Boompole and shockmount questions

mainstreetprod

mainstreetprod

Veteran
I have a few questions about boom poles and shock mounts, and would like to hear from some of you who have tested them.

1) Will a "real" aluminum boom pole have less transmission of sound through the pole than an aluminum "painters pole"?

2) I have an Oktava in a Sterling shockmount, similar to a Rode SM-3. I've found that I can tap the aluminum "painters pole" anywhere and it comes through loud and clear. Will a KSSM shockmount with the soft bands make a considerable difference in this?

3) How about carbon fiber? Which would make the biggest difference- the
KSSM shockmount or a carbon fiber pole?

I don't mind spending the money to solve the problem, just don't want the disappointment of shelling out hundreds of bucks and finding marginal improvement.
 
In my (fairly limited) experience with the Oktava, K-tek KSM and a carbon fibre pole, I found that it is impossible to fully isolate the microphone from the boom pole handling noise. The key is good boom operating. The Oktava picks up everything. I just wired replaced most of the capacitors and resistors in my Oktava today, using a kit from eBay, and it is noticeably even more sensitive to rumble. I like the K-tek KSM a lot - I think it is very well made, light and has very good isolation, but it is not absolute. My lightwave carbon pole is also very light, but the internal cable, like all internal cables, is very rattley, and I would not get another internal cable, however seemingly convenient they are. I think an aluminium pole like the Rode is an absolute bargain, and light enough for drama takes, but maybe not documentary work or female handling. would recommend the K-Tek mount (preferably the one with the wind jammer built on) and a Rode boom pole.

Good luck
Lucas
 
"3) How about carbon fiber? Which would make the biggest difference- the
KSSM shockmount or a carbon fiber pole?"

I swear by the 12' gitzo CF pole and the kssm with soft bands, you will NOT be disappointed. They will pay for themselves on the first job (it is what... $400) come on now, you need to have pro gear to charge pro rates... This is not either or.

Happy Holidays!
 
Thanks for the comment, I was leaning towards a Gitzo about that size due to the
price. Is there an internal coiled cable model or do you just run your cable through?
Best place to buy that brand?
 
I just run my cable external and use ball hair ties to secure it. I am pretty sure that there will be more noise with an DIY internal cable setup.
 
you can get the kssm from trew since they only carry soft bands and they are local to you. Not sure who else besides B&H carrys the gitzo. I got mine special order from Pro Video and Tape in Oregon. I would not feel guilty getting a pole from B&H. You don't really need any service for that right?
 
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