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If you’re a sound engineer considering whether to add a feedback destroyer to your live sound rig, understanding both the benefits and limitations is key. In this article, we’ll examine feedback destroyers like the Behringer FBQ2496 and Klark Teknik DF 1000, explore how they work, and discuss when they might be an asset to your setup — and when they’re best avoided.
Understanding Feedback and its Causes
Feedback occurs when sound from speakers re-enters microphones, creating an audible loop and resulting in an unpleasant high-pitched noise. It’s a common issue in live sound, especially in portable setups where PA equipment may be placed in less-than-ideal arrangements. The best methods to prevent feedback include:
- Speaker Placement: Position speakers to avoid direct audio paths from speaker to microphone. If possible, the speakers should always be placed in front of the stage / microphones and facing away from them. However, note the use of the phrase “if possible” in that last sentence!
- Microphone Technique: Encourage speakers to maintain a consistent distance, speak directly into the microphone and hold it right to their mouth.
- Gain and EQ Adjustments: Set microphone levels correctly and apply EQ to cut problematic frequencies.
While these methods can be reliably managed in a fixed installation with trained personnel, it’s harder in portable environments where speaker arrangements and microphone usage vary. For instance, a wedding DJ or a PA hire company providing audio for speakers and performers at events may have limited control over these elements due to time constraints, space limitations, and varying levels of user experience. For audio professionals in these settings, additional tools like a feedback destroyer may be helpful.
“Ringing Out” the Room: A Proactive Approach
“Ringing out” a space involves identifying frequencies that are likely to cause feedback and reducing them using an equalizer. On a digital desk, this can be done precisely using graphical EQ, isolating the troublesome frequencies and adjusting them. However, on an analogue desk with basic EQ controls (low, mid, high), managing feedback is less precise and may not fully prevent it. This is where feedback destroyers come into play as a supplementary measure.
Feedback Destroyers: Pros and Cons
A feedback destroyer can act as a safety net, automatically identifying and suppressing feedback-prone frequencies. Here’s how they work and their potential advantages:
- Increased Gain Before Feedback: Feedback destroyers allow you to increase mic gain without the risk of feedback, giving more headroom for volume in challenging environments.
- Automatic Frequency Detection: Feedback destroyers actively detect feedback frequencies and apply narrow cuts to reduce them. This function can be especially useful in dynamic, mobile setups where frequency issues may vary by location or event.
- Ease of Use: For live sound engineers with limited setup time, feedback destroyers offer an efficient way to manage feedback with minimal manual adjustments.
However, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. Feedback destroyers are not a replacement for proper gain staging, EQ, or microphone technique; rather, they serve as a fallback in scenarios where ideal settings are difficult to achieve.
Comparing the Behringer FBQ2496 and Klark Teknik DF 1000
Two popular models on the market, the Behringer FBQ2496 and the Klark Teknik DF 1000, each offer distinct benefits and limitations.
- Behringer FBQ2496: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, the FBQ2496 provides fast, automatic detection of feedback frequencies and adjustable filters for various scenarios. It’s a solid choice for budget-conscious engineers seeking reliable feedback suppression. [Affiliate link]
- Klark Teknik DF 1000: Positioned as a high-end alternative, the DF 1000 offers precision and excellent build quality, making it a durable option for long-term use in professional setups. With adaptive filtering and high-frequency resolution, it is particularly suitable for high-stakes applications. [Affiliate link]
Both devices fit into a single rack unit (1U) and offer versatile feedback management features. Your choice may depend on your budget, performance needs, and how often you require such a tool in your rig.
A Balanced Approach
Ultimately, while feedback destroyers can be a lifesaver in high-pressure situations, they are not a cure-all for poor audio practices. Best results come from using these devices as a part of an overall feedback management plan, not as a substitute for the fundamentals. By understanding and applying the basics of audio control, feedback destroyers become one more tool in the sound engineer’s arsenal to ensure clear, professional audio.
Need Help with Your PA Setup?
For more guidance or to explore our PA and audio rental services, contact us at Innobella Media. Our experienced team is ready to support your live sound needs, from expert advice to top-quality equipment hire. Let us help you ensure flawless audio for your next event!
