Behringer FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User manual

Version 1.0 March 2005
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
Users manual

2
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to the
presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside
the enclosurevoltage that may be sufficient to
constitute a risk of shock.
This symbol, wherever it appears, alerts you to
important operating and maintenance instructions
in the accompanying literature. Please read the
manual.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove
the top cover (or the rear section). No user serviceable
parts inside refer servicing to qualified personnel.
WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not
expose this appliance to rain and moisture. The
apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or
splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as
vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
DETAILED SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Read these instructi ns.
2) Keep these instructi ns.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) F ll w all instructi ns.
5) D n t use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean nly with dry cl th.
7) D n t bl ck any ventilati n penings. Install in acc rdance
with the manufacturers instructi ns.
8) D n t install near any heat s urces such as radiat rs, heat
registers, st ves, r ther apparatus (including amplifiers) that
pr duce heat.
9) D n t defeat the safety purp se f the p larized r gr unding-
type plug. A p larized plug has tw blades with ne wider than
the ther. A gr unding type plug has tw blades and a third
gr unding pr ng. The wide blade r the third pr ng are pr vided
f r y ur safety. If the pr vided plug d es n t fit int y ur utlet,
c nsult an electrician f r replacement f the bs lete utlet.
10) Pr tect the p wer c rd fr m being walked n r pinched
particularly at plugs, c nvenience receptacles, and the p int
where they exit fr m the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/access ries specified by the
manufacturer.
12) Use nly with the cart, stand, trip d, bracket, r table
specified by the manufacturer, r s ld with the apparatus. When
a cart is used, use cauti n when m ving the cart/apparatus
c mbinati n t av id injury fr m tipping ver.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning st rms r when
unused f r l ng peri ds f time.
14) Refer all servicing t qualified service pers nnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way,
such as p wer supply c rd r plug is damaged, liquid has been
spilled r bjects have fallen int the apparatus, the apparatus
has been exp sed t rain r m isture, d es n t perate
n rmally, r has been dr pped.
15) CAUTION - These service instructi ns are f r use by qualified
service pers nnel nly. T reduce the risk f electric sh ck d
n t perf rm any servicing ther than that c ntained in the
perati n instructi ns unless y u are qualified t d s .

3
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
FBQ2496
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO
Ultra-fast 24-bit/96 kHz Feedback Suppressor/Parametric EQ
sAutomatically and intelligently locates and destroys up to 20 frequencies per channel
sltra-fast feedback detection (<0.2 sec) due to proprietary FFT signal analysis
sltra-narrow notch-filters (up to 1/60th octave) for very effective feedback suppression, while keeping highest
sonic quality
sSet-and-forget default setting plus Panic button enable immediate and super-easy Feedback Destroyer
performance
sAuto mode continuously monitors the mix, resetting programmed filters automatically
sSingle-shot mode automatically detects and destroys feedback and locks the filter until you reset it
manually
sManual mode allows individual setting of up to 40 fully parametric filters with frequency, bandwidth and
gain adjustment
sltra-high resolution 24-bit/96 kHz A/D and D/A converter powered by a 32-bit DSP for ultimate audio
performance
sOpen MIDI architecture for future software updates and flexible communication with digital equipment
sBalanced inputs and servo-balanced outputs with gold-plated XLR and ¼" TRS connectors
sInternal switch-mode power supply for maximum flexibility (100 - 240 V~), noise-free audio, superior
transient response plus lowest possible power consumption for energy savings
sHigh-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
sConceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

