How do I get best mic results in loud environments??

[digitaldecay]

My Sure SM58 mic is hooked up to a mixer (low impedance). I have a decent PA system to help me play over drums. I also have a compressor/limiter module that I own but is currently not in use.
My problem is that I cannot get louder volume out of my mic channel on my mixer and there is alot of feedback when trying to compensate over live drums. When I play with my gain it helps the feedback but my volume is reduced so low that the mic is eventually drowned out. Is there something I can buy to reduce feedback or a setting on my compressor limiter I can adjust to get optimal volume??? I have a phantom channel on my mixer. I heard something about its relation to mic's. Is this true with the SM58???

 

[ChristopherDawn]

Phantom power is only used for condenser mics. The 58 is a dynamic, so you don't need that.

Maybe you need some more ampage for that PA system.

 

[TexRoadkill]

All you can really do is make sure the speakers are off axis to the mic and try to treat the room. Have the rear of the mic pointed directly at the speaker and put up some type of sound absorption panels on the wall. At the very least some heavy blankets will help do the trick.

 

[digitaldecay]

Subwoofer cab- 2x18"
2x 12"MTX's
Im pushing around 200w's per channel
I don't think its watts.
I also forgot to mention I am playing a keyboard and 2 synth mods through the mixer and into the PA with my mic.

I am still considering a bigger power amp though, thanks!!

 

[Cave Dweller]

if you're having problems with feed back, you probably have enough power. treating the room will help, as will properly positioning your speakers. however, you will probably need to resort to an EQ of some kind to attenutae the frequencies that are causing problems. either a 1/3 band graphic EQ or a parametric EQ with 5 bands and Q control should do the trick. most feedback problems occur near the crossover point between the low and high drivers, usually 800hz to 4 khz.