We report on terahertz generation by Cherenkov-type optical rectification in lithium niobate using an actively controlled femtosecond pumped enhancement cavity. In this way a much higher pump power is available inside the cavity and an increased terahertz output power is obtained. The advantages of terahertz generation in the Cherenkov geometry are verified by comparing it with other types of emitters by means of electro-optical detection as well as by bolometer measurements. (C) 2008 American Institute of Physics.