$60 LyxPro MPL-20 vs Pro Booms, K-Tek KP16CCR and Ambient QXS-5130

[@BasicFilmmaker]

I’m thinking if you’re booming this in a studio in a fixed overhead locations - maybe - BUT, I’d worry about the quality of the connector and wires. Learned (from you) bad cables are asking for trouble. 👍

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yeah, a bad cable can destroy your audio even if using premium everything else but a great cable can actually save you and absorb some garbage.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Buy good cables! Not that expensive!

[@SunriseWaterMedia]

0:15 "In this video, I'm going to go into candid mode" 🤣 oh boy 👏👏👏

[@SoundSpeeds]

The words that unleashes unfiltered commentary.

[@kenbrisby4825]

Any good boom poles around 500$?

[@SoundSpeeds]

There are. Carbon fiber premium booms will be shorter but very good carbon fiber booms are under $500.

[@BenDunlop]

A little dry graphite lubricant would fix the grabbing/telescoping issue? No?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never tried it. I've never known a boom operator to try such a thing. Normally we deal with it tight for a couple of weeks and then it's perfect for months if not years.

[@WORTHITORNOT]

That old saying " You get what you pay for" so true. I was honestly waiting for this to end up in your fireplace lol

[@SunriseWaterMedia]

Mrs. Sound Speeds would've loved that. 😄

[@WORTHITORNOT]

@@SunriseWaterMedia Haha, I bet !

[@Xtreemdrummer]

Too good of a death for it.

[@BasicFilmmaker]

@@SunriseWaterMedia 😂

[@SoundSpeeds]

I need to reach out to exterior fire pit manufacturers and see if anyone wants to become the official gear incinerator for the channel.

[@IamCurrentlyAscending]

What about a mid-priced like a RODE boompole? Bother? Or continue to save for a pro-level?

[@SoundSpeeds]

I've never used it.

[@dylanj8676]

What's the mic on there, some sort of prototype of the Uni-Mic? I see what looks like a Deity logo on there.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Good eyes and yes. Shhhh.

[@jannbautista4480]

Hey Allen I would love to know the build for your studio!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Done. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZOplKOpp7WSd68

[@jannbautista4480]

@@SoundSpeeds That was very informative! and I loved your war paint :)

[@SoundSpeeds]

Poor man's Braveheart. :-)

[@cyberman8080]

Excellent comparison. I see you're using a plug-on TX (similar to my Sennheiser) with a screw-to-tighten XLR connection. How reliably does that stay attached on the side-exit XLR port of the boom pole, please? I'm tired of getting tangled in XLR cables.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Solid. Plug on cube TX still lock in place like any other XLR.

[@Ranger7Studios]

So quick question... What is better, a coiled cable or straight cable. I'm looking to spending some money on a good boompole (probably a low end K-tech) and I was wondering if there was any difference besides movement of the cable inside the pole. First time buyer here. :) Thanks!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yes, advantages and disadvantages to internal coiled and straight cables. Coiled cables are closed off to dust and debris from getting inside and easier to manage cable wise but are slightly noisier and more expensive. Internal straight cables have an opening in the boom which can allow dust and stiff into the boom if you don't manage for cable correctly. They are quieter and less expensive though. Also... in rain a coiled cable can trap water and short out the connection inside. That's the 30 second answer.

[@onocoffee]

15:13 "What you're listening to is me swinging this around." BONK - "ALLEN!!!!!"

[@onocoffee]

And yes, I'd be interested to see other inexpensive boom poles.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Don't listen too deeply though. I don't want you to be scared for life.

[@creativegreatsvisuals]

What do you think about the Ambient Recording QuickPole Series 5 Slim-Short 4-Section Carbon Fiber Boompole (10.8')? Around $660 Better than ktek options ?

[@SoundSpeeds]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZWmk2WIh7trnqs

[@SoundSpeeds]

kzbin.info5dsY76V7-1c

[@paulfairchild8942]

Super helpful review as always.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks Paul.

[@genin69]

Delvin is a premium slippery plastic also used for pads on high end gaming mice for that ultra smooth glide

[@SoundSpeeds]

Delrin is a great choice in these booms. Seriously slippery.

[@ColinZiemer1]

Been looking for the right “budget” boom for my sound kit. Came to the epiphany that if I’m serious about being a boom op I have to go with a premium brand like K Tek or Ambient and it has to be at least 10.5 feet. $500-$700 for a boom pole seems like a lot but if you get 10 years out of it it’s only $70/year. Gotta say though coming from a photography/video background I should slap myself in the face for thinking audio equipment is too expensive and being hesitant.

