Behringer FBQ2496 User Manual 2

User Manual

FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496

Automatic and Ultra-Fast Feedback Destroyer/Parametric EQ
with 40 FBQ Filters and 96 kHz Audio Performance

2 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

Table of Contents

Thank you .......................................................................2

Important Safety Instructions ...................................... 3

Legal Disclaimer ............................................................. 3

Limited Warranty ...........................................................3

1. Introduction ............................................................... 5

2. What Causes Feedback? ............................................ 5

3. Control Elements and Connections ......................... 6

4. FBQ2496 Filters .......................................................... 8

5. Connectivity Options .............................................. 10

6. Incoming Signal Level ............................................. 11

7. MIDI control .............................................................. 11

8. Installation ............................................................... 13

9. Specications ........................................................... 14

Thank you

Thank you for expressing your condence in us by purchasing the
FEEDBACKDESTROYER PRO FBQ2496. It is an ex tremely useful device for
controlling your PA system, and will let you focus on what’s truly important:
your music.

3 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized

UNDERTAKING OR REPRESENTATION. THIS MANUAL

ce

electronic components of this product to be free of defects

period is mandated by applicable local laws. If the product

Incase MUSICGroup decides to replace the entire product,

Important Safety Instructions

Terminals marked with this symbol carry
electrical current of su cient magnitude

to constitute risk of electric shock.
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. Allother
installation or modi cation should be performed only
by quali edpersonnel.

This symbol, wherever it appears,

alertsyou to the presence of uninsulated

dangerous voltage inside the
enclosure-voltage that may be su cient 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.

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
quali ed personnel.

Caution

To reduce the risk of  re or electric shock,

do not expose this appliance to rain and
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping
or splashing liquids and no objects  lled with liquids,
suchas vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Caution

These service instructions are for use

by quali ed ser vice personnel only.
Toreduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any
servicing other than that contained in the operation
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by quali ed
servicepersonnel.

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with dry cloth.

7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in

accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus
(including ampli ers) that produce heat.

or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. Ifthe
provided plug does not  t into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles,
and the point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Use only attachments/accessories speci ed by
themanufacturer.

12. Use only with the
cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
or table speci ed by the
manufacturer, orsold with
the apparatus. When a cart
is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus
combination to avoid

injury from tip-over.

13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.

14. Refer all servicing to quali ed service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug
is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
beendropped.

15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
outlet with a protective earthing connection.

16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
remain readily operable.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND APPEARANCES
ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE AND
ACCURACY IS NOT GUARANTEED. BEHRINGER IS
PART OF THE MUSIC GROUP MUSICGROUP.COM.
ALL TRADEMARKS ARE THE PROPERTY OF THEIR
RESPECTIVE OWNERS. MUSICGROUP ACCEPTS NO
LIABILITY FOR ANY LOSS WHICH MAY BE SUFFERED
BY ANY PERSON WHO RELIES EITHER WHOLLY OR
IN PART UPON ANY DESCRIPTION, PHOTOGRAPH
OR STATEMENT CONTAINED HEREIN. COLORS AND
SPECIFICATIONS MAY VARY FROM ACTUAL PRODUCT.
MUSIC GROUP PRODUCTS ARE SOLD THROUGH
AUTHORIZED FULLFILLERS AND RESELLERS ONLY.
FULLFILLERSAND RESELLERS ARE NOT AGENTS OF
MUSICGROUP AND HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO AUTHORITY
TO BIND MUSICGROUP BY ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED

IS COPYRIGHTED. NO PART OF THIS MANUAL MAY
BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM
OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL,
INCLUDING PHOTOCOPYING AND RECORDING OF ANY
KIND, FOR ANY PURPOSE, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS
WRITTEN PERMISSION OF MUSICGROUPIPLTD.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
© 2012 MUSICGroupIPLtd.
Trident Chambers, Wickhams Cay, P.O. Box 146,
Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands

LIMITED WARRANTY

§ 1 Warranty

(1) This limited warranty is valid only if you purchased
the product from a MUSIC Group Authorized Reseller in
the country of purchase. A list of authorized resellers can
be found on BEHRINGER’s website behringer. com under
“Where to Buy”, or you can contact the MUSIC Group o
closest to you.

