Image sourced from Reddit

You might be confused when you have to choose between Boom and the Straight mic stand for your stage performance.

Both of these stands are vastly used for stage performances, but people are often confused when they have a choice to make between these two types.

Well, to sort out the confusion and choose the right fit for you, you need to understand the stand's details and their pros and cons in general.

This blog post is centered around helping you pick the right mic stand for yourself based on the details of both stands. So stay till the very end to make the right choice.

Understanding microphone stands is essential for anyone involved in music, podcasting, broadcasting, or any field requiring audio recording or amplification. Here's a detailed look at the two primary types of microphone stands: Straight and Boom.

Straight Mic Stands

The straight mic stands are known for their simpler design, and they are made such that they have a vertical pole, and on the top of the pole, there is a mount for the microphone.

The straight microphone stands are mostly equipped with the height adjustability feature that helps the users customize the right fit for themselves. With its appropriate use, the microphone can be set up at the right height where it is comfortable to use it.

The straight stands have different base types. They have a tripod base, a simple round base, or any other heavy base that is shaped differently. It helps in maintaining the stability of the stand overall.

With compact bases, the footprint is reduced, so usage in small places is easy.

Where Straight Mic is Ideal

The straight mic can be an ideal choice for different events.

• For live vocals, straight mic stands are often preferred as they are easily adjustable, and the ease of access of this stand type is also impressive.
• In the case of public speaking, this straight mic stand is ideal. The use of a straight mic stand is highly efficient in lectures, speeches, etc.
• More specifically, it would be ideal where less mobility is required. This microphone stand is much more effective for activities with less movement.
• The straight mic is used for the overall performance. It has a common application for singers, and it helps them to perform freely and enjoy their time on stage while entertaining the audience.

 

Pros 

Simplicity

The straight microphone stand is simple and easier to use than its counterparts.

The straight stand is easy to operate, and you can easily do so in case of changes during the performance.

Stability

The stability of the straight stand is another advantage. The straight stand's stability is due to the heavy base it comes with. The heavy base helps create a stable platform. The microphones can easily be installed, and there is a lower risk of any slippage of the microphones.

The stand's solid design and sturdy base help reduce vibration transfer and protect the sound quality without causing any disturbances.

Durability

The straight stands are much more durable than their counterparts. They are made of sturdy material and have fewer moving parts, which makes the stand less vulnerable.

So, the chances of breakage or failure are quite low, which makes them more durable than orders.

Cost-Effectiveness

The straight strands are cost efficient in comparison to their counterparts. They have a simple design with fewer accessories, making them a cost-effective and easy-to-use alternative.

Meanwhile, their counterparts are expensive due to their design and the many expensive accessories they have.

Visual Aesthetics

The straight stand provides visual aesthetics. The stand has a minimalistic design, so it looks quite appealing to the users.

It enhances the overall look of the stage and gives it a different visual appeal.

Quick Adjustments

The straight stand helps in making quick adjustments during performances. In the ongoing performance, sometimes you have to make a quick change in the setup, and in the live event, having a glitch while making an adjustment can be quite unpleasant.

But with the straight stands, quick adjustments are easy, and you can do so in the performance or any live event.

Universal Use

The universal use of the straight stands is also a bonus. These stands have a wide range of applications.

You can use it for vocals. You can use it for presentations and public speaking; the opportunities are almost endless.

So, in every situation, a mic straight stands have your cover.

 

Cons

Limited Adjustment

The straight stand is limited in its adjustment. They have fewer adjustment features compared with their counterparts.

Sometimes, the performers find it difficult to adjust the stand's position according to their preference.

Space Issues

The straight microphone stand users might experience space issues. They are bulkier than their counterparts and less flexible, so fitting in tight places might be an issue.

Limited Reach

The straight microphone stand has a limited reach, meaning that it can struggle when recording sounds from different odd angles.

So, it can be a bit challenging when you are unsure how to place the microphone for optimal audio capturing.

Boom Mic Stands

The boom Mic stand has a vertical shaft that can be adjusted to different angles from the base of the stand.

This allows for the customized positioning of the stand. The arm length is also adjustable alongside the angle, helping in the utmost customization.

The base of the stand is mostly similar to what we have in the straight stands. They are mostly round or tripod bases.

When It Is Ideally Used

The boom mic stands are ideally used for the instrument recording, which is their combined recording with the vocals.

The boom mic stands are ideal for instrument recording because they can be precisely placed at any position. They have angle and height adjustability that helps customize the stand. 

Therefore, you can place it precisely where you want it to be. And where it can capture the quality sound without disturbing the outside noise.

The stand is also useful for a combo of vocal and instrumental performances. The mic stand can be appropriately positioned to capture the vocals and the instrument without actually disturbing the instrument.