[@SoundSpeeds]

You do get what you pay for. I know people using the same booms for over 2 decades. Many times people don't want to spend on sound because they think camera gear will make their projects more pro. Sound is extremely important though and the investment is necessary but there are cheaper options. Thanks for watching.

[@nickr5213]

This is a great review/comparison. I think for the low budget, I’d probably choose a painters pole with an adapter over the cheap booms. But, I love seeing why the K-Tek and Ambient are completely worth the price for professionals that need the quality and dependability of a pro grade boom.

[@SoundSpeeds]

They are solid as a rock. At that price point you want them to just work and not have to think about workarounds due to low quality or issues. Both deliver.

[@Awrange]

Like others already stated in the comments, I would love to see a review of a pole that's more middle of the road when it comes to price but is still perfectly fine for occasional use.

[@SoundSpeeds]

It's a work in progress. The pro booms, I can get those easily. The cheap ones I can buy without it taking a huge toll on my pocket but those in the middle... the channel doesn't make much money as it is and I already spend far more on it than the channel makes each month (while still having pro expenses I have to cover and those aren't cheap) but I'm signing that direction.

[@Awrange]

@@SoundSpeeds That makes perfect sense. I tend to forget that you only have 10k subs because your reviews are excellent.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you. Yeah, the advantage I have is contacts and staying power on this platform. We'll see what happens.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@SoundSpeeds kind of surprised manufacturers don't at least loan you equipment for reviews.

[@Ranger7Studios]

Would love to see a video for on that's a little more than the $60 one. :)

[@SoundSpeeds]

Working my way up. Stay with me... I'm going somewhere with all of this.

[@alantuttphotography]

Thank you for trying the softer approach. It will be much easier to recommend someone check out this video when shopping for a boom pole. As others have already mentioned, I would also love to hear your thoughts on a better quality pole under $150. While someone who earns a living with these tools can justify spending $1000 on the best, those of us who only occasionally need a boom pole (less than 5 times per year), spending that much doesn't make as much sense.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Totally. Also, this boom didn't deserve a beating as it isn't horrible for the money.

[@marcusfrombespokeaudio5372]

Thank you, Allen, for this public service.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you for watching. :-)

[@poppijoni]

Good stuff! If you're going to do another one of these (please do!), maybe try one without an internal cable?

[@SoundSpeeds]

Copy that. I'll keep that in mind.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@SoundSpeeds my Gitzo is a nice little pole that extends to (roughly) 10 feet. It's external cable, and I just use my Canare cable on it. I think I paid about $350 new for it. It's carbon fiber, works well. I subsequently purchased a 12 foot model. It's cheaper than internal cable, and I've had no issues with it. Carbon fiber is vital if you're booming a 16 hour day, which we all have done.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Sadly, yes. Many times.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@SoundSpeeds Sadly??? That's what makes fimmaking so much fun!!! Ha ha ha!! I will tell you I'd rather do a 16 hour day with a great director than an 8 hour day with an indecisive director who keeps changing her mind and can't make a decision (name redacted)...

[@SoundSpeeds]

I agree with that and have both many times too.

[@Debtfreehomesteaders]

What will he bring us for the $100-150 Price point. Great video! Very informational! Thanks for sharing. -Will

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thanks Will. I'm working up. No worries.

[@RuXTaR]

Yes, please do a video about a much better boom pole for a little bit more

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'm working that way.

[@TheNortical]

On the topic of handling noise, I heard you talk about tricks against it like soaking cf poles etc. Has anyone ever tried sticking sorbothane on a pole as grips? Maybe that's a consideration or video idea for you that could benefit you even on professional booms. isolateit carries various thicknesses with adhesive backings. Secondly any recommendations on cables? I like to solder my own and never gave it much thought so far and just bought what appeared to be quality ones. And lastly; how did you do your room treatment, it looks like a unique approach. Maybe a short video on that whole setup? I really appreciate all the work and value you provide, it is unfortunate that sound in that way is very niche compared to all the camera/video stuff on KZbin cause you definitely deserve more success in terms of exposure!

