Audio Stands, Racks and Boom Arms

Desk boom arm or floor stand for the microphone?

A desk-clamp boom arm saves table space and puts a microphone close to your mouth, which suits podcasting, streaming and voice work. A floor stand with a boom suits singers, instruments and stages. Check the maximum load against the weight of the microphone plus its shock mount, because a heavy condenser makes a weak arm sag. Spring-loaded arms hold position more neatly than friction ones, and a built-in cable channel keeps cables tidy. Look at how far the arm reaches.

Speaker, keyboard and rack supports: load, height and fit

Speaker stands list a maximum load, a height range and the size of the top plate; many PA speakers also have a socket sized for a standard 35 mm pole, so check yours. Keyboard stands come as X-style or Z-style, and the width and weight limit must cover the instrument. Rack hardware follows the 19-inch standard, where lacing bars and rails are sold per rack unit. Mounting adapters change thread size, so match both ends before buying.

Questions about Audio Stands, Racks and Boom Arms

Why does my desk boom arm sag with my microphone?

The arm is probably rated for less weight than your microphone, shock mount and cable together. Compare the load rating with the real weight, and tighten the tension knobs or springs. A spring-balanced arm with a higher rating holds heavy condensers better.

What size pole mount do PA speakers use?

Many PA speakers have a socket for a 35 mm pole, which most speaker stands use, but not all. Check the socket size in the speaker's specifications and the pole diameter on the stand before buying.

How tall should a speaker stand be?

For studio or home listening, put the tweeter at ear height. For PA use, raise the speaker so its tweeter or horn sits just above the audience's heads and the sound carries to the back. Adjustable stands let you set either height; also check the top-plate size and base footprint so the speaker sits securely.