8 Best Microphone Boom Arms

Martin Kristiansen

My name is Martin Kristiansen and I’m the founder and chief editor of HomeStudioIdeas.com. I’ve been playing, recording and producing music for the last 10 years.

Over the past few years, microphone desk arms have increased in popularity. Why? Because they are extremely adjustable and you can get the exact mic position as you desire. There are about 2 billion mic arms on the market, and today we go through the best microphone boom arms available!

At a Glance: Our Pick of the Best Microphone Boom Arms

I tested twenty-five products and found the Rode PSA1+ to be the best overall microphone boom arm for audio enthusiasts for its versatility.

I have extensive experience using these products in my work as an audio producer. Throughout this time talking and working with other experts in the field, this model from Rode continues to be a popular choice.

The Rode PSA1+ is incredibly flexible and durable, making it the perfect choice for podcasting and streaming. This product is a favorite for many audio enthusiasts because of its high-quality construction, great features, and overall value.

This article will cover several ‘best of’ cases for microphone boom arms, including models best for low budgets, cable management, and other critical features. I also outline what to look for when choosing a boom arm and provide a few suitable alternatives, so you can make the best choice possible.

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know when choosing the best microphone boom arms in the market today.

An In-Depth Look at the Market

Microphone boom arms are an excellent product for anyone who needs an easy way to attach and secure their microphone to a desk, table, or other surfaces. They can contain aluminum, steel, and plastic and hold various weights.

These devices add flexibility and alternative options for recording. In addition, they come in both internal and external versions, allowing you to choose the one that suits your needs.

Microphone boom arms are a great way to get the perfect setup for your microphone. They are easy to install and use, and they come in various styles. So if you’re looking for the ideal stand for your microphone, one of these boom arm products might be the way to go.

Rode PSA1+ – Best Overall

The Rode PSA1+ is one of the best microphone boom arm models because of its flexibility and swivel options to hold any angle you may require. In addition, its silent, smooth operation with fully damped springs makes it perfect for use during podcasts, broadcasting, streaming, and more. 

The Rode PSA1+ includes integrated cable management to support USB and XLR cables. In addition, this product can handle heavier microphones and is long enough to have isolation away from any desk noise, including keyboards and mouse usage.

On-Stage MBS7500 Professional Studio Microphone Boom Arm – Best Value

The On-Stage MBS7500 Professional Studio Microphone Boom Arm is the best mic arm option for its price. It is highly adjustable and portable, making it a fantastic choice for those who need a boom arm that moves around quickly. 

In addition, it contains steel tension cables that work seamlessly with the internal springs and large joints for precise movement up to 150 degrees. This model situates all its components internally for a sleek, clean look. 

It comes with a flange mount or a portable clamp for two installation options. The On-Stage MBS7500 can handle microphones, tablets, and other devices up to 3.5 pounds, making it one of the best boom arms for value. 

HeiL Sound PL-2T – Best Premium Pick

The HeiL Sound PL-2T is one of the best premium microphone boom arms. It boasts solid construction and is fully adjustable, making it ideal for any studio or home recording environment. 

Additionally, users can lock the chrome threaded stem in place, and it is compatible with a permanent HeiL flange mount. 

You do not have to worry about removing and replacing cable connectors anymore with this model from HeiL. It also includes a counterweight for light microphone models and a nice carrying case for protection during transportation or storage. 

Samson MBA28 – Best Budget Pick

The MBA28 provides some great features at a low price, so look no further if you need the best boom arm while following a budget. Consequently, this model holds up to 5 pounds, which is even more than some more expensive options can handle. 

This stand also has an excellent reach that offers maximum microphone placement. Furthermore, the MBA28’s highly-adjustable features provide both horizontal and vertical positioning. It will not get in the way when not used, making it perfect for broadcasting, streaming, podcasting, or voice recording sessions. 