(2) MUSICGroup* warrants the mechanical and

in material and workmanship if used under normal
operating conditions for a period of one (1) year from
the original date of purchase (see the Limited Warranty
terms in §4 below), unless a longer minimum warranty

shows any defects within the speci ed warranty period
and that defect is not excluded under §4, MUSICGroup
shall, at its discretion, either replace or repair the product
using suitable new or reconditioned product or parts.

thislimited warranty shall apply to the replacement
product for the remaining initial warranty period, i.e.,
one (1) year (or otherwise applicable minimum warranty
period) from the date of purchase of the original product.

(3) Upon validation of the warranty claim, the repaired
or replacement product will be returned to the user
freight prepaid by MUSICGroup.

(4) Warranty claims other than those indicated above
are expressly excluded.

PLEASE RETAIN YOUR SALES RECEIPT. IT IS YOUR PROOF
OF PURCHASE COVERING YOUR LIMITED WARRANTY.
THIS LIMITED WARRANTY IS VOID WITHOUT SUCH PROOF
OFPURCHASE.

§ 2 Online registration

Please do remember to register your new BEHRINGER
equipment right after your purchase at behringer. com
under “Support” and kindly read the terms and conditions
of our limited warranty carefully. Registeringyour
purchase and equipment with us helps us process
your repair claims quicker and more e ciently.
Thankyouforyour cooperation!

§ 3 Return materials authorization

(1) To obtain warranty service, please contact the
retailer from whom the equipment was purchased.
Should your MUSIC Group Authorized Reseller not be
located in your vicinity, you may contact the MUSICGroup
Authorized Ful ller for your country listed under

4 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

“Support” at behringer. com. Ifyour country is not

• connection or operation of the unit in any way

This warranty does not detract from the seller’s

Warranty service conditions are subject to change without

listed, please check if your problem can be dealt with
by our “OnlineSupport” which may also be found under
“Support” at behringer. com. Alternatively,please submit
an online warranty claim at behringer. com BEFORE
returning the product. All inquiries must be accompanied
by a description of the problem and the serial number
of the product. Afterverifying the product’s warranty
eligibility with the original sales receipt, MUSICGroup
will then issue a ReturnMaterials Authorization
(“RMA”)number.

(2) Subsequently, the product must be returned in
its original shipping carton, together with the return
authorization number to the address indicated by
MUSICGroup.

(3) Shipments without freight prepaid will not
beaccepted.

§ 4 Warranty Exclusions

(1) This limited warranty does not cover consumable
parts including, but not limited to, fuses and batteries.
Where applicable, MUSICGroup warrants the valves or
meters contained in the product to be free from defects
in material and workmanship for a period of ninety (90)
days from date of purchase.

(2) This limited warranty does not cover the product
if it has been electronically or mechanically modi ed
in any way. If the product needs to be modi ed or
adapted in order to comply with applicable technical
or safety standards on a national or local level, inany
country which is not the country for which the
product was originally developed and manufactured,
thismodi cation/adaptation shall not be considered a
defect in materials or workmanship. Thislimited warranty
does not cover any such modi cation/adaptation,
regardless of whether it was carried out properly or not.
Under the terms of this limited warranty, MUSICGroup
shall not be held responsible for any cost resulting from
such a modi cation/adaptation.

(3) This limited warranty covers only the product
hardware. It does not cover technical assistance for
hardware or software usage and it does not cover
any software products whether or not contained in
the product. Any such software is provided “AS IS”
unless expressly provided for in any enclosed software
limitedwarranty.

(4) This limited warranty is invalid if the
factory- appliedserial number has been altered or
removed from theproduct.

(5) Free inspections and maintenance/repair work
are expressly excluded from this limited warranty,
inparticular, if caused by improper handling of the
product by the user. This also applies to defects caused
by normal wear and tear, in particular, of faders,
crossfaders, potentiometers, keys/buttons, guitar strings,
illuminantsand similar parts.

