Best Microphone Shock Mounts
Introduction
Shock mounts help prevent unwanted noises from movement and low-frequency sounds from affecting your recordings. In this article, we’ll explain how microphone shock mounts work, discuss the benefits of using one, and recommend some of the best universal shock mounts we’ve found. So, what exactly is a shock mount?
A shock mount protects your microphone from physical contact with surfaces and equipment that could interfere with your recording. Its elastic suspension—usually arranged in circles—keeps the mic from touching surfaces directly. This design also guards against vibrations that could be picked up in your recordings.
Shock mounts are especially useful in recording environments with lots of vibrations or low-frequency rumbling. By suspending your microphone in a shock mount, you can stop these vibrations from negatively impacting your audio.
While it’s possible to record without a mic shock mount, using one can greatly improve your audio quality by reducing unwanted noise. This is especially important with condenser microphones, which are extremely sensitive. In a professional studio designed to minimize vibrations and background noise, a shock mount might not be strictly necessary.
Isolating your microphone with a shock mount will make your audio sound better. Since not all unwanted noises can be removed during editing, a shock mount helps prevent them from getting into your recording in the first place. Next, we’ll share our top picks for universal shock mounts and explain why they stand out.
1. AKG SH-100 Shock Mount for Perception Series Microphones
Shock mounts from AKG are designed to reduce unwanted rumble and noise during recording sessions. Specifically made for the Perception 200, 220, and 400 microphones by AKG, these mounts help keep your recordings clean and clear. Perception microphones can be suspended using the AKG SH100 Spider Suspension.
With the SH100, your microphone is held in an elastic mount that isolates it from the stand, protecting your recordings from vibrations, rumbles, and other outside noises. It does an excellent job of handling vibrations and will keep both your microphone and your recordings safe.
While it may not be completely universal, the SH100 is compatible with the entire AKG Perception series, making it quite versatile. You can even use it with other microphones, as long as the diameter fits. Just check the size, and you’re good to go.
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AKG SH-100 Shock Mount for Perception Series Microphones |
2. Rode SM6 Shock Mount with Detachable Pop Filter
The Rode NT1 kit commonly comes with the SM6 shock mount and pop filter. The SM6 is built with a sturdy metal frame and uses woven elastic bands to hold the cradle in place, making it a reliable shock mount. Like most shock mounts, it uses a rubber band system, which can wear out and break over time.
One standout feature is the dual-layer pop filter attached to the front of the shock mount. This 5.5-inch diameter pop filter is effective, but its solid construction means that some mic stands may struggle to support the weight. To prevent this problem, it’s best to mount the kit on a boom arm or a vertical mic stand with a counterweight.
The included pop filter helps reduce breath and popping noises. Its articulating head and adjustable height make it easy to position exactly where you need it. With two pivot points and a telescopic arm, the pop filter can be quickly adjusted to a variety of positions for optimal performance.
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Rode SM6 Shock Mount with Detachable Pop Filter |
3. Roadworx MSM 2000
The Roadworx MSM 2000 is a universal mount designed to work with a wide range of microphones, fitting diameters from 22 to 62 millimeters. The mount sits securely on the stand and grips the microphone tightly, so you won’t have to worry about your microphone falling or the mount coming loose.
All the screws are of good quality, allowing you to adjust them easily without any hassle. Another great feature is the included pop filter, which can be removed if you prefer. It’s a nice bonus if you don’t already have one. Overall, this is a great universal shock mount that does its job very well.
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Roadworx MSM 2000 |
4. Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-SM5560 Universal Shockmount
The universal shock mount from Gator Frameworks is designed for large-diaphragm condenser microphones measuring 55-60mm in diameter, helping you achieve better studio recordings. Its suspension design isolates your microphone from vibrations and rumbles, minimizing the effects of accidental bumps.
The black powder-coated steel mount features standard threading, allowing it to fit most mic stands. You can easily adjust it to securely hold microphones between 55mm (2.17″) and 60mm (2.36″) in diameter. The inner ring is lined with EVA foam, which protects your microphone from scratches and damage.
This shock mount also includes a standard microphone thread attachment and an angle-adjustment knob, so you can position your microphone perfectly for any recording session.
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Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-SM5560 Universal Shockmount |
5. AKG H85 Universal Microphone Shock Mount
For stabilizing ultrasensitive microphones like condensers, the AKG H85 Universal Shock Mount is an excellent choice. It fits microphones such as the C414 and others with a shaft diameter between 19mm and 26mm.
Compared to the H 100, the AKG H85 shock mount has a lower profile and a more attractive design. This means the H85 can also be used with several other AKG studio microphones, including the C 2000 B, C 3000 B, and C 4000 B. Currently, only the C 414 B-XLS and C 414 B-XL II microphones come with the H85 shock mount as a standard accessory.
Overall, this is a great shock mount that will be very useful in the studio. Although it is well made, it can break easily, especially if dropped from the height of a microphone stand. For this reason, it’s best to keep it in the studio and avoid using it on stage.
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AKG H85 Universal Microphone Shock Mount |
6. Aston Microphones Swift – Universal Shock Mount
Mounting a microphone has never been easier than with the Aston Swift shock mount. Thanks to two quick-release spring clips, you can easily secure your microphone. These clips are designed to fit a wide range of microphones, accommodating diameters from 40-60mm.
