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A microphone stand may not be the first essential item on your list of equipment, but it certainly can improve your recording set up.
Not only do microphone stands free up your hands, but they also help stabilize your mic. This means clearer audio and better-quality recordings. With so many options out there though, what do you choose? A desk stand, a tripod stand?
We’ll help you out! Our guide walks you through different microphone stands and which is best for you based on your setup. We also review 5 of the best mic stands you should try!
What is a microphone stand?
A microphone stand is a specialized piece of equipment designed to secure your microphone in place while you record audio. The best microphone stands are designed robustly, allowing them to stabilize your mic and reduce the risk of damage or poor sound quality.
Depending on how you use your microphone, there are several different stand types and accessories to choose from. Some stands are adjustable, while others are static. Some are heavy-duty, designed for high-impact environments, while others are not quite as sturdy.
As you shop for the right microphone stand, you'll need to sort through different stand types, carefully assessing the style, weight, price, and purpose of your chosen model before you make a purchase.
As a customer, it's your job to make a well-informed decision. Before you shop for the perfect mic stand, you'll need to understand exactly what you're looking for and how your microphone stand will need to work to serve your specific needs.
Mic stand vs. boom arm
Mic stands are available in a range of sizes and structures. Some stands are large enough to be placed on the ground, stabilized by a tripod base. Others clip to the side of your desk for recording in more compact spaces.
Like mic stands, boom arms are used to stabilize a microphone to produce better-quality sound recordings. However, a boom arm, or boom stand, is designed specifically for use with a boom microphone and for further-distance sound production. Generally, a boom arm is attached to a mic stand to help you position a microphone closer to the speaker without having to move the actual stand closer.
Standard tripod mic stands are used at close range. A boom stand allows for hands-free microphone use. Boom stands feature an extendable arm reaching from the top of the stand, allowing the stand to be used at a further distance. This is ideal when working with other bulky equipment or instruments, but also in instances where you might want to conceal a microphone in a video recording.
When to use a mic stand
A mic stand can be used in many situations, scenarios, and environments. Wherever there is a microphone, there's a place for a microphone stand!
Many podcasters and audio creators use microphone stands as part of their recording setup, allowing them to produce clearer, crisper sound quality with ease. Stands are often used by broadcasters and can even be a valuable tool for gamers or professionals who use a microphone to speak on conference calls.
Mic stands are also commonly used for studio work. A recording studio may have several different types of mics and mic stands, available for use by music artists as well as voice actors and other recording personnel. Different stands may be needed for singers, speakers, and instrumentalists.
Finally, microphone stands are frequently used by stage performers. These might feature a tripod base, allowing them to stand securely on the stage. Sometimes, boom arms might be used, positioning a microphone at height to accommodate a drum, piano, guitar, or other musical instruments.
Microphone stand types
There are many different types of microphone stands, each with its own unique benefits and features. Some stands are designed for professional use or studio integration, while others are best suited for home use and desktop environments.
Tripod stand
Tripod stands are among the most common microphone stands, often referred to as "standard stands" due to their popularity and diverse applications.
A tripod stand features three collapsible legs at the base, providing stability for the stand. A straight pole, usually adjustable, leads from the ground up to a microphone mount. In many cases, it's possible to adjust height and positioning.
Round-base stand
Round-base microphone stands are another popular choice, used frequently for stage installations and other high-traffic environments where a tripod base might pose a tripping hazard.
A round-base stand features a stable circular or dome-shaped base, from which a straight pole extends up to a mic mount. Typically, smaller bases are preferred, as they make it possible to get closer to the microphone. These stands can usually be adjusted for height and position.
Tripod boom stand
Like standard tripod stands, tripod boom stands are favored for their stability and broad applications. However, these stands do feature a key difference.
A tripod boom stand uses three legs at the base to provide a stable platform. Leading up from this, a vertical pole is attached to a boom arm, increasing the range of the stand. Tripod boom stands are commonly used in environments where extra space is needed, such as a music performance when an instrument would get in the way of a typical stand.
Overhead stand
Overhead mic stands are designed to be especially sturdy, providing a high level of stability in complex sound environments. They may be used on stage or in a studio, depending on other variables.
An overhead stand usually features several steel legs with lockable wheels, allowing for reliable stability even when a mic is positioned at height. Overhead stands use a vertical pole attached to a far-reaching boom arm. This can capture sound from above, making these stands perfect for professional use in complex or crowded spaces.
Desktop stand
For home studio use, a desktop microphone stand is a common choice. These stands are often favored by podcasters, musicians, and amateur content creators, as they are portable and easy to adjust.
In some cases, a desktop mic stand uses a small-scale tripod or round base to sit securely on a desk or table, minimizing movement as much as possible. Other models clip securely to a desk or even connect to a keyboard.