[@SoundSpeeds]

The sorbothane idea is a good one. Panamic uses a nylon wrap and Ambient sells a special heat shrinkable cover but ice also heard that regular heat shrink works too. Most often people will wear gloves though. As for cables: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKeoc4adm9-qmaM That's a silly video but it covers the info in the shortest way. I do have a longer video with more details if you need procedure but that should cover it for someone that knows soldering. And studio setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZOplKOpp7WSd68

[@matthew.datcher]

Have you tested the Rode Boompole? rode.com/accessories/boompole It appears they are still going for $150 US. Sadly, still aluminum, but definitely not expensive.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I have not but I'm slowly working my way up. I'll be reaching out to a few slightly more expensive and presumably better brands soon.

[@matthew.datcher]

@@SoundSpeeds That makes it sound like you're going to suffer through a few more cheap ones.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Stay with me dude. ;-)

[@matthew.datcher]

@@SoundSpeeds Aside from Rode, it appears that On-Stage Stands has the cheapest boompoles from a reputable retailer. on-stage.com/products/category/microphone/stands/boompole I'm morbidly curious about what you're going to find. Be careful during this train wreck.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Will do

[@nathanksimpson]

Aluminum is much more resonant than carbon fiber. The front fork on even somewhat prosumer bicycles have carbon forks to reduce vibration. I have to wonder if getting a cheap carbon boom would be a significant step up in noise transmission reduction... Something like the Easy Sound ES-BC09P? It seems like a good value for the features, but the question is the quality. I just bought one so maybe I'll post a reply as to how it goes.

[@SoundSpeeds]

👍 Please do. :-)

[@nathanksimpson]

It seems like a rebranded Ikan product so hopes are high.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Grrrr... rebrands

[@nathanksimpson]

My made in China internally cabled carbon boom came today. Compared to my RODE mini boom it feels like a step up. Machining on aluminum parts feel like they weren't cleaned or greased too well at the factory. Coiled cable has only enough straight end to go into the bottom of a pistol grip, which is okay... but not amazing. Handling noise seems much less than my aluminum RODE. It also came with a straight cable bottom adapter if I decide I prefer that and the cable exits slightly to the side of the plug meaning it may not get directly smushed into the ground. Definitely less handling noise than the RODE. What a relief.

[@jurgenschuler8389]

Interesting. Really interesting. We now know that for 60 bucks you won't probably find a boom pole with acceptable qualities. But what about 100-150 or 200-250 bucks. Can you get one that's reasonable? Great video, although him not in the market for buying a boom pole.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'm working that way. Thank you for watching.

[@robertharker]

Gee wiz, a boom that costs 10 times as much as the $60 is a significantly better boom. What a surprise. And why did you not tap on the mic cable at the head with the more expensive boom poles? Maybe because they have the same problem? I will say this is a better review. At least this time you did not abuse the gear like the Neewer review. With that said, I am upgrading my inexpensive boom pole with a painters pole and mic clip adapter. I have wrapped it with padded bicycle handlebar tape for better feel. Maybe not as good as a $800+ boom pole, but it will meet my modest needs.

[@SoundSpeeds]

You're so skeptical that a pro boom would address issues of cheaper booms but have no problem being sarcastic and saying "what a surprise" when looking at the price tag. I'll answer though because I know you're genuinely inquisitive. The reason I didn't tap on the cable? I didn't think about it. In many of my other videos I've discussed that premium cables alleviate this issue so it didn't enter my mind. Already covered it a few times so moving on. No, they don't have the same issue when tapped or rubbed but for you... I'll be doing a review of the K-Tek boom soon and will tap/rub the cable so you can see and hear. BTW, The K-Tek cable alone is $75. I'll also add that this video was over 26 minute long. To avoid this video being unbearably long, I cut out over an hour of the time I spent recording and testing on camera. Perhaps a LIVE stream would be in order for performance testing in the future so I can do tests by request LIVE. The Neewer boom was total garbage and this one was better therefore it didn't warrant "abuse". At least the segments were quieter regarding handling noise and the foam actually worked. For $60 it was decent versus the Neewer which I consider to be a total rip off. This boom didn't magnify the handling noise like the Neewer did. You handlebar grip idea is a great one. If it ever gets sticky, consider heat shrink over that. In another comment someone mentioned sorbothane (Isolate it) and that could work. Ambient sells soft grip tubing (ambient.de/en/product/soft-grip/) but it grabbed my hands too much and prevented sliding too much for my taste so I removed it. Something similar may work. I was close to spending $8 on heat shrink tubing for my next video but I would go over budget. It might be worth testing as an option even if it does take me over budget though. Nevermind, I'll do it because I suspect it could help. I do genuinely appreciate your input and comments. I'm working my way up and hope to provide you with some great info that you'll be able to use on a budget.