InnoGear Microphone Arm – Best Lightweight Model

The InnoGear Microphone Arm is the best lightweight mic arm stand option available. It uses aluminum alloy materials, making it light but stable. 

It can hold a weight of up to 4.4 pounds and is universally compatible with several popular microphone brands. However, there is no worry about load-bearing performance with this model, as it will keep the microphone stable and secure throughout a recording session. 

The arm is also retractable and extendable, so users can fold it when not in use. Furthermore, the InnoGear Microphone Arm can reach up to 38 inches horizontally and 37 inches vertically, providing ample range for many users. 

TONOR Microphone Arm Stand – Best For Easy Clip

The TONOR Microphone Arm Stand is an excellent option if you’re looking for an easy clip model. This stand is lightweight and straightforward to set up, making it the best mic boom arm for on-the-go use. In addition, this model from TONOR supports up to 4 pounds of weight and is four times more stable than previous TONOR products. It also includes a pop filter, which prevents popping noises from plosives straight out of the box.

This microphone arm stand from TONOR is suitable for narrow and wide edge desk surfaces, up to 2.4 inches thick, without compromising stability and functionality. Its adapter will fit various microphones and shock mounts, providing a versatile, easy clip option. 

K&M 23850 Microphone Desk Arm – Best With Built-In XLR Cable

The hidden channel for cable management makes the K&M 23850 Microphone Desk Arm the best choice for a microphone boom arm with a built-in XLR cable. It’s a fantastic option for anyone who needs a premium product for podcasting, online game streaming, and more. 

The K&M 23850 Microphone Desk Arm is a high-quality, adjustable unit and reaches up to 37 inches at full extension. The clamp is versatile enough to use on flat and rounded surfaces or with the additional purchase of flange support. 

Blue Microphones Compass – Best For Built-in Cable Management

Blue Microphones Compass is the best microphone boom arm for people looking for a built-in cable management system. This model has a unique design that allows you to route your cables through the arm and down to the base, which keeps your desk clean and organized.

However, if you are using a lightweight microphone, this option from Compass may require a counterweight to help keep the microphone in place. The Blue Microphone Compass is ideal if you need a microphone boom arm to support your Yeti mic. 

Buying Guide – Choosing the Best Microphone Boom Arm

You should consider several things when choosing a microphone boom arm. First, it’s best to review equipment with crucial features such as compatibility, adjustability, portability, and durability. 

This way, you can make the most informed decision on your next big purchase.

Compatibility

Compatibility is essential when choosing a microphone boom arm. Most arms will work with standard-sized microphones, but some designs are for specific sizes due to the weight load. If a boom arm does not adequately support the microphone weight, users will have trouble keeping it steady during recording. 

Make sure to check the compatibility of the boom arm with your current microphone before making a purchase. Additionally, compatibility is also a critical consideration if you are using a shock mount. 

Adjustability and Portability

If you plan on using your microphone in different settings or take it with you on the go, you’ll want an easily adjustable and portable boom arm. Unfortunately, some models are only adjustable on one axis, while others are adjustable on two axes. So naturally, a versatile product with two axes will be more advantageous for better sound quality. 

Some boom arms have elaborate desk attachments, making it more challenging for continuous setup and take-down of the product. Other models will have folding capabilities and come with a carrying case to help protect your purchase as you move it to locations.

Benefits Of Using A Microphone Boom Arm

There are many benefits to using the best mic arms for your audio needs. Whether you are a podcaster, broadcaster, create audio files, or need a suitable online game streaming item, this product has several advantages.

Improved Audio Quality

When your vocal microphone is closer to your mouth, you will naturally speak louder and more clearly into it. This quality results in improved sound for your recordings. Boom arms eliminate the need for you to touch the microphone during a session, which can create unnecessary noise in your recording. 

Greater Flexibility

A boom arm allows you to position the microphone exactly where you want it, allowing greater flexibility for recording. Microphone boom arms are beneficial for those who stand and sit periodically during a session. 

