You might think that getting the best microphone and shock mount is all it takes to complete your audio recording kit, but every experienced musician will tell you otherwise.
Microphone stands may look the same to the untrained eye, but they are as different as chalk and cheese. If you were unlucky enough to own a cheap and crappy mic stand, you have probably heard the painful thud that comes after your expensive microphone hits the floor.
It shouldn’t take you long to realize that every piece of audio-recording equipment is essential – from your mic to the mic stand. Quality mic stands are critical investments you should make if you want to own stable gear. However, where do you start?
Before you start adding mic stands to your shopping cart, I’ll give you a pro tip. Take a look at the different mic types, and gain a better understanding of what you’re buying. You can save a lot of money by learning more about microphone stands and their different styles and uses.
Lucky for you, if you’re wondering what the categories of microphone stands are, we’ve happily answered the question below and provided you with a buyer’s guide at the end of the article. Here’s the best part: we also selected the top 10 microphone stands to help narrow down your research. Let’s jump in!
In this article:
- What Are the Categories of Microphone Stands?
- Mic Stand Components
- Best Microphone Stands at a Glance
- Top 10 Best YouTube Microphone Stands – Reviews
- 1. König & Meyer K&M 210/2 Microphone Stand Black – Top Pick
- 2. Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro Short Classic Microphone Stand – Best Value for Money Microphone Stand
- 3. Samson SABL3 Ultra-light Microphone Boom Stand – Best Budget Microphone Stand
- 4. On-Stage MS7201B Round Base Microphone Stand, Black – Best On-stage Microphone Stand
- 5. Rode PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm – Best Desk-Mountable Microphone Stand
- 6. Tiger Microphone Stand with Round Base – Weighted Round Base – Standard ⅝” Microphone Clip Included – Black, MCA14-BK – Best Microphone Stand with Weight Support
- 7. Tiger MCA49-BK Low-Level Floor & Desktop Boom Microphone Stand – Bass Drum, Guitar Cab Mic Stand – Best Low-Level Microphone Boom Arm
- 8. Hercules MS531B Microphone Stand – Best Microphone Stand with Adjustable Height and Angle
- 9. InnoGear Mic Stand for Blue Yeti, Heavy-Duty Microphone Stand with Microphone Windscreen and Dual-Layer Mic Pop Filter – Best Microphone Stand for Heavy Mic
- 10. Neewer NB-35 Microphone Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with Microphone Clip Holder and Table Mounting Bracket – Most Convenient Microphone Boom Arm
- Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Mic Stand – A Buyer’s Guide
- Before You Head Out
- Best Selling Microphone Stands
What Are the Categories of Microphone Stands?
Most people imagine a “microphone stand” as a sort of traditional mic stand that Michael Jackson would flip around in the Billie Jean music video. They’re called round base mic stands and are primarily used on-stage, and they are one of the six different types of microphone stands we’ll talk about.
Round Base Stands
Round base stands are used primarily on stage or in recording studios. The weight provided at the bottom, combined with the circular shape of the base, makes for a sturdy and solid mic stand design.
The weight of this mic stand type can easily withhold a shock mount, microphone, and isolation shield without allowing the setup to collapse. Isolation shields are sometimes tricky to balance but are necessary to create clear sound with the absence of ambient noise. If you haven’t heard of microphone vocal shields, look at the best microphone isolation shields review we wrote!
Another reason people tend to buy round base microphone stands is that they’re ideal for singers on stage. The stands use minimal floor space, and you are less likely to trip over them during your performance.
Tripod Boom Stands
Tripod boom stands are another type you’ll often come across. The boom arm of the mic provides a more extended reach than traditional mic stands. The tripod stand’s rubber feet give stability to your microphone and reduce some of the floor vibrations. At the same time, it protects bare floors from unwanted scratches.
Tripod boom stands can be lightweight, compact, and easy to transport, but they have a minor flaw. They’re easy to trip on during on-stage performances.
