Samson dB500a - Manual (Page 10)

Positioning the dB500a
Microphone Positioning - How to Reduce Feedback
Feedback is the annoying howling and squealing that is heard when the
microphone gets too close to the speaker and the volume is high. You get
feedback when the microphone picks up the amplified signal from the
speaker, and then amplifies through the speaker again, and then picks it up
again, and so on and so on. In general, it is always recommended that any
LIVE mic (a mic that’s on) is positioned behind the speaker enclosures. This
will give you the best level from your system before feedback. One possible
exception is when you are adjusting the sounds of the microphones, since
you want to listen in front of the speaker to hear properly. To do this, lower
your mixers MAIN VOLUME while setting the EQ and effect from in front of
the speakers. Once you have the sound you like, move the microphones to
behind the speakers and raise the Main volume.
Speaker Placement
Whenever possible, it is a good idea to raise the speakers above the heads of
the listening audience. The dB500a enclosures’ feature standard 1 3/8” pole
mount receptacles, which are compatible with speaker stands from a variety
of manufacturers. In a smaller setting like a school cafeteria, library, or a mall
kiosk, you can also use the dB500a in one of the tilt back monitor positions,
which will improve the projection of the speakers and may eliminate the
need for speaker stands.
Using the dB500a as a Floor Monitor
The dB500a is an ideal solution for stage monitoring and thanks to its unique design, two wedge monitor
positions are possible. When placed on its
side with the high frequency horn facing to
the left of the enclosure, the dB500a is tilted
at a fifteen degree angle, optimizing perfor-
mance when used on a large stage. When
placed on its side with the high frequency
horn facing to the right of the enclosure, the
dB500a is tilted at a thirty degree angle opti-
mizing performance when used on smaller
stages. In a large stage monitor system, sev-
eral dB500a’s can be daisy-chained together
using the Line Output. In many instances
(when using the dB500a as a monitor system)
you may choose to use an external equalizer
like the Samson S Curve 131 to increase the
volume and reduce the chance of feedback.
In this case be sure to set the HIGH and LOW
EQ to the 12:00 or flat position.
ENGLISH
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