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FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION ......................................................... 4
1.1 Before you get started ...................................................... 4
1.1.1 Shipment ................................................................ 4
1.1.2 Initial operation ....................................................... 5
1.1.3 Online registration ................................................. 5
2. WHAT CAUSES FEEDBACK? ..................................... 5
3. CONTROL ELEMENTS AND CONNECTIONS ............. 5
3.1 The front ........................................................................... 5
3.2 The rear ............................................................................ 6
4. FBQ2496 FILTERS ..................................................... 7
4.1 Setting up Single-Shot filters ........................................... 7
4.2 Setting up parametric filters ............................................. 8
4.3 Setting up automatic filters .............................................. 8
5. CONNECTIVIT OPTIONS .......................................... 8
5.1 FBQ2496 in the monitor path .......................................... 8
5.2 FBQ2496 in channel insert .............................................. 9
5.3 FBQ2496 in studio applications ....................................... 9
6. INCOMING SIGNAL LEVEL ......................................... 9
7. MIDI CONTROL ........................................................ 10
7.1 MIDI connections ............................................................ 10
7.2 Activating and deactivating MIDI ................................... 10
7.3 Adjusting a MIDI channel ............................................... 10
7.4 MIDI controller ................................................................ 10
8. INSTALLATION ......................................................... 11
8.1 Installation in a rack ........................................................ 11
8.2 Audio connections ........................................................... 11
9. SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................... 11
10. WARRANT ............................................................ 12
1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for expressing your confidence in us by purchasing the
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496. It is an extremely useful
device for controlling your PA system, and will let you focus on
whats truly important: your music.
The FBQ2496 is the fastest (>0.2 sec.) and the only 96 kHz Feedback
Suppressor in this market price segment. Using an ultra-fast feedback
detection algorithm, it automatically and intelligently locates up
to 20 feedback frequencies per channel and sets extremely narrow
notch filters to destroy them, leaving the remainder of the signal
virtually untouched.
Easy does it: with the Set-and-Forget default setting plus the
Panic button, your FEEDBACK DESTROYER can be up and running
in no time! The auto mode continuously monitors the mix, resetting
programmed filters automatically, while the manual mode allows
individual setting of up to 40 fully parametric filters with frequency,
bandwidth and gain adjustment. Open MIDI architecture means
that future software updates and flexible communication with digital
equipment are a no-brainer. With its various modes you can master
just about any live sound situation or use it as a creative sound-
shaping tool.
1.1 Before you get started
1.1.1 Shipment
Your FBQ2496 was carefully packed at the assembly plant to assure
secure transport. Should the condition of the cardboard box suggest
that damage may have taken place, please inspect the unit
immediately and look for physical indications of damage.
+Damaged equipment sh uld NEVER be sent directly t us.
Please inf rm the dealer fr m wh m y u acquired the unit
FOREWORD
Dear Customer,
Welcome to the team of
FEEDBACK DESTROYER
PRO users and thank you
very much for expressing your
confidence in BEHRINGER
products by purchasing the
FBQ2496. It is one of my
most pleasant tasks to write
this letter to you, because it
is the culmination of many
months of hard work
delivered by our
engineering team to reach
a very ambitious goal: to
develop an outstanding
piece of equipment, whose
flexibility makes it equally
at home both in studios and
PA applications.
The task to design our new FEEDBACKDESTROYERPRO
certainly meant a great deal of responsibility. You, the discerning
user and musician, were the focus of our entire development efforts.
It also meant a lot of work and night shifts to accomplish this goal.
But it was fun, too. Developing a product usually brings a lot of
people together, and what a great feeling it is when everybody
who participated in such a project can be proud of what weve
achieved.
It is our philosophy to share our joy with you, because you are the
most important member of the BEHRINGER family. With your
highly competent suggestions for new products youve greatly
contributed to shaping our company and making it successful. In
return, we guarantee you uncompromising quality (manufactured
under ISO9000 certified management system) as well as excellent
technical and audio properties at an extremely favorable price. All
of this will enable you to fully unfold your creativity without being
hampered by budget constraints.
We are often asked how we can make it to produce such high-
grade devices at such unbelievably low prices. The answer is quite
simple: its you, our customers! Many satisfied customers means
large sales volumes enabling us to get better conditions of purchase
for components, etc. Isnt it only fair to pass this benefit back to
you? Because we know that your success is our success, too!
I would like to thank all people whose help on Project FEEDBACK
DESTROYER PRO has made it all possible. Everybody has made
very personal contributions, starting from the designers of the unit
via the many staff members in our company to you, the user of
BEHRINGER products.
My friends, its been worth the trouble!
Thank you very much,
Uli Behringer
1. INTROD CTION

