John And Edward At Centre Of Fix Clain Again

'X Factor' chiefs faced "fix" claims last night after it emerged soundmen have been drowning out Jedward's singing with backing vocals.

The Sun reports that bosses allegedly ordered the move using pre-recorded tracks by session singers to keep the tone-deaf twins, 18, in the show.

Last night senior people at the show admitted every act received "technical support". But the extent to which the twins get help has left show workers furious.

An insider said: "Every week session singers record backing tracks to some songs.

"But soundmen are told to turn down the levels of the twins' mics so their vocals are mostly covered by the backing singers. Often mics are so low the twins' singing would be barely audible."

The insider added that Jedward were lowered to a "ridiculous level" for their performance of Queen's Under Pressure on Saturday. He said: "The only time levels were raised was when they were rapping."

The survival of ratings hit John and Edward has led thousands to complain 'X Factor' has lost its song contest roots.
A show spokeswoman said: "Contestants sing live and all are given equal technical support."

Meanwhile, Jedward are also making ITV pots of cash and boosting ratings.

Saturday's show saw the highest number of votes all series.