(6) Damage/defects caused by the following conditions
are not covered by this limited warranty:

• improper handling, neglect or failure to operate the
unit in compliance with the instructions given in
BEHRINGER user or service manuals;

that does not comply with the technical or safety
regulations applicable in the country where the
product is used;

• damage/defects caused by acts of God/Nature
(accident,  re,  ood, etc) or any other condition that
is beyond the control of MUSICGroup.

(7) Any repair or opening of the unit carried out by
unauthorized personnel (user included) will void the
limitedwarranty.

(8) If an inspection of the product by MUSICGroup
shows that the defect in question is not covered by the
limited warranty, the inspection costs are payable by
thecustomer.

(9) Products which do not meet the terms of this
limited warranty will be repaired exclusively at the buyer’s
expense. MUSICGroup or its authorized service center will
inform the buyer of any such circumstance. If the buyer
fails to submit a written repair order within 6 weeks after
noti cation, MUSICGroup will return the unit C.O.D. with
a separate invoice for freight and packing. Such costs will
also be invoiced separately when the buyer has sent in a
written repair order.

(10) MUSIC Group Authorized Resellers do not sell new
products directly in online auctions. Purchasesmade
through an online auction are on a “buyer beware” basis.
Online auction con rmations or sales receipts are not
accepted for warranty veri cation and MUSICGroup will
not repair or replace any product purchased through an
online auction.

§ 5 Warranty transferability

This limited warranty is extended exclusively to the
original buyer (customer of authorized reseller) andis
not transferable to anyone who may subsequently
purchase this product. No other person (reseller,etc.)
shallbe entitled to give any warranty promise on behalf
of MUSICGroup.

§ 6 Claim for damage

Subject only to the operation of mandatory applicable
local laws, MUSICGroup shall have no liability to the buyer
under this warranty for any consequential or indirect
loss or damage of any kind. In no event shall the liability
of MUSICGroup under this limited warranty exceed the
invoiced value of the product.

§ 7 Limitation of liability

This limited warranty is the complete and exclusive
warranty between you and MUSICGroup. It supersedes
all other written or oral communications related to this
product. MUSICGroup provides no other warranties for
this product.

§ 8 Other warranty rights and
nationallaw

(1) This limited warranty does not exclude or limit the
buyer’s statutory rights as a consumer in any way.

(2) The limited warranty regulations mentioned herein
are applicable unless they constitute an infringement of
applicable mandatory local laws.

(3)

obligations in regard to any lack of conformity of the
product and any hidden defect.

§ 9 Amendment

notice. For the latest warranty terms and conditions
and additional information regarding MUSICGroup’s
limited warranty, please see complete details online at
behringer. com.

* MUSICGroup Macao Commercial O shore Limited of
RuedePequim No. 202-A, Macau Finance Centre 9/J, Macau,
including all MUSICGroup companies

5 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

1. Introduction

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 ex tremely narrow notch lters 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 lters automatically,
while the manual mode allows individual setting of up to 40 fully parametric
lters with frequency, bandwidth and gain adjustment. Open MIDI architecture
means that future software updates and exible 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 should NEVER be sent directly to us. Please inform

the dealer from whom you acquired the unit immediately as well
as the transportation company from which you took delivery.
Otherwise, all claims for replacement/repair may be rendered invalid.

1.1.3 Online registration

Please register your new BEHRINGER equipment right after your purchase
by visiting http://behringer.com and read the terms and conditions of our
warrantycarefully.

Should your BEHRINGER product malfunction, it is our intention to have it
repaired as quickly as possible. To arrange for warranty service, please contact
the BEHRINGER 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
(http://behringer.com).

Registering your purchase and equipment with us helps us process your repair
claims more quickly and eciently.

Thank you for your cooperation!

2. What Causes Feedback?

EUROLIVE B1220

◊ Please always use the original packaging to avoid damage due to

storage or shipping.

◊ Never let unsupervised children play with the FBQ2496 or with

its packaging.

◊ Please dispose of all packaging materials in an environmentally

friendly fashion.

