Trying Out the Boom Mic Stand TAMA MS205!

I recently purchased the TAMA MS205 boom mic stand, so here’s a review. A boom stand is a type of mic stand with an arm attached that allows for adjustable angles and lengths, offering more versatile setups than a straight stand without an arm. I hope this helps as a reference in choosing your mic stand.

TAMA / MS205BK Boom Mic Stand

■ TAMA MS205 is Foldable

The TAMA MS205 can be folded by straightening the boom and lowering the legs. If you adjust the height and boom length to the shortest setting, it can fit into a mic stand bag. I recommend the TAMA MS-BAGN bag sold at Sound House for convenient storage. It’s affordable yet sturdy.

TAMA / MS-BAGN

■ TAMA MS205 has Four Adjustment Points

The TAMA MS205 has four adjustment points:

●Height adjustment at the base connecting to the legs

●Stand height adjustment at the top

●Arm angle adjustment

●Arm length adjustment

Each part is well-built, making it comfortable to use. The silver lever for adjusting the arm angle moves smoothly and locks securely with minimal effort.

For height adjustment, the black adjustment mechanism allows easy positioning with a firm grip, making it easy to move the arm horizontally.

■ Sturdy and Stable

The TAMA MS205 weighs 3.2 kg, and it feels quite substantial when held. A mic stand bag would make it easier to carry around, and the TAMA MS-BAGN is an affordable option that pairs well with the stand, so I’d recommend purchasing them together.

Because of its weight, the TAMA MS205 has excellent stability. I used it outdoors on a grassy area for about an hour in strong wind, and it didn’t budge at all. However, I had the arm extended straight for a near-vertical position, so if you angle the arm, it might be more affected by wind.

One downside is that if you leave it out at home, there’s a risk of pain if you accidentally trip over it due to its weight.

■ A Stable Arm Even with a 1kg Dumbbell Attached

When choosing a boom mic stand, one of the main concerns is whether it can hold a heavy mic without tilting down. When the arm is extended with a heavy mic, like a condenser mic, the arm’s tip may slowly droop. This phenomenon is commonly known as ‘bowing’.

The TAMA MS205’s adjustment mechanism is robust enough to prevent bowing, even with a condenser mic attached. To test its strength, I attached a 1kg dumbbell to the arm, and it still held firm with no bowing.

However, if the silver adjustment lever isn’t tightened properly, the arm may slowly bow over time. So, for heavier mics, it’s essential to make sure the lever is securely fastened.

■ Compatible with Both 3/8 and 5/8 Inch Threads

The two common mic thread standards are 3/8-inch and 5/8-inch. The TAMA MS205 comes with a 3/8-inch thread by default, but it can easily be adapted to 5/8-inch by using a conversion screw.

For this setup, I’m using the AKG LYRA, which has a standard 5/8-inch thread. It mounted perfectly without any issues (the AKG LYRA also includes a 3/8-inch adapter, allowing for both attachment options).

AKG / LYRA USB Mic

■ Design: Simple and Robust

The design of the TAMA MS205 can be summed up as simple and robust. It has a straightforward appearance, but it looks solid and sturdy. I opted for the all-black model, which is discreet and doesn’t draw too much attention, making it a convenient choice for home use without standing out too much.

■ TAMA: A Drum-Centric Brand

TAMA, the company that produces the MS205, primarily specializes in drum equipment. Their expertise in creating durable drum stands to withstand intense vibrations is evident in the design of the TAMA MS205 microphone stand as well.

■ Other Recommended Microphone Stands

A sturdy design embodying the craftsmanship of a German manufacturer

K&M / 21020B

From K&M, the 21020 model is globally recognized as a standard mic stand. Its solid construction prevents drooping, even when holding heavier microphones. Unlike the TAMA MS205, the boom section of the K&M 21020 is detachable, so it can also function as a straight stand.

Note: The screw size is 3/8-inch, so if you’re using a 5/8-inch mic, you’ll need an adapter.

CLASSIC PRO / MSB/BLACK Boom Microphone Stand

This boom mic stand offers excellent cost effectiveness. Available on Sound House for just ¥1,980 (as of March 2022), it has all the necessary boom stand features. Unlike the TAMA MS205, the boom section can be detached, and it comes with both 3/8-inch and 5/8-inch adapters, making it compatible with a wider range of microphones.

■ TAMA MS205 is Recommended for Heavy Microphones

The TAMA MS205 has a substantial weight to it. If you’re using a heavy microphone, opting for a heavier stand like this one will ensure stability and allow you to mount your microphone securely. Consider adding the TAMA MS205 to your options when choosing a microphone stand!

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