Using proximity effect to reduce feedback

Proximity effect can either be a blessing or a curse, depending on how it is used. One benefit that is rarely thought of, but very effective is as follows. Proximity effect can be used to cut feedback in a sound reinforcement situation. How? If the performer works very close to the mic, and doesn’t need the extra bass, an equalizer can be used to turn down the channel’s bass response. This makes the microphone less sensitive to feedback at low frequencies, since it is now less sensitive to any low-frequency signal arriving from more than a foot away (This equalization technique also will help reduce the effect of any handling noise.).