In this article, we’ll share everything we’ve learned about using the Blue Yeti USB microphone with the Rode PSA1 Boom Arm, including why we think it’s still important to use a shock mount with this Blue Yeti setup.
Quick Answer: We recommend using the Rode PSA1 with the Blue Yeti and a shock mount. Using the PSA1, we can get the Blue Yeti oriented wherever we want it, with the stand staying where we put it every time. For us, an overhead configuration works and looks the best.
- Blue Yeti Microphone: http://currentprice.io/blue_yeti
- Blue Yeti Shock Mount: http://currentprice.io/yeti_shock
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
Rode PSA1 & Blue Yeti Flexibility & Reach
The Rode PSA1 is able to hold the Blue Yeti in all of the most common configurations. We did have to make a 1/4 turn adjustment to tighten all of the articulating joints’ screws, but the PSA1 worked flawlessly after that.
- Down low
This is our favorite configuration when using the Blue Yeti USB mic for video conferencing; it leaves room on your desk for a keyboard, positions the mic over your mouth, and allows you to see your monitor clearly over the top. - Mid-level
The PSA1 has no trouble supporting the Blue Yeti in a mid-level position. However, the final section of the boom won’t articulate to more than 90𝆩, limiting your control over the orientation of the mic. - Overhead
Many Blue Yeti users favor hanging the mic overhead and having it drop down from above. The PSA1 works well in this configuration.
Blue Yeti & Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Cable Management
Our biggest criticism of the Rode PSA1 is the lack of cable management. The only option is to trail the cable along the stand’s arm, securing it with velcro straps. We don’t recommend using black tape as the cable needs to move when the stand articulates.
An issue specific to the Blue Yeti is that the USB cable knocks into one of the top corners of the stand fixtures. Using a shock mount can help to avoid this, something we’ll speak about more a little later.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Chrome Parts
Rode decided to use chrome components at the mic end of the PSA1, which can be distracting for viewers when light bounces off it into your camera. We would be happier if they used the same satin black finish that’s on the rest of the stand.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Desk Mounts
The Rode PSA1 comes with 2 mounts; a typical desk clamp and a recessed flange mount for more permanent installations.
The desk mount works really well, and we don’t have much bad to say about it. The top of the clamp’s padding offers great protection for your table surface, and it’s well built. Our only criticisms would be:
- Doesn’t protect the underside of your table
We wish Rode had used the same padding from the top of the clamp on the bottom.
- Doesn’t close fully
The clamp doesn’t close all the way, so mounting to thin surfaces like brackets is not possible. - No tension screw
If your table or desk is not level, the stand can swing under the microphone’s weight.
The recessed flange mount offers a more permanent installation, securing into a hole drilled through your desk. It’s functional and works really well, but we don’t like the highly reflective chrome finish as it can cause problems on camera.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Build Quality
Aside from the initial tightening of the screws on your first use, we can’t criticize the build quality of the Rode PSA1. We’ve had a number of these stands for a long time, and they have taken an absolute beating.
Aside from any scratches or dents we’ve caused, we’ve never had a major issue with the PSA1. These stands are bulletproof.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Looks & Appearance
The scissor stand design is getting a little bit dated now, and arguably, tube-style stands are better looking with their built-in cable management solutions. That said, we still feel the Rode PSA1 has a classic look.
Blue Yeti Shock Mount & Rode PSA1 Boom Arm
We recommend using a shock mount with the Blue Yeti and the PSA1 boom arm. We’ve already touched on it, but we’re going to take a more in-depth look at some of the problems a shock mount solves.
- Double insulation
Coupled with the PSA1, a shock mount adds a second layer of isolation, offering additional protection for a sensitive condenser microphone like the Blue Yeti. - Cable management
It frees up the rotational axis of the Blue Yeti, eliminating the problem of the USB cable hitting the stand.
One downside of using the shock mount is that it reduces your positioning options. It’s still possible to turn the microphone sideways, but it looks pretty odd. We find the shock mount works best with the Blue Yeti hung overhead.
Blue Yeti & Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Pricing & Specs
- Blue Yeti Microphone: http://currentprice.io/blue_yeti
- Blue Yeti Shock Mount: http://currentprice.io/yeti_shock
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
- Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro Headphones: https://currentprice.io/beyer_dt_990
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
