A structure-borne sound sensor unit, in particular for an agricultural machine, includes a signal converter, which converts a mechanical sensor signal into an electrical sensor signal, and preprocessing electronics, which are connected with the signal converter. The preprocessing electronics include at least one programmable function component, a data input for receiving configuration data, and a programming interface to configure the function component based on the configuration data received. A control unit for a such a structure-borne sound sensor unit, a sensor system, which includes such a control device and such a structure-borne sound sensor unit, and a related method for controlling such a structure-borne sound sensor unit are provided.