Tripod Stands
The more basic siblings of the tripod boom stands are the regular tripod stands. They have the same three-leg base structure but lack a boom arm. They are designed for general use, they’re cheap and easy to come by, and they won’t break your bank.
Desktop Stands
Desktop mic stands come in different shapes and sizes. Some are very similar to Anglepoise lamps, and most of them have a scissor shape. Desktop mic stands are often referred to as boom arms. They offer great support and opportunity for adjustments. They can swivel, move closer or further away from you, and you can quickly push them out of the way if you’re no longer using them. Some can be mounted straight to your desk, while others have their tripod legs.
Desktop mic stands are generally recommended for people who record while sitting down and those who do podcasts, broadcasts, and radio shows, as well as some gamers. A suitable shock mount can provide solid noise isolation, and the best models are usually sturdy and heavy-duty.
Low-Profile Stands
Similar in looks to desktop mic stands, low-profile mic stands are not designed to record vocals. Instead, you can record instruments like a bass drum, acoustic guitars, kick drums, guitar amplifiers, bass amps, or any part of the drum kit.
Low-profile mic stands get their name from the positioning of the stands, typically low on the ground. They aren’t as tall as the previous mic stand types, and their low profile is great for live performances and studio recording.
Overhead Stands
You’ve seen overhead stands high above drums on stage or in recording studios. They are the most expensive type on the list. You can use them for awkward and high-angle recording as drum overheads, for example. They are great at capturing the ambiance in a room. If you want to record the overall performance of your band, you can easily capture that with a mic on an overhead stand.
Mic Stand Components
Every mic stand has its own “anatomy.” There are a few essential and commonly found components you should be familiar with, so you can properly mount your mic and choose the suitable stand for your purpose.
- Mic stand base – Either round and heavy or a tripod base with folding legs. Look for a base with rubber feet or coverage to help reduce floor vibrations.
- Pole – The main “stem” of the mic, which can be adjusted in height through a clutch in the middle.
- Clutch – The part of the mic that allows the pole height adjustment, and you can unlock it by twisting it. Clutches can be found on boom arm extensions and can adjust the position of any counterweight attached to the end of the boom arm used to balance the mic’s weight.
- Clamp – Clamps are found on boom arms and enable you to adjust the angle and extension of the boom arm. Located at the top of the pole, they have a solid lock, preventing the boom arm from sagging under the heavyweight of your mic.
- Clip – The clip is where you insert or slip in your microphone. They commonly have a size of either 3/8 or 5/8 inches, and they either take the form of a spring clamp or a tubelike holder for handheld mics.
- Shockmount – Most professionals use a shock mount to hold their microphones onto the pole or boom arm instead of using a clip. It’s designed for heavy microphones, such as large-diaphragm condenser mics. It also does a great job at eliminating unwanted vibrations that might end up on your music track.
You can learn about shock mounts in detail in our microphone shock mount review!
Best Microphone Stands at a Glance
Too long to read? If you’re in a hurry, check out the top 10 mic stands here:
- Our Top Pick – König & Meyer K&M 210/2 Microphone Stand Black
- Best Value for Money Microphone Stand – Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro Short Classic Microphone Stand
- Best Budget Microphone Stand – Samson SABL3 Ultra-light Microphone Boom Stand
- Best On-stage Microphone Stand – On-stage MS7201B Round Base Microphone Stand, Black
- Best Desk-Mountable Microphone Stand – Rode PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm
- Best Microphone Stand with Weight Support – Tiger Microphone Stand with Round Base – Weighted Round Base – Standard ⅝” Microphone Clip Included – Black, MCA14-BK
- Best Low-Level Microphone Boom Arm – Tiger MCA49-BK Low-Level Floor & Desktop Boom Microphone Stand – Bass Drum, Guitar Cab Mic Stand
- Best Microphone Stand with Adjustable Height and Angle – Hercules MS531B Microphone Stand
- Best Microphone Stand for Heavy Mic – InnoGear Mic Stand for Blue Yeti, Heavy-Duty Microphone Stand with Microphone Windscreen and Dual-Layer Mic Pop Filter
- Most Convenient Microphone Boom Arm – Neewer NB-35 Microphone Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with Microphone Clip Holder and Table Mounting Bracket
Top 10 Best YouTube Microphone Stands – Reviews
Here are ten of the best YouTube microphone stands on the market.
