Testing 1212 - glossary of terms for live sound engineers

Ringing Out a Room – the process

  1. Start with gain staging the mics. Have each performer sing or speak at show volume while you set the mic gains. Get a strong signal without distortion or peaking.
  2. Bring up the main speakers gradually. Listen for feedback rings and use the graphic EQs to notch out any ringing frequencies. Make narrow 1/3 octave cuts.
  3. Repeat step 2 as you also bring up the stage monitors gradually. Continue making small EQ cuts as you increase volume without feedback.
  4. Use a spectrum analyzer to identify problem frequencies precisely. Cut those frequencies using the graphic EQs.
  5. Ring out the room while empty before the show for best results. The empty room will reveal more feedback issues.
  6. Once the show starts, stay alert to the mix. Be ready to use the EQs dynamically if new feedback frequencies emerge.
  7. Proper gain staging and ringing out the room beforehand will minimise feedback issues during the performance.
  8. Make small EQ tweaks to finely tune the mix. Avoid wide cuts that will negatively impact overall tonal balance.
  9. Always focus on cutting ringing frequencies rather than boosting other areas. Boosting can make feedback problems worse.
  10. Get the volumes to show levels without feedback for the best ringing out results. This will provide maximum volume before feedback.