 

Pros of Boom Mic Stand

Versatility

The boom mic stand, compared to its others, is quite versatile. You can use boom mic stands for various types of activities.

The boom mic stand is so versatile because it has an adjustable boom arm, which allows for the customizable position of the stand. This helps in appropriate vocal and instrument recording.

Space-saving

The boom stand has space-saving advantages. The stand can easily crumble in tight spaces, which helps save space. The boom stands are compact.With their smaller footprint, they are easier to fit into compact or congested spaces.

The studios and the stages are often small and have limited floor spacing. They can easily fit into these congested floor spaces, and at small stages or venues, they help make the space more organized and improve its functionality.

The compact design comes in handy when you have to transport it. You can easily transport it compared to its counterparts. Therefore, a boom stand is a mic stand that can be fitted easily in these places, and a boom stand fulfills your requirements.

Ease of Adjustment

The boom stands are easy to adjust. They have all the adjustable features, but as they are super quick and easy, they make these features more special.

The boom's stand height and arm length can be quickly adjusted, and you can customize it to your needs. So, for live performers and vocal recording in a studio, this feature really comes in handy.    

Reduced Vibrations

The boom mic stand helps reduce vibrations and noise due to equipment handling and other issues.

The boom stands have a stable base, and it helps them minimize the vibrations overall and increase the stability. So whenever you have recordings or live performance sessions, you experience a high-quality sound with the lowest distortions.

Accessibility

The boom stands are highly accessible. The boom stands are accessible to places where it is very hard to get access and record or capture the sound.

The accessibility factor is the most exciting feature of the boom stand, which is why it is so versatile and has enhanced sound quality.

Professional Appearance

Professionals often use the boom microphone stands to give a professional feel to the set.

The boom stands have widespread utility, and in professional settings, they are often preferred. 

Their presence gives a professional touch to the stage and the performer, increasing the appeal of the performance overall.

 

Cons

Stability

Stability is a concern with boom mic stands, especially when you are loading the stand with heavy gear.

The stand is prone to tipping when it is not balanced properly, and due to its flexibility, sometimes the stability is compromised a bit.

Complex Setup

The noom mic stand is a bit complex in comparison to the straight one. The boom arm stand is highly adjustable and has other features as well.

These features can make it a bit complex to set up, whereas the straight mic stand is easy to set up in comparison.

Verdict

Both stands have pros and cons. In some situations, the straight mic stand is preferred over the boom mic stand, and sometimes, the boom mic stand features are needed.

It depends on the specific requirements, and you can choose which one fits your requirements from the information provided above.

Here is a quick youtube video regarding the mistakes to avoid while opting for a microphone stand 

An Overview of Top Microphone Stands

We have compiled a list of 6 top microphone stands

Professional Studio Microphone Boom Stand

                                           Image sourced from Reddit

The professional studio microphone is a multifunctional stand that can be used for both stage and studio performances.

This microphone stand comes up with a wheels setup, so you can move it around as well.

Specifications

• The boom arm can be extended to 46 to 72 inches. 
• The maximum that can be attained is 142 inches.
• The gross weight of the product is 15 pounds.
• The shaft height is adjustable from 38 to 75 inches.

 

Pros 

• The microphone stand is made up of sturdy material that is quite durable
• The stand offers height adjustability, which can be customized as required.
• The stand can carry heavy mics, so it is good for heavy-duty equipment

Cons

• The space requirement might be an issue
• Some might not like the wheels feature in the stand.

 

Here is what our client dandyjoe7 has to say about the product

Great Stand

There are a lot of similar stands, but, they cost $200+. When I bought this one for $60, I thought, "nothing ventured...". I was pleasantly surprised! This is a great product. If you are in the market for this type of stand, I would definitely suggest buying this one!

Short Microphone Stand With Boom Arm

                                      

                                                     Images sourced from reddit

The short microphone stand with a boom arm is a combat and sturdy stand for lower microphone placement.

The stand is most commonly used by the bass drums and the guitar amplifiers, where the microphone needs to be placed at a lower angle.

Specification 

• The mic shaft length can be adjusted from 8 inches to 19 inches
• The boom arm length is also adjustable from 15 inches to 30 inches
• The gross weight is 3 pounds
• The stand is durable and rugged.
• The stand is highly portable. 

 

Pros 

• The microphone stand is relatively compact and sturdy. So it can be easily used in congested spaces and hold heavy microphones.
• The microphone stand has a simple design that helps with easy handling.
• The microphone is ideal for bass drums, guitar amplifiers, etc., as it is tailor-made for lower heights.      

Cons 

• The stand is not suitable if you are looking for a standing performance
• The stand is limited to lower-height usage 

 

Telescoping Microphone Stand

                

                                                 Image sourced from Reddit

The telescoping microphone stand is made for versatile use by presenters and performers.