5
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
immediately as well as the transp rtati n c mpany fr m
which y u t k delivery. Otherwise, all claims f r
replacement/repair may be rendered invalid.
+Please always use the riginal packaging t av id damage
due t st rage r shipping.
+Never let unsupervised children play with the
FBQ2496 r with its packaging.
+Please disp se f all packaging materials in an
envir nmentally friendly fashi n.
1.1.2 Initial perati n
Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling. To
avoid overheating, do not place the FBQ2496 on top of power
amps or near radiators, etc.
+Bl wn fuses must be replaced by fuses f the same type
and rating. Please refer t the SPECIFICATIONS f r
further details.
The mains connection is made using the enclosed power cord and
a standard IEC receptacle. It meets all international safety
certification requirements.
+Please make sure that all equipment is pr perly gr unded
at all times. F r y ur wn safety, never rem ve r disable
the gr und c nduct r f the unit r f the AC p wer c rd.
1.1.3 Online registrati n
Please do remember to register your new BEHRINGER equipment
right after your purchase by visiting www.behringer.com
(alternatively www.behringer.de) and kindly read the terms and
conditions of our warranty carefully.
Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction, our goal is to have
it repaired as quickly as possible. To arrange for warranty service,
please contact the retailer from whom the equipment was
purchased. Should your BEHRINGER dealer not be located in
your vicinity, you may directly contact one of our subsidiaries.
Corresponding contact information is included in the original
equipment packaging (Global Contact Information/European
Contact Information). Should your country not be listed, please
contact the distributor nearest you. A list of distributors can be
found in the support area of our website (www.behringer.com/
support).
Registering your purchase and equipment with us helps us process
your repair claims quicker and more efficiently.
Thank you for your cooperation!
2. WHAT CAUSES FEEDBACK?
Fig. 2.1: How a feedback loop is created
A feedback loop is created when a microphone signal is first
reproduced on an amplifier, and is then picked up again by the
same microphone (with the same phasing). Then, it is amplified
and reproduced again. This feedback loop may, under certain
circumstances, keep on occurring and could escalate out of control.
With P.A. applications, there are two major types of setups in
which feedback can occur:
sFr nt mix (also called F.O.H. = front of house) refers to the
mix being created when a signal from a mixing console is
amplified by one or more power amplifiers and is fed into
loudspeakers facing the audience.
sM nit r mix refers to the mix that also originates in the
mixing console but ends up driving one or more stage
monitors. Unlike FOH speakers, a stage monitor makes the
music program audible to individual musicians.
+Please bear in mind that high v lume levels can damage
b th y ur hearing and y ur equipment. Be sure t always
select an appr priate v lume level.
3. CONTROL ELEMENTS AND
CONNECTIONS
3.1 The front
Fig. 3.1: Control elements on FBQ249 s left side
LEVEL METER
The LEVEL METER lets you monitor the input level. Eight
LEDs are available per channel. If the Clip LED lights up,
digital distortion may occur on FBQ2496s input. In this case,
reduce the input level.
LEARN button
A quick tap on the LEARN button (LED lights up) gets you
into the LEARN mode. The FBQ2496 will immediately start
looking for critical frequencies and will deploy as many
Single-Shot filters as necessary (of course, music or noise
has to be present in the room for this to work). Besides, using
the wheel , you can manually determine the number of
Single-Shot filters (max. 20 per channel). See ch.4.1.
If you keep the LEARN button pressed for longer than one
second (LED blinks), the FBQ2496 generates progressively
louder impulses to generate feedback. The feedback thus
created enters the FBQ2496 at its input, where it is recognized
and suppressed. This mode is called AUTOLEARN (ch. 4.1).
PANIC
If unexpected feedback starts occurring during a performance,
pressing the PANIC button can help. As long as the button is
kept pressed (for a maximum of 1 second), your FBQ2496
rapidly searches for feedback frequencies and suppresses
them.
SPEECH
Pressing the SPEECH button increases the sensitivity of
feedback suppression the FBQ2496 recognizes critical
frequencies sooner and deploys a filter that cuts in
appropriately.
Unlike with feedback caused by a distorting guitar, human
speech seldom produces signals that can mistakenly be
identified as feedback. Therefore, this mode is ideal for
situations in which only speech is being transmitted. Therefore,
your P.A. system will be substantially louder.
FREEZE
Once a particularly good FBQ2496 setting is achieved, you
can keep this setting by pressing the FREEZE button. All
Single-Shot and automatic filters are kept at their settings
until you press FREEZE again.
FILTER LIFT
The so-called Filter Lifting Time informs you about how
long an adjusted automatic filter can remain inactive before
its values are reset again. You can set this time by first briefly
pressing the FILTER LIFT button and then turning the wheel.
The following time lengths are available: 0 min, 1 min,
5 min, 10 min, 30 min, 60min.
3. CONTROL ELEMENTS AND CONNECTIONS

