As a podcaster, you never want to underestimate the importance of a good quality mic stand or studio arm. It could mean the difference between a clean, quiet recording and a sonic disaster that requires hours of cleanup in post-production. But with so many options on the market, it’s hard to know which design to go for and how much money to spend. So, we’re going to break down for you the pros and cons of the various mic stand designs and figure out which type is most suitable for your needs and podcasting space.
For recording podcasts, there are two main types of microphone stands to consider: desktop stands and studio/boom arms. Let’s talk about the pros and cons of each.
Pros and Cons of Desktop Stands
Desktop stands are perhaps the most flexible option for podcasting, since you can easily move them and put them away. Desktop stands are also typically much more affordable than broadcast arms and can work with any table. However, there are some downsides. First, a mic stand is more likely to get bumped, and any contact with the table can produce a vibration or rumbling noise that will interfere with your recording. (For this reason, we recommend using shockmounts with this setup, especially if recording with a condenser mic.) Desktop stands also take up desk space and usually don’t come with any cable routing feature, so your desk area may not look as neat. Finally, desktop stands tend to be less stable than broadcast arms, and especially if they’re holding heavy microphones, they can easily tip over.
Pros and Cons of Studio Arms
Broadcast arms are the easiest to position because they’re tension based and offer multiple pivot points. And given the suspension design, they are much more resistant to shock or vibrations. So, they’re quieter. That said, if you’re video podcasting, a broadcast arm can take up lots of space in the shot. Furthermore, you must invest in a good quality model to get the results you’re after. Cheaper options can sometimes have squeaky springs or not be able to support heavier mics
Keeping the above in mind, we’ve provided a list of the best desktop mic stands and broadcast arms available in every price range.
Best Desktop Mic Stands
Under $50
The Auray TT-6220 is one of the most popular microphone stands on the market because it’s simple, well-built, and super affordable. Thanks to the generously weighted base, this stand can support heavier mics without toppling over.
Under $100
Tabletop microphone stands with boom arms are a good compromise for those who may have been considering a broadcast arm. With two adjustment points, the K&M 25995 allows you to get the mic positioned at just the right angle. At the same time the base of the stand, while sufficiently heavy, is slim and unobtrusive.
For something sturdier, check out the RODE DS2. Quiet and flexible, this compact stand features two pivot points. The base of the stand is reasonably heavy, able to support microphones weighing up to about 2 pounds. And the DS2 has cable guides to help you maintain a neat setup.
Best Studio Arms
Under $50
It’s tough to find a decent boom arm for under $50, but Samson pulls it off. The MBA28, though not the most handsome model on the market, gets the job done. It has a reach of 28-inches and comes with a C-clamp and permanently fixed flange option for flexible mounting. It can also support microphones weighing up to 5 pounds, which is on the higher end for studio arms.
Under $100
You have quite a few options in this price range. A particularly popular choice is the O.C. White Podcast Pro. Sleekly built with its closed-in cable housing and smooth pivot points, the White Podcast Pro has an arm reach of 28-inches and supports microphones up to 2.5 pounds. It’s available in black and silver.
Another contender in this price range is the THRONMAX S6, which is a lot like the more expensive Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro in that it has a low-profile design and stays out of the shot if you’re recording video. It can support mics up to 5.5 pounds and includes 3- and 5.9-inch extensions. The THRONMAX S6 is also versatile with respect to the devices it supports, which include DSLR cameras, streaming lights, smartphones, and more.
Under $200
Like the model above, the Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro is an elegant and thoughtfully designed mic arm. With its low-profile design, you can position the arm closer to the desktop, which, again, keeps things cleaner, especially when recording video. Robustly built and smooth to operate, the Wave Mic Arm Pro features easy 360-degree rotation with a precision mount that lets you angle the mic for perfect vocal capture at any position.
The PSA1+ has become a top seller in this price category not only because its well-built but also because it’s made by RODE, the most trusted brand in the podcasting world. Fluid and silent in its movement, this studio arm has a roomy 37-inches of horizontal reach and 34-inches of vertical reach. Like most of the models on this list, the PSA1+ comes with 3/8 and 5/8-inch adapters for compatibility with most microphones and shockmounts on the market.
$300 and Up
Employing the same low-profile design as the Elgato model above, the O.C. White ProBoom Ultima Gen 2 utilizes a 12-inch fixed horizontal arm to stay near your tabletop. It’s also super sturdy, able to support microphones up to five pounds. We should note that this model will have to be built into your table, which is not ideal for metal desks or those made out of plywood, for example. However, it does come with all the tools necessary for proper installation.
Yet another mic arm that’s designed to stay out of the frame is the m!ka Mic Arm TV from the fancy brand, Yellowtec. While it features very quiet and frictionless joints, it also has thumbscrews to lock the arm in place. And despite the Mic Arm TV being tough in build, it still looks sleek with its internal cabling and discreet design.
For more information about the desktop mic stands and boom arms listed, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages.
