The Best Mic Stands
Whether your microphone is a tool of your trade or a complement to your hobbies, you've probably realized you're going to need a new mic stand. Sure, you could hold your mic in your hand whenever you want to use it, but won't your hand get tired? And more importantly, don't you want your microphone to capture impeccable sound? Unless you're perfectly still on stage, the mic is going to pick up the rumble of your moving hand. The obvious solution is to mount your microphone on a solid stand and we're here to help you do just that. Take a look and see what tickles your fancy. In our search for the best mic stands, we looked for three main qualities: adjustability, durability, and versatility. In other words, the mic stand should fit most standard microphones and sport an extendable design. One of our favorites came from InnoGear since this simple-yet-effective stand boasts a low price and a powerful clamp-on mount. It's ideal for podcasters and home recordings. However, if you want something for live performances, we recommend Pyle's straight stand. With a balanced design and an adjustable height, it's the perfect stage companion. Read on for more of our in-depth reviews.
InnoGear Suspension Stand
When you can't stand to stand
Ideal for podcasters, content creators, and live streamers, this mic serves as an entry-level option for those setting up an audio rig for the first time. Not only is it inexpensive and fairly reliable, but it’s also a cinch to set up, too. Here’s how it works: first, you’ll attach the stand to your desk by using the included mounting clamp. Next, you’ll make adjustments to the stand’s position so it’s situated exactly where you want it to be. Finally, you’ll attach the mic to the threaded mounting screw, and then you’re ready to wire up. Once it’s fully installed, the stand’s arm will smoothly glide wherever you move it, so you can pull it near your face when it’s time to record, and then move it out of your way when you’re done.
Pros:
- The adjustments are nearly limitless, so you can easily find a configuration that works for your height and your performance style.
- We love how easily it folds up and sets up, so this is a great pick for setting up podcast recordings on the fly.
- Considering the economical price, it’s one of the best options for budget-minded shoppers.
Cons:
- Heavier mics may cause it to sag under the weight.
Tonor T30 Suspension Scissor Boom Kit
All together now
Many experts advise against buying a budget-level suspension stand since they’re not sturdy enough to reliably handle the weight of bulky microphones. However, the Tonor T30 is the exception to the rule. It’s definitely not a wimp, either. Made of high-grade steel, this suspension stand is perfect for those unwilling to risk a mic-drop (an unintentional one, that is). Best of all, it comes with accessories like a pop filter to reduce hiss and cable ties. The cable ties allow you to fasten your mic’s cable to the length of the arm. By doing this, you can minimize the cluttered tangle of wires that results from loose cables sprawled around your recording space.
Pros:
- Considering the price and high quality, this is one of the best bang-for-your-buck buys we’ve come across.
- It fits 3/8-inch standard threads but also comes with an adapter to fit 5/8-inch threads, so most mic models are covered.
- The built-in headphone holder is surprisingly convenient since it helps keep cables from getting tangled up.
Cons:
- It may not work with curved desks due to the enormous size of the mounting clamp.
Pyle PMKS5 Straight Stand
Stand up straight
If you plan on doing some singing, rapping, or public speaking with the help of a microphone, you’ll undoubtedly need a straight stand to accompany you. And as one of the premier names in the audio-equipment game, Pyle happens to make one of the best straight stands out there. The PMKS5 is spartan in design, focusing only on what’s necessary to ensure the stand’s stability and functionality. The result is a sleek, easy-to-use unit that you can rely on. Its metal base stand is heavy enough to ensure it doesn’t wobble, and the anti-slip grip on the bottom helps it stay put, too.
Pros:
- Height adjustable up to 60.24″ high
- Includes a pivot-angle microphone clip
- Great value for the price
Cons:
- The clip isn’t of the highest quality
K&M 23325 Table/Floor Microphone Stand
The low rider
While there’s something undeniably cool about a suspension-style mic stand that mounts directly to your desk, for some folks, that’s simply not an option. Whether that’s because your desk can’t accommodate a clip-mount or because you want a stand that you can move from one place to another without having to unmount it, the folks at K&M understand this conundrum. As a solution, they’ve got this tabletop stand on offer. Touting a rock-solid cast-iron base with a rubber insert to filter sound and minimize sound transference, this steel-bodied beauty is a fantastic bet.
Pros:
- This is also a great option for drummers looking to mike up their set, since it does double-duty as a floor stand, too.
- The weight is perfectly balanced to keep mics from tipping over, even when it’s extended to its full 22-inch height.
Cons:
- If you plan on attaching a boom arm to the stand, you might need to weigh down the base to keep it stable.
K&M 210/9 Tripod Boom Stand
The premium pick
Ask any professional musician, studio engineer, or live sound tech, and they’ll likely agree that K&M’s boom stands are in a league of their own. Featuring a telescoping boom arm, a height-adjustable neck length, and a zinc die-cast rubber base, this boom stand makes it easy to position it to the perfect angle. You can also fold the legs when the fun is over to break it down and transport it. Boasting German engineering that lives up to the reputation, this stand’s quality cannot be understated.
Pros:
- Thanks to the quality of its components, you can expect this one to last a while. Its high durability makes it an excellent choice for gigging musicians.
- Wildly versatile, this boom stand fits right at home in home studios, professional recording spaces, and even live performances.
Cons:
- It is quite costly. With that said, since it’ll last you so long, it may save you money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need a mic stand? Can’t I just hold the microphone while I’m using it?
If you hold the microphone in your hand while you’re using it, it can pick up all types of awful sounds that you don’t want in your recordings. That’s because when you’re handling the mic, even minor movements can cause the microphone to vibrate in ways you don’t want it to. Also, a microphone stand will help you position the mic exactly where you want it.
What is a shock mount? Do I need one?
A shock mount helps prevent vibrational noise from being transferred to the microphone. This can be useful if your recording environment is unstable or if you’re handling your microphone stand a bit while using it.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.