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Stands for studio equipment

Useful information about stands and mounts for studio equipment

In any studio, premium equipment should be securely positioned and neatly organized. Especially with delicate and expensive microphones, it isn’t worth cutting corners on the stand — a wobbly budget option can become costly if the mic isn’t held safely.

Support for every purpose

It’s not only microphones: laptops, cameras and monitors also require a stable, secure base in the studio. Different applications call for different solutions. For live use, compact dimensions and low weight are advantageous, while in the studio the practical benefit and stability take priority. Providing a secure platform for laptops and tablets has become essential, as these devices are now a core part of modern music production.

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Microphone stands

The phrase “buy cheap, buy twice” fits perfectly when choosing a microphone stand for studio work. Affordable stands can suffice for occasional use. However, anyone handling regular sessions won’t regret investing in a high-quality stand for a valuable large-diaphragm microphone. That way, sagging boom arms or stripped threads are a thing of the past — and you can get straight to recording.

Tripod or base stand

The choice depends on available space and the microphone’s weight. For acoustic guitar, base stands are popular so players don’t step on tripod legs. For heavy large-diaphragm mics, choose a robust solution with ample stability to protect sensitive microphones. When several microphones are placed in front of a guitar amp, sufficiently heavy base stands are often easier to arrange side by side. For drum kits, classic tripod mic stands are advantageous because their legs can be positioned neatly between the drum hardware.

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Desktop stands

If a microphone is used directly at the workstation, a desktop stand is a space-saving, convenient choice. It also helps avoid bulky floor stands for podcasts and voice recordings. For greater freedom of movement at the desk, microphone arms are ideal — widely used in radio studios and easy to reposition in any direction as the presenter moves.

REC0015105-000 microphone arm
For podcasters and voice talent, this arm lets the microphone move freely and precisely.

The specialists

As practical as microphone stands are, they can occupy valuable space — in the studio and on stage. That’s why there are special solutions to replace bulky boom stands. Picture a fully miked drum kit where stands restrict the drummer’s movement. Here, clamp mounts attached to toms or snare provide relief; combined with a gooseneck they allow precise, space-saving positioning.

For guitar amplifiers, numerous options now allow the microphone to be mounted directly to the speaker cabinet — ideal on stage, where floor stands often get in the way or are knocked over. If several microphones are used, adapter rails can mount multiple mics on a single boom. This is practical for stereo techniques such as XY, ORTF, Blumlein or Decca-Tree.

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Microphone holders and shock mounts

In the studio, large-diaphragm microphones should ideally be suspended in a suitable shock mount to minimize footfall noise and other vibrations that could otherwise imprint unwanted artifacts on the recording. When choosing mounts or clips, consider the exact microphone dimensions so it sits securely without movement. In addition to model-specific mounts, there are also universal holders for different mic sizes. If the elastic bands in a shock mount stretch over time, they can be replaced easily.

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Laptops, tablets, cameras etc.

Laptops are indispensable in studios, on stage and for DJs — and they must stand securely. An adjustable viewing angle is very useful for keeping an overview. Depending on the application, laptop stands come in various heights or as dedicated floor-standing versions.

There’s also a wide range of tablet and smartphone holders designed to mount on desks, stands or even keyboard frames.

Alongside camera stands, headphone hangers are worth mentioning, as headphones often take up desk space. Mounted beneath the tabletop, they help maintain a clean, organized workspace.

PCM0013284-000 iPad holder
With the IK Multimedia iKlip Xpand universal holder, an iPad can be mounted effortlessly to a mic stand.

Monitor mounts

The tweeters of studio monitors should be exactly at ear level. In addition to floor-standing monitor stands that provide a solid base, speakers can also be placed on desktop stands where space allows. It’s strongly recommended to use dedicated speaker pads to decouple the speakers, with angle options for optimal dispersion. Alternatively, wall mounts can be used to secure speakers in a fixed position.

For computer displays, desk-mounted monitor arms can replace the supplied stand. Standardized VESA dimensions are widely used, allowing mounts to be attached easily to the rear of the screen.

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All items are available from MUSIC STORE professional GmbH in Cologne, Germany. Orders ship directly from our Cologne warehouse to the United States; hands-on demos are available at our Cologne showroom.

FAQ – Stands & Mounts for Studio Equipment

What’s the difference between desktop, boom and floor stands — and when should I use each?

Desktop stands are compact and ideal for podcast or workstation setups. Boom stands offer maximum flexibility above instruments, drums or vocals, while floor stands provide excellent stability and load capacity for heavier microphones, monitors or lighting — both in the studio and on stage.

How much weight can my stand safely support?

Never exceed the stated maximum load. Always allow a safety margin (e.g., an 8 kg unit → a stand rated for 10 kg or more) to ensure stability and protect components.

Are height-adjustable or tiltable mounts worth it in a studio?

Yes. Height adjustment brings microphones or monitors to ear level, while tilt functions help you align sound or viewing angles precisely. For wall-mounted speakers or screens, the improvement is both audible and visible.

How do I mount studio monitors or speakers securely?
  • Stable base: Use monitor stands, wall brackets or solid desktop mounts with non-slip, decoupling pads.
  • Height: Tweeters at ear level.
  • Alignment: Angle slightly toward the listening position (toe-in) for the optimal sweet spot.
Do all monitors come with a VESA mounting pattern?

No. Many screens use VESA mounts (e.g., 75 × 75 mm, 100 × 100 mm), whereas speakers rarely do. Check the specs first; if there’s no VESA option, use monitor stands, isolation pads or alternative wall fittings.

How can I reduce vibrations or resonance from my stands?
  • Isolation: Fit rubber feet, dampers or speaker pads.
  • Mass: Heavier stands transmit fewer vibrations.
  • Even surface: Ensure a flat, steady base — no wobble.
  • Avoid furniture: Don’t place monitors directly on resonant desks or shelving.
Are US-standard thread sizes compatible with European mounts?

Yes. The two common threads are 3/8″ (EU) and 5/8″ (US). Reducer or extension adapters (e.g., 5/8″→3/8″) ensure compatibility. Brass or steel adapters are durable — tighten firmly but not excessively. For frequent swaps, consider quick-release adapters.

What’s the best way to maintain stands and mounts for long-term reliability?
  • Screws & clamps: Check regularly and retighten gently if needed.
  • Cleaning: Wipe off dust; avoid harsh chemicals.
  • Lubrication: Lightly grease or oil threads (not gripping surfaces).
  • Rubber parts: Replace worn feet or isolators.
  • Storage: Keep dry and protected — ideally in padded bags or cases.
How do I keep cables tidy and avoid trip hazards?
  • Cable management: Secure cables with clips or Velcro ties; add strain relief near microphones or gear.
  • Safety: Use cable bridges or gaffer tape across walkways; mark stand legs for visibility.
  • Routing: Run cables along sides or under boom arms, avoiding sharp bends.
Which stands work best in small or mobile recording setups?

Compact or low-profile stands, table clamps, wall or ceiling mounts and goosenecks save space. For travel or location work, use lightweight foldable stands or boom poles with an adequate load rating and reliable locks.

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