Studio microphone stands are a must-have tool for anyone in the music industry who uses microphones. Whether you’re a singer, drummer, DJ, or sound engineer, a proper mic stand provides a stable base for not only microphones but also portable sound diffusers and isolators.
Sound engineers should always use microphone stands to eliminate any unwanted noises from the microphone being moved around. Heavier studio microphone stands can provide an excellent stable base not only for a microphone but also a sound isolator which will keep unwanted background noise away from the microphone. A microphone stand also provides a way to set the mic in one spot and pick up sounds from multiple sources like a group of background singers all using the same microphone.
Any singer onstage will find the use of a microphone stand optimal for their performance. This is especially true for drummers and guitarists who cannot play their instruments while holding a microphone. Lead vocalists will enjoy putting the mic in the stand for a song or 2 leaving their hands free for emotional conveyance.
A DJ will find a microphone stand, especially one with a microphone boom, a great tool so they can keep their hands free to mix the music while they talk to pump up the crowd.
Roadies should insist on the use of a mic stand. Microphone stands to provide a secure place for microphones and other types of sound equipment ensuring a smooth running show.
Choosing a microphone stand is all about selecting the sound source you wish to capture. Swapping clips and shock mounts can be done to fit different mics, but you should take into account your likely preferences. A vintage, large diaphragm tube condenser is much heavier than a small dynamic mic, so you'll need a sturdier stand with a heavier boom counterweight. To avoid the heartache of a prized vintage mic falling into the drum kit, make sure you opt for the right stand!
Are there different types of microphone stands?
Yes. There are 3 main types of microphone stands… Straight, boom arm and desktop. Desktop stands come in a couple of different styles including clamp on and free standing. Boom arm and straight stands come in 2 main varieties, tripod and weighted base. For most boom arm applications, the larger footprint of a tripod stand is better for holding the weight of a microphone hanging out past the base of the stand.
What is the best type of microphone stand?
This depends on your application. For live stage, if you are only singing or have a tendency to hold the microphone the entire time you are singing, a straight stand will likely be a good choice for you. However, if you are playing an instrument or you are a DJ who will have equipment between yourself and the microphone, a boom arm stand will be necessary to get a proper placement of the microphone to achieve a clear sound. For studio recordings, a boom arm stand is always a must since you should never touch a microphone while recording to avoid unwanted background noise.