6
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
RESET
If you briefly press the RESET button, all automatically set
filters are erased. If you keep the RESET button pressed
longer, Single-Shot filters are erased as well.
In PEQ mode, briefly pressing the RESET button erases the
selected filter. Keeping the RESET button pressed longer
erases all the parametric filters all at once.
Fig. 3.2: Status display and the LED display on the FBQ249
STATUS DISPLAY
The FBQ2496 features a total of 40 filters, i.e. 20 filters per
channel. They can be monitored and controlled on the
STATUS DISPLAY.
A constantly lit LED signalizes:
sA filter was deployed: It already suppresses an instance
of feedback. or:
sA filter is in the Parametric EQ mode (PEQ), whereby gain
has to be set to a value either higher or lower than 0 dB.
A LED that only periodically blinks signalizes the
selected filter in the PEQ mode.
LED DISPLAY
The three-di it numeric display indicates the absolute value
of the parameter you are modifying. How individual parameter
are adjusted is explained in ch. 4.
sHz or kHz is lit when you change the mid frequency of
a filter.
sThe min display is lit when you are adjusting the filter
lift time.
sThe 1/60 LED is lit when you select a filter value smaller
than 0.1. In this case, you can select the following
values: 1/60, 2/60, 3/60, 4/60 and 5/60 (6/60 = 0.1).
sThe dB LED is lit when you adjust a filter gain value.
sThe MIDI display briefly lights up as soon as the
FBQ2496 receives MIDI data.
Fig. 3.3: Control elements on FBQ249 s right
GAIN
In the PEQ mode, the GAIN button lets you adjust filter gain
in dB (from +15 dB to -15dB in 0.5-dB increments, and from
-16 dB to -36 dB in 1-dB increments). The dB value set using
the wheel is shown in the display.
PEQ
After keeping the PEQ button pressed for a few moments
(the LED on the PEQ button blinks), use the wheel to set the
number of parametric filters. They start with the filter number
20 and can go down to filter number 1, step by step (see fig.
4.2). At the same time, the already set Single-Shot filters are
shown.
If you only briefly press the PEQ button (the LED on the PEQ
button is lit), any filter can be called up using the wheel. The
number of the selected filter is shown in the display, and the
corresponding filter LED blinks. Amplification, bandwidth and
mid frequency parameters can now be shown.
+Only the parameters f the parametric filters can be
manually adjusted! The settings f the Single-Sh t filters
and the aut matic filters can be sh wn but n t m dified.
FREQUENCY
When the FBQ2496 is in the PEQ mode (the LED on the
PEQ button is lit), the mid frequency of each individual filter
can be set. To modify the mid frequency, press the
FREQUENCY button. The frequency range can vary from
20 Hz to 20 kHz.
LEFT-RIGHT
The LEFT-RIGHT button lets you select the channels you
wish to edit.
If your FBQ2496 is in the stereo mode, both channels are
automatically selected and both LEDs are lit. In this mode,
you only have to set the parameters for one channel, and
they are automatically carried over onto the other channel.
If you keep the LEFT-RIGHT button pressed for a few
moments, the two channels are separated from one another.
That way, you can assign different parameters to each of the
two channels. Toggling between the two channels is done
by briefly pressing the LEFT-RIGHT button.
Keeping the LEFT-RIGHT button pressed for a few moments
restores the stereo coupling, and the settings from the active
channel are automatically carried over onto the other
channel.
+Whether y ur FBQ2496 is running in m n r in stere is
st red each time y u turn the unit ff, and the same m de
is rel aded each time y u p wer up the unit.
BANDWIDTH
Use the BANDWIDTH button to set the bandwidth (Q-factor/
quality) of the selected parametric filter. The adjustable filter
quality encompasses a range from 1/60th of an octave up to
10 octaves. The FBQ2496 has to be in PEQ mode (the LED
on the PEQ button is lit).
BYPASS
Keeping the BYPASS button pressed for a few moments
activates the hard bypass. The units input is directly routed
to the output and the filters are bypassed.
+Please use the BYPASS functi n with extreme cauti n
because deactivating the filters gives free reign t
unsuppressed feedback.
MIDI
Simultaneously pressing BANDWIDTH and BYPASS gets you
into the MIDI menu (both button LEDs are lit). Here you can
activate and deactivate MIDI and select a MIDI channel (ch. 7).
WHEEL
WHEEL is a continuous rotary control. Use it to make
adjustments to the selected parameter. Turn the wheel
clockwise to increase parameter values. Turn it
counterclockwise to lower the parameter values.
POWER
Press POWER to turn on your FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO.
+Attenti n: The POWER switch d es n t fully disc nnect the
unit fr m the mains. T disc nnect the unit fr m the mains,
pull ut the main c rd plug r appliance c upler. When
installing the pr duct, ensure the plug r appliance c upler
is readily perable. Unplug the p wer c rd c mpletely when
the unit is n t used f r pr l nged peri ds f time.
3.2 The rear
Fig.3.4: Mains connector, fuse switch and serial number
The mains connection is established using a cable with an
IEC mains connector. An appropriate mains cable is included.
3. CONTROL ELEMENTS AND CONNECTIONS