This flexibility is also helpful if you record long takes or need to adjust spacing while recording audio.

Increased Desk Space 

Microphone boom arms are great for saving workspace, especially if you have a small desk area to use several types of equipment. 

For example, attaching a microphone to a boom arm that clips to the edge of a desk frees up valuable space that is necessary for your keyboard, monitor, or other items.

Hands-Free Recording

A hands-free recording is critical when you need to perform other tasks during recording, such as playing an instrument or using a keyboard. This versatility can make your job easier and help maintain sound quality by not handling the microphone during sessions. 

Eliminates Background Noise 

You can effectively eliminate background noise from your recordings by moving the microphone closer to your mouth with a boom arm. Repositioning the boom arm angle is also helpful when away from the keyboard, so typing and desk noises are not included in your sessions. 

Improved Comfort

When your microphone is in the correct position, you will find it much more comfortable on your neck and upper back. This comfortable positioning is crucial if you are recording for long periods or have to monitor your posture closely during sessions.

Reduced Vibrations

Manufacturers specifically design microphone boom arms to reduce vibration transfer during use, giving more precise recordings. Vibrations can come from moving the boom arm while recording or typing on a keyboard during sessions.

Durable Placement

Microphone boom arms typically attach to desks using a clamp or screw. The clamp attaches to the side of the desk, and the boom arm screws into the clamp. This clamp gives you a solid, sturdy base for your microphone. 

Alternatively, some boom arm models will screw directly into the desk or table, making it a permanent installation. 

Boom Arm Alternatives

Here are some common alternatives to a microphone boom arm to help you make a well-informed choice for your audio setup. 

Tripod Stands

Tripod stands are one of the most popular ways to hold microphones during recordings and are typically affordable and versatile for many uses. These are the standard mic stands you will see sitting on a desk.

Tripod stands can be a good option if you’re looking at something for basic functionality. They’re not as adjustable as microphone boom arm options, but they can still be helpful in many situations.

Tripod Boom Stands

These models are similar to tripod stands, but they have an extendable boom arm to position the microphone closer to your mouth.

This option can be helpful if you’re recording in a small space. The boom extension gives you room to maneuver and makes it less likely that you will trip over the base.

Round Base Stands

Round base stands are another standard mic holder that sits on the floor. The dome-shaped base is weighted to prevent the stand from tipping over. Many artists use these during performances because they don’t present a tripping hazard.

One negative of this alternative is that the base can be heavy and difficult to transport.

Low Profile Stands

Low-profile stands are a good option if you’re working with limited desk space. They’re also great for podcasting, as you will be sitting at a desk during recording. 

These options look like mini tripod boom stands. In addition to being desk-sized, these record things close to the ground, like kick drums or guitar amps, for optimal recording sessions.

Desktop Stands

Desktop stands are similar to low-profile stands, but they have a larger footprint.

They’re not as adjustable as boom arms, but they can still be helpful in specific situations. These resemble standard mic stands that sit on a desk or table but are not ideal for small areas.

Overhead Stands

Overhead stands are an excellent option if you want to position the microphone out of the way. They’re also helpful if you’re recording multiple people simultaneously.

These stands are more complicated and expensive than other stands. A boom stand sits at the top, and there are four lockable wheels below. However, these models can be much more complex and unnecessary for what some individuals require for their recording sessions. 

Conclusion

After analyzing dozens of microphone boom arms in the market, the Rode PSA1+ is our best overall choice. The versatility, durability, and affordability combination make this model a terrific option for individuals who want better sound recordings than ever before.  

Microphone boom arms can help record videos or podcasts when space is limited. These stands offer a sturdy way to use your microphone and can be easily adjusted to accommodate different desk heights or setups. 

Check out all purchasing options here for the Rode PSA1+ microphone boom arm in your area. However, some alternatives are available if you’re looking for a more affordable option than the Rode PSA1+ model.