Handbook for Sound Engineers

Microphones 581

To determine the correct suspension systems for
microphones of various manufacturers, go to
http://www.microphone-data.com.

16.12.4 Stands and Booms

Microphones are mounted on microphone floor stands
or table stands to place the microphone in front of the
sound source. The floor stands are usually adjustable
between 32 and 65 inches (0.8–1.6 m) and incorporate a
inch – 27 thread for mounting the microphone
holder or shock mount. They normally have a heavy
base or three widespread legs for stability.

The table stands are 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) high and
often incorporate a shock mount and an on–off switch,
as shown in Fig. 16-172.

Small booms, which are mounted on the standard
microphone floor stand, are normally used to put the
microphone in a place where it is difficult to reach with
a floor stand, Fig. 16-173. They are also useful when
micing from above the source. Combination booms and
stands are often on wheels or flat tripod legs and adjust-
able from 60–90 inches (1.5–2.3 m) vertically and
90–110 inches (2.3–2.8 m) horizontally, Fig. 16-174.

It is important that the boom and/or microphone
stand be easily adjusted and that the clutch/brake system
has a positive lock. Better microphone stands incorpo-

rate a piston-type air suspension system for effortless

height adjustment and microphone protection.

Large booms, as used in television and

motion-picture sound stages, are motorized and often

include a stage for the microphone sound person.

16.12.5 Attenuators and Equalizers

Attenuators, equalizers, and special devices from

Electro-Voice, Shure, and others are available to reduce

the microphone output level or shape the response to

Figure 16-172. Electro-Voice table microphone stand with

push-to-talk switch. Courtesy Electro-Voice, Inc.

(^5) » 8
Figure 16-173. Atlas BB-44 microphone boom. Courtesy
Atlas Sound.
Figure 16-174. Adjustable microphone stand/boom. Cour-
tesy Atlas Sound.