Rycote boom poles go graphite

Rycote has introduced three new lightweight, telescopic carbon-fibre audio boom poles. The 1.63-metre-long G3, with three sections, and the 2.49-metre-long G5, with five sections. The G5 comes in two versions, a standard pole and one with an internal coiled cable and built-in Neutrik XLR connector in the hilt (pictured).

For several years, following its takeover of US boom pole manufacturer Lightwave Audio, Rycote has been selling telescopic boom poles under the Lightwave name. However, with the launch of the Rycote-branded G-series carbon-fibre poles, the entire range, including the A3 and A5 aluminium poles, will now be rebranded as Rycote products - Rycote is probably best known for its shock-mounts and windshields (we use a Softie on our gun mic).

The G-series poles use the same lightweight, patented, triple-cam grip and twist locking system as the A3 and A5 poles, and with no metal parts to add to their weight combine lightweight construction with tensile strength. As on the A3 and A5, the locking mechanism is designed to be resistant to jamming when the pole is dirty; however, if necessary, the locking collars can be completely stripped down for cleaning in the field if required. The G3 weighs just 360g, the standard G5 is 580g, while the G5 with internal cable weighs 720g - if you are holding a boom mic over your head for a long take, any weight saving is appreciated, and having the built in cable is one less thing to worry about or hear flapping in the wind....

List prices are G3: £150; G5 Standard: £204; and G5 with internal cable: £288, including VAT.

By David Fox