1.1.2 Initial operation

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.

◊ Blown fuses must be replaced by fuses of the same type and rating.

Please refer to the “SPECIFICATIONS” for further details.

The mains connection is made using the enclosed power cord and a standard IEC
receptacle. It meets all international safety certication requirements.

◊ Please make sure that all equipment is properly grounded at all times.

For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground conduc tor of
the unit or of the AC power cord.

EUROPOWER EP1500UB2442FX-PRO

Fig. 2.1: How a feedback lo op is created

A feedback loop is created when a microphone signal is rst reproduced on an
amplier, and is then picked up again by the same microphone (with the same
phasing). Then, it is amplied 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:

• Front mix (also called F.O.H. = “front of house”) refers to the mix being

created when a signal from a mixing console is amplied by one or more
power ampliers and is fed into loudspeakers facing the audience.

• Monitor 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 volume levels can damage both your

hearing and your equipment. Be sure to always select an appropriate
volume level.

6 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

3. Control Elements and Connections

3.1 The front

(1) (4)(2) (5)(3)

(6) (7)

Fig. 3.1: Control element s on FBQ2496’s left side

(1) 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.

(2) 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 lters as necessary (of course, musicor
noise has to be present in the room for this to work). Besides, using the
wheel (17), you can manually determine the number of Single-Shot lters
(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).

(3) PANIC

If unexpected feedback starts occurring during a performance, pressing the
PANIC button can help. As long as the but ton is kept pressed (for a maximum
of 1 second), your FBQ2496 rapidly searches for feedback frequencies and
suppresses them.

(7) RESET

If you briey press the RESET button, all automatically set lters are erased.
If you keep the RESET button pressed longer, Single-Shot lters are erased
aswell.

In PEQ mode, briey pressing the RESET button erases the selec ted lter.
Keeping the RESET button pressed longer erases all the parametric lters all
at once.

(8) (9)

Fig. 3.2: Stat us display and the LED dis play on the FBQ2496

(8) STATUS DISPLAY

The FBQ2496 features a total of 40 lters, i.e. 20 lters per channel.
Theycan be monitored and controlled on the Status Display. A constantly lit
LEDsignalizes:

• A lter was deployed: It already suppresses an instance of feedback. or:

• A lter 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 lter in the PEQ mode.

(9) LED Display

The three-digit numeric display indicates the absolute value of the
parameter you are modif ying. How individual parameter are adjusted is
explained in ch. 4.

• Hz or kHz is lit when you change the mid frequency of a lter.

• The min display is lit when you are adjusting the lter lift time.

• The 1/60 LED is lit when you select a lter 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).

(4) SPEECH

Pressing the SPEECH button increases the sensitivity of feedback
suppression; the FBQ2496 recognizes critical frequencies sooner and deploys
a lter that cuts in appropriately.
Unlike with feedback caused by a distorting guitar, human speech
seldom produces signals that can mistakenly be identied 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.

(5) FREEZE

Once a particularly good FBQ2496 setting is achieved, you can keep this
setting by pressing the FREEZE button. All Single-Shot and automatic lters
are kept at their settings until you press FREEZE again.

(6) FILTER LIFT

The so-called “Filter Lifting Time” informs you about how long an adjusted
automatic lter can remain inactive before its values are reset again. You can
set this time by rst briey 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.

• The dB LED is lit when you adjust a lter gain value.

• The MIDI display briey lights up as soon as the FBQ2496 receives

MIDIdata.

(12)(10) (13)(11)

(16) (17) (18)(14) (15)

Fig. 3.3: Contro l elements on FBQ2496’s right

(10) GAIN

In the PEQ mode, the GAIN button lets you adjust lter 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.

7 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

(11) 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 lters.
Theystart with the lter number 20 and can go down to lter number 1,
stepy step (see g. 4.2). At the same time, the already set Single-Shot lters
are shown.
If you only briey press the PEQ button (the LED on the PEQ button is lit),
anylter can be called up using the wheel. The number of the selected lter
is shown in the display, and the corresponding lter LED blinks. Amplication,
bandwidth and mid frequency parameters can now beshown.

