Synchronized Swept-Sine: Theory, Application, and Implementation

Exponential, or sometimes called logarithmic, swept-sine signal is very often used to analyze nonlinear audio systems. In this paper, the theory of exponential swept-sine measurements of nonlinear systems is reexamined. The synchronization procedure necessary for a proper analysis of higher harmonics is detailed leading to an improvement of the formula for the exponential swept-sine signal generation. Moreover, an analytical expression of spectra of the swept-sine signal is derived and used in the deconvolution of the impulse response. A Mat lab code for generation of the synchronized swept-sine, deconvolution, and separation of the impulse responses is given with discussion of some application issues and an illustrative example of harmonic analysis of current distortion of a woofer is provided.