Beginner's Gear Guides: Microphone Accessories

Boom microphone stands are a must when placing mics over a drum kit, inside a grand piano, or on a vocalist who also plays an instrument. Straight stands, on the other hand, look classy and sleek on stage for solo singers or presenters. Short stands help put the mic in the right spot on drums or amps, and desk stands are ideal for podcasting. Whatever kind of stand you need, a good bag will help you get them to the show intact.

Once you've got a microphone and a stand, you'll need a clip or mount to connect the two. While many mics come with their own mic mounts, it's always a good idea to have a few extras. If you're setting up a stereo microphone pair on a single mic stand, you'll want a stereo mic bar that lets you easily place two microphones in a stereo X-Y or ORTF configuration.

Improve your recording sessions with these extras. Pop filters are a must for reducing plosive p-pops on vocals or voiceover. If your recording mic is in a less-than-perfect room, a reflection filter can help you capture better recordings by attenuating early reflections from your walls, floor or ceiling.

Your mic stand can hold more than just a mic. Add one of these attachments and make better use of space on stage or in the studio.