Rode PSA1+ vs Rode SM6 Shock Mount
A side-by-side look at Rode PSA1+ and Rode SM6 Shock Mount for podcasters: pricing, features, and where each one wins.
Rode PSA1+
The broadcast boom arm standard, upgraded with spring damping
See site
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Rode SM6 Shock Mount
Studio shock mount with a two-axis detachable pop filter included
See site
Check price on AmazonAt a glance
| Rode PSA1+ | Rode SM6 Shock Mount | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | See site | See site |
| Free plan | No | No |
| Free trial | No | No |
| Best for | Permanent desk studio setups with heavy broadcast microphones like the Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic | Home studio podcasters and vocalists who want mechanical vibration isolation and plosive control in a single combined unit for compatible Rode mics |
Key features
Rode PSA1+
- Supports microphones from 94 g to 1.2 kg weight range
- 37" horizontal reach and 34" vertical travel
- Spring damping for smooth, controlled arm movement
- Fully integrated internal cable management channel
- 360-degree rotation at base and elbow
- Mounts via C-clamp or threaded desk insert (both included)
Rode SM6 Shock Mount
- Suspension shock mount for Rode large-diaphragm mics
- Compatible with K2, NTK, NT1-A, NT2-A, NT1000, NT2000, Procaster, Podcaster
- Detachable pop filter with two axes of adjustment and telescoping arm
- 5/8-inch thread, 682 g total weight
- Dimensions: approx. 210 x 133 x 210 mm
- Isolates from vibration and handling noise
Pros and cons
Rode PSA1+
Pros
- Spring damping makes repositioning smooth and precise - clear upgrade over PSA1
- Internal cable routing keeps the desk clean without aftermarket cable clips
- Weight range handles every major broadcast mic including heavy-hitters like SM7B
Cons
- Fixed desk installation - not designed to pack away or travel
- Full extension requires significant desk clearance around the mic position
Rode SM6 Shock Mount
Pros
- Pop filter and shock mount combined removes two line items from your kit list
- Two-axis pop filter positioning is precise and stable
- Premium Rode build quality throughout
Cons
- Rode mic compatibility only - will not fit other brands
- Heavier than a standalone shock mount
- Pop filter is fabric mesh - some prefer metal mesh for durability
The verdict
Choose Rode PSA1+ if
Permanent desk studio setups with heavy broadcast microphones like the Shure SM7B or Rode PodMic.
The original PSA1 was already the default choice for serious desk studios, and the PSA1+ genuinely improves on it. The spring damping makes positioning feel deliberate rather than floppy, and the internal cable channel is a real quality-of-life improvement -…
Choose Rode SM6 Shock Mount if
Home studio podcasters and vocalists who want mechanical vibration isolation and plosive control in a single combined unit for compatible Rode mics.
The SM6 bundles two necessary accessories - a shock mount and a pop filter - in a package that is purpose-built for Rode's mic lineup. The dual-axis pop filter positioning is genuinely thoughtful: you can dial in the exact angle…