Introduction: Make a Microphone Stand --With a Tripod

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I wanted a mic stand to use when recording sound to the computer, but being the low-budget cheapskate that I am, I decided to make one.

Rather than making a full custom stand, I built a holder that attaches to a camera tripod. This is not the ideal base, due to the legs sticking out everywhere, but I can work around that. It is a completely separate unit, so the tripod can still be used with the camera. The need arose, the idea was formed, the stand was built and the Instructable was published in one afternoon. It's not that hard.


Obligatory safety notice: This Instructable uses sharp objects. Be careful.

Step 1: You Will Need...

Materials:
-scrap 1x2, about six inches long
-scrap foam (not rigid Styrofoam-type stuff, something squishy)
-rubber bands
-glue that will bond to the foam and the wood
-tripod

Tools:
-saw to cut the 1x2 to size
-No. 7 drill bit (.2010 inches)
-1/4x20 tap (that's 1/4" inch, 20 TPI)
-drill or drill press
-knife (or other Sharp Object to cut the foam)

Step 2: Cut Out the Base and Foam

Get out the largest microphone you plan to use with this holder, mark the 1x2 to length, and cut it off. There is no need to be exact. Next, draw the outline of the 1x2 on the foam, and use a sharp knife to cut it to size.

Step 3: Drill and Tap Base

Now we'll drill and tap the base. The standard size for tripods is 1/4" at 20 TPI. This tap requires a No. 7 drill bit, which is .2010", about 13/64" if you don't have a numbered set. After drilling all the way through close to the center (no need for exactitude, remember), break out the tap and thread that sucker. Do a quick test fit to make sure it fits the tripod, just in case you grabbed the wrong tap.

Step 4: Attach Foam Padding

The foam serves two purposes here: it pads the microphone from the base, thereby keeping the wood from scratching the mic's finish, and it provides an acoustic buffer to cut any vibrations. Dab some strong glue onto the wood, keeping it away from the hole, and attach the foam. It's best to let this cure completely before moving on, although I waited until I could pick the whole thing up by the foam and moved on.

Step 5: Attach Stuff and Rock Out!

The microphone attaches to the holder with a couple of rubber bands, and the holder attaches to the tripod with the standard screw. Not particularly difficult, really.

The main improvement I can think of is to drill out the wood farther and epoxy in a nut to save wear and tear on the wood. You can also use this as a holder for other stationary cylindrical objects (cough laser pointer cough).