K-Tek Announces KP6 KlassicPro Traveler Boom Pole and XLR Cables

by Jeff LochMay 22^nd, 2020

During our cinema5D Virtual Show, we had a conversation with Tino Liberatore from K-Tek about two products they launched a couple of weeks ago – the K-Tek Interview Pole and K-Tek Airo Boompole Holder – as well as two new products: the K-Tek KP6 KlassicPro Traveler boom pole and some new XLR cables and XLR connectors. Let’s take a closer look at it!

Image credit: K-Tek

K-Tek KIP Graphite Interview Pole

The K-Tek KIP Graphite Interview Pole was released about a month ago as a direct answer to the pandemic and social distancing. Clearly, journalists also need to keep a safe distance from the interviewee while still having a proper sound recording if they don’t want to attach a lavalier microphone on the talent.

Image credit: K-Tek

This new 2-section K-Tek Interview Pole as a collapsed length of only 38.5″/98cm and extend to 6 feet/1.85m. Also, due to its graphite construction, it is very lightweight at only 10-oz/285g. At the end of the K-Tek Interview Pole, there is a 3/8″-16 threaded stud, and it comes with a 5/8″-27 adapter.

K-Tek Airo Boompole Holder

The Airo Boom Holder allows you to attach any boom pole to a C-stand easily. It is made from black anodized aluminum, and there is padding inside the cradle, so you don’t scratch your boom pole.

Image credit: K-Tek

Apart from social distancing, if you often shoot sit-down interviews, this is a must-have accessory to have in your audio kit. As a one-person crew without a dedicated boom operator, this is something I often do.

Image credit: K-Tek

K-Tek KP6 KlassicPro Traveler Boom Pole

Tino Liberatore also introduced its new K-Tek KP6 KlassicPro Traveler boom pole. This lightweight and compact pole is only 21 inches/53cm long when folded, and extends up to 6 feet/1.85m.

The KP6 is a 6-section boom pole, and it features a removable headpiece for cable reconfiguration without soldering. Also, it is compatible with the KPCCR module to allow for a coiled cable option with a side XLR exit. The top attachment is a 3/8″ – 16 male thread and the bottom has a removable rubber bumper.

Image credit: K-Tek

K-Tek XLR Connectors and Cables

Last but not least, Tino Liberatore announced some new XLR cables and connectors. The XLR cables feature double-shielded insulation and are wrapped in Teflon. According to Toni, these cables should make less noise inside the boom pole. They will be available in four lengths: 5/10/20/30 feet.

Image credit: K-Tek

Also, there will be two versions of each cable: a “standard” one with straight Neutrik XLR connectors on both ends, and one version with the new K-Tek low-profile 90° XLR connectors. These connectors are made out of aluminum and feature strain relief connectors. Also, the K-Tek XLR connectors have a very low-profile, and you can rotate them by loosening two screws.

Pricing and Availability

The K-Tek KIP interview pole is available now for $129.95. The K-Tek Airo Boom Holder is also available for $49.95/€47.09. The KP6 KlassicPro Traveler and XLR cables/connectors should be available in two weeks. There is no word on the pricing of the KP6 nor the XLR cables, but the XLR connectors target price is around $30.00.

What do you think about all these new K-Tek products? Do you often use a boom pole on your shoots? Let us know in the comments below!