The 10 Best Boom Microphone Shock Mounts

Editor's Notes

May 28, 2020:

The term “boom microphone” typically refers to highly directional models, such as shotgun mics, that are widely used in film and broadcasting, and for overhead recording on stage and in the studio. With the relatively recent popularity of video blogging, as well as podcasting and YouTube recording, many people are using scissor booms or stands that extend on a horizontal plane, with condenser mics, to place their microphone in the optimum position while they sit at a desk or digital workstation.

The shock mounts in this ranking cater to both scenarios, with the Boseen Anti-Vibration, Knox Gear Studio, Koolertron Universal, and PemoTech AT2020 being ideal for home and studio recording using a boom-mounted condenser mic. The Auphonix Pro Blue Yeti is compatible with USB-powered Blue microphones which were designed with digital pursuits such as podcasts and streaming in mind.

On the other hand, the Rode SM4-R, Smallrig 1859, Easy Hood, ASM1 Airo, and the Rycote InVision INV-7, are all designed for use with traditional overhead booms, and are more reliant on rubber mountings as opposed to elastic shock cord (with the exception of the Smallrig 1859) to absorb vibrations. The microphone is either inserted through a stretchy central aperture to secure it firmly in place, or in the case of the Rode SM4-R and Rycote InVision INV-7, it is clamped between two sprung jaws.

Whatever the application, whether at home, in the studio, or in the field, an effective shock mount is an essential addition to a sound recordist’s equipment arsenal, but care must be taken to ensure it is the correct fit for your microphone before making your purchase, as there is considerable variance in size between models.