vdB-M Boompole

The vdB M is a medium-length carbon fibre boompole from vdB, the Dutch maker whose poles are a favourite of film and TV boom operators. It reaches about 2.66 m in six sections and collapses to about 60 cm, small enough to fit in a sound bag or a carry-on.

Carbon fibre keeps it light and stiff, so it's easy to hold overhead through long takes, and the pole stays steady at full extension. vdB poles are known for low handling noise, which means fewer bumps and rubs reaching the mic. The medium length is a good all-round size: long enough for wide shots and walk-and-talks outdoors, yet manageable in tight interiors and on documentary shoots.

This pole has an internal cable with an XLR connector at the bottom, so there's no loose cable wrapped around the outside. Just fit a shock mount and microphone, and plug a cable from the base into your recorder or mixer. Rent it in Montréal with a shotgun or hypercardioid mic for your next shoot.

Technical information

• Material: Carbon fibre
• Sections: 6
• Collapsed length: About 60 cm
• Extended length: About 2.66 m
• Cable: Internal, with XLR at the bottom

Replacement value: $469 USD + taxes or market value