Gear article
Gravity Touring Series Tripod Boom Mic Stand
The Gravity Touring Series Tripod Boom Mic Stand is a professional-grade microphone support designed to withstand the rigorous demands of live performance and touring. Constructed with rugged steel tubing and a die-cast zinc base, it features a standard boom arm with high-speed locking mechanisms for rapid stage setup.
See live pricesOverview
The Gravity Touring Series represents the brand's most resilient line of microphone stands, specifically engineered for the 'heavy-duty' requirements of the touring industry. Unlike standard consumer stands, the Touring Series prioritises durability and speed of adjustment. It utilizes a tripod base for stability on uneven surfaces and includes a standard boom arm to facilitate precise microphone placement over instruments or for vocalists.
Construction and Build Quality
The stand is built using heavy-walled steel tubing, providing the necessary weight and rigidity to support professional microphones. The critical stress points, specifically the tripod base and the boom mount, are manufactured from die-cast zinc. This material choice is intended to make these components practically indestructible under normal touring conditions. Furthermore, the stand features 'un-losable' metal knobs, which are designed to remain attached to the stand even when loosened, preventing the common issue of lost hardware during transport.
Key Features and Ergonomics
Gravity has implemented several ergonomic features to assist road crews and performers:
- Rapid Locking Boom: The locking screw for the boom arm requires only a three-quarter turn to tighten fully, allowing for faster adjustments than traditional screw mechanisms.
- Easy-Grip Sleeve: Height adjustments are managed via a large, triangular tightening sleeve that provides high leverage and a secure grip.
- Longer Boom Shaft: The extended length of the boom arm allows for easier manipulation and greater reach, which is particularly useful when positioning mics over drums or amplifiers.
Suitability and Applications
This stand is primarily suited for professional touring musicians, rental houses, and venue installations where gear is subject to frequent setup and teardown. Its robust build makes it an appropriate choice for supporting heavier dynamic or condenser microphones, such as a Shure SM58 or high-end studio mics, in a live environment. While it is priced higher than entry-level stands like the Trojan Pro Mic Stand, its longevity is intended to offer better value for high-intensity users.
Comparison to Alternatives
In the professional hardware market, the Gravity Touring Series competes with established brands like Konig & Meyer (K&M). While K&M offers industry standards such as the 210/2, the Gravity stand distinguishes itself with its specific 'Touring' features like the three-quarter-turn locking and the distinctive green identification rings (though these can be swapped for neutral colours). It provides a more rugged alternative to lightweight stands like the Hercules DS504B (specifically for piccolos) or general-purpose monitor stands like the Omnitronic TMO-2, focusing strictly on heavy-duty microphone support.
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Frequently asked questions
- What material is the base of the Gravity Touring Series stand made from?
- The base is constructed from die-cast zinc, which is chosen for its durability and resistance to breaking compared to plastic or thinner metal alternatives.
- How fast can the boom arm be locked into place?
- The boom arm features a precision locking screw that requires only a three-quarter turn to tighten securely, facilitating rapid stage adjustments.
- Are the adjustment knobs removable?
- No, the stand features solid metal 'un-losable' knobs that are designed to stay attached to the stand, preventing them from falling off during transit or setup.
- What is the primary material used for the stand's tubing?
- The stand is constructed using rugged steel tubing, providing a balance of weight for stability and strength for long-term use.
- Does this stand include a telescopic boom?
- No, this specific model features a standard long boom shaft rather than a telescopic one, prioritising reach and ease of manipulation.
- How does the height adjustment sleeve work?
- The stand uses a large, triangular easy-grip tightening sleeve. This ergonomic design allows the user to apply more torque easily to find and lock the perfect height.
- Is this stand suitable for outdoor touring?
- Yes, its rugged steel and zinc construction is specifically designed to withstand the tough conditions associated with professional touring and live shows.
- What is the typical price for this stand in the UK?
- The typical price for the Gravity Touring Series Tripod Boom Mic Stand is approximately £58.00.
- Does the stand use plastic components for the boom mount?
- No, the boom mount is made from die-cast zinc to ensure it is practically indestructible and can hold microphones securely throughout a show.
- How does this stand compare to entry-level models?
- Compared to entry-level models like the Trojan Pro Mic Stand, the Gravity Touring Series uses heavier materials and more advanced locking mechanisms for increased reliability.
- Can the boom handle heavier microphones?
- Yes, the combination of steel tubing and the zinc boom mount is designed to keep microphones secure and stable during performances.
- Why is the boom shaft described as 'longer'?
- The extended length of the boom shaft is intended to make it quicker and easier to manipulate the microphone's position from the back of the stand.
