Make a PVC Microphone Shockmount for $1.20

by retrofilms

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Intro: Make a PVC Microphone Shockmount for $1.20

What is a shockmount?  If want to record dialogue for your movie, using a shotgun mic on the end of a boom pole is a good way to capture it.  The problem is that if your mic is connected directly to the pole, it will pick up noise from the operator's hands.  A shockmount suspends the mic up and away from this potential noise.

A few years ago, I published an Instructable for a rubber band mic shockmount that was became featured on the home page.  I received positive feedback, but after finally using it in the field, I didn't like it.  The rubber bands tended to move too much and the whole thing looked cheap.  I think I've come up with a better build that is tougher, easier to make, and less expensive.

STEP 1: Parts List

1/2" PVC pipe scrap (2.5" long) - FREE (or just over a buck for a 10' length)
4 rubber bands - FREE (rubber bands are everywhere)
1  1/4" x 1/2" Tee fitting - $1.20 at Lowe's

STEP 2: Tools

Pencil
Dremel
PVC ratcheting cutters

STEP 3: Place Bands Around Large End of Tee Fitting

The idea here is to create a narrow hole for the microphone to rest in.

STEP 4: Mark Where Bands Lie With Pencil

Leave a mark on both sides of each rubber band.  Pencil is better than ink as you can easily rub off leftover marks when done.

STEP 5: Remove Bands, Dremel, Replace

Time to create the notches which will give the bands a firm grip on the tube.

STEP 6: Insert PVC Pipe and You Are Done!

If you like this kind of thing, come check out The Frugal Filmmaker!

STEP 7: Here's the Video Version...


10 Comments

svarnell1 11 years ago

Just in case someone isn't paying close attention your 1 1/4" x 1/2" is missing a -. Should have read 1-1/4" x 1/2" Or even possibly 1¼" x ½" (ASCI codes alt 171 and 172 on num lock keys)

I would have painted the whole thing too, because PVC has low UV resistance and it will discolor. Flat black would probably be the best.

spaceinvaderx 13 years ago

Thank you, I just built my own with a few little tweaks.

stevo1994 13 years ago

I like this design. It is great for those without a boom pole (yet). Would you mind posting an ible' about it, or discussing what you used/did? Thanks!

spaceinvaderx 13 years ago

The base at the very bottom came with the microphone and it is the type that just slides on and then screws tight on top of the camera. I took that with me to Home Depot and just made sure that the pvc pipe (white piece) I bought fit nice and snug. I had to look around the plumbing section for the black pvc piece, so you can use whatever works for you. After I made the slots for the rubber bands I drilled a couple of screws into the base and the pvc to make sure that the mic didn't slide to the right or to the left. This thing is pretty steady, I have actually run around with and it stayed on. The best part, and the main reason I built this thing, is that I no longer pick up the sound of my camera's hard drive (faint little ticks). It will probably take you a few hours to make, but if you are broke and have the time it definitely beats spending the $30-$40. Good luck.

stevo1994 13 years ago

Thanks for the description! Would you happen to have the exact pipe measurements? Like 1/2" for the main pvc connecting to the mic holder, or the main shockmount piece size? Thanks again!

CrLz 14 years ago

Nice update!

I'd suggest trying elastic hair bands (ponytail holders) for a nicer looking rubber band.  I've found the hair ties to last longer and the fabric covering looks good. 

manutea 14 years ago

Good job !! thank you very much .

photodude 14 years ago

I think it's brilliant. I plan to build a couple for some studio mics I use to record music. Thank you.