No one can deny that the mic stand is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a recording studio. It holds the microphone and allows it to be positioned at the right height and angle for recording.
A mic stand or microphone stand is a device used to hold a microphone, usually in front of a performing musician or speaker. It allows the microphone to be positioned at the desired height and angle, and provides support for the microphone. There are different types of stands to hold different types of microphones.
What is a Tripod Boom Stand?
The Basics
A tripod boom stand is like a regular tripod stand, but with a bonus feature – a boom arm! This arm allows you to angle the mic in ways that a regular tripod stand can’t, giving you more freedom and flexibility. Plus, you don’t have to worry about tripping over the feet of the stand, since the boom arm extends the reach. Singers often use this type of stand while sitting down.
The Benefits
Tripod boom stands offer a few key benefits:
- More flexibility and freedom when angling the mic
- Extended reach, reducing the risk of tripping over the stand
- Perfect for singers who prefer to sit down while performing
- Easy to adjust and set up
The Lowdown on Low-Profile Stands
What are Low-Profile Stands?
Low-profile stands are the little brothers of the tripod boom stands. They do the same job, but with a shorter stature. Check out the Stage Rocker SR610121B Low-Profile Stand for a good example.
When to Use Low-Profile Stands
Low-profile stands are great for recording sound sources that are close to the ground, like a kick drum. That’s why they’re called “low-profile”!
How to Use Low-Profile Stands Like a Pro
If you want to use low-profile stands like a pro, here are some tips:
- Make sure the stand is stable and won’t wobble.
- Position the stand close to the sound source for the best sound quality.
- Adjust the height of the stand to get the best angle.
- Use a shock mount to reduce unwanted noise.
The Sturdier Option: Overhead Stands
When it comes to mic stands, there’s no denying that overhead stands are the crème de la crème. Not only are they sturdier and more complex than the other types, but they also come with a hefty price tag.
The Base
The base of an overhead stand is typically a solid, triangular piece of steel or several steel legs, like the On-Stage SB96 Boom Overhead Stand. And the best part? They come with lockable wheels, so you can push the stand around without having to lift its heavy weight.
The Boom Arm
The boom arm of an overhead stand is longer than that of a tripod boom stand, which is why they’re often used to capture the collective sound of a drum kit. Plus, the mount is more adjustable than any other stand’s mount, so you can achieve some extreme angles with your microphone. And if you’re using a heavier mic, like a condenser, an overhead stand is the way to go.
The Verdict
If you’re looking for a mic stand that can handle heavier mics and provide you with a wider range of angles, an overhead stand is the way to go. Just make sure you’re ready to shell out some extra cash for the sturdier build.
The Basics of Tripod Mic Stands
What is a Tripod Mic Stand?
If you’ve ever been to a recording studio, a live event, or a TV show, you’ve likely seen a tripod mic stand. It’s one of the most common types of mic stands, and it’s pretty easy to spot.
The tripod mic stand is made up of a single straight pole with a mount at the top, so you can adjust the height. At the bottom, you’ll find three feet that fold in and out for easy packing and setup. Plus, they’re usually pretty affordable.
The Pros and Cons of Tripod Mic Stands
Tripod mic stands have a few advantages:
- They’re easy to set up and pack away
- They’re adjustable, so you can get the height you need
- They’re usually pretty affordable
But there are a few drawbacks to consider:
- The feet can be a tripping hazard if you’re not careful
- If you do trip, the mic stand can easily tip over
How to Make Tripod Mic Stands Safer
If you’re worried about tripping over your tripod mic stand, there are a few things you can do to make it safer. Look for a stand with rubber feet that have grooves, like the On-Stage MS7700B tripod. This will help reduce movement and make it less likely to tip over.
You can also make sure to keep your mic stand away from foot traffic and be extra careful when you’re around it. That way, you can enjoy the convenience of a tripod mic stand without worrying about it tipping over.
What is a Desktop Stand?
If you’ve ever watched a podcast or live stream, you’ve probably seen one of these little guys. A desktop stand is like a mini version of a regular mic stand.
Types of Desktop Stands
Desktop stands come in two main varieties:
- Round base stands, like the Bilione 3-in-1 Desktop Stand
- Tripod stands, with three legs
Most of them can also be attached to a surface with screws.
What Do They Do?
Desktop stands are designed to hold a microphone in place. They usually have one adjustable pole in the middle with a mount at the top. Some of them also have a little boom arm.
So if you’re looking for a way to keep your mic in place while you record, a desktop stand might be just what you need!
Different Types of Mic Stands
Wall and Ceiling Stands
These stands are perfect for broadcasts and voice-overs. They get mounted onto a wall or ceiling with screws, and have two connected poles – a vertical and a horizontal arm – making them very flexible.
Clip-On Stands
These stands are great for traveling, as they’re lightweight and quick to set up. All you need to do is clip them onto something like the edge of a desk.
Sound Source Specific Stands
If you’re looking for a stand to record two sound sources at once, a dual-mic stand holder is the way to go. Or, if you need something to fit around your neck, a neck brace mic holder is the perfect choice.
What Do Microphone Stands Do?
The History of Mic Stands
Mic stands have been around for over a century, and it’s not like someone actually “invented” them. In fact, some of the first microphones had stands built right into them, so the concept of a stand came along with the invention of the microphone itself.
Nowadays, most mic stands are free-standing. Their purpose is to act as a mount for your microphone so you don’t have to hold it in your hand. You don’t see people in recording studios holding their mics by hand, because it can cause unwanted vibrations that mess up the take.