7
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
You can replace fuses at the FUSE SWITCH of the FBQ2496.
Always replace fuses with the same type. Please follow the
instructions given in chapter 9 SPECIFICATIONS.
SERIAL NUMBER
Fig. 3.5: FBQ249 s MIDI connections jacks
The FBQ2496 features a complete set of MIDI functions. In
addition to the usual MIDI IN and MIDI OUT ports, the MIDI
THRU allows you to loop through MIDI data.
Fig. 3. : FBQ249 s rear connections
Use the OPERATING LEVEL switch to change from home
recording level (-10 dBV) to studio level (+4 dBu), and vice
versa. The level meters are adapted automatically to the
selected nominal level, so that the FEEDBACK DESTROYER
PRO will always work in its optimum operating range.
INPUT LEFT/RIGHT
These are the balanced inputs of your FBQ2496. They are
laid out as 1/4" TRS and XLR connectors.
OUTPUT LEFT/RIGHT
Both of the FBQ2496 outputs are also laid out as balanced
1/4" TRS and XLR connectors.
4. FBQ2496 FILTERS
The FBQ2496 filters can be set up in an extremely narrow-band
fashion. This way, the FBQ2496 changes the way your music sounds
to such a minor extent that the actual change is absolutely
negligible and inaudible.
Fig. 4.1: Filter curve of a narrow-band filter
1. Press POWER to turn the unit on. The display shows run (run).
2. Select whether you wish to run your FBQ2496 in stereo or in
mono ( ).
Let us assume that both FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO channels
are coupled in stereo.
The 20 filters pro channel can be divided up among Single-Shot
filters, automatic filters and parametric filters (fig. 4.2).
+The number f all filter types per channel is always 20!
+If the number f b th fixed and parametric filters is set t zer ,
y ur FBQ2496 perates with 20 aut matic filters per channel.
Fig. 4.2: Different filter types (shown here in stereo operation)
4.1 Setting up Single-Shot filters
If no Single-Shot filters have been set up, the FBQ2496 looks for
critical frequencies after being powered up, and deploys as many
filters as necessary to combat the problem.
Single-Shot filters can be set up to work with extreme dependability
and comfort. To this end, either use the LEARN or the AUTOLEARN
function of your FBQ2496.
+T w rk with the LEARN r the AUTOLEARN functi n, the
FBQ2496 must be c nnected t a PA system.
+Using the LEARN r AUTOLEARN functi ns nly makes
sense if y u are dealing with PA systems and r ms that
are als used f r c ncerts and rec rdings.
LEARN m de
1. Briefly press the LEARN button.
The button LED lights up and the LED on the PANIC button
blinks. The current number of Single-Shot filters is shown in
the display. (S 0 = no Single-Shot filter selected, S20 = all
filters deployed as Single-Shot filters).
The FBQ2496 immediately starts searching for critical
frequencies at maximum speed and deploys as many Single-
Shot filters as necessary (for this to work, your room has to
have a functioning PA system with a signal fed into it). The
number of filters deployed will be increased on a per-need
basis and will be shown in the display.
2. You can use the wheel to change the number of Single-Shot
filters afterwards as well.
3. Press the LEARN button again to exit.
AUTOLEARN m de
This function is useful for automatically setting up Single-Shot
filters before the start of a live performance (priming the unit).
1. Keep the LEARN button pressed for longer than one second.
Then, the following happens automatically:
sThe button LED blinks.
sAll Single-Shot filters and automatic filters are reset.
sA time countdown runs in the display, from 16 seconds
to zero (L16, L15, ... , L 1, L 0).
The FBQ2496 creates impulses with a signal level of -15dB
in order to provoke feedback. The overall amplification of
your FBQ2496 is incrementally increased from 0dB to 15dB).
The FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO detects the critical
frequencies and lowers them in an extremely narrow-band
fashion.
2. Critical frequencies are consecutively lowered and stored in
the storage slots of the Single-Shot filters.
3. After the time had run out, the procedure is over. The LED
on the LEARN button is no longer lit and the display shows
run.
+The frequency f the adjusted Single-Sh t filters can n t
be manually changed afterwards. H wever, min r
feedback frequency changes are implemented
aut matically. Gain adjustment is als aut matically
perf rmed in the backgr und, c nstantly adjusting t the
current c nditi ns.
+If a satisfact ry setting f r the Single-Sh t and aut matic
filters has been achieved, y u can keep this setting by
pressing the FREEZE butt n. The display sh ws: -.
4. FBQ2496 FILTERS

