How to Ring Out Stage Monitors: Feedback Control Guide

Feedback happens when the sound from the speaker enters the microphone, gets amplified, and comes out of the speaker again in a recursive loop. "Ringing out" is the process of breaking that loop.

Step 1: Raise the Volume

Slowly bring up the master fader on the monitor mix while the mic is open on stage. Wait until you hear a "ring" start to sustain.

Step 2: Identify the Frequency

Is it a low rumble (100-250Hz)? A honk (500-800Hz)? Or a piercing squeal (2k-4kHz)? Use an RTA (Real Time Analyzer) app on your phone if your ears aren't trained yet.

Step 3: Cut, Don't Kill

Go to your 31-band Graphic EQ. Find that frequency. Pull it down by 3-6dB. The ringing should stop. Raise the volume again until the next frequency rings. Repeat 3 or 4 times. Do NOT cut 15 frequencies, or your monitor will sound hollow and weak.