Gear article
K&M 17581 Heli 2 Electric Guitar Stand Cork
The K&M 17581 Heli 2 is a compact, folding steel stand specifically designed for electric guitars. It features a unique flat-folding mechanism and a cork-coloured finish with non-marring plastic to protect the instrument's surface.

Overview
The K&M 17581 Heli 2 Electric Guitar Stand is a portable support solution manufactured by König & Meyer. Distinguished by its 'cork' colour variant, this model is built from robust steel to handle the rigours of touring and live performance. It serves as an updated iteration of the classic Heli design, prioritising a slim profile when not in use.
Design and Portability
A primary feature of the Heli 2 is its folding architecture. The stand is engineered to fold completely flat, allowing it to be stored within a gig bag or equipment case without occupying significant volume. This makes it particularly suitable for gigging musicians who need to minimise the footprint of their hardware during transit. The steel construction ensures that the stand remains stable despite its lightweight, foldable nature.

Instrument Protection
To prevent damage to the guitar's finish, K&M has lined the contact points of the frame with a non-marring plastic material. This ensures that the instrument is shielded from scratches or abrasions while resting on the stand. Furthermore, the 17581 model includes an adjustable cross-bar. This adjustable component allows the user to customise the width of the support, ensuring a secure fit for various electric guitar body shapes.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the wider market of instrument supports, the K&M 17581 competes with various specialized stands. While brands like Hercules Stands offer dedicated pegs for small instruments like the DS504B Piccolo Stand, the Heli 2 focuses on the broader electric guitar category. Unlike universal stands or keyboard supports such as the Gibraltar GKS-KT75, the Heli 2 is a low-profile A-frame stand. It is more compact than standard tripod mic stands like the Trojan Pro Telescopic Boom, though it maintains the professional-grade steel reliability found in other K&M products like the 214/6 Speaker Stand.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary material used in the K&M 17581 Heli 2?
- The stand is constructed from a steel frame, providing durability and reliability for touring musicians. This metal foundation is then lined with non-marring plastic to protect the guitar.
- Can the K&M 17581 be folded for transport?
- Yes, the Heli 2 features a folding design that allows it to store completely flat. This makes it easy to transport inside a standard gig bag or equipment case.
- What colour is this specific model?
- This specific product, model number 17581, features the 'cork' colour variant. While other variants exist, this model is designated by its unique cork-coloured finish.
- Is this stand suitable for acoustic guitars?
- The K&M 17581 is specifically marketed as an electric guitar stand. Its dimensions and support structure are optimised for the thinner bodies of electric instruments.
- How does the stand protect the guitar's finish?
- The stand utilizes non-marring plastic lining along the frame. This material is designed to prevent scratches or marks on the instrument's surface during use.
- Does it accommodate different guitar body shapes?
- Yes, it features an adjustable cross-bar. This allows the stand to be modified to fit various electric guitar body shapes securely.
- What is the typical price range for this stand?
- The typical price for the K&M 17581 Heli 2 in the UK market is approximately £23. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
- Is the Heli 2 stable enough for professional touring?
- The stand is made from steel and is described as providing the durability required for many performances and tours. K&M products are generally regarded as professional-grade hardware.
- How does it compare to a tripod-style stand?
- Unlike tripod stands, the Heli 2 is an A-frame design that folds flat rather than collapsing into a long cylindrical shape. This makes it more suitable for flat storage in bags.
- Does the stand require assembly?
- The stand generally comes as a pre-assembled folding unit. Users only need to unfold the frame and adjust the cross-bar to suit their specific instrument.
- Who is the ideal user for the Heli 2?
- The stand is ideal for gigging musicians who require a portable, reliable, and space-saving solution for holding their electric guitar on stage or in the studio.
- Can it be used for offset or asymmetrical guitar bodies?
- Because of the adjustable cross-bar, the stand can be configured to hold a variety of shapes. However, users should always ensure the instrument is balanced before leaving it unattended.