1. König & Meyer K&M 210/2 Microphone Stand Black – Top Pick
- Innovative leader in stand technology; K&M stand with a fixed boom arm is easy to assemble, adjust and is preferred among musicians. The sleek chrome stand offers with maximum durability and stability...
- Calling all musicians; a height adjustment of 35”- 63" with a patented clamp lever locking T-bar boom arm (length 31”) makes this an easy and dependable stand on stage, at practice or fun with...
- Trusted design; zinc die-cast tripod base with rubber feet provides a solid foundation for your mic (mic not included). Folding legs make it easy to set up, break-down and transport. This will be your...
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Suppose you’re looking for a universal mic stand for stage or studio performances with easy repositioning. In that case, the Konig & Meyer 210/2 microphone tripod boom stand will fit your studio or stage surprisingly well.
The K&M mic stand will prove especially useful if you’re a musician using a pedalboard in front of them during gigs. You probably know that most microphones without a boom arm can quickly get in the way of your pedals, which can distract from your performance.
The König & Meyer 210/2 microphone tripod is also equipped with three legs with rubber coverage at the end, which helps reduce floor vibrations. This small detail also contributes to the sturdiness of the tripod.
The microphone stand has a clutch-style height adjustment at the bottom, enabling you to choose the right height. You can use it whether you’re sitting down or standing during your performance. The stand is durable, made of alloy steel, and designed for heavy use. You can check the latest deals on this tripod stand through our Amazon link!
- Industry-standard mic stand
- Tripod boom stand
- Clutch-style adjustment
- Rubber leg covers
- Possible trip hazard
2. Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro Short Classic Microphone Stand – Best Value for Money Microphone Stand
- Stable Tripod Base
- Quick-release Clutch
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a short tripod boom arm stand? The Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro microphone stand is great to take with you on the road. If you’re trying to transport equipment from A to B and have limited space, microphone stand size is an essential factor for you.
The Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro offers height adjustments between 914 mm and 1600 mm. It has a fixed-length boom arm (805 mm). Тhe stand only weighs 2 lbs, making it incredibly lightweight. You can also use this microphone stand for your instrument recording.
The Ultimate Support MC-40B Pro can also double as a low-profile mic stand. Record your kick drums and bass amps easily with this short tripod base mic stand. The one-touch adjustments on this mic stand allow you to easily control the tilt, pan, depth, and rotation.
This solid mic stand-by Ultimate Support has fantastic reviews, which you should check out!
- Adjustable height
- Small and compact
- Lightweight
- Doubles as a low-profile stand
- One-touch adjustments
- Fixed boom arm
3. Samson SABL3 Ultra-light Microphone Boom Stand – Best Budget Microphone Stand
- Collapsible tripod boom stand
- Die-cast and steel construction
- Sleek black finish
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You’re probably familiar with the Samson brand, and you’ve heard of the Samson Pro in our reviews. The same brand brings you the Samson SABL3 ultra-light microphone boom stand and at a great price. So far, this is one of the cheapest on our list. This tripod boom stand is easy to transport, and it’s exceptionally durable, and has a functional design.
The stand has a collapsible body with a sturdy premium steel construction, which adds stability and flexibility at the same time. The tripod boom stand is ideal for musicians, performers, singers, studio use, music venues, and performance halls.
The ground-to-boom measurements vary between 33.86 in and 56.3 in, and the lengths of the boom measure at 31.3 in. The only downside of this mic is that it’s not great at supporting vast amounts of weight. Thus, if you’re trying to mount a heavyweight large diaphragm microphone, your boom arm might collapse. This mic stand is built for lighter microphones like handheld models (but not exclusively).
