Topic: Recommended Mic Stands (Sturdy)?

[HealthCov Chris]

I am looking to upgrade my Calumet 10' mic stand moving forward since mine seems to sway very easily.  I typically run a pair of AKG 460's and a pair of Studio Projects C4's together.  Interested in the $80-$150 range.

I'm obviously looking for something sturdy with a small footprint since I often record in fairly crowded venues.  I guess it would be prudent to move up to 12'-13'.  Any help would be appreciated since there aren't many places around me to physically investigate options.  I'll have to order online.  This is my current stand needing upgrading.
http://www.amazon.com/Calumet-Aluminum-Adjustable-Light-Studio/dp/B0002805UU

Thanks

[voltronic]

Manfrotto AluMaster 1004BAC.  About as solid as they come for an aluminum light stand, and light years better quality than the cheaper light stands I've used before.  I regularly use mine at full 12' height with a wide-spaced 4-mic array.  It will still sway if bumped with that array at full height, but throw a sandbag on it and it's solid.

http://www.amazon.com/Manfrotto-1004BAC-Master-Stand-Black/dp/B0023RRPE2/

[Craig T]

Second the Manfrotto 1004BAC.

[OOK]

Second the Manfrotto 1004BAC.

Testify!!!! best one bar one....

[capnhook]

Yep, out of the three stands I have, Manfrotto AluMaster 1004BAC is top dog.

I must have gotten a good deal on one.....I don't remember paying that much $$

[voltronic]

I got very lucky and scored a new open box one on eBay from a small lighting studio - $85 shipped if I remember correctly.  Having used it for a while now, I'd say it's well worth the full price but you may get lucky as I did and find a discounted one like new.  I doubt you'd get many people willing to sell theirs here, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

For a bag / case, DigiGal recommended that I get this lacrosse bag, and it's absolutely perfect, like it was made for this stand.  It also has room to slide in my 24" followinbob mic bar, which goes into this pool cue sleeve to keep everything from getting scratched.

[waltmon]

Ive always had Bogen manfrotto/ Calumet...but Picked up a Ravelli stand which was air cushioned and killer for the price - came with bag. Will look for a link.

[waltmon]

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TM600U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ravelli air cushioned stand...killer deal

[voltronic]

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003TM600U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ravelli air cushioned stand...killer deal

I had that stand before.  It's decent, and did the job for me, but WAY less stable than the 1004BAC, especially at full height.  When I ran tiny Church mics it was fine, but after upgrading to my CM3s with shock mounts, full size mic cables and a stereo bar, it really wobbled.  And at 10', it would not be any kind of upgrade over the OP's existing stand.  Those extra 2 feet do make a big difference, at least for me.

It is a great deal, but I think if you are even considering using 4 mics I wouldn't go for the Ravelli.

I've always been curious about the quality of the 13' Impact stands.  Anyone have one?

[HealthCov Chris]

I've always been curious about the quality of the 13' Impact stands.  Anyone have one?

Thanks for all the responses.  It seems like everyone is happy with the Manfrotto stand.  I probably can't go wrong it it.  I was also considering the 13' Impact stand, but haven't heard any response about it either.  I will assume that at that price point it has some limitations.  Maybe someone will chime in on it before my birthday at the end of March. )

[nolamule]

+1 for the 1004BAC

[ts]

I used to own the Manfrotto 13 foot stacker. I think the one mentioned here is the replacement for the stacker series. The stacker was nice and sturdy but expensive. I now own the Impact 13 footer HD air cushioned. Very sturdy and great for festivals. Also much cheaper than the stacker/1004bac.