8
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
4.2 Setting up parametric filters
Some or even all 40 filters on your FBQ2496 can be deployed as
parametric filters. They have to be set up in a targeted fashion,
with great precision. The frequency, bandwidth and gain parameters
are available.
Selecting the number f parametric filters
1. Keep the PEQ button pressed for a few moments. The LED
on the PEQ button blinks, and the display shows the current
number of parametric filters (p 0 = no parametric filters
deployed, P20 = all filters are parametric). Additionally, the
LEDs on the deployed Single-Shot filters are lit.
2. You can use the wheel to change the number of parametric
filters.
The display shows the number of deployed parametric filters,
and the corresponding LEDs in the status display ( ) are
lit.
3. Pressing the PEQ button again briefly completes the
procedure.
+N w, the nly parametric filters wh se LEDs are still lit
are th se wh se gain (either p sitive r negative) d es
n t equal zer .
Setting up frequency, bandwidth, gain
You should implement the following procedure with each individual
parametric filter:
1. Briefly press the PEQ button.
The LED on the PEQ button is lit. The display indicates the
number of the selected filter (e.g. 19).
2. Use the wheel to select the parametric filter whose values
you wish to modify.
+Any filter may be selected using the wheel! H wever, the
parameters f the Single-Sh t and aut matic filters can
nly be displays and can n t be m dified!
3. After you press the FREQUENCY button, use the wheel to set the
filter mid frequency (the LED on the button blinks).
You can get a precise readout of the set mid frequency by
observing the display and the status of the Hz/kHz LED next to it.
To modify exactly the frequency band you have in mind, you can
shift the filters bandwidth.
4. Briefly press the BANDWIDTH button.
5. Turning the wheel changes the filters bandwidth. The 1/60
LED lights up if a value lower than 0.1 is set (1 x 1/60,
2 x 1/60 ... 5 x 1/60). In case of larger bandwidths, the value
is shown directly in the display (0.1, 0.2 ... 1.0, 1.1 ... 10.0).
A parametric filter becomes engaged only after an increase/
decrease of the set frequency is entered:
6. Briefly press the GAIN button. The LED on the button is lit. At
the same time, the dB LED under the 3-digit display is also
lit.
7. The gain can be adjusted using the wheel. The available
values range from 15 dB to - 36 dB (can be changed in
0.5-dB increments in the +15 dB to -15dB range in 1-dB
increments in the -16 to -36 dB range). The value is shown in
the display.
+The FBQ2496 has a 3-digit display. P sitive values are
easily represented (14, 14.5, 15). F r negative values,
c mplete representati n w uld require 4 digits. H wever,
because the display nly sh ws 3 digits, the p siti n after
the decimal p int is mitted and replaced by a d t t the
right f the first tw digits (-15, -14.(5), -14, -13.(5)),
which stands f r the missing decimal value.
8. Press the PEQ button briefly again to complete the procedure.
+The status display nly sh ws the filters wh se gain d es
n t equal t zer (either p sitive r negative).
4.3 Setting up automatic filters
The number of automatic filters can not be separately set. It results
from the number of fixed and parametric filters (fig. 4.2).
+T l wer the number f aut matic filters, increase the
number f Single-Sh t and/ r parametric filters.
The automatic filters automatically spring into action on a per-
need basis during a performance or a recording session. Of course,
having the FBQ2496 react to changing situations would be
desirable. To allow for this, you need to establish a setup in which
the automatic filters are only periodically active, setting themselves
back to zero afterwards in order to be ready for the next instance in
which feedback is occurring.
The so-called Filter Lifting Time informs you about how long a
filter set to automatic may remain active before its values are reset
back to zero. This Filter Lifting Time can be set on the FBQ2496.
1. Press the FILTER LIFT button. The LED on the button starts to
blink.
2. Using the wheel, Filter Lifting Time can either be turned off
(off) or can be set to 1 min, 5 min, 10 min, 30 min or 60 min.
3. To exit this menu, press the FILTER LIFT button again. The
LED no longer blinks.
4. If a Filter Lifting Time value has been set (i.e. any value
other than off!), the button LED is lit.
+If a satisfact ry setting f r the Single-Sh t and aut matic
filters has been achieved, y u can keep this setting by
pressing the FREEZE butt n. The display sh ws: -.
5. CONNECTI ITY OPTIONS
+The FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO is n t intended t be
c nnected directly t the micr ph nes! If this is
unav idable, then we rec mmend ur pr ven
BEHRINGER SHARK DSP110 instead, which is equipped
with a dedicated micr ph ne preamplifier.
+N am unt f fancy gear can und the mistakes c mmitted
when selecting the l cati ns f r micr ph nes! Theref re,
when y u set up y ur mics, use them acc rding t their
directivity and feedback susceptibility.
5.1 FBQ24 6 in the monitor path
Due to its 2-channel architecture, the FBQ2496 is ideal for use
with two monitor paths. Connect your mixing consoles pre-fader
aux outputs to the FBQ2496 inputs, as shown in fig. 5.1. The
monitor power amp inputs are then connected to the FBQ2496
outputs.
Using the FBQ2496 in the monitor path can considerably augment
the volume level.
5. CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS

