• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Podcast Insights®

  • 🎉 Deals
  • Guides
    • Start
    • Grow
    • Monetize
  • Equipment
    • Microphones
    • Mixers & Interfaces
    • Mic Accessories
    • Headphones
    • Computers
  • Software
    • WordPress
  • Resources
  • 🎙️ Podcast
  • 🔍

Which Podcast Hosting Platform Should I Use❓

➡️ Click here to get a comparison of the top 3 podcast hosting companies.

Featured Podcasting Tools ▶

For Podcast HostingBuzzsprout logo

Buzzsprout

For Web Hosting

Bluehost

For Podcast MusicPremiumBeat logo animated gif

PremiumBeat

For Podcast ProductionConvertKit logo

Resonate

Post Updated February 20, 2021 / Ross Winn
Disclosure: Links to other sites may be affiliate links that generate us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Microphone Boom Arm (For Podcasters & Home Studios)

I have to say that getting a microphone boom arm was one of the best decisions I made for my podcasting studio.

Why? Because I can be ready to record so much faster. All I have to do is pull the boom arm toward me and hit record. But it also frees up a lot of space on your desk and feels much more professional. A mic boom arm also allows you to get perfect mic placement much easier and with better posture. That means your voice sounds better.

Also, if you get a shock mount (and you should), you will need a mic stand of some kind in order to attach it.

It’s pretty crazy that one basic piece of equipment can do so much.

But quality varies quite a bit and certain microphones (like the Blue Yeti) are heavier than average and will need a sturdier boom. If you invest in a decent one, it will last you a long time. I would avoid the cheaper ones if you can.

I’ll start with my favorite as of February 2021:

Want to listen while browsing the site? Subscribe on Apple or Google Podcasts.

Contents

  • Heil PL-2T
  • Rode PSA1
  • Blue Compass
  • K&M 23860
  • Alternatives

Heil PL-2T

Heil Sound PL-2T Overhead Broadcast Boom

The Heil PL-2T sets up in about 2 minutes: you just tighten the vice to your desk and slide the boom arm into the hole. It can rotate 360 degrees and will hold your microphone steady in any position. There is a channel on top to hide your microphone cable, just be sure to align the plastic strips the correct way so they can clip securely into place.

The boom arm segments are both 20″ long, which gives you that little bit of extra reach you need for the right placement. They also hide the springs for a nice clean look.

Heil also offers a range of mounting accessories for more permanent and secure solutions:

  • Flush Mount (DT-1) – sits flush inside desk
  • Wall Mount (WM-1) – vertical wall mount
  • Flange Mount (FL-1) – sits on top of desk
  • 12″ Riser (RS-1) – sits on top of desk

This boom is strong enough to hold the Blue Yeti with the Blue Radius II shock mount, both amongst the heaviest of equipment. That means you won’t have problems with anything lighter!

Check Current Price On Amazon

You’ll also notice that many big podcasters are a fan of it as well:

Heil PL2T with EOF flag

Rode PSA1

RODE PSA1 Swivel Mount Studio Microphone Boom Arm

The Rode PSA1 looks and acts very similar to the Heil PL-2T. One of the differences is that cable management is external, although Rode includes velcro bands to secure the cable to the arm. It is designed to hold a microphone +  a shock mount up to 2.4lbs. The springs are internal though, which keeps everything quieter.

I have heard mixed reports of this working with the Blue Yeti, and it might be right on the edge of its capabilities when combined with a shock mount. And if you don’t use a shock mount, the connecting rod that screws into the microphone is shorter than the PL-2T, not leaving enough room for the USB connection.

You get 360-degree rotation, two mounting options (clamp and flush mount), and has a vertical reach of 33″. The microphone attachment is 3/8″, but they include a 5/8″ adapter so it will work with anything.

This is an extremely popular and well-received microphone boom arm that works great.

Check Current Price On Amazon

Blue Compass

Blue Compass Boom Arm

Blue Microphones just released the Blue Compass boom arm in March 2018. With the popularity and quality of their products, this is sure to be a hit.

It has hidden cable management, quiet hinges, mount adapter (for 3/8″ and 5/8″ threading), and a 32″ horizontal reach.

It’s priced competitively, is built solid, and can hold plenty of weight (including their own heavy Blue Yeti + shock mount).

There wasn’t a ton of competition for quality boom arms from respected companies, so it was only a matter of time before this hit the market.

Check Current Price On Amazon

K&M 23860

K&M 23860 Microphone Desk Arm

The K&M 23860 is a step up in both quality and price for a pro-level consumer boom arm. One thing you might have noticed is that it comes with an XLR cable built in, so I would probably avoid it if you don’t have, or plan to get, an XLR microphone.

The mount is extremely solid, and it has the ability to rotate 360 degrees, but can also lock in position. It is made with steel and is designed for daily use.

Check Current Price On Amazon

Alternatives

A microphone boom arm might be a little out of your budget. One great alternative besides using your included mic stand is to get a tabletop desk stand. They usually cost much less, but still give you the flexibility to add a shock mount as well as get much better microphone positioning.

Another alternative that seems to work for many people is the Neewer Microphone Boom Arm. It’s definitely a budget model, but many people have shown it working with the Yeti and other mics. I’m not sure how long it will last, but for under $15 it might worth a try.

Filed Under: Microphone Accessories, Podcast

Ross Winn

Ross Winn

Ross Winn is the founder of Podcast Insights, the industry-leading podcast education site. He has helped thousands of people start and grow a podcast and loves to test out new gear and software.

Get The Podcast Starter Kit

  • Best Equipment For Any Budget
  • Gear For Any Number Of Hosts

Join millions of readers - enter your email here:

Privacy & Cookie Policy

Podcast Hosting Quiz bottom banner

Primary Sidebar

Podcasting Simplified on apple podcasts or google podcastsPodcasting Simplified on Spotify

Iris remote recording logo

Check out the new Iris remote recording platform here!

How to start a wordpress blog for your podcast banner

Popular Posts

  • 31 Best Podcast Hosting Sites In 2021 (Top 6 Have Free Offers)
  • How To Start A Podcast: A Complete Step-By-Step Tutorial (2021 Guide)
  • Best Podcast Recording Software (For Mac & PC)
  • The Best Podcast Starter Kit (For 1, 2, 3 & 4+ Hosts)
  • 2021 Podcast Stats & Facts

podcast hosting quiz sidebar

Free $20 Amazon Gift Card
buzzsprout logo coupon image

Buzzsprout Podcast Hosting

Get a free $20 Amazon gift card when you pay for Buzzsprout podcast hosting!
Sign Up For Free

Copyright © 2021 — Paid Insights, LLC • All rights reserved
A Quandary Media property

  • Deutsch
  • Español
  • Français
  • Nederlands
  • Italiano

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

  • About
  • Privacy Policy
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Contact
  • Write For Us
  • Online Mic Tester