The stand is made of high-quality polymer, making it a more rigid and durable option 

Specification 

• The boom mic arm is adjustable from 27 inches to 42 inches
• The max height that can be attained with the boom is 99 inches
• Without the boom, the adjustability is from 27 to 62 inches
• The gross weight of the product is 5 pounds

 

Pros

• The stand is highly versatile, so it can be used by almost everyone
• The stand is lightweight, so the carrying ability is easy
• The stand is foldable, so portability is not an issue
• The construction material of the stand makes it a highly durable, 

Cons

• The stand might feel a bit less stable with heavy mics 
• The stand is not suitable for use at lower heights.

 

Here is a testimonial of our client tedburzy after using this product

Griffin Telescoping Microphone Boom Stand

Love this mic stand for two reasons. First of all, It does not collide with my guitar neck. Second it is stable and holds the microphone in exactly the position I set it

Microphone Stand Package

                                                     Image soured form Reddit

The microphone stand package includes one telescopic mic with a mic clip and a 20-ft XLR.

This is a decent package at an affordable price, and it is highly suitable for various performance types or studio setups.

Specifications

• The package includes a high-quality 20 ft XLR cable.
• The stand has adjustable height, and the boom arm length is also adjustable.
• The tripod stand has anti-slip rubber feet, which helps in stability.
• The diameter of the XLR cable is 24 AWG(American Wire Gauge)
• The cable has three-pin XLR male-to-female connectors

 

Pros

• The stand package is ideal for performers and studio and audio professionals.
• The XLR cable provides high-quality sound and transmission with lower interferences.
• The stand is highly adjustable, so it is easier to customize.

Cons

• The package is not suitable if you only want the stand.
• The package might be a bit limited in terms of the accessories offered.

 

360° Rotating Microphone Stand 

The 360-degree rotation microphone stand is versatile and exceptionally durable.

The stand package is a multi-mic setup and includes four mic clips, four stands, and four clip adapters, ensuring that it is compatible with all the mics.

Specifications

• The boom length of the stand is 29.5 inches
• The stand can be folded, and the folded size becomes 31.5 inches
• The mic stand pillar is also height adjustable from 31.5 to 59 inches
• The stand is made up of high-quality material.

 

Pros

• The stand package is suitable for everyone, from adults to children.
• The stands are foldable, which reduces their footprint. This helps in easy transportation.
• The steel pipes used in the construction ensure stability in the performance.

Cons

• This product might not be for you if you need a single product.
• It's not for you if you need a simple stand.  

 

Dynamic Microphone Package 

                                    

                                               Image soured form Reddit

The dynamic microphone package includes two cardioid vocal microphones, two boom stands

And two 20 ft XLR cables.

The package is ideal for live performers with all these additional items.

Specification 

• The stand has an adjustable base that helps enhance the stability of the stand
• The cardioid microphone has a frequency range of 50 Hz to 16 kHz
• The telescopic boom arm provides enhanced flexibility

 

Pros

• The dynamic microphone package is a complete setup for the performers
• The package has cables and mics, so it is a one-stop solution for performers

Cons

• The package is only for the live setup
• The package is not suitable for recording setups.

 

Here is a comparison table for the products

Product	Best For	Highlight Feature	Pros	Cons
Professional Studio Microphone Boom Stand	Studio and stage	The capacity of a wall mount is usually one but can vary as well	Alloys having soft neoprene rubber tubing for protection	Wall mounting
Short Microphone Stand With Boom Arm	Bass drums, amps	Low height adjustment 8" to 19"	Compact, durable, ideal for low mic placements	Limited to low positioning
Telescoping Microphone Stand	Vocalists, players	Adjustable height 27" to 99"	Versatile, foldable, lightweight	May be less stable with very heavy mics
Microphone Stand Package	Performers, studios	Includes 20ft XLR cable	High quality sound transmission. For performers and studio persons.	Not suitable if you only want the stand
360° Rotating Microphone Stand Dual Mic Clip	Multi-mic setups	Rotatable, foldable design	Suitable for almost everyone , foldable for easy transport	Not suitable if you only want a single stand.
Dynamic Microphone Package	Live performances	Includes cardioid microphones	Complete set for performers, includes cables and mics	Primarily focused on live sound, may not suit all recording needs

Why Choose Greek Stands for Microphone Stands?

Geek Stands are the ideal choice for microphone stands because at Greek Stands we offer quality products at quite reasonable prices compared to the others available.

We have strict quality control procedures for product development.We ensure our customers get high quality products. 

We have quality craftsmen who have years of experience crafting stands that fulfill your needs. Apart from that, the products are quite durable and made of quality material.

Our Customer service is something we take pride in; with quality customer service, our clients understand stuff more easily and like us as a brand.

We offer products from quality brands like Griffins, so don't wait to visit us for exciting microphone stands!