9
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
Fig. 5.1: Using the FBQ249 in the monitor path
5.2 FBQ24 6 in channel insert
Since you want to make sure that deliberately produced feedback
signals, such as guitar feedback, are not eliminated, try inserting
the FBQ2496 into those channels that are susceptible to feedback.
For example, you could process a vocal microphone that is prone
to producing feedback by connecting the FBQ2496 to the insert
points of the respective channel..
Fig. 5.2: FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO
in channel insert/subgroup insert
+When pr cessing a micr ph ne signal with the DSP1124P
and a c mpress r inserted int the same channel insert
p int, the FBQ2496 sh uld always be used pre-c mpress r.
If your mixing console features subgroups with their own inserts,
this is perfect for connecting the FBQ2496! Route all the channels
prone to feedback (e.g. all vocal microphones) to one subgroup.
This way, channels that are less prone to feedback (e.g. line signals,
instrument microphones with lower signal levels) can freely pass
through the FBQ2496 only the critical microphone channels are
being modified.
In case your mixing console features no subgroup insert, we
recommend the following: connect the subgroup output to one
FBQ2496 input. On the other hand, the corresponding output is
either connected to an unused line input of a mixer channel or to
one of its Aux Return inputs. As long as both FBQ2496 channels
are not coupled, the second FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO
channel is available to you for a completely different purpose (e.g.
use it on a channel insert).
5.3 FBQ24 6 in studio applications
Thanks to the FBQ2496s flexible configuration, it makes perfect
sense to use it at the studio or for home recordings. When in
Parametric EQ mode, the FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO puts up
to 20 fully parametric equalizers per audio channel at your disposal.
Everything is possible: from simple signal processing to total signal
manipulation. For example, you can also use the FBQ2496 to
remove distortion from your studio monitors, or you may use it to
aid the EQ function on your mixing console if it only has semi-
parametric EQs.
6. INCOMING SIGNAL LE EL
Make sure that the level of the signal being fed into your FBQ2496
is always correctly set! That way, the FBQ2496 will always be able
to effectively suppress feedback. To correctly set the signal level,
use the LEVEL METER display . The upper clip LEDs should
ideally never light up. At any rate, aim to avoid the clip LEDs
constantly being lit up.
If the signal level is too low, the music looses its dynamics, and the
result is a weak, hissing sound that does not set itself through.
Similarly, you should avoid at all cost signal levels that are too
high because they will overdrive the FBQ2496 converters. Digital
distortion (unlike its analog counterpart) is extremely unpleasant
because such distortion does not occur gradually but extremely
abruptly.
6. INCOMING SIGNAL LEVEL

