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