Manfrotto 1051BAC Alu Stand Black

I own a quartet of these and a few of its larger sibling, the 1004BAC. In my opinion the 1004 is the best mic stand around: super tall, super sturdy, compact and light. It’s fantastic for location or studio micing, especially when putting a stereo pair or tree up high. The build quality is very good and the pneumatic cushion works well. It's a great value.

That said, I’m finding these 1051BAC stands to be even more useful. They don’t go as high (just over 2m) and don’t have a wide enough footprint to handle heavy mics without help, but for small pencil condenser microphones they are ideal. I am using them with Rycote quick release adapters and K&M pivot heads and stereo bars, and it makes them a snap to set up and position. They can go high enough for a standing soloist spot or low enough for a discreet cello mic. All while looking much lighter, tidier and classier than standard mic stands.

Aside from mics, these excel for myriad other purposes: talkback speakers, cameras, a base for various K&M mounts to keep various equipment and cables off the ground, and lights.

Because they fold down flat and snap together when not in use, they are very easy to travel with. I can easily fit four in a Peli 1615 Air case with the Rycote adapters still attached, and still have abundant room for everything else. The weight is negligible.

My location work makes me prioritize space, weight and broad utility, but I would certainly prefer these even if they just lived at home in the studio. Replacement parts are available, and the build quality suggests they will last many years with proper care.

These are an easy recommendation for almost anyone.

Tip: The K&M 19mm rubber feet fit these perfectly if you need floor protection. Manfrotto also offers wheels.

I bought the Manfrotto 1051BAC Alu Stand Black because I needed a lightweight and portable stand for my travelling gigs. I was impressed by the quality and durability of this stand, which can support up to 4 kg of equipment. It has a quick stack system that allows you to attach several stands together for easy storage and transport. It also has a universal attachment with a 3/8" or 1/4" screw for different types of accessories.

However, I was disappointed by the stability of this stand when I tried to use it as a mic stand for my live gigs. The stand was too wobbly and unstable, especially when I conect the other side of a mic stand. I think this stand is not designed for holding heavy or long microphones, and it would be better to use a dedicated mic stand for that purpose.

Overall, I think the Manfrotto 1051BAC Alu Stand Black is a great product for photographers and videographers who need a versatile and reliable stand, but not so much for podcasters or musicians who need a stable and sturdy mic stand.