Gear article
Hercules GS412BPLUS Single Guitar Stand
The Hercules GS412BPLUS is a professional-grade single guitar stand featuring the proprietary Auto Grip System (AGS) and a height-adjustable clutch. It is designed to accommodate a wide range of stringed instruments, including those with narrow necks like banjos and mandolins, through the use of specialised adjusters.
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The Hercules GS412BPLUS is a floor-standing instrument holder engineered for use in both professional studio environments and live stage settings. It distinguishes itself from traditional A-frame or tripod stands by utilising a hanging yoke design, which allows the instrument to remain suspended, reducing the risk of bottom-heavy instruments tipping over. The stand is constructed with a focus on stability and ease of deployment, retailing at a typical price point of £43.
Auto Grip System (AGS) and Neck Compatibility
A primary feature of the GS412BPLUS is the upgraded Auto Grip System (AGS). This mechanism works by reacting to the weight of the instrument; when the guitar neck is placed into the yoke, the arms rotate upwards to lock the instrument securely in place.
Unlike many standard stands that are built exclusively for six-string guitars, the GS412BPLUS includes narrow instrument neck adjusters. These allow the stand to safely hold instruments with neck widths as thin as 28mm (1.10 inches). This makes the stand highly versatile, suitable for: * Electric and acoustic guitars * Bass guitars * Banjos * Mandolins
Height Adjustment and Ergonomics
For vertical customisation, the stand incorporates a Height Adjustment Clutch equipped with a locking pin. This system is designed to provide a secure and rapid method for changing the height of the yoke to suit different instrument lengths. The locking pin acts as a redundant safety measure, preventing the stand from slipping even if the clutch is not fully tightened, ensuring the instrument remains at the desired elevation from the floor.
Comparisons and Applications
While brands like K&M or Gibraltar offer various hardware solutions, such as the K&M 214/6 speaker stand or Gibraltar GKS-KT75 keyboard stand, the Hercules GS412BPLUS focuses specifically on instrument neck security. Compared to basic universal stands, the GS412BPLUS offers a higher level of protection against accidental knocks due to its locking yoke. It is particularly suited for musicians who frequently switch between different neck profiles, such as moving from a thick-necked acoustic guitar to a thin-necked banjo.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary locking mechanism on the GS412BPLUS?
- The stand uses the upgraded Auto Grip System (AGS), which uses the weight of the instrument to rotate two protective arms that lock the neck into the yoke.
- Can the GS412BPLUS hold a banjo?
- Yes, it is specifically designed to accommodate instruments with skinny necks, such as banjos, thanks to the included narrow instrument neck adjusters.
- What is the minimum neck width the stand can support?
- The stand can support instruments with neck widths down to 28mm (1.10 inches) when using the narrow neck adjusters.
- How do you adjust the height of this stand?
- The stand features a Height Adjustment Clutch with an integrated locking pin, allowing for safe and convenient vertical movement.
- Is this stand suitable for live stage use?
- Yes, the manufacturer describes it as being perfect for both the stage and the studio due to its secure locking system and elegant design.
- How much does the Hercules GS412BPLUS typically cost?
- The typical price range for this specific model is approximately £43 in the United Kingdom.
- What makes the 'PLUS' version different from standard stands?
- The PLUS version includes the upgraded AGS and the specific ability to adjust for narrower neck widths, making it more versatile than older or more basic models.
- Does the stand protect the guitar from falling forward?
- Yes, the AGS yoke closes automatically when the guitar is placed inside, creating a physical barrier that prevents the instrument from falling forward.
- Can this stand be used for mandolins?
- Yes, the narrow neck adjusters make the GS412BPLUS suitable for mandolins, which typically have much thinner necks than standard guitars.
- Is the height adjustment safe for heavy instruments?
- The inclusion of a locking pin alongside the clutch ensures that the stand can safely support the weight of the instrument without slipping.
- Does Hercules offer other types of stands?
- Yes, Hercules produces a variety of stands for different instruments, including the DS504B Piccolo Stand Peg, though the GS412BPLUS is specifically for guitars and similar stringed instruments.
- Is the GS412BPLUS a single or multi-guitar stand?
- The GS412BPLUS is designed as a single guitar stand, intended to hold one instrument at a time.
