The equalizer circuit (200) equalizes the channel prior to despreading thereby restoring the orthogonality of signals that typically exists in the forward link of CDMA systems and thus suppressing interference and improving the performance. The equalization method is based on the well-established normalized least-mean-squares (NLMS) algorithm. The tracking ability and the strength of the training signal of the NLMS are enhanced in the invention by using data feedback, in addition to the common pilot, to form the training signal. Based on initial data decisions, the transmitted signal can be reconstructed and included in the training signal. In cases where the transmitted signal for the receiver employs several codes as in a multicode transmission environment, the quality of the training signal can be significantly improved. This in turn results in considerable performance improvements to the extent that the resulting performance may be superior to that of other equalization techniques of similar or larger complexity.