[@Hugmir]

@@SoundSpeeds I respect your patience and restraint.

[@SoundSpeeds]

He's commented before. I can't fault him for being skeptical and not knowing what he doesn't know.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

You get what you pay for. For a student just starting out... Yes, test some other inexpensive poles. We in the First World can afford an expensive pole. Elsewhere, where they live on $20 a day, not so much. My first pole I used was a painter's pole from Lowes with a threaded adapter on it. I still lend that out to elementary school students for them to use.

[@SoundSpeeds]

There's a reason they sell adapters to change a painter's pole to fit a boom pole. Before there were commercial booms made, painter's poles were used.

[@mbdgrecordz629]

So, this boom pole is perfect for independent spooky/horror genre films that are set in a noisy haunted house location.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Hmmmm, sure. And you might not even need to change the cable either.

[@davidkirk1426]

Thanks Allen - yes is you could do something on the most “affordable “ good boom pole, that would be pretty sweet. Though in defence of Neewer, their cardboard packing makes a good firefighter. . .

[@SoundSpeeds]

Something I hadn't considered. :-) Thanks for watching.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

I have an external cable pole (Gitzo). I use hair ties that I got from the dollar store. They work great! (Two plastic balls with elastic).

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yeah, those are common but there's an easier way. Coming soon.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@SoundSpeeds waiting!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Patience please. I'll get there

[@POLARICED]

I understand and agree with the price difference between a pro tool and a cheaper approach, I also understand it comes down to preference between a k-tek, ambient, panamic, etc. What I'm trying to understand if there's a real difference between coiled and straight cable, other than the swinging speed of the boom pole which I believe can be mitigated by learning properly how to handle a boom pole to a certain degree so here's my question. I've seen that you have both coiled and straight cable boom poles and I'm sure you use them for different scenarios, Which version did you first buy though and why? as I'm shopping for my first professional boom pole (I use the rode one on eng jobs and that's fine ish for that) I've to consider the purchase from different perspectives, especially since I don't have the possibility to try them before I buy them

[@SoundSpeeds]

Start here and see if I answer your questions. kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4XFk3yYos-Xd80

[@Hugmir]

Such Quest for (Affordable) Quality could be a nice thing. Not directly useful to me, but interesting to watch no less.

[@SoundSpeeds]

Thank you for watching, as always. There's always take aways regardless.

[@nathanksimpson]

E-image makes a carbon fiber boom that is about 16' with a coiled cable and side exit. Not super expensive. E-Image BC16P

[@SoundSpeeds]

Never heard of them.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

If you use a pole on an all-day shoot, you'll appreciate the weight difference that carbon fiber offers. I've used both.

[@SoundSpeeds]

True. That's also where the subtleties I didn't go into help tremendously.

[@mbdgrecordz629]

MPL-20 reminds me of one brand called VocalBooth To Go. "Sounds Good (TM)", not great but good, LOL... They stitch their logo on moving blankets and mass produce portable vocal booths, pvc pipes and all. -welcome to VocalBooth, are you dining in? No, I want my vocal booth To Go!

[@SoundSpeeds]

Yeah, over seen those. Thicker, larger furniture pads with grommet holes. I've never bought into them but while knows... they could be great.

[@A10Jedi]

Your boom pole is smooth (after using it 50 times) but the brand new one is stiff…. 😆 give me a break! And it has noise in the cable too!!

[@SoundSpeeds]

🥱

[@A10Jedi]

I have this boom. There is nothing wrong with it. Ya gotta be smarter than the pole. You are exaggerating the locking knobs on this. Maybe stop trying to take everything apart! I’ve used “professional” boom poles and have has at least two fall apart after a weeks worth of use.

[@SoundSpeeds]

I'm not exaggerating anything. I'm not used to that much tension on the locks. Pro booms don't have these issues. What pro booms have you used?

[@A10Jedi]

The pole does NOT bow….the rubber is not “cheap”…the cable doesn’t crimp…the mic clamp does not stick “up”…

[@SoundSpeeds]

If I said it, it's true.

[@A10Jedi]

@@SoundSpeeds I’ll just have to make a video proving you wrong… stay tuned