◊ Only the parameters of the parametric filters can be manually

adjusted! The settings of the Single-Shot filters and the automatic
filters can be shown but not modified.

(12) FREQUENCY

When the FBQ2496 is in the PEQ mode (the LED on the PEQ button is lit),
the mid frequency of each individual lter can be set. To modify the mid
frequency, press the FREQUENCY button. The frequency range can vary from
20 Hz to 20 kHz.

(13) LEFT-R IGHT

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 dierent
parameters to each of the two channels. Toggling between the two channels
is done by briey 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 your FBQ2496 is running in mono or in stereo is stored each

time you turn the unit off, and the same mode is reloaded each time
you power up the unit.

(14) BANDWIDTH

Use the BANDWIDTH button to set the bandwidth (Q-factor/quality) of the
selected parametric lter. The adjustable lter 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).

3.2 The rear

(20)

(19)

Fig.3.4: Mains connector, fuse switch and serial number

(19) The mains connection is established using a cable with an IEC mains connector.

An appropriate mains cable is included.

(20) 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.”

(21)

Fig. 3.5: FBQ2496’s MIDI connec tions jacks

(21) 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.

(22)

(15) BYPASS

Keeping the BYPASS button pressed f or a few moments activates the hard bypass.
The unit’s input is directly routed to the output and the lters arebypassed.

◊ Please use the BYPASS function with extreme caution because

deactivating the filters gives free reign to unsuppressed feedback.

(16) 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).

(17) 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.

(18) POWER

Press POWER to turn on your FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO.

◊ Attention: The POWER switch does not fully disconnect the unit from the

mains. To disconnect the unit from the mains, pull out the main cord plug
or appliance coupler. When installing the product, ensure the plug or
appliance coupler is readily operable. Unplug the power cord completely
when the unit is not used for prolonged periods of time.

(24) (23)

Fig. 3.6: FBQ2496’s rear connec tions

(22) 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.

(23) INPUT LEFT/RIGHT

These are the balanced inputs of your FBQ2496. They are laid out as ¼" TRS
and XLR connectors.

(24) OUTPUT LEFT/RIGHT

Both of the FBQ2496 outputs are also laid out as balanced ¼" TRS and
XLRconnectors.

8 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

4. FBQ2496 Filters

The FBQ2496 lters 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 lter

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 ( (13)).

Let us assume that both FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO channels are coupled
instereo.

The 20 lters pro channel can be divided up among Single-Shot lters,
automaticlters and parametric lters (g. 4.2).

◊ The number of all filter types per channel is always 20!

LEARN mode

1. Briey press the LEARN button.
The button LED lights up and the LED on the PANIC button blinks. The current
number of Single-Shot lters is shown in the display. (S 0 = no Single-Shot
lter selected, S20 = all lters deployed as Single-Shot lters).
The FBQ2496 immediately star ts searching for critical frequencies at
maximum speed and deploys as many Single-Shot lters as necessary
(forthis to work, your room has to have a func tioning PA system with a
signal fed into it). The number of lters 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 lters
afterwards as well.

3. Press the LEARN button again to exit.

AUTOLEARN mode

This function is useful for automatically setting up Single-Shot lters 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:

• The button LED blinks.

• All Single-Shot filters and automatic filters are reset.

• A time countdown runs in the display, from 16 seconds to zero

(L1 6 , L1 5 , ... , L 1, L 0).

◊ If the number of both fixed and parametric filters is set to zero, your FBQ2496

operates with 20 automatic filters per channel.

Single Shot-

lters

Fig. 4.2: Dierent lter types (shown here in stereo operation)

automatic

lters

parametric

lters

4.1 Setting up Single-Shot lters

If no Single-Shot lters have been set up, the FBQ2496 looks for critical
frequencies af ter being powered up, and deploys as many lters as necessary to
combat the problem.

Single-Shot lters 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.

◊ To work with the LEARN or the AUTOLEARN function, the FBQ2496 must

be connected to a PA system.

