What is the primary material used for the K&M 23400 base?

The base is constructed from heavy cast iron. This material was chosen to provide maximum stability and a low centre of gravity for the microphone.

How does the stand handle vibrations from the floor or table?

The stand features a sound-absorbing rubber insert built into the base. This helps to isolate the microphone from surface-borne noise and mechanical vibrations.

Is the height of the K&M 23400 adjustable?

Yes, it features a 2-piece folding design with a height adjustment clutch. This allows the user to set the microphone at various heights to suit different instruments or speakers.

What kind of clutch mechanism does this stand use?

It uses a non-marring height adjustment clutch. This design ensures the stand's surface remains free from scratches while providing a secure grip when locked.

Can the angle of the microphone be changed on this stand?

Yes, the stand includes a tilt angle adjustment feature. This is particularly useful for directing a microphone precisely toward a drum head or an amplifier speaker.

Is this stand suitable for use with drums?

Yes, the manufacturer specifically recommends it for use with microphones and drums. Its low profile makes it ideal for kick drums and floor toms.

Can the K&M 23400 be used as a floor stand?

Yes, it is designed as a combination table and floor stand. It is suitable for any application requiring a low-height microphone placement on the ground.

Is the stand portable for touring?

The stand features a two-piece folding design that makes it more compact for transport. While heavy due to the cast iron base, its folding nature aids in storage.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The K&M 23400 typically retails for approximately £54. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.

Does this stand work well in a studio environment?

Yes, the manufacturer description highlights its suitability for the studio environment. Features like the vibration-absorbing base and tilt adjustment are designed for professional recording needs.

Will the height adjustment damage the stand over time?

No, the clutch is specifically designed to be non-marring. This protects the finish of the stand even after frequent adjustments in a busy studio or stage setting.

How does this compare to a standard tablet stand like the K&M 19797?

The K&M 23400 is a heavy-duty microphone stand with a cast iron base designed for audio capture. In contrast, the K&M 19797 is a specialized table stand specifically for holding Tablet PCs.

Gear article

K&M 23400 Table and Floor Microphone Stand

The K&M 23400 is a versatile, heavy-duty combination stand designed for both table-top and floor-level microphone placement. Manufactured by König & Meyer, it features a robust cast iron base and a two-piece folding design tailored for studio environments and instrument miking.

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Overview

The K&M 23400 is a specialized microphone stand designed to bridge the gap between traditional floor stands and desktop solutions. It is specifically engineered for applications requiring low-profile positioning, such as miking kick drums, amplifiers, or seated speakers in a broadcast or studio setting. The construction emphasizes durability and stability through the use of high-quality materials synonymous with the K&M brand.

Design and Build Quality

At the core of the 23400 is a heavy cast iron base, which provides a low centre of gravity to prevent tipping when using heavier microphones. To address potential mechanical noise, the base incorporates a sound-absorbing rubber insert. This feature decouples the stand from the floor or table surface, reducing the transmission of vibrations and 'thumps' into the microphone capsule. The stand utilizes a two-piece folding design, making it easier to transport and store compared to fixed-length low-profile stands.

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Functional Features

Key mechanical features include:

Tilt Angle Adjustment: Allows the user to precisely angle the microphone toward the sound source, which is critical for drum and cabinet miking.
Non-Marring Clutch: A height adjustment mechanism designed to lock securely without scratching or damaging the finish of the internal extension tube.
Variable Height: The two-piece telescopic design ensures the stand can be adjusted to suit different player positions or instrument heights.

Suitability and Applications

This stand is particularly suited for studio engineers and live sound technicians who require a reliable solution for low-height sound sources. It is highly effective for miking bass drums, snare bottoms, and guitar cabinets. In a broadcast context, it functions as a premium desktop stand for podcasters or radio hosts who prefer a weighted, stable base over a boom arm. Its robust build ensures it can withstand the rigours of professional touring and daily studio use.

Market Comparison

When compared to entry-level alternatives like the Trojan Pro Mic Stand with Telescopic Boom, the K&M 23400 offers a more compact footprint and specialized low-profile base, though it lacks the reach of a full-sized boom. Unlike specialized instrument stands like the Hercules DS504B (designed specifically for piccolos), the K&M 23400 is a universal microphone mounting solution. At a price point of approximately £54, it sits in the professional tier of accessories, offering higher stability and vibration isolation than standard budget desktop stands.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the K&M 23400 base?: The base is constructed from heavy cast iron. This material was chosen to provide maximum stability and a low centre of gravity for the microphone.
How does the stand handle vibrations from the floor or table?: The stand features a sound-absorbing rubber insert built into the base. This helps to isolate the microphone from surface-borne noise and mechanical vibrations.
Is the height of the K&M 23400 adjustable?: Yes, it features a 2-piece folding design with a height adjustment clutch. This allows the user to set the microphone at various heights to suit different instruments or speakers.
What kind of clutch mechanism does this stand use?: It uses a non-marring height adjustment clutch. This design ensures the stand's surface remains free from scratches while providing a secure grip when locked.
Can the angle of the microphone be changed on this stand?: Yes, the stand includes a tilt angle adjustment feature. This is particularly useful for directing a microphone precisely toward a drum head or an amplifier speaker.
Is this stand suitable for use with drums?: Yes, the manufacturer specifically recommends it for use with microphones and drums. Its low profile makes it ideal for kick drums and floor toms.
Can the K&M 23400 be used as a floor stand?: Yes, it is designed as a combination table and floor stand. It is suitable for any application requiring a low-height microphone placement on the ground.
Is the stand portable for touring?: The stand features a two-piece folding design that makes it more compact for transport. While heavy due to the cast iron base, its folding nature aids in storage.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The K&M 23400 typically retails for approximately £54. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.
Does this stand work well in a studio environment?: Yes, the manufacturer description highlights its suitability for the studio environment. Features like the vibration-absorbing base and tilt adjustment are designed for professional recording needs.
Will the height adjustment damage the stand over time?: No, the clutch is specifically designed to be non-marring. This protects the finish of the stand even after frequent adjustments in a busy studio or stage setting.
How does this compare to a standard tablet stand like the K&M 19797?: The K&M 23400 is a heavy-duty microphone stand with a cast iron base designed for audio capture. In contrast, the K&M 19797 is a specialized table stand specifically for holding Tablet PCs.