Rode PSA1+ & Rode PSA1 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Rode PSA1+ rather than the Rode PSA1.
Why Do I Recommend The Rode PSA1+?
- The Rode PSA1+ has fully enclosed internal springs for silent repositioning during live recording, while the Rode PSA1 uses exposed springs.
- Rode PSA1+ features integrated rubber contact mounts for superior vibration isolation to prevent desk and keyboard noise, whereas the Rode PSA1 includes a standard mount with less damping.
- It comes with a wider padded desk clamp for greater stability on thick or irregular surfaces, while the Rode PSA1 uses a narrower clamp.
- The Rode PSA1+ supports a horizontal reach of 94 cm for extended positioning flexibility across wider workspaces, whereas the Rode PSA1 supports a shorter 82 cm horizontal reach.
- Rode PSA1+ has a broader payload range of 94 g to 1.2 kg for accommodating heavier professional microphones, while the Rode PSA1 supports 700 g to 1.1 kg.
- It includes an integrated cable management channel to keep XLR or USB cables neatly hidden, whereas the Rode PSA1 uses external Velcro straps that leave cables more exposed.
- The Rode PSA1+ features precision low-resistance joints for smooth, near-silent movement to avoid sound pickup during adjustments, while the Rode PSA1 uses older joints that can feel stiffer and produce slight noise.
- Rode PSA1+ comes with a premium matte black soft-touch finish for a modern professional appearance and reduced glare on camera, compared to the Rode PSA1’s glossy black finish that reflects more light.
Maybe the Rode PSA1 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Rode PSA1+. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Rode PSA1+ | Rode PSA1 |
| Internal Springs | Fully enclosed | Exposed |
| Spring Cover | Neoprene sleeve | Basic fabric |
| Vibration Isolation | Rubber contact mounts | Standard mount |
| Movement Noise | Virtually silent joints | Audible mechanical noise |
| Horizontal Reach | 94 cm | 82 cm |
| Vertical Reach | 86 cm | 82 cm |
| Desk Clamp Width | Wider padded clamp | Narrow standard clamp |
| Payload Range | 94 g–1.2 kg | 700 g–1.1 kg |
| Cable Management | Built-in rubber channel | External Velcro straps |
| Finish | Matte black soft-touch | Glossy black |
| Rotation | 360° low-resistance | 360° stiffer |
| Included Adaptor | Premium 3/8″–5/8″ | Standard 3/8″–5/8″ |
| Weight | 1.52 kg | 1.74 kg |
| Shock Isolation | Integrated damping | Minimal damping |
| Mounting Insert | Upgraded desk insert | Basic desk insert |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Price | Check Rode PSA1+ Price | Check Rode PSA1 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- 360° Rotation: Both arms can rotate a full 360 degrees, allowing flexible placement of the microphone in any direction for optimal recording angles.
- Desk Clamp & Insert Mount: Each model includes a desk clamp and an optional desk-insert mounting system, giving users versatile installation choices for different studio setups.
- Standard Thread Adaptor 3/8″–5/8″: Both come with a standard adaptor to fit a wide range of professional microphone mounts and shock mounts without extra accessories.
- Studio Microphone Boom Arm: Each is purpose-built as a studio-grade boom arm, designed to securely position a microphone for podcasting, streaming, or broadcast use.
- All-Metal Construction: Both are built with heavy-duty metal components, ensuring strength and long-term durability even with frequent adjustments.
- Adjustable Tension Springs: Each model uses tension springs that can be adjusted to balance the arm based on the microphone’s weight for smooth positioning.
- Compatible with Most Broadcast Mics: Both arms work with common broadcast and condenser microphones, making them versatile across various recording environments.
- Suitable for Desks and Tables: Each can be attached to standard desk or table edges, letting users create a professional setup without specialized furniture.
- Smooth Height Adjustment: Both models provide fluid vertical movement so the microphone can be raised or lowered easily while staying in place.
- Durable Steel Frame: Each arm is crafted from robust steel for stability and to support the microphone securely during long sessions.
- Supports Shock Mounts: Both arms can hold shock mounts to reduce handling noise and vibration, maintaining clear audio capture.
- Fits Common XLR Cable Sizes: Both can accommodate typical XLR microphone cables, making cable routing simple and tidy.
- Professional Studio Use: Each is designed with professional studios, podcasters, and streamers in mind, ensuring they meet industry standards.
- Horizontal & Vertical Reach Range: Both provide ample reach horizontally and vertically to position the mic comfortably within the user’s workspace.
- Load Capacity up to ~1 kg: Each can hold microphones around 1 kilogram in weight, covering most standard studio microphones.
- Easy Assembly: Both arms require minimal setup and include necessary hardware for quick installation.
- Cable Routing Capability: Each allows for neat cable routing along the arm, helping maintain an organized and clutter-free recording area.
Common Features
| Feature | Rode PSA1+ | Rode PSA1 |
| 360° Rotation | Yes | Yes |
| Desk Clamp & Insert Mount | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Thread Adaptor 3/8″–5/8″ | Yes | Yes |
| Studio Microphone Boom Arm | Yes | Yes |
| All-Metal Construction | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Tension Springs | Yes | Yes |
| Compatible with Most Broadcast Mics | Yes | Yes |
| Suitable for Desks and Tables | Yes | Yes |
| Smooth Height Adjustment | Yes | Yes |
| Durable Steel Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Supports Shock Mounts | Yes | Yes |
| Fits Common XLR Cable Sizes | Yes | Yes |
| Professional Studio Use | Yes | Yes |
| Horizontal & Vertical Reach Range | Yes | Yes |
| Load Capacity up to ~1 kg | Yes | Yes |
| Easy Assembly | Yes | Yes |
| Cable Routing Capability | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check Rode PSA1+ Price | Check Rode PSA1 Price |
FAQ
Do the Rode PSA1 and PSA1+ support heavy microphones? Are the Rode PSA1 and PSA1+ compatible with standard mic mounts? Can these boom arms rotate a full 360 degrees? Is cable management possible with these arms? Do they come with desk mounting options? Are the Rode PSA1 and PSA1+ made of durable materials? Can the tension springs be adjusted? Do these arms require professional installation? Are the Rode PSA1 and PSA1+ suitable for professional studios? Can they hold microphones with shock mounts attached? Are they compatible with all desk sizes? Do these boom arms support horizontal and vertical positioning? Are they compatible with all microphone cables? Is any special maintenance required for these arms? |