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The short answer: To keep your Heil Sound PL-2T shock mount in top shape, regularly remove dust with a soft brush, wipe metal parts with a dry microfiber cloth, and inspect elastic bands for wear. Avoid water and solvents, and replace the elastics when they lose tension. This simple routine prevents sagging microphones and ensures stable positioning for years.
The Heil Sound PL-2T is a robust shock mount, but like any mechanical tool, it needs care. Over time, dust and skin oils can build up on the metal clips and adjustment knobs, while the elastic bands that provide suspension can dry out or stretch. Neglecting these issues can lead to a microphone that droops, vibrates, or even risks falling. With a few minutes of upkeep, you avoid costly replacements and keep your recordings clean.
Start by unclipping your microphone and setting it aside safely. Use a soft, dry brush (like a clean paintbrush or a lens brush) to gently sweep away dust from the entire mount. Pay special attention to the tight crevices around the clips and the pivot points. For the metal parts, wipe with a lint-free microfiber cloth. If there are stubborn smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with water (distilled is best) and wipe, then dry immediately. Never use alcohol, ammonia, or abrasive cleaners, as they can strip the finish and damage the metal.
For the elastic bands, avoid getting them wet. Instead, wipe them with a dry cloth to remove any residue. If they feel sticky or greasy, you might have accidentally gotten oils on them; wash your hands before handling, and consider replacing the bands if they don’t feel clean after dry wiping.
The PL-2T uses elastic bands that are essential for its shock isolation. Over time, these bands lose elasticity, which can cause your microphone to sag or let vibrations pass through. Inspect them every few months: if they look cracked, stretched, or feel loose, it’s time for a replacement. You can find replacement bands online or from Heil dealers. To replace, simply remove the old bands from the metal hooks, stretch the new ones into place, and double-check that they are seated evenly on all sides.
The PL-2T features a standard 5/8” thread that connects to your boom arm or stand. This thread can collect dust and grit, making it hard to tighten. Every few weeks, remove the mount from the stand and brush the threads with a dry toothbrush to clear out debris. Also, check the two adjustment knobs that control the tilt and rotation. If they feel gritty or hard to turn, wipe around their bases with a dry cloth. Avoid oiling these knobs, as oil attracts dust and can make them slippery.
Never leave the shock mount in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as heat can accelerate the aging of the elastics and warp the plastic parts. When you’re not using the mount, store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a drawer or case. Also, handle the mount by its metal frame, not by the elastics, to avoid putting extra stress on them. When attaching or removing your microphone, always use the clips’ hinges, not by pulling the mic forward, to avoid bending the clips.
If you are planning to upgrade or are considering a different shock mount for another microphone, you might want to check out this guide to the best shock mounts for more options. But rest assured, with proper care, the PL-2T can last a decade or more.
The Heil Sound PL-2T is designed to hold microphones with a body diameter between 1.5 and 2 inches (approximately 38 to 51 mm). This range covers many popular dynamic and condenser models, including the Heil PR-40, PR-30, and PR-20, as well as several microphones from other brands such as the Shure SM7B and Electro-Voice RE20. However, because the mount uses elastic bands to suspend the microphone, the fit depends not only on diameter but also on weight. Microphones weighing more than about 2 pounds (0.9 kg) may cause the bands to stretch prematurely, leading to sagging. If your microphone is heavier, consider a mount with a higher weight rating or use heavier-duty replacement bands. Before buying, check the manufacturer’s specifications for your microphone’s dimensions and weight. If you are unsure, owner feedback often indicates that the PL-2T works best with microphones in the 1 to 1.5 pound range. Also note that the PL-2T has a 5/8-inch female thread, which is the standard for most microphone stands and boom arms. If your stand has a 3/8-inch thread, you will need a thread adapter, which is commonly available. The mount’s adjustable knobs allow you to tilt and rotate the microphone, but they do not change the gripping diameter; the elastic bands hold the microphone in place. Therefore, if your microphone is too narrow, it may slip; if too wide, it may not fit between the clips. Some users have successfully used the PL-2T with slightly larger microphones by carefully stretching the bands, but this can reduce the lifespan of the bands. For the best results, stick to microphones within the recommended size range.
Even with good intentions, some maintenance habits can do more harm than good. Here are the most common mistakes owners make and how to avoid them.
1. Using water or liquid cleaners on the elastic bands. The elastic bands are made of rubber or a similar material that can degrade when exposed to moisture. Water can cause the bands to lose elasticity, become brittle, or develop mold. Always clean the bands with a dry cloth only. If they are dirty, a light wipe with a dry microfiber cloth is sufficient. Never submerge the mount in water or use wet wipes on the bands.
2. Over-tightening the adjustment knobs. The knobs that control tilt and rotation are designed to be tightened by hand. Using pliers or excessive force can strip the threads or crack the plastic housing. If the knobs feel loose, check that the microphone is properly seated and that the bands are not overly stretched. Tighten only until the microphone stays in place; you should be able to adjust it without straining.
3. Ignoring dust buildup in the threads. The 5/8-inch thread can accumulate dust and grit, which can make it difficult to screw onto a stand. If left unchecked, this can cross-thread the connection. Regularly brush the threads with a dry toothbrush to keep them clean. Avoid using lubricants, as they attract more dust.
4. Storing the mount in extreme temperatures. Heat can cause the elastic bands to lose their elasticity and the plastic parts to warp. Cold can make the bands brittle. Store the mount in a temperature-controlled environment, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
5. Handling the mount by the elastic bands. When picking up or moving the mount, always grasp the metal frame. Pulling on the bands can stretch them unevenly and lead to premature failure. Similarly, when attaching or removing the microphone, use the clips’ hinges rather than pulling the microphone out forcefully.
6. Using compressed air incorrectly. While compressed air can be useful for dusting, holding the can at an angle can spray propellant onto the mount, which can damage the finish or leave residue. Always hold the can upright and use short bursts from a distance of a few inches.
By avoiding these mistakes, you will extend the life of your PL-2T and maintain optimal performance.
Even with the best care, parts of your PL-2T will eventually wear out. Knowing when to replace versus repair can save you time and money. The most common wear items are the elastic bands. These are inexpensive and easy to replace. If you notice sagging, loss of shock absorption, or visible cracks, replacing the bands is usually all that is needed. Heil Sound and various retailers sell replacement band kits. The metal frame and clips are durable and rarely need replacement unless they are bent or broken. If a clip breaks, you may be able to find a replacement clip, but often it is more practical to replace the entire mount. The adjustment knobs can become stripped if over-tightened; if they no longer hold position, replacement of the knob or the mount may be necessary. The 5/8-inch thread can become cross-threaded if forced; in that case, a thread repair tap might fix it, but it is often easier to replace the mount. As a general rule, if the cost of repair approaches the cost of a new mount, replacement is the better option. However, given the PL-2T’s robust construction, most issues are resolved with new elastic bands. With proper maintenance, the mount can last many years, making it a reliable investment for your studio.
Q: Can I use compressed air to clean my shock mount?
Yes, a can of compressed air is great for blowing out dust from hard-to-reach areas. Just make sure to hold the can upright and keep the nozzle a few inches away to avoid moisture spray.
Q: How often should I replace the elastic bands?
It depends on usage and climate. For heavy daily use, check every 3 months. If you notice any sagging or loss of tension, replace them. Light users can go a year or more.
Q: What should I do if the metal parts get scratched?
Scratches are cosmetic and don’t affect performance. To minimize, use a soft cloth and avoid setting the mount on rough surfaces. If you want to touch up, use a black permanent marker, but test on an inconspicuous spot first.
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