Move just a little too close to the front-of-house PA speakers when you're up on stage and what you get is that awful screeching noise that can occur during live performances: feedback. Luckily, there's purpose-designed gear that can help. Enter the feedback destroyer.
What are Feedback Destroyers?
A feedback destroyer is a handy tool that professional sound techs use to reduce or possibly even eliminate unwanted feedback altogether. Feedback happens when the sound of a microphone reproduced by a speaker is picked up again by the microphone and amplified again, creating near-deafening, high-pitched noise. A feedback destroyer is designed to detect and suppress feedback, making it useful during any and all live performances, be it gigs, presentations or lectures.
How Does a Feedback Destroyer Work?
Feedback destroyers continuously monitor the microphone signal, checking to see if it nears feedback-sensitive frequencies. When a feedback-frequency is detected, a feedback destroyer activates what's known as a notch filter to suppress any risky frequencies without affecting the rest of the sound. Some models feature adjustable settings for users who demand more control.
What's the Best Kind of Feedback Destroyer?
There are various different feedback destroyers available, ranging from basic and budget-friendly to advanced and high-end models. Some have a universal design, while others are designed to work with specific PA systems or microphones. You're also free to pick between analogue and digital feedback destroyers.
Analogue Feedback Destroyers
Analogue feedback destroyers use analogue filters such as notch filters to neutralise feedback-prone frequencies. They're easy to use and can be dialled in as preferred.
Digital Feedback Destroyers
Digital feedback destroyers are equipped with a digital sound processor (DSP) that analyses and tweaks the sound signal. Here, complex algorithms identify high-risk frequencies and filters are applied to eliminate these frequencies. Most digital feedback destroyers offer functions like automatic gain control to ensure consistent sound.
How Are Feedback Destroyers Hooked Up?
A feedback destroyer is best placed 'after' your mixer so it can keep tabs on the master output signal. If you're running various playback devices, then stick a destroyer between them. The best way to configure any feedback destroyer is according to the manufacturer's specifications. Some models feature automatic detection settings. Digital units are often set up using included or downloadable software.
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