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This article was originally published on Make the Sound Better. While I have updated most of the articles that have been transferred over, this article is mostly unedited.
The Importance of Microphone Stands
Microphone stands are an essential piece of equipment for any sound setup, whether it be a studio, live performance, or podcast setting. They provide a stable platform for your microphone, allowing you to position it exactly where you need it for optimal sound quality. Additionally, using a stand helps to reduce handling noise and prevent accidental knocks, which can cause unwanted sounds in your recording or performance. With so many different microphone stands available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at ten of the top microphone stands and evaluate them based on various criteria to help you make an informed decision.
Criteria for Evaluating Microphone Stands
When evaluating microphone stands, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- Stability: A stable stand is essential to prevent the microphone from wobbling or falling over during use.
- Adjustability: The stand should be adjustable so that you can position the microphone at the correct height and angle for your needs.
- Weight and Portability: If you need to transport your equipment frequently, a lightweight and portable stand may be necessary.
- Durability: A high-quality microphone stand should be made of durable materials that can withstand frequent use.
Top 10 Microphone Stands Overview
Here’s an overview of the top ten microphone stands we’ll be evaluating in this article:
- K&M 210/9 Microphone Stand
- On-Stage MS7701B Microphone Stand
- Ultimate Support JS-MCFB100 Tripod Mic Stand
- Hercules MS533B Hideaway Boom Stand
- DR Pro DR259 MS1500BK Low Profile Mic Boom Stand
- Musician’s Gear Tripod Mic Stand
- Atlas Sound MS-10C Round Base Mic Stand
- Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom
- Rode PSA1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm
Comparative Table
| Stand | Stability | Adjustability | Weight & Portability | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K&M 210/9 | High | High | Heavy (7.7 lbs) | High |
| On-Stage MS7701B | Medium | High | Medium (6.5 lbs) | Medium |
| Ultimate Support | High | High | Medium (3.7 lbs) | High |
| Hercules MS533B | High | High | Heavy (10 lbs) | High |
| DR Pro DR259 MS1500BK | High | High | Heavy (10.1 lbs) | High |
| Musician’s Gear Tripod | Medium | High | Lightweight (2.8 lbs) | Medium |
| Atlas Sound MS-10C | High | High | Medium (6 lbs) | High |
| Heil Sound PL-2T | High | High | Heavy (4.5 lbs) | High |
| Rode PSA1 | High | High | Medium (3.5 lbs) | High |
K&M 210/9 Microphone Stand: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Konig & Meyer Pro microphone boom stand- 210-9 | £65.07 | Buy on Amazon |
The K&M 210/9 Microphone Stand is a high-quality stand made of steel and finished with a black powder coating. It has a sturdy tripod base with rubber feet for added stability, and its adjustable height ranges from 35.4 inches to 63 inches. The stand also has a telescopic boom arm that can extend from 18.5 inches to 30.3 inches, providing excellent adjustability. The K&M 210/9 is on the heavier side, weighing in at 7.7 pounds, making it less portable than some other options. However, its durability and stability make it an excellent choice for studio use.
On-Stage MS7701B Microphone Stand: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| On Stage Stands MS7701B Euro Boom Mic Stand, Black, 4.25... | £29.99 | Buy on Amazon |
The On-Stage MS7701B Microphone Stand is a budget option that still delivers adequate stability and adjustability. It has a tripod base with folding legs for easy transport, and its adjustable height ranges from 36 inches to 63 inches. The stand also has a removable boom arm that can extend up to 30 inches. The On-Stage MS7701B is a bit lighter than some other options, weighing in at 6.5 pounds, making it more portable. However, its lower price point may mean it’s not as durable as some other options.
Ultimate Support JS-MCFB100 Tripod Mic Stand: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Support JamStands JS-MCFB100 Tripod Mic Stand with... | £33.00 | Buy on Amazon |
The Ultimate Support JS-MCFB100 Tripod Mic Stand is another budget option that still provides excellent stability and adjustability. It has a tripod base with non-slip feet and an adjustable height range from 39 inches to 68 inches. The stand also has a telescopic boom arm that can extend up to 30 inches. The JS-MCFB100 is one of the lightest options, weighing in at only 3.7 pounds, making it very portable. However, its construction materials may not be as durable as some other options.
Hercules MS533B Hideaway Boom Stand: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HERCULES MS533B Hideaway Boom Stand, Black | £68.19 | Buy on Amazon |
The Hercules MS533B Hideaway Boom Stand is a heavy-duty option that provides excellent stability and adjustability. It has a weighted hex-shaped base with a built-in EZ Adaptor for quick attachment and detachment of the boom arm. The adjustable height ranges from 44 inches to 82 inches, and the boom arm can extend up to 33 inches. The MS533B is one of the heaviest options, weighing in at 10 pounds, making it less portable. However, its robust construction materials ensure excellent durability.
DR Pro DR259 MS1500BK Low Profile Mic Boom Stand: Technical Overview
The DR Pro DR259 MS1500BK Low Profile Mic Boom Stand is another heavy-duty option that provides excellent stability and adjustability. It has a three-legged weighted base with a low profile design that makes it less intrusive on stage. The adjustable height ranges from 19 inches to 34 inches, and the boom arm can extend up to 23 inches. The DR259 is one of the heaviest options, weighing in at 10.1 pounds, making it less portable. However, its robust construction materials ensure excellent durability.
Musician’s Gear Tripod Mic Stand: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Musician's Gear Tripod Mic Stand with Fixed Boom Black | £60.90 | Buy on Amazon |
The Musician’s Gear Tripod Mic Stand is a lightweight and affordable option that still provides adequate stability and adjustability. It has a tripod base with folding legs for easy transport, and its adjustable height ranges from 36 inches to 63 inches. The stand also has a removable boom arm that can extend up to 30 inches. The Musician’s Gear stand is one of the lightest options, weighing in at only 2.8 pounds, making it very portable. However, its construction materials may not be as durable as some other options.
Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HeIL ARTICULATING MIC BOOM | £117.60 | Buy on Amazon |
The Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom is a high-end option designed specifically for broadcast and voiceover use. It has a unique design that allows it to be suspended from a desk or table, providing excellent adjustability without taking up floor space. The length of the boom arm can be adjusted up to 45 inches, and the stand can support microphones weighing up to 3.5 pounds. The PL-2T is on the heavier side, weighing in at 4.5 pounds, making it less portable. However, its high-quality construction materials and unique design make it an excellent choice for professional use.
Rode PSA1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm: Technical Overview
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RØDE PSA1 Professional Studio Arm, MultiColored |
£61.02 | Buy on Amazon |
The Rode PSA1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm is a high-end option designed specifically for studio use. It has a unique design that allows it to be attached to a desk or table, providing excellent adjustability without taking up floor space. The length of the boom arm can be adjusted up to 32 inches, and the stand can support microphones weighing up to 4.4 pounds. The PSA1 is one of the lighter options, weighing in at 3.5 pounds, making it very portable. However, its high-quality construction materials and unique design make it an excellent choice for professional use.
Choosing the right microphone stand is essential for achieving optimal sound quality and preventing unwanted noise in your recordings or performances. By considering factors such as stability, adjustability, weight and portability, and durability, you can select a stand that meets your needs. The ten microphone stands we’ve evaluated in this article represent a range of options suitable for a variety of settings and budgets. Whether you’re a professional sound engineer or a hobbyist podcaster, there’s a microphone stand out there that’s perfect for you.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2024-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
