A controller for a haptic feedback element is described, the haptic feedback element being configured to generate haptic vibrations, wherein the controller comprises a sense input and is configured to sense a signal induced on at least one terminal of the haptic feedback element in response to an external vibration source. The controller may sense vibrations induced one or more terminals of a haptic feedback element. The external vibration source may for example be due to speech transmitted via bone conduction which can be detected and subsequently processed.