Rycote PCS-Lite 3/8" Quick-Release Adapter with 3/8" Socket and Tip

The best quick release for mics

I've long been a fan of quick-releases and consistently bought Gator's very nice model for many years. However, that changes today. I went on and bought every quick release under $100 I could find in stock and spent time testing each one in an attempt to reduce weight and bulk in my portable recording setup. Overall, the Rycote is (1) the lightest, (2) the smallest/shortest, and (3) has extremely good mechanical behavior. I was unable to measure any flex during rotation or pressure from any direction, while the worst competitors flex up to 10 degrees when rotated. The clamping mechanism is strong and reliable and could not be undone with human effort (I was not willing to break it to find out), so it is safe to use inverted for all but the most ridiculous setups. I weighted the Rycote PCS-Lite in 3/8 + 3/8 configuration at about 62 grams or 2.3 ounces. Without the adapter in the bottom, it comes down to an impressive 53 grams or 1.9 ounces. The nearest competitor I could find for purchase was about 80 grams or 3 ounces (the generic and rather dreadful 'button'-type quick release that loves to drop mics when you aren't careful), and the only mechanically comparable designs were both much taller and heavier, in the range of 120-190 grams (IO, Gator) when configured for 3/8 + 3/8 use. That means for 10 adapters, using Gators instead of Rycotes adds an unnecessary 1.5 kg or 3 lbs of weight, equal to an entire extra mic stand. The construction seems to be predominantly molded plastic, though the mechanism and screw surfaces are all metal (brass or aluminum). So, while I have concerns about the outside finish wearing, the mechanism seems reliable after several weeks of testing. The release handle is rubberized and requires a substantial amount of force (approximately 2 kg/4 lbs 10 oz) to pull down. Equal force is also required to insert the tip, which when complete results in a clearly audible click and the handle popping back up into position. However, unlike many other designs, you DO NOT need to hold down the release handle, so it truly can be used one-handed. My only caution is that when releasing a mic, the spring mechanism will push the tip (and whatever is attached to it) out like a rocket, so you do want two hands for removing mics at least. The only real issue/disadvantage with the quick release, which is very minor, is that unlike the popular hexagonal tip of Gator and IO, the tip is only bidirectional, meaning you usually have to rotate the mic up to 90 degrees after clicking into place (rather than only up to 30 degrees). However, note that the (Delrin?) bushing at the bottom of the 3/8 tip is slightly forgiving and will let you tweak the exact angle of the tip within about said 90 degrees. Overall, provided you're willing to shell out extra, you will not find a lighter, easier, or faster quick release.