When You Need a Mic Stand
Mic stands come in handy when someone can’t use their hands, like a singer who’s playing an instrument at the same time. They’re also great for when multiple sound sources are being recorded, like a choir or orchestra.
Types of Mic Stands
There’s a variety of microphone stands out there, and some are better suited for different types of setups. Here are seven types of mic stands you should know about:
- Boom stands: These are the most popular type of mic stands, and they’re great for recording vocals.
- Tripod stands: These are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for live performances.
- Table stands: These are designed to be placed on a flat surface, like a desk or table.
- Floor stands: These are usually adjustable, so you can get the perfect height for your mic.
- Overhead stands: These are designed to hold mics above the sound source, like a drum kit.
- Wall mounts: These are great for when you need to mount a mic in a permanent location.
- Gooseneck stands: These are perfect for mics that need to be positioned in a specific way.
Whether you’re recording a podcast, a band, or a voiceover, having the right mic stand can make all the difference. So make sure you pick the right one for your setup!
Round Base Stands: A Stand-up Guide
What is a Round Base Stand?
A round base stand is a type of microphone stand that is similar to a tripod stand, but instead of feet, it has a cylindrical or dome-shaped base. These stands are popular among performers, as they are less likely to cause tripping during live shows.
What to Look for in a Round Base Stand
When choosing a round base stand, there are a few things to consider:
- Material: Metal is preferable, as it is more durable and steady. However, it will be heavier to carry.
- Weight: Heavier stands are steadier, but they will be harder to transport.
- Width: Wider bases can make it uncomfortable to get close to the mic.
An Example of a Round Base Stand
One popular round base stand is the Pyle PMKS5 dome-shaped stand. It has a metal base and is lightweight, making it a great option for performers who need to move their stand around.
Understanding the Different Types of Microphone Stands
The Basics
Do you ever feel like you’re missing out on something when you’re recording? Well, you might be! Microphone stands come in all shapes and sizes, and each one has its own unique purpose. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your next recording session, it’s important to know the difference between the seven types of stands.
The Different Types
When it comes to microphone stands, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Here’s a quick rundown of the different types:
- Boom stands: These are great for getting your mic close to the sound source.
- Desk stands: Perfect for when you need to keep your mic close to the desk.
- Tripod stands: These are great for when you need to keep your mic off the ground.
- Overhead stands: Perfect for when you need to keep your mic above the sound source.
- Floor stands: These are great for when you need to keep your mic at a certain height.
- Wall mounts: Perfect for when you need to keep your mic close to the wall.
- Shock mounts: These are great for when you need to reduce vibrations.
Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Mic Stand
When it comes to recording, the mic stand is like the unsung hero. Sure, you can get away with using any old stand, but if you really want to get the most out of your session, you need to make sure you have the right one for the job. So, don’t be afraid to do your research and invest in the right stand for your needs!
The 6 Types of Microphone Stands: What’s the Difference?
Tripod Stands
These are the most common and are designed for all-around use. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of mic stands – they can do it all!
Tripod Boom Stands
These are like the tripod stands, but with a boom arm for extra positioning options. They’re like the Swiss Army knife with a saw blade – they can do even more!
Round Base Stands
These are great for singers on stage, since they take up less space and are less likely to cause a tripping hazard than tripod stands. They’re like the Swiss Army knife with a corkscrew – they can do even more!
Low-Profile Stands
These are the go-to for kick drums and guitar cabs. They’re like the Swiss Army knife with a toothpick – they can do even more!
Desktop Stands
These look similar to low-profile stands, but are intended more for podcasting and bedroom recording. They’re like the Swiss Army knife with a magnifying glass – they can do even more!
Overhead Stands
These are the biggest and most expensive of all stands, and are used in professional settings where extreme heights and angles are needed, such as with drum overheads. They’re like the Swiss Army knife with a compass – they can do even more!
Differences
Mic Stand Round Base Vs Tripod
When it comes to mic stands, there are two main types: round base and tripod. Round base stands are great for small stages as they don’t take up much space, but they can also transfer vibrations from the wooden stage to the mic. Tripod stands, on the other hand, don’t suffer from this issue but they do take up more space. So, if you’re looking for a mic stand that won’t take up too much room, go for a round base stand. But if you’re looking for one that won’t transfer vibrations, then a tripod stand is the way to go. Whichever you choose, just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold your mic!
Mic Stand Vs Boom Arm
When it comes to mics, it’s all about the stand. If you’re looking for a way to get better sound quality, a boom arm is the way to go. Unlike a mic stand, a boom arm is specifically designed to work with a boom mic and capture sound from further away. It’s also got a handy friction hinge so you can adjust it without any tools, plus hidden-channel cable management to keep your cables tidy. On top of that, a boom arm usually comes with a mount adaptor so you can use it with different mics.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, a desk-mount bushing is the way to go. This will give you a sleek setup that sits flush against your desk and won’t move around. Plus, it’s got sturdy springs to support heavier mics, so you can upgrade your studio without having to buy a new stand. So if you’re looking for a way to get better sound quality and a more professional look, a boom arm is definitely the way to go.
Conclusion
When it comes to mic stands, you want to make sure you get the right one for your needs. Do your research, figure out what type of stand you need, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right mic stand, you’ll be able to ROCK your next performance! So don’t be a “dud” and get the right mic stand for the job.
I'm Joost Nusselder, the founder of Neaera and a content marketer, dad, and love trying out new equipment with guitar at the heart of my passion, and together with my team, I've been creating in-depth blog articles since 2020 to help loyal readers with recording and guitar tips.
