Question:

What are some budget-friendly options for a boom arm that can fit a 9-inch thick desk?

I have a MICKE desk from IKEA and I am looking for a boom arm that can accommodate its vertical length. Most boom arms have a 2-inch clamp, which is too small for my desk. Are there any alternatives or adapters that can work with my setup?

Answer:

If you are a podcaster, streamer, musician, or content creator, you might want to invest in a boom arm for your microphone. A boom arm can help you adjust the position and angle of your mic, reduce unwanted noise and vibrations, and free up some desk space.

However, not all boom arms are compatible with all desks. Some desks, like the MICKE desk from IKEA, have a vertical length (or thickness) of 9 inches, which is too large for most boom arm clamps. The standard clamp size for boom arms is usually around 2 inches, which means that they cannot fit securely on thicker desks.

So, what are some budget-friendly options for a boom arm that can fit a 9-inch thick desk? Here are some possible solutions:

• Use a C-clamp adapter: A C-clamp adapter is a device that can extend the opening of your boom arm clamp. It consists of a metal plate with a threaded hole and a screw that can be attached to your clamp. By using a C-clamp adapter, you can increase the clamp size of your boom arm to fit thicker desks. Some examples of C-clamp adapters are the [On-Stage MA-125](https://www.amazon.com/Stage-MA-125-Mic-Screw-Adapter/dp/B00080KX0E) and the [Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-CLMPBM9](https://www.amazon.com/Gator-Frameworks-GFW-MIC-CLMPBM9-Adjustable-Microphone/dp/B07Z5BQVJN). These adapters are relatively cheap, ranging from $10 to $20.
• Use a table edge mount: A table edge mount is a device that can be attached to the edge of your desk, instead of the top surface. It has a metal base with a clamp and a pole that can hold your boom arm. By using a table edge mount, you can bypass the thickness of your desk and secure your boom arm on the side. Some examples of table edge mounts are the [Rode PSA1-DESK](https://www.amazon.com/Rode-PSA1-DESK-Table-Mount-PSA1/dp/B07Z5C6N8T) and the [Heil Sound DT-1](https://www.amazon.com/Heil-Sound-DT-1-Flush-Mount/dp/B000SZVZ74). These mounts are more expensive than C-clamp adapters, ranging from $40 to $60.
• Use a wall mount: A wall mount is a device that can be attached to the wall, instead of your desk. It has a metal plate with screws and a bracket that can hold your boom arm. By using a wall mount, you can eliminate the need for a desk altogether and save even more space. Some examples of wall mounts are the [On-Stage MSA9508](https://www.amazon.com/Stage-MSA9508-Posi-Lok-Side-Mount-Boom/dp/B0002M3OVI) and the [K&M 23850](https://www.amazon.com/K-M-23850-Microphone-Desk-Arm/dp/B00BTHUHMA). These mounts are also more expensive than C-clamp adapters, ranging from $50 to $100.

These

are some of the budget-friendly options for a boom arm that can fit a 9-inch thick desk. Depending on your preference, budget, and available space, you can choose the one that suits you best. A boom arm can enhance your audio quality and comfort, so it is worth investing in one that works with your setup.