The FBQ2496 creates impulses with a signal level of -15dB in order to provoke
feedback. The overall amplication 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 lters.

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 of the adjusted Single-Shot filters can not be

manually changed afterwards. However, minor feedback frequency
changes are implemented automatically. Gain adjustment is also
automatically performed in the background, constantly adjusting to
the current conditions.

◊ If a satisfactory setting for the Single-Shot and automatic filters

has been achieved, you can keep this setting by pressing the FREEZE
button. The display shows: -.

◊ Using the LEARN or AUTOLEARN functions only makes sense if you are

dealing with PA systems and rooms that are also used for concerts
and recordings.

9 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

4.2 Setting up parametric lters

Some or even all 40 lters on your FBQ2496 can be deployed as parametric lters.
They have to be set up in a targeted fashion, with great precision. The frequenc y,
bandwidth and gain parameters are available.

Selecting the number of parametric lters

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 lters (p 0 =
no parametric lters deployed, P20 = all lters are parametric). Additionally,
the LEDs on the deployed Single-Shot lters are lit.

2. You can use the wheel to change the number of parametric lters.
The display shows the number of deployed parametric lters, and the
corresponding LEDs in the status display ((8)) are lit.

3. Pressing the PEQ button again briey completes the procedure.

• Now, the only parametric filters whose LEDs are still lit are those

whose gain (either positive or negative) does not equal zero.

Setting up frequency, bandwidth, gain

You should implement the following procedure with each individual
parametriclter:

1. Briey press the PEQ button.
The LED on the PEQ button is lit. The display indicates the number of the
selected lter (e.g. 19).

2. Use the wheel to select the parametric lter whose values you wish
tomodify.

◊ Any filter may be selec ted using the wheel! However, the parameters of

the Single-Shot and automatic filters can only be displays and can not
be modified!

3. After you press the FREQUENCY but ton, use the wheel to set the lter 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
lter’sbandwidth.

4. Briey press the BANDWIDTH button.

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. Positive values are easily represented

(14 , 14.5, 15). For negative values, complete representation would
require 4 digits. However, because the display only shows 3 digits,
the position after the decimal point is omitted and replaced by a
dot to the right of the first two digits (-1 5 , -1 4 . (5), -1 4 , -1 3 . (5)),
which stands for the missing decimal value.

8. Press the PEQ button briey again to complete the procedure.

◊ The status display only shows the filters whose gain does not equal to

zero (either positive or negative).

4.3 Setting up automatic lters

The number of automatic lters can not be separately set. It results from the
number of xed and parametric lters (g. 4.2).

◊ To lower the number of automatic filters, increase the number of

Single-Shot and/or parametric filters.

The automatic lters 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 lters are only periodically active, setting
themselves back to zero af terwards 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 lter 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 o (o ff) 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.

5. Turning the wheel changes the lter’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 lter becomes engaged only after an increase/decrease of the set
frequency is entered:

6. Briey 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.

◊ If a satisfactory setting for the Single-Shot and automatic filters

has been achieved, you can keep this setting by pressing the FREEZE
button. The display shows: -.

10 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

5. Connectivity Options

◊ The FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO is not intended to be connected directly

to the microphones! If this is unavoidable, then we recommend our
proven BEHRINGER SHARK DSP110 instead, which is equipped with a
dedicated microphone preamplifier.

◊ No amount of fancy gear can undo the mistakes committed when

selecting the locations for microphones! Therefore, when you
set up your mics, use them according to their directivity and
feedback susceptibility.

5.1 FBQ2496 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 g. 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.

Monitor System

FLOOR MONITOR F1220A FLOOR MONITOR F1220A

5.2 FBQ2496 in channel insert

Since you want to make sure that deliberately produced feedback signals, suchas
“guitar feedback,” are not eliminated, tr y 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.