10
FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496
7. MIDI CONTROL
MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is a
language used to transmit control information between different
electronic devices: instruments, PCs, drum computers, effects units,
etc. That way, a devices parameters can be automatically modified
at a previously determined point in time.
To make such communication possible, the following conditions
have to be met:
sAll devices must be correctly connected to one another.
sOne device, called master, sends MIDI information via one
or several MIDI channels. The device receiving control
information, called slave, has to be set to the correct MIDI
channel in order to receive the information.
sThe control information being sent has to be understood by
the MIDI devices receiving it.
7.1 MIDI connections
The MIDI connectors found on the rear panel are on internationally
standardized 5-pin DIN jacks. You need dedicated MIDI cables to
connect the FBQ2496 to other MIDI equipment. Normally, complete
cables will be purchased for this use. MIDI cables should have a
maximum length not exceeding 15 meters.
MIDI IN: Receives MIDI control data. The receive channel is
determined in the SETUP menu.
MIDI THRU: Provides an unchanged copy of the signal received at
the MIDI IN, for example, to daisy-chain several FBQ2496.
MIDI OUT: Transmits MIDI data to a connected computer or other
FBQ2496. Transmitted are program data as well as status
information for signal processing.
+N l p lines are all wed with MIDI c nnecti ns, i.e. the
master device can send nly c ntr l inf rmati n, and the
slave device(s) can nly receive c ntr l inf rmati nand
not the other way around. Depending n y ur
applicati n, s me devices can functi n b th as masters
and slaves.
7.2 Activating and deactivating MIDI
With some applications, having the option to disable the MIDI
function of a device can be useful. This means that the device
does not react to the incoming MIDI control data instead, it merely
passes the incoming MIDI signal through.
The FBQ2496 gives you the option to decide whether it should
react to incoming MIDI control data.
+Even when the MIDI functi n is deactivated n the
FBQ2496, the MIDI signal still passes thr ugh the unit and
can be tapped int at the MIDI THRU c nnect r.
1. Press BANDWIDTH and BYPASS simultaneously. The MIDI
menu is activated if the LEDs on both buttons as well as the
MIDI LED under the display are blinking.
2. Press the BANDWIDTH button then use the wheel to activate
or deactivate MIDI.
MIDI on: on MIDI off: off
3. Press any button to exit this menu.
7.3 Adjusting a MIDI channel
Using a MIDI channel, a master can transmit 16 different data
segments, each one using its own channel. To make sure a slave
only receives the information intended for it, the corresponding
MIDI channels have to be assigned to it first.
1. Press BANDWIDTH and BYPASS simultaneously. The MIDI
menu is activated if the LEDs on both buttons as well as the
MIDI LED under the display are blinking.
2. Press BANDWIDTH again. Now, a MIDI channel can be
selected using the wheel. The display shows channel numbers
as follows: c 1, ... c14, c15, c16.
3. Press any button to exit this menu.
7.4 MIDI controller
Each one of the 16 MIDI channels can transmit a lot of different
informationfor example, note, keystroke strength and the so-called
controllers.
A controller is a command (e.g. instrument, volume, balance,
footswitch position) that in certain situations has to be defined very
specifically. A total of 128 different controllers can be set up.
There are several standards (0 = bank select, 7 = main volume) but
no fixed norm for the assignment of controllers to specific controller
numbers (0 - 127) exists. Different MIDI devices may react differently
to the same controller numbers.
To effectively control your FBQ2496, it is important to know which
controller numbers can influence individual parameters.
3DUDPHWHU &RQWUROOHU
QXPEHU
0
1
2
0



19
0



20
0



20
0 20 Hz





75 20 kHz
0 - 15
16 - 31
32 - 47
48 - 63
64 - 79
80 - 95
96 - 111
112 - 127
0



24
0



81
0
1
0
1
2
3
4
5
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
1
&KDQQHOV 10
)LOWHUV 11
12
1XPEHURI
SDUDPHWULFILOWHUV
13
0LGIUHTXHQF\
(Coarse adjustment) 14
1XPEHURI6LQJOH
6KRWILOWHUV
0LGIUHTXHQF\
(Fine adjustment) 46
%<3$66
/ $51
%DQGZLGWK
15
*DLQ 16
)5 =
3$1,&
17
18
19
20
21
22
63 &+
),/7 5/,)7
3RVVLEOHYDOXHV
left
right
stereo (left and right)
Filters 1 thru 20 can be
selected individually
None, one or several (up to
20) filters can be selected
None, one or several (up to
20) filters can be selected
logarithmic
allocation of
frequencies
The previously set coarse
mid frequency (Controller 14)
can be fine-tuned in 8 steps
.
All digits of one step deliver
the same frequency value.
1/60 octave



10 octaves
- 36 dB



+ 15 dB
off
10 min
30 min
60 min
on
off
1 min
5 min
off
on
off
on
off
on
off
on
Table 7.1: FBQ249 controller functions
7. MIDI CONTROL