How to choose a mic stand
As you begin your search for the perfect mic stand, it's important that you take a few considerations into account. Knowing what questions to ask can help you define your needs and ambitions, allowing you to make an informed purchasing decision.
Before you choose a new microphone stand, ask yourself where your stand will be used. If you record predominantly from home in a small, compact space or often need to record content on the go, a lightweight portable desktop stand might be the best choice.
If you're a music artist who often performs on stage, you may need a larger mic stand or even a boom arm to work around an instrument.
Next, assess any safety risks or hazards in your space. Do you use your mic in an environment with plenty of room to move? A tripod stand might be the right choice! However, if you have cable connections in the way or a small space with many tripping hazards, you may need a round-base stand instead.
Once you've thought about your environment, it's a good idea to assess your microphone stand needs and goals. Some mic stands are more stable than others, so if you use expensive equipment, it's best to choose an extra-sturdy model. You might also want to choose a stand style that minimizes background noise.
5 best mic stands
To help you get started on your search for the perfect mic stand, here are our 5 top picks!
1. Ultimate Support MC-125 Studio Series Mic Stand
Price: $299.99
Type: Tripod boom stand
The Ultimate Support MC-125 is a heavy-duty mic stand with great adjustable features. It's perfect for serious musicians and sound creators who use top-quality equipment.
This mic stand has a stable base comprising a hybrid of round and tripod design. The stand is lockable for extra reliability, and the structure is both solid and easy to adjust, allowing you to secure your microphone in position without worrying about falls and breaks.
2. RODE PSA1 Microphone Studio Arm
Price: $99
Type: Desktop boom stand
The RODE PSA1 Microphone Studio Arm is perfect for podcasters and broadcasters, combining boom arm design with desktop positioning and featuring 360-degree swivel.
This mic stand has a sleek aesthetic and allows for easy noiseless adjustment while in use. It is accompanied by velcro straps to keep cables safe. The stand can be clamped to a desktop for temporary use or permanently installed for longer-term projects.
3. Samson MK10 Lightweight Microphone Boom Stand
Price: $27
Type: Tripod boom stand
The Samson MK10 Lightweight Microphone Boom Stand is lightweight and affordable, making it the perfect choice for new creators, frequent travelers, and home mic users.
This stand is incredibly durable and is easily portable if you need to use your mic on the go. The stand has a reasonable height and features a cable clip to keep wires neat and out of the way. This boom mic stand is supported by a trustworthy tripod base.
4. On Stage DS7200QRB Quik-Release Desktop Mic Stand
Price: $22.95
Type: Round-base desktop stand
The On Stage DS7200QRB Quik-Release Desktop Mic Stand is a small stand formulated for desktop use in small spaces. It's ideal for podcasters and home studio applications!
This microphone stand has a solid design with a steel base that's well suited to heavy mics. The stand adjusts easily and can adapt to your environment and needs, sitting well on a desktop.
5. AtlasIED MS-10C
Price: $49
Type: Round-base stand
The AtlasIED MS-10C is designed for stage and studio use, with a strong structure and easy height adjustment.
This microphone stand is simple and practical, using a round base to provide stability while preventing tripping hazards. The stand can be adjusted depending on your height requirements and is easy to transport from venue to venue. It also has replaceable elements and accessories, making it a good long-term investment.
How to set up a mic stand
In terms of set-up, every mic stand is different! Depending on your chosen model, you may need to connect wires, change height, or alter stand position. Here are some mic stand setup tips you can follow:
- When placing your mic stand, make sure that the stand height and position are suited to your needs and that the microphone isn't difficult to reach.
- Ensure that your stand base is secure on the ground or a desktop surface and that wheels, if present, are locked before you place your mic.
- Check your stand and surroundings for any hazards, like loose cables or tripod tripping hazards. Make sure that your stand isn't bumping into an instrument or another piece of equipment.
For the best results, pair your microphone setup with Riverside. You can capture uncompressed audio and up to 48kHz WAV.
Mic stand FAQs
Still have questions? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about microphone stands.
What are mic stands called?
All microphone stands have different names depending on their model and design. You might choose a tripod stand, a boom arm stand, a round-base stand, a desktop stand, or something different!
Is a microphone stand worth it?
If you use a microphone often, a good stand is a worthy investment! Quality mic stands can improve sound, reduce the risk of equipment damage, and provide an easy, stable environment where you can use your microphone with confidence.
How do you make a homemade mic stand?
It's always best to purchase a reliable microphone stand instead of relying on homemade options. Store-bought stands are designed to accommodate heavy mics and other equipment and to work well in challenging environments. However, if you have the skills, it is possible to make your own mic stand at home. All you'll need are some tools and PVC. Make sure your stand is stable before you place your mic.
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