Gitzo Carbon Fiber Microphone Boompole

A boom operator holds a pole overhead for hours, so stiffness per gram is the whole specification. Both of these use Gitzo's Carbon eXact tubing with G-lock Ultra collars: the Series 2 GB2551LUS is 0.71 kg over five sections and extends to 341 cm, and the Series 4 GB4541US is 0.9 kg over four heavier sections reaching 277 cm, which is the one to pick when a larger shotgun and a blimp are on the end.

The cable runs inside. Removable top and bottom attachments let the mic cable exit either side, so the pole can be stood on the floor without pinching it, and an ergonomic rubber grip marks the front hand position. The bottom ends in a rubber foot for resting between takes. Both terminate in a reversible 3/8 inch and 1/4 inch screw, which fits most shockmounts including the Gitzo G11510N.