Appeal No. 96-0209
Application 07/922,501
Memory 32 stores decoded subcode MIDI data supplied from decoder
31, and outputs the same with an adjustable or variable interval
between data items to change subsequent reproduction speed
(column 8, lines 26-38). Memory 32 does not output an already
decoded audio signal introducible to a digital/analog converter.
Instead, further processing within some other musical instrument
is necessary to convert the MIDI signal to an audio output.
Moreover, if elements 30, 31 and 32 of the European '073
reference constitute the music information reproduction means,
nothing can then seem to constitute the claimed control
information reproduction means. The examiner has not explained
where in the European '073 reference is a control information
decoder circuit which receives input from an audio data decoder
circuit as in the case of the appellants' control information
reproduction means, or an equivalent thereof. Interface unit 35
does not appear to be such a control information decoder circuit
but merely consists of a transmitter and a line driver (column 7,
lines 4-9).
Accordingly, we find unreasonable the examiner's position
that an encoded MIDI signal can be the reproduced "musical
signal" from the music information reproduction means. On this
record, the examiner has not established sufficient basis to
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