Hercules. The name conjures strength. The Roman character Hercules is famous for his strength and far-ranging adventures. You would expect Hercules Stands to be strong—and they very much are. Whether it be live or studio use, instrument and microphone stands take a tremendous amount of abuse. We’ve all seen mic stands getting thrown in the back of a car or dropped, then we wonder why they are missing parts!
The mission statement from Hercules Stands sums it up: “TRUST. You deserve a stand that is stable and strong, that can hold your instruments and devices securely and safely. At Hercules, every stand symbolizes a solution; inspired by musicians like you, from all over the world, to give your instrument the respectful rest it deserves. Our stands and holders employ leading edge materials and features, the highest quality of construction, and next generation function and design. These guiding principles ensure Hercules Stands are the best option for any instrument or device that you need held securely and conveniently.”
Hercules Stands makes solution-oriented products for most instruments, microphones, multimedia applications and DJ’s. I was able to explore a few of their products hands on. The two-in-one Tablet and Phone Holder DG307B is designed to securely hold either a tablet or phone to a music stand, horizontally or vertically. I found it to be lightweight yet sturdy, precise and very adjustable. The rubber pads held electronics with no wobble or looseness. The machining of the product has the feel of a high-end product, yet at $49.99 is affordable.
The Double Boom Microphone Stand MS464B PRO is a unique product. With two adjustable booms on the same stand, it is designed for two microphones, perhaps a singer with an acoustic guitar needing to be miced. Eliminating clutter onstage or in the studio is the goal of this stand, and it does so nicely in a compact way. Anyone who has wrestled with using two mic stands for this purpose knows how awkward it can be. And at $84.99, it beats the cost of having to buy two mic stands.
Finally, I checked out the EZ Clutch Tripod Hideaway Microphone Stand MS523B PRO. This strong and lightweight stand is also secure and accurate. The clutch design is unusual for studio mic stands, yet I felt that it was made in a way that you could still park a $5,000 tube mic on it without fear. Recommended at $95.99.
