What device is used to manage background noise by adjusting the sound signal accordingly?

The device that effectively manages background noise by adjusting the sound signal is the noise gate. A noise gate works by allowing audio signals above a certain threshold to pass through while reducing or eliminating those below this threshold. This is particularly useful in a live performance or recording environment where extraneous sounds, such as audience noise or equipment hum, can be problematic. By implementing a noise gate, sound technicians can maintain a cleaner audio signal and ensure that only desired sounds, like vocals or instruments, are amplified, resulting in a clearer and more professional sound overall.

While soundboards are crucial for mixing audio signals from different sources, they do not inherently manage background noise in the way that a noise gate does. Audio equalizers change the frequency response of audio signals rather than automatically managing background noise. Microphone boosters typically enhance the signal strength of microphones, which does not address the issue of background noise management directly.