Setting up a Proline Microphone Stand: a Journey in Gear Acquisition
Hey there, everyone! Today, I want to share a bit of a departure from my usual technology related content, though it certainly revolves around technology. Recently, I picked up a new microphone stand from Guitar Center and since I finally got my hands on a Proline round-based microphone stand, I thought it would be worthwhile to document my experience.
The New Addition: Proline Microphone Stand
First off, let us dive into the specifications! I grabbed the Proline MS-35 BK, a sturdy microphone stand featuring a heavy-duty die-cast round metal base. If you are considering a microphone stand, you might also come across the MS-235 CR, which comes in chrome. One benefit of getting this particular stand, is it is pretty affordable. I snagged it for $22.99 before tax, which came to a total of around $24.80 after tax.
The stand arrived in a simple cardboard box, and while I was hoping for some instructions, the setup was intuitive enough that I did not really need them. It does come with a three-year warranty, which is a nice touch from Proline.
Why a New Stand?
Until now, I was using a cheaper, less stable microphone stand that, quite frankly, did not cut it. The base was thin and made from plastic, which made it wobbly. This new heavy-duty metal base grabbed my attention right away. The weight of it surprised me. It is definitely a step up from my previous stand.
When I talked to the salesperson at Guitar Center, I wanted to make sure I was getting a stand that was tall enough for me. For context, I am a little vertically challenged. He assured me that he, being much taller, had no issues using it.
Unboxing and Setup Process
Once I got home, I wasted no time in getting the stand set up. It comes in two pieces: the heavy metal base and the telescoping pole. I was impressed right off the bat by how solid the base felt compared to my previous stand.
As I continued the setup, I did notice that the microphone connector mount was flexible. Almost rubber-like, but it felt some what flimsy. Given that I use a Behringer B1 condenser microphone, I already had concerns about the microphone slipping during recordings. I picked up the microphone used for about sixty dollars, and while it sounds great, the mounting hardware could certainly be of better quality.
Adjusting the Stand
One of the benefits of this stand is its ability to adjust in height. Ideally, you will want the microphone positioned at mouth level for optimal sound capture. So, I played around with its height and got it dialed in nicely. Just a little tip. You will want to tighten the adjustment screw once you find the right height to avoid any slips during use.
As I worked to set it up, I realized I needed to manage my cables more effectively. The stand included a small clip for cable management, which I think is a great addition. It is helpful to keep everything neat and avoid any tangles, especially when you are in the zone recording.
Quality and Durability
After putting everything together, I could tell that the Proline microphone stand was made to last. The solid construction and the metal materials made me feel more confident in using it for my recordings. The little rubber feet at the bottom provide additional stability and prevent any scratching on your floors, which is a thoughtful design choice.
I did notice a small scratch on the base, but I am not too concerned given the price and the three-year warranty that covers it.
The Future of My Setup
So, what is next in the setup journey? I have been thinking about upgrading my entire computer case. I have had my eyes on some Corsair cases, specifically aimed at better airflow and durability. This is a broader project, and expect to see me documenting that too.
If you are in the market for a microphone stand, I highly suggest taking a look at the Proline MS-35 BK. It is sturdy, adjustable, and definitely feels like a quality piece of gear for an excellent price.
That is all for now! Thanks for joining me on this little technical journey. Until next time, happy recording!