Aston has completely reinvented the shock mount with their patented ‘ShockStar’ suspension system. This innovative design gets rid of the need for fiddly rubber bands while delivering exceptional elasticity and maximum isolation.
The Aston Swift is crafted from a special alloy of aluminum and high-grade glass-filled nylon polymer. Combined with the unique nitrile ‘ShockStar’ suspension system, it offers outstanding support, reliability, and shock absorption. Aston sets new standards in design by using cutting-edge materials and creative engineering.
In our opinion, this is the best shock mount you can buy. Its superior mounting and release features, innovative materials, and excellent British design truly set it apart. For all your miking needs, you can also purchase the Aston Swift together with the Aston Shield SM (SwiftShield).
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Aston Microphones Swift – Universal Shock Mount |
7. Rycote InVision Studio USM-L Shock Mount
This shock mount is compatible with microphones that have a diameter between 18 and 55 mm, and can support weights of up to 0.88 pounds. Controlled tests at Rycote’s factory have shown that the patented Lyre mount, designed to resist vibrations, reduces capsule and cable-borne noise by up to twice as much as traditional microphone suspension systems.
The InVision pop filter features a universal screw clamp, making it suitable for any shock mount with a diameter between 1/8″ and 1/2″, as well as the InVision USM. The mesh filter is replaceable at any time, helping you keep your studio clean and hygienic. The ergonomic frame is designed for comfort, so you can focus on your performance instead of the filter in front of you.
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Rycote InVision Studio USM-L Shock Mount |
8. PreSonus SHK-2
To ensure top-notch audio quality, the PreSonus SHK-2 shock mount is specially designed to reduce background noise and interference. The only drawback is that it’s made exclusively for the Revelator microphone.
Use the SHK-2 shock mount to get the best performance from your Revelator. It protects your microphone from physical vibrations—like the sound of a mechanical keyboard, accidental bumps, or even your curious cat jumping onto your desk.
By minimizing all these disruptions, the SHK-2 shock mount helps reduce unwanted noise and rumble during broadcasts and recordings. As long as your Revelator is isolated from sudden movements, your Discord teammates, listeners, and YouTube subscribers will hear only your voice.
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PreSonus SHK-2 |
9. Audio-Technica AT8415 Universal Shockmount
The lightweight, low-profile Audio-Technica AT8415 Universal Shockmount is designed for use with boom poles or mic stands, offering a rubber membrane suspension that isolates your microphone from motion and cable noise. You can easily adjust both the height and angle of the mount using the built-in knobs.
This is a universal shock mount for shotgun microphones, so you can use it with many different models. It features a reliable tension clutch to keep your microphone secure, along with 360-degree rotation for flexible positioning.
One of its best features is compatibility with both 3/8-16 and 5/8-27 stands, thanks to an internal adapter that you can remove to fit your specific stand. Overall, this is a great mount for shotgun microphones, and it’s the one we’ll be using for our next outdoor recording session.
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Audio-Technica AT8415 Universal Shockmount |
The Buyers Guide
The most important thing to consider is your microphone’s diameter. You’ll usually find this information in the product description when you buy your mic. If you’ve lost the paperwork, don’t worry—you can always look it up online. Keep in mind that universal shock mounts aren’t always available.
Next, figure out which mic accessory you need by checking your mic’s dimensions. If they match, you’re good to go! After that, look at some other features. Durability is key. Metal or alloy mounts are best, while plastic mounts are rarely effective—though they are cheaper if you’re on a budget.
Another thing to check is the connection adapters for your mic stand. Most microphone stands use 5/8-inch thread adapters. If you can’t connect a shock mount to your mic stand, there’s no point in buying it. The same goes for boom arms—if you want to use one, make sure your shock mount has a 3/8-inch adapter.
Finally, make sure your shock mount can adjust to fit your microphone, as well as any others you might use. Having more adjustability will help you position your mic exactly how you want it, which is great for your recording setup.
A shock stand with an adjustable clutch or locking knob lets you easily set your microphone at any angle you need. These features help you fix the mic securely in place, so it won’t move around while you’re recording. The last thing you want is for your mic to slide away while you’re trying to capture audio!
The type of mount you use also affects your recording quality. High-quality metal mounts are the most durable, so we recommend choosing them. Metal mounts keep your mic steady and stable while in use, which helps improve your sound.
If your microphone shakes while you’re recording, it can create unwanted noise and lower your audio quality. That’s why it’s important to secure your mic with elastic roping. This keeps the mic suspended inside the frame and stops vibrations from reaching it. Just make sure the mic isn’t too loose—otherwise, it could fall out and get damaged.
Conclusion
For the best recording results, always use a microphone shock mount. A shock mount keeps your microphone steady, so it won’t move around during recording. This helps you capture clear, clean audio. It also keeps your microphone secure, reducing the risk of it falling and getting damaged.
When paired with mic stands or booms, shock mounts hold microphones in place and help isolate them from vibrations. Some shock mounts are universal, meaning they can be used with any microphone, no matter the size or shape.
If you have any questions about what we covered here, feel free to ask in the comment section below. Until next time!
