Unboxing will present you with 4 separate parts, which works well for someone like me who hates having to spread moving parts over the floor like a jigsaw! When it comes to microphone arms, stability is crucial. The Rode PSA1+ excels in this aspect, providing outstanding stability even when extended to its maximum length. The strong desk clamp securely holds the arm in place, preventing any unwanted movement or vibrations that could affect the sound quality. I appreciate the peace of mind knowing that my microphone is securely mounted and won't disrupt my recordings or live broadcasts.

Of course, some live-streamers will prefer to stand rather than sit, and this is something Rode has accommodated as well with the PSA1. The vertical reach of the boom arm is approximately 840mm (or 33 inches) meaning if you are more animated and want the flexibility to stand up you can do so without any awkward adjustments.In the full review below, I’m going to look at why the Rode PSA1 is a game-changer for podcasting and streaming, and what you should know before buying one. It glides really smoothly but stops dead in position, which makes it feel abundant with quality every time you use it. The spring-loaded arms are both metals, so there’s no need to worry about them suffering damage over time or through extended use. There isn’t a way of fixing this into the desk clamp, instead it just slots in. This would have been a nice touch however the arm slots in deep enough to not cause any concern.

A concern when mounting this to your desk is that it’s going to fall over or cause damage but the clamp is sturdy and gave no reason to worry that your mic is going to tumble down mid recording session. One particular issue with the boom arm was the fact that it was spring-loaded and wouldn’t initially hold in place.

Rode PSA1 Studio Arm Overview

For customers in outlying areas of the country, the price of the Extended Warranty may be marginally higher, due to the potential for higher collection and redelivery transport costs.

It also has the option to run a small cable INSIDE the arm for a USB microphone, which has been added via a secondary inner cable clip specially designed for USB microphones such as Rode NT-USB-Mini. It also seamlessly moves 360 degrees without any friction or sound. Never once have I heard the standard ‘squeak’ you often hear boom arms make when rotated.

I’m sure this is something Rode considered but with the arm being designed to swivel, adding a way of fixing it could ultimately inhibit the functionality of the stand so it isn’t really a big point to complain about! Functionality – 8/10 One of the standout features of the Rode PSA1+ is its remarkable versatility and adjustability. The dual-axis swivel mount enables me to effortlessly adjust the arm's height, angle, and reach to suit my specific needs. Whether I'm sitting or standing, the microphone arm can be positioned at the perfect distance and angle, ensuring optimal audio capture. This flexibility is especially beneficial for long recording sessions, as it allows me to find the most comfortable position for extended use.

Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. Read our editorial mission & see how we test.However, the Gear4music extended warranty scheme provides an enhanced service, and is designed to offer a higher level of protection than many 'free' warranties offered by some retailers and manufacturers.