K&M Microphone Bar Dual Mic Holder

Purchased this item, and since the negative reviews, also purchased the MG model. Having both, I can say each one has its benefits, but, this unit has additional features that the MG version doesn't. Some have said these features are problems, but, using the item, it works just as it should, and is solid as a brick. The issue is the adjustable width between the two microphone mounts, and that some have reported they don't tighten securely enough, or that once tightened, they can have issues with removing the microphone clips or loosening the width screws. The problem is (reported) that doing one of these things is difficult without the other also being loosened at the same time. I can say, that, this is true. Trying to loosen the width of the microphone screws can cause the microphone clip screws to be loosened at the same time, and vice-versa. Such is life. I live with it. Having the ability to adjust the distance between the two microphones is a PLUS, and the MG version of this microphone dual X/Y bar doesn't even give you this feature (One of the reasons I decided to buy both of them). As far as secure, it is quite secure, to the point that even if you hand-tighten the screws, when you come back to loosen them, I had to have a pair of channel locks just to break the tightness. I plan on using the K&M Dual Microphone bar as a set it and transport to recording gigs fully set up, so the ability to loosen the screws on site, is not a concern (If it were, I would definitely travel with a pair of channel locks in the bag). The one feature this item has over the MG version allows you to adjust the distance between the two microphones, which is a MAJOR plus when it comes to having longer microphones, or wanting to increase the spacial stereo image by increasing the 90 degrees angle of the two microphones (which can not be done with a microphone bar that does not allow the distance between the microphones to be increased or decreased). Lastly, made of 1/4" hard steel

Great

The knobs are actually pretty hard to tighten and keep tight. I was skeptical on the other reviews about this....but they were right. Strong arm

This is a simple, sturdy bar to mic a stereo amp. Strong enough not to bend easily. About 12" of separation between the mic capsules on the two SM57's when you angle them away from each other. The bar itself is strong enough not to bend, but the whole thing is only as stable as the mic stand you mount it on.

I agree on the usefulness. You mentioned dual mic cable. I have used 'starquad' cable to make my own dual cables. I have even made a 'micro-snake' with shielded cat5 LAN cable. Works great for those times when you need 2 or 3 mics in a close group and want to minimize floor clutter. Since it tends to be a bit stiff, it stays put pretty well, and there's alway gaffer tape or duct tape to keep it clean. I'm also a believer in Velcro(r) to keep cables tamed. Besides X-Y mode, I have also used these to keep wireless mics handy, without trying to find a table or having a huge clutter of stands. You can even use three to get 4 mics on one stand (think the letter H).

An excellent means of getting a pair of mics positioned just where you want them, but the mounting systems need careful attention to assembly or mics might not stay in place. I installed K&M bar at the end of a boom to be used in X-Y config for recording acoustic guitar. I used an adjustable swivel adapter at the end of the boom (On-Stage Stands Posi-Lok Clutch) to adjust the angle of the K&M bar, and can now point these mics exactly how I want them. The first problem is, neither the Posi-Lok Clutch nor the K&M bar come with a knurled lock nut like we find at the end of every mic stand. This lock nut is necessary to tighten the K&M bar mount while still being able to adjust it's angle on the boom. I solved this issue by swiping a lock nut from another mic stand. It's a fairly thick nut, though, so I've only got a couple threads holding the K&M bar onto the Posi-Lok Clutch. You'll need to find a thin mic stand lock nut. Second, most mic holders and shock mounts come threaded with the standard 5/8" female mic stand mount, and also include a screw-in adapter to fit the 3/8" threads on the K&M mic mount knobs. You'll need to make sure this adapter is screwed in TIGHT to your mic holder. Use pliers. I didn't at first, and my mics keep coming loose there with very little pressure. Tighten those 3/8" adapters! And finally, the mic mount knobs on the K&M bar need nylon washers to create a firm, smooth, positive, position lock. Without washers, the knobs go from loose to instantly tight, with no gradual transition. Bump them, and they're loose again. Unless you use pliers to tighten the knobs, which will mean you'll need pliers whenever you want to reposition mics or put things away. Nylon washers between the bottom of the K&M bar and the mic holder adapters will solve this problem nicely, and "finger tight" will hold fast. All in all, I'm very happy with the quality, value, and flexibility of the K&M Microphone Bar Dual Mic Holder. The thing is bullet proof, and with just a little TLC - the addition of a mic stand locknut and a pair of nylon washers - it can be used with confidence for a lifetime.