Put speakers directly on a desk, and you’ll likely end up with a muddy sound. A stand, however, positions the drivers properly while reducing resonance and taming reflections. But how can you pick the perfect stand?
Do you go for on-desk, clamp-on, or traditional floor models? In this post, we’ll check out five of the best studio monitor stands out there so you can hear your tracks loud and clear. Some of them can even help you cable management as well! Read on to learn more.
The Best Studio Monitor Stands (Top 5)
With a 9.5” square platform and sturdy build, the SMS6000 can handle up to 90 lbs and is ideal for large monitors. The platform is lined with two stripes of thin EVA foam padding, while the feet are rubberized to reduce vibrations. Note that On-Stage offers the model in pairs or as a single stand, which could be handy if you ever need a replacement.
Pros
- High-quality construction at a reasonable price point
- Two-step control for the height adjustment (knob and locking pin)
- Height can be adjusted in 4” increments to suit different desks and setups
Cons
- Foam padding is mostly just an anti-slip feature (rather than a proper isolator)
- Base design is a little bulky
- No cable-management features other than one clip
Although the column on the MS-90 is non-adjustable, it’s where all the action is. Inside, you’ll find two small channels for running your power and signal cables. Beside them is a larger opening that you can fill with sand to boost the stability.
You won’t be able to see the ballast chamber without unscrewing the 10.25” square platform. However, the cable channels are exposed and accessible. Since the isolation rubber pads prop the monitors up above the platform, running the cables should be an easy task.
Pros
- Lightweight (9.6–10.7 lbs) yet can handle a load of 75 lbs
- Four layers of mechanical decoupling
- Available in both red and black finishes
Cons
- Relatively high price point
- Spikes can’t be turned/leveled
- Not ideal for a standing-height setup
This Gator stand can help you get the desk as close to the wall as possible without losing desk space. Its 12x9” platform is fully lined with EVA foam and can handle pretty much all small-sized speakers (both horizontally and vertically). Plus, since the foam is non-slip and there’s a side lip, you can tilt the monitor without worrying about it falling right off.
Pros
- Soft padding on the clamp to avoid scratching desks
- Suitable for desks up to 2.25” thick
- Features both a height adjustment knob and lock for extra stability
Cons
- Doesn’t work well on glass surfaces or desks with ridges
- Only the wide side has a protective lip (which could limit your titled placement options)
- No cable management features
The ISO-155 is the updated version of the ISO-L8R155. It shares the original model’s width (6.1”) and depth (7.5”). However, it offers a bit more leeway on the short setting, going from a minimum height of 3.7” on the L8R155 to 3” on the new stand. The updated line includes five sizes, but the ISO-155 is a go-to because it fits most small-sized monitors while supporting both height and tilt adjustments.
Pros
- Supports 14 different height and tilt configurations
- Integrated rubber pads grip the speakers nicely and provide isolation
- Simple construction that offers adequate decoupling
Cons
- Takes up desk space
- Changing the height/tilt configuration requires time and effort
- Max. load on the tall setting is only 35 lbs
This three-point stand by Gearlux features a 9” square platform with two foam strips. While the padding is too thin to be considered an isolator, the construction on the stand itself is sturdy and can handle up to 125 lbs. Overall, the stand can be a great entry-level choice.
Pros
- Comes at an affordable price
- Features four height options with a locking pin
- Sturdy enough to support heavy monitors
Cons
- Cable clips can be a little flimsy
- Foam strips don’t provide enough isolation
- Paint finish might be rough in some spots