels. Such encoder (10,600) is capable of providing highly efficient data encoding and also of being backward compatible with relatively simpler decoders having less than N decoding output channels. The invention also relates to decoders (800) compatible with such a multichannel encoder (10,600).