How to Use a Bullhorn

A bullhorn is an electronic version of a megaphone, with either a built-in or handheld microphone attached to a metal or plastic cone- or funnel-shaped speaker. Most often the bullhorn features a pistol-like handgrip. Bullhorns are used for crowd control, giving orders and instructions, and for cheering on athletic teams. They can also all too often be used to disturb the peace. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Adjust the volume to a level sufficient to carry an amplified voice to its intended audience. A 35-watt bullhorn is powerful enough to carry a message 1,000 yards or more.

2. Position the bullhorn several inches from your mouth with the microphone facing you. This distance is necessary to keep the bullhorn from squashing out the highs and lows of your voice when you speak.

3. Trigger any built-in siren or whistle if available and necessary to get the crowd's attention.

4. Turn on the bullhorn microphone by pushing the transmit button. Some bullhorns allow the button to be locked into position. Others turn on the microphone automatically whenever the user speaks into it.

5. Speak into the microphone forcefully, but without shouting. Most bullhorns made today have microphones sensitive enough that there is no need to yell into them. Shouting into a powerful bullhorn may distort the voice and cause a loud squeal known as a feedback loop.

6. Readjust the volume level, if necessary, to compensate for distortions.

Tips & Warnings

• Always respect others' rights when using a bullhorn. While free speech itself is protected, courts usually rule against imposing one's words on others who are peacefully assembled.

Resources

• Buy Champion & Fanon bullhorns.