- Lightweight design
- Collapsable body
- Easy to transport
- Adjustable height
- Unobtrusive design
- Not great with heavy mics
4. On-Stage MS7201B Round Base Microphone Stand, Black – Best On-stage Microphone Stand
- Classic. Historically popular mic stand featuring a familiar classic-style, low-profile, solid, sand-cast base and a straight shaft, perfect for singers, vocalists, stand-up comedy, and speaking...
- Sturdy. Heavy 10″ metal base delivers stability while maintaining portability. Rubber feet reduce vibrations and increase grip to prevent skids and keep the stand and mic safely in place.
- Adjustable. Heavy-duty clutch reliably adjusts the height 33″–60″ for precise mic placement and to accommodate various stage, studio, event, and venue applications.
Last update on 2024-05-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Arguably one of the most popular mics stands ever made, the On-Stage MS7201B has a round base with enough weight to provide stable support. The mic stand has a sand-cast base and rubber padding, reducing floor vibrations. Despite its weight, you’ll find it still easy to transport this round base mic stand.
The On-Stage round base microphone stand features a die-cast zinc clutch, allowing you to adjust the height of your pole between 33 in and 60 in. There’s also a steel midpoint locking clutch that will prevent your pole from collapsing under more significant amounts of weight. The On-Stage has a standard 5/8-inch threaded upper shaft.
This mic stand is an excellent choice for singers. There’s nothing worse than tripping over tripod legs, to be honest. Despite its tiny price tag, this is not a cheap-feeling mic. Another great benefit of this mic stand type is that its adjustable height can fit tall people who struggle to find a suitable mic stand. If you’re anywhere between 6 ft. and 6’2”, you’ll love the height adjustment!
- Great for tall users
- Heavy base, yet easy to carry
- Perfect for singers
- Tiny price tag
- No boom arm
5. Rode PSA 1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm – Best Desk-Mountable Microphone Stand
- Broadcast-style Professional Studio Desk Boom Arm with Stard Microphone Threading
- Includes two desk mounting options
- Durable design and noise-free operation is suitable for home, office and studio use
Last update on 2024-05-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you a YouTuber or podcaster? Do you record primarily from your home? If so, you’re probably doing your audio recording sitting down on your desk or table. In that case, a standard mic stand might not be the most comfortable option for you.
Instead, I recommend you take a look at boom arms. These mountable microphone stands bear a considerable resemblance to Anglepoise lamps (think of the famous Pixar lamp), except they hold a mic at their end. This type of mounting is not only highly secure, but it’s also easy to adjust.
The Rode PSA1 swivel mount boom arm rotates 360 degrees around its body and has a maximum reach of 32.5 in horizontally and a vertical reach of 33 in. Despite being designed for the Rode Procaster and Podcaster, you can still mount most microphones between 1.5 lbs and 2.4 lbs (including a shock mount).
This is a professional-grade microphone stand that you can find in recording studios worldwide, so the only downside we can point out is the price. You’d be spending a bit more money than expected, but you’ll be holding the perfect stand in your hands!
- Two desk mounting options included
- 360-degree rotation
- Two-axis swivel mount
- Professional-grade mic stand
- Not cheap
6. Tiger Microphone Stand with Round Base – Weighted Round Base – Standard ⅝” Microphone Clip Included – Black, MCA14-BK – Best Microphone Stand with Weight Support
- Height is adjustable to suit everyone.
- Sturdy construction ensures durabililty.
- Round base provides stability when in use.
Last update on 2024-05-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another cheap round-base microphone stand worth your attention is the Tiger mic stand. The weighted steel-cast base offers stability on stage, and it has a height adjustment reach between 33 in and 56 in, which is slightly less than the On-Stage mic.
The Tiger has a stable base, perfect for bands, school or college speeches, and teachers. It’s a great karaoke microphone stand, but you don’t have to use it exclusively on stage. Mic stands with round bases are often used in recording studios too, so if you’re looking for a new addition to your studio gear, you’re on the right track.
You’ll also be delighted to know that the Tiger mic stand is decently priced, so you won’t be breaking your bank to afford it. The added stability of this round-base mic stand adds to its long-term durability, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon. The manufacturers are confident enough in their product to give you a 2-year warranty! It would be a shame not to take a look at this mic stand.
