Microphone feedback can ruin almost any event, putting additional stress on performers and making the audience uncomfortable. High-pitched squeals occur when sound from the speakers goes back through a microphone and cycles through the system, where it's amplified repeatedly. Below are a few audio installation tips for avoiding feedback at your church or business event.

How to Avoid Feedback

1. Turn Off Open Mics

Microphones that aren’t being used can pick up speaker sounds and trigger a feedback loop. Any time a microphone isn’t being used, turn it off from the soundboard. This little extra step can prevent most squeaks and squeals that make your presentation seem less professional.

2. Keep Microphones Away From Loudspeakers

Loudspeakers are designed to project sound as far as possible, which makes it more likely that signals will get picked up by a microphone. Creating enough space in smaller venues can be a challenge, but moving the speakers in front of the mics can help. You should also make sure directional mics are pointed away from the stage monitors.

3. Lower the Speaker Volume

Controlling feedback is often a balancing act between speaker output and the audience experience. Cutting the speaker volume by a few decibels minimizes the chance that soundwaves will feed back into the system. To ensure the presenter is still audible in the back of the room, try moving the speakers closer to the audience.

4. Use Directional Mics

Omnidirectional microphones are equally sensitive to sound coming from the front, sides, or back of the device. This increases your chances of producing feedback, especially if you’re doing sound installation in a smaller venue.

Directional mics, on the other hand, are designed to pick up sound in front of the microphone and filter out other noises. Even in a small space filled with speakers, you can create pockets away from the speakers where a directional mic can safely be placed.

As a premier audio installation expert in Shreveport, LA, Claiborne Sharp Professional Audio has been serving businesses and churches within a 100-mile radius since 1989. Whether you’re installing a new system or having feedback issues, you can rely on their team of professionals to provide solutions that will keep your presentations and concerts flowing smoothly. Visit their website for more on their audio installation services or call (318) 861-5953 to schedule an appointment.