The effect of intracavity electromagnetically induced transparency (EI
T) on the properties of optical resonators and active laser devices is
discussed theoretically. Pronounced frequency pulling and cavity-line
width narrowing are predicted. The EIT effect can be used to reduce cl
assical and quantum-phase noise of the beat note of an optical oscilla
tor substantially. Fundamental limits of this stabilization mechanism
as well as its potential application to high-resolution spectroscopy a
re discussed. (C) 1998 Optical Society of America.