- Rugged, durable, and reliable
- 2-year warranty
- Great karaoke mic stand
- Decent price
- Small height extension in comparison to other models
7. Tiger MCA49-BK Low-Level Floor & Desktop Boom Microphone Stand – Bass Drum, Guitar Cab Mic Stand – Best Low-Level Microphone Boom Arm
- Ideal for use miking up kick drums, snare drums, guitar amps or cabs or as ambient stage miking.
- Folding metal tripod legs 24cm in length make the stand stable on any stage or desk.
- Maximum height 62cm, maximum usable boom length 31cm.
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for microphone stands for drummers? A low-level microphone boom arm should be your go-to choice. This short microphone stand is perfect for recording a kick drum or other instruments.
Аt first glance, you might think it’s one of those microphone stands for kids, but I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. The tripod base with rubber leg ends provides stability, whether you use it on stage or your desk. You can decide to remove the boom arm and use it as a straight stand with a maximum height of 12 in. The total size of this low-level boom stand is 24 in.
A few mic stand accessories are featured with your purchase – mic clips and a standard 3/8–5/8-inch thread adaptor. This solid stand is an ideal broadcast microphone stand that doesn’t take up much space.
- Compact and light low-level mic stand
- Perfect for recording drums, guitar amps, and ambiance
- Mic stand accessories included
- Free shipping may be available
- Great microphone stands for kids
- Not great for heavier microphones
8. Hercules MS531B Microphone Stand – Best Microphone Stand with Adjustable Height and Angle
- Features Quik-N-EZ Clutch for easy adjustments
- Quik-N-EZ Boom Retainer for instant attachment
- Tripod Base made of durable die cast aluminum
Last update on 2024-05-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re trying to find the best piano microphone stand, the Hercules MS531B boom mic stand is a great choice! The mic stand has an aluminum tripod base, providing support and durability while at the same time being extremely lightweight.
You can adjust the Hercules mic stand’s height between 41.1 in and 66.1 in, and it only weighs 5.7 lbs. The boom length is 30.7 in. The mic stand has lever locks that secure your microphone to your desired height.
The Hercules MS531B is designed to accommodate virtually any microphone, and customers are writing raving reviews online, voting it the best mic stand. It is easily adjustable on stage during performances. The mic stand does cost a little more than average ones, but you’ll be spending a decent amount for a boom arm stand that won’t collapse under the weight of your microphone. If you want to make sure, all you have to do is read the reviews on Amazon, and you’ll be convinced!
- Perfect for recording piano
- Best mic stand according to reviewers
- Quick and easy adjustment
- A little pricier but good value for money
9. InnoGear Mic Stand for Blue Yeti, Heavy-Duty Microphone Stand with Microphone Windscreen and Dual-Layer Mic Pop Filter – Best Microphone Stand for Heavy Mic
- All-In-One Combo: Package includes all the items you need for studio recording and live sound, a microphone stand, pop filter and 1 Pack microphone windscreen
- High Quality foam microphone windscreen: Pop filter for filter out the harsh "p", "t", and "b" sounds and the sound of wind and other unwanted background noise to improve the quality of your audio...
- Heavy Duty Construction Mic Stand: Super-strong spring of the boom arm protects microphone from shaking, suddenly dropping and making noise. Comes with one table mounting clamp with protective layer...
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We all want to get the most for what we’re paying for, so I thought you’d love this deal! Why get just a boom arm when you can buy everything you need for a proper studio recording? This fantastic Amazon deal includes some must-have mic stand accessories: a scissor arm desktop stand, a pop filter, a mic clip, a windscreen, and a standard threaded mic adapter!
The InnoGear Mic stand is considered the best microphone stand for Blue Yeti mics. However, it will work perfectly fine with other mics, like dynamic, boom, and condenser mics. The mic boom arm has a 3.3-lb bearing capacity, but you can lift that by setting the spring on the second hole.