PA System

EUROLIVE B1220 EUROLIVE B1220

EUROPOWER EP1500

FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496

OUTPUT

LEFT

INPUT
LEFT

OUTPUT

RIGHT

INPUT
RIGHT

EUROPOWER EP2000

OUTPUT

LEFT

FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496

INPUT

LEFT

Pre-Fader
AUX SENDS 1

EURORACK UB2442FX-PRO

Fig. 5.1: Using the FBQ2496 in the moni tor path

Pre-Fader
AUX SENDS 2

MAIN
OUTPUTS

OUTPUT
RIGHT

INPUT
RIGHT

PA System

EUROLIVE B1220 PRO

EUROPOWER EP2000

INSERT

MAIN
OUTPUTS

EURORACK UB2442FX-PRO

Fig. 5.2: FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO in channel insert/subgroup insert

◊ When processing a microphone signal with the DSP1124P and a

compressor inserted into the same channel insert point, the FBQ2496
should always be used pre-compressor.

If your mixing console features subgroups with their own inserts, this is perfec t
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 modied.

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 dierent purpose (e.g. use it on a
channelinsert).

11 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

5.3 FBQ2496 in studio applications

Thanks to the FBQ2496’s exible conguration, 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 Level

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 eectively suppress
feedback. To correctly set the signal level, use the LEVEL METER display (1).
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 distor tion (unlike its analog counterpart)
isextremely unpleasant because such distortion does not occur gradually but
extremelyabruptly.

7. MIDI control

MIDI stands for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface.” It is a “language” used to
transmit control information between dierent electronic devices: instruments,
PCs, drum computers, eects units, etc. That way, a device’s parameters can be
automatically modied at a previously determined point in time.

To make such communication possible, the following conditions have to be met:

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 function is deactivated on the FBQ2496, the MIDI

signal still passes through the unit and can be tapped into at the MIDI
THRU connector.

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 o: off

3. Press any button to exit this menu.

7. 3 Adjusting a MIDI channel

Using a MIDI channel, a master can transmit 16 dierent 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 rst.

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.

• All devices must be correctly connected to one another.

• One 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.

• The 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.

◊ No loop lines are allowed with MIDI connections, i.e. the master

device can send only control information, and the slave device(s)
can only receive control information–and not the other way around.
Depending on your application, some devices can function both as
masters and slaves.

7.4 MIDI controller

Each one of the 16 MIDI channels can transmit a lot of dierent 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 dened very specically. A total of 128
dierent controllers can be set up. There are several standards (0 = bank selec t,
7 = main volume) but no xed norm for the assignment of controllers to specic
controller numbers (0 - 127) exists. Dierent MIDI devices may react dierently to
the same controller numbers.

To eectively control your FBQ2496, it is important to know which controller
numbers can inuence individual parameters.

12 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

Parameter Controller Number Possible Values

Channels

Filters

Numbers of Single-Shot lters

Number of parametric lters

Mid frequency
(Coarse adjustment)

Mid frequency
(Fine adjustment)

Bandwith

Gain

10

11

12

13

14

46

15

16

SPEECH 17

FILTER LIFT 18

BYPA SS 19

LEARN 20

FREEZE 21

PANIC 22

0
1
2

0

⁝

19

0

⁝

20

0

⁝

20

0

⁝

75

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

left
right
stereo (l eft and right)

Filters 1 t hru 20 can be selec ted individuall y

None, one or s everal (up to 20) lters can be
selected

None, one or s everal (up to 20) lters can be
selected

20 Hz

⁝

20 Hz

logarithmic allocation
of frequencies

The previously set coarse mid frequency
(Controller 14) can be ne-tuned in 8 steps.
Alldigits of one step deliver the same
frequency value.

octave

1/60

⁝

10 oct aves

-36 dB

⁝

+15 dB

o
on

o

1 min
5 min
10 min
30 min
60 min

o
on

o
on

o
on

o
on

Table 7.1: FBQ2496 controller func tions

13 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

8. Installation

8.1 Installation in a rack

The FBQ2496 requires one height unit (1 HE) for mounting in a 19" rack.
Pleasekeep in mind that an additional 10cm (4") of depth in the back are
required to enable trouble-free access to the connectors on the rear panel.

For rack installation, please use M6 machine screws and nuts.

