In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about using the Rode PodMic with the Rode PSA1 boom arm for podcasts, voiceovers, live streaming, and more. We’ll explain what we like about the PSA1 and a few things we wish Rode would improve.
Quick Answer: The Rode PSA1 boom arm is our favorite stand for the Rode PodMic. It does its one job of supporting the microphone where you leave it every single time, working transparently, so you forget it’s there and can use it without thinking.
- Rode PodMic Dynamic Microphone: https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Flexibility & Reach
The geometry and design of the Rode PSA1 allow it to hold the Rode PodMic in all of the most popular configurations without shaking, falling, or floating.
- Low position
This is our favorite configuration for video conferencing. There is space for a keyboard under the mic, and we can still see the screen over it. - Mid position
We like to have the mic a little higher for dedicated face-to-face meetings where we’re not typing. The PSA1 holds the PodMic here without issue. - Standing
We set the PSA1 in a mid-high position for standing presenters, with the option of having the final section of the boom dropped down to hang the mic or at 90° to feed it in from the side. - Overhead
The PSA1 will happily hold the PodMic overhead without shaking or sinking under the weight. In short, the PSA1 does a great job of supporting the PodMic in any position.
Rode PodMic & Rode PSA1 Cable Management
One of our critiques of the Rode PodMic with the Rode PSA1 is cable management. The cable is exposed, and you have to use velcro strips to secure it to the stand.
We don’t recommend using any kind of tape to secure or conceal the cable; it needs to be free to move as the PodMic will require varying amounts of cable depending on how you manipulate the stand.
Quick tip:
- Undo the 2 screws holding the top section of the boom arm in place
- Remove the top section
- Feed the cable underneath and replace the top section
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Chrome Parts
The very nature of the Rode PSA1 boom arm means that the people using it are likely to be on camera, which typically means they’ll be relying on some kind of studio or ambient lighting.
Light reflected by the chrome components at the mic end of the PSA1 has the potential to create annoying distractions and glare. We don’t know why Rode didn’t continue with the matte/satin black used on the rest of the stand.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Desk & Table Mounts
The Rode PSA1 ships with a standard desk clamp and a recessed flange mount for more permanent installations.
Rode PSA1 Desk Clamp Pros
- Works really well
- Excellent protection on the top surface of the clamp
Rode PSA1 Desk Clamp Cons
- The clamp doesn’t close fully
This can be a problem if you want to attach the clamp to something unusually thin like a bracket. - No protection on the bottom surface of the clamp
We have to use furniture pads or similar to protect table undersides. - No tension knob for the stand base
If your mounting surface isn’t level, the stand tends to rotate under the weight of the Rode PodMic.
Rode PSA1 Flange Mount Pros
- Works really well
- An elegant solution for a more permanent setup
Rode PSA1 Flange Mount Cons
- Chrome finish reflects light
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Build Quality
Everything about this product is rock solid, and it looks and functions as good as it comes across in the countless videos featuring it. You will also find the same build quality and durability in the sturdy, well-constructed desk mounts included with the Rode PSA1 boom arm.
There isn’t much required in the way of maintenance; simply tighten up the screws at the stand’s articulation points by 1/8th of a turn every 6 to 12 months.
Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Looks & Appearance
We feel that the PSA1’s scissor design is a little dated but very functional. Compared to more aesthetically pleasing tube-style boom arms, the PSA1’s functionality is unbeatable.
Tube-style stands are more prone to shaking, lifting, and sagging as they don’t have the leverage found in the scissor design. So, while the PSA1 may not be as attractive, it’s a better option for supporting a heavy mic like the Rode PodMic.
Rode PodMic & Rode PSA1 Boom Arm Pricing & Specs
- Rode PodMic Dynamic Microphone: https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
- Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro Headphones: https://currentprice.io/beyer_dt_990
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- TRS Cable: https://currentprice.io/trs_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