The microphone arms are extendable up to 135 degrees back and forth and 180 degrees vertically. Overall, this is a fantastic stand that features free gear that can upgrade your sound quality. Exclusive deals like this are rare to find, so jump in while you have the chance!
- Free mic accessories
- Stable boom arm
- Perfect for condenser and dynamic mics
- Ultracheap
- The windscreen may have a loose wire
10. Neewer NB-35 Microphone Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with Microphone Clip Holder and Table Mounting Bracket – Most Convenient Microphone Boom Arm
- Kit includes: (1)Black NB-35 Mic Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand with (1)Table Mounting Clamp and (1)Mic Clip Holder + (1)Black NW(B-3) Pop Filter. NOTE: Microphone, Shock Mount and Audio Cable NOT...
- NB-35 Mic Stand features solid steel construction and adjustable design. Can be easily adjusted to the suitable angle and height to show your perfect voice. *Max load: Approx 53oz / 1.5KG. PlEASE...
- Comes with one table mounting clamp. With an adjustable positioning screw, can easily clip to any desktop up to 1.7"/4.5cm thick. PLEASE CHECK the thickness of your table BEFORE ordering
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re not familiar with the previous brand and prefer a more well-known manufacturer, the Neewer NB-35 professional microphone stands might pique your interest. Not only are you getting a desktop scissor arm boom stand, but you’re also getting a foam windscreen, mic clip holder, pop filter, screw adapter, and a shock mount holder.
The Neewer boom arm mic stand has a solid steel construction, creating a durable design that’s easy to adjust to your every need. Yоu can easily control the height and angle of the scissor arm and get the best out of your vocal recordings.
One of the best things about boom arm desktop stands is isolating microphones from unwanted physical vibration and floor and stand the noise. Combine this with the proper shock mount, and you have a solid stand for your professional mic. Exclusive deals like the last two we mentioned are rare to find on Amazon, so it’s worth checking them out!
- Free mic accessories
- Durable and stable desktop stand
- Adjustable positioning
- Super cheap
- Fits most mics
- Fits microphones with a diameter between 17 in and 18 in
Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Mic Stand – A Buyer’s Guide
Before you jump straight into buying one of our fantastic deals, it’s essential to consider a few critical factors. That way, you won’t be disappointed by your purchase, and you’ll have solid and long-lasting gear in your hands.
Mic Weight
Not all mic stands can support vast amounts of weight. If you own a large condenser mic, make sure to double-check its weight before impulse buying a mic stand to make sure they are compatible. Your best bet with professional mics is to get yourself a boom arm, and most boom arms are heavy-duty and built to withhold weighty mics.
Budget
Mic stands will rarely break your bank, but some professional options by famous audio tech brands can be pricier than you might think. We haven’t included many expensive mic stands on our list. Usually, mic stands and boom arms have a price range between $30 and $60, which is plenty if you want to buy something sturdy and long-lasting.
Height Range
If you’re a tall singer, you might struggle to find a suitable mic stand. Thankfully, we featured enough microphones on this list not to have you feeling left out. As a pro tip, I recommend looking for round-base stands that extend their height more than boom arm tripod stands.
Portability
Portability is another critical factor. If you’re on the road a lot or do live gigs at different locations every week, you’re probably dragging a guitar and other instruments along with you. The last thing you need is another heavy piece of equipment. That’s why I recommend you buy collapsible microphone stands with tripod bases that are compact and lightweight for easy transportation.
Accessories
Mic accessories are expensive, so it’s essential to get your hands on any free gear you can find – from mic clips to foam pop filters. Audio equipment is expensive enough, so we decided it would be nice to include some exclusive deals on our list that feature a few things every professional would enjoy. That way, you won’t need to visit a studio, and you can record straight from your home!
Before You Head Out
I hope you found this article helpful. By now, you should know in detail the anatomy of a mic stand and the different types. Now that you have become a microphone stand pro, why not become a mic pro? Check out our article on the different microphone types! I wish you a happy shopping!
Best Selling Microphone Stands
Last update on 2024-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API