Gear article
Gibraltar Overhead Microphone Boom Stand
The Gibraltar Overhead Microphone Boom Stand is a professional-grade support system designed for precise microphone positioning in studio and stage environments. It features a double-braced base and a 60-inch boom arm equipped with a 1 kg counterweight to ensure stability during high-reach applications.
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The Gibraltar Overhead Microphone Boom Stand is engineered to provide reliable, adjustable support for microphones in scenarios requiring significant reach, such as drum overheads, choirs, or large orchestral ensembles. Drawing on Gibraltar's reputation for heavy-duty drum hardware, this stand prioritises stability and durability while maintaining a weight that allows for manageable transport between venues.
Design and Construction
The stand utilizes a double-braced tripod base, a design choice intended to lower the centre of gravity and prevent tipping when the boom is fully extended. The vertical shaft is adjustable, offering a height range between 36 inches (91 cm) and 56 inches (142 cm). To facilitate reach over drum kits or instruments, the stand is equipped with a 60-inch (152 cm) boom arm.
A critical feature of this model is the inclusion of a 1 kg (approx. 2.2 lbs) removable counterweight. This mass sits at the rear of the boom arm to balance the weight of the microphone, ensuring that once the angle is locked, the stand remains secure without drifting or placing excessive strain on the adjustment clutches.
Applications and Functionality
The stand is primarily suited for:
- Studio Recording: Ideal for positioning large-diaphragm condensers as overheads for drum kits.
- Stage Use: Provides the necessary reach for miking choirs or acoustic instruments where a standard stand would be too short.
- Mobile Setups: The lightweight construction, relative to its size, allows for efficient setup and breakdown for touring technicians.
Market Comparison
When compared to standard vocal stands like the Trojan Pro Mic Stand with Telescopic Boom, the Gibraltar model offers significantly more reach and stability due to its counterweighted design. While it serves a different purpose than specialised mounts such as the AVCOM Ceiling Mount or the Hercules DS504B Piccolo Stand, it provides a versatile floor-based solution that avoids the permanence of ceiling installations. In terms of price point, at approximately £109, it sits as a mid-to-high tier utility stand, offering more robustness than budget alternatives while remaining more portable than industrial studio booms.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary purpose of the Gibraltar Overhead Microphone Boom Stand?
- It is designed to provide stable, high-reach microphone positioning for overhead applications in studios or on stage. It is commonly used for drum overheads, choirs, and large instrument arrays.
- How long is the boom arm on this stand?
- The boom arm measures 60 inches, which is approximately 152 cm. This length allows for significant reach over performers or equipment.
- What is the adjustable height range of the stand?
- The vertical height of the stand can be adjusted from a minimum of 36 inches (91 cm) to a maximum of 56 inches (142 cm). This measurement refers to the vertical shaft before the boom arm is positioned.
- Does the stand include a counterweight?
- Yes, it features a 1 kg (approximately 2.2 lbs) counterweight. This weight is removable and serves to balance the microphone to prevent the stand from tipping.
- What type of base does this stand use?
- The stand utilizes a double-braced tripod base. This construction is designed for exceptional stability during busy recording sessions or live performances.
- Is this stand suitable for heavy studio microphones?
- Yes, the combination of the double-braced base and the 1 kg counterweight is specifically intended to support heavier microphones securely. It helps avoid unwanted movement or drifting during use.
- Can the counterweight be removed?
- Yes, the 1 kg counterweight is removable. This allows users to adjust the balance based on the specific microphone being used or for easier transport.
- How portable is the Gibraltar Overhead Boom Stand?
- The stand features a lightweight construction despite its size. This makes it easier to transport and set up compared to heavy-duty industrial studio booms.
- What is the typical price for this model?
- The typical price range for this stand is approximately £109. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current promotions.
- Who is the manufacturer of this microphone stand?
- The stand is manufactured by Gibraltar Hardware, a company well-known for producing durable drum hardware and percussion accessories.
- How does this compare to a standard telescopic boom stand?
- Unlike standard stands like the Trojan Pro model, the Gibraltar Overhead stand offers a longer 60-inch reach and a dedicated counterweight. These features make it much more stable for high-angle positioning.
- Is the stand suitable for touring use?
- Yes, its combination of a stable double-braced base and relatively lightweight construction makes it ideal for 'on-the-go' applications. It is built to withstand the rigours of frequent setup and teardown.
