harp feedback issues

  • Thread starter Thread starter the.ash
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the.ash

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hi, currently using a shure 520dx into a randall tube amp. any attempt at putting it into the overdrive channel is met with terrible feedback. I stand as far away from the amp as possible (or as far as the cable allows me) any ideas og getting a little dirtier sound with no feedback issues?
 
The 520dx is an omnidirectional mic. Omnis will almost always feed back in live situations. You might want to try a cardioid.
 
Start with the OD channel gain down all the way, and slowly bring it up, if you haven't tried that already. You just want a little grit, not raging distortion, right? Stand with your back to the amp, keeping your body between the mic and amp, or even stand behind it. With an open back amp, you should be able to hear well enough with it in front of you. You didn't say how big the amp is, but a small simple amp that can be easily overdriven at lower volumes and mic'ed may treat you a little better.
 
You didn't say how you were using the Green Bullet, so I will assume you are using it in the standard manner, cupped in your hands right up against the harp (stupid question, but it never hurts to ask, because I've got my Green Bullet wired for XLR and mounted on a stand).

Any live situation is all about gain before feedback. The solutions to the problem are increasing signal level (playing louder), increasing distance from source to speaker (20' should be plenty, but consider orientation of the amp), decreasing distance from source to mic (probably already all the way there).

Lastly, you can try to isolate the frequency that is causing feedback, and EQ it out with a parametric or 1/3 octave graphic. One method that can be effective is to turn down the master on the amp, mic it, and run the EQ'ed signal through a floor wedge, that way the signal in the mains is not compromised. However, even if all you have to work with is the tone controls on the amp, that could help.
 
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