Please make sure that your FBQ2496 has enough cooling air, and never put it on
an amp or other heat-emitting equipment to avoid overheating.

8.2 Audio connections

The inputs and outputs on your FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO are laid out
completely balanced. Whenever possible, try to establish balanced connections
to other equipment in order to maximize disturb signal compensation.

MIDI connections (IN/OUT/THRU) are established using the standard DIN
connectors. Data transmission is achieved using a oating opto-coupler.

Balanced ¼" TRS connector

strain relief clamp

sleeve
ring
tip

Balanced use with XLR connectors

12

3

input

1 = ground/shield
2 = hot (+ve)
3 = cold (-ve)

1

2

3

output

For unbalanced use, pin 1 and pin 3
have to be bridged

Fig. 8.2: XLR connector

◊ Make sure that only competent people install your FBQ2496. They must

be sufficiently earthed during and after the installation; otherwise,
electrostatic discharges may negatively affect the operating
characteristics of your equipment.

sleeve

ground/shield

ring

cold (-ve)

tip

hot (+ve)

For connection of balanced and unbalanced plugs,
ring and sleeve have to be bridged at the stereo plug.

Fig. 8.1: ¼" TRS connector

14 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

9. Specications

Audio inputs

Connections XLR and ¼" TRS stereo connector

Type electronically balanced input

Input impedance approx. 20 kΩ balanced

Nominal input level -10 dBV / +4 dBu (adjustable)

Max. input signal level +20 dBu at +4 dBu nominal level,

+6 dBV at -10 dBV nominal level
typically -40 dB

Audio outputs

Connections XLR and 1/4” TRS stereo connector

Type balanced

Output impedance approx. 200 Ω balanced

Max. output level +20 dBu at +4 dBu nominal level,

+6 dBV at -10 dBV nominal level

Bypass

Type Relay, hard bypass in case of

power outage

Parametric equalizer (PEQ)

Type max. 20 independent,

fully parametric lters per channel

Frequency range 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Bandwidth 1/60th to 10 octaves

Possible value range +15 to -36 dB

Feedback Destroyer (FBQ)

Type digital signal analysis for feedback

recognition purposes

Filter max. 20 digital notch lters per channel

Frequency range 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Bandwidth 1/60th octave

Possible value range 0 to -36 dB

Display

Type 3-digit numeric LED display

Power supply

System information

Frequency response <10 Hz to 44 kHz

Dynamic range 107 dB

THD 0.007 % typically @ +4 dBu, 1 kHz,

amplication 1

Crosstalk < -100 dB @ 1 kHz

MIDI interface

Type 5-pole DIN connectors IN/OUT/THRU

Digital processing

Converter 24 Bit / 96 kHz

Sample rate 96 kHz

Mains voltage 100 - 240 V~, 50 - 60 Hz

Power consumption approx. 10 W

Fuse T 1 A H 250 V

Mains connector Standard receptacle

Dimensions/weight

Dimensions (H x W x D) approx. 217 x 44.5 x 483 mm

approx. 8.5 x 1.75 x 19"

Weight approx. 2 kg / 4.4 lbs

BEHRINGER i s constantly str iving to maintain the h ighest profess ional standards. A s a result of these e ffort s,

modific ations may be made f rom time to time to exi sting product s without prio r notice. Specif ications and

appearance m ay differ fro m those listed or illus trated.

15 FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496 User Manual

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION COMPLIANCE
INFORMATION

FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496

Responsible Party Name: MUSIC Group Services US Inc.

Address: 18912 North Creek Parkway,

Suite 200 Bothell, WA 98011,
USA

Phone/Fax No.: Phone: [phone]

Fax: [phone]

FEEDBACK DESTROYER PRO FBQ2496

complies with the FCC rules as mentioned in the followingparagraph:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a ClassB
digital device, pur suant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruc tions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the

receiver is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician forhelp.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:

(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any inter ference received, including inter ference that may
cause undesired operation.

Important information:

Changes or modications to the equipment not expressly approved by MUSIC Group
can void the user’s authority to use the equipment.

We Hear You