Pair of RAD-2 Hoops, Soft Firmness 62-Shore (Dark Grey – Hoops Only)

Professional Isolation Hoops for Extended Microphone Support

These RAD-2 soft dark grey hoops provide a replacement solution for broadcast and field recording professionals requiring isolation mounting for longer or front-heavy microphones. The soft firmness rating of 62-Shore delivers effective vibration isolation while accommodating microphones that require additional structural support through the integrated 3mm spine reinforcement.

Construction and Materials

Each hoop features a dark grey elastomeric construction designed to absorb mechanical vibrations and handling noise. The 3mm spine or bracing element runs along the top of each hoop, providing structural reinforcement specifically engineered for microphones with extended length or front-weighted capsule designs. This reinforcement prevents excessive flexing while maintaining the isolation characteristics essential for professional recording applications.

The hoops are manufactured to precise tolerances ensuring consistent performance across different environmental conditions. The elastomeric material maintains its isolation properties across typical broadcast and field recording temperature ranges, providing reliable shock absorption in studio and location environments.

Mounting System Integration

The RAD-2 soft dark grey hoops integrate with existing RAD mount bases and Radius windshield blimp systems through a standardized mounting interface. Each pair includes four mounting screws: two 8mm screws for base attachment and two 12mm screws for securing the top portions. This hardware configuration ensures proper tensioning and alignment within the mounting system.

The modular design allows broadcast engineers to replace worn hoops without requiring complete mount replacement, reducing operational costs and minimizing equipment downtime. The standardized mounting pattern maintains compatibility across different RAD mount configurations and windshield systems.

Professional Recording Applications

These soft firmness hoops suit applications where maximum isolation is required, particularly for sensitive recording environments or when working with microphones prone to handling noise transmission. The 62-Shore rating provides greater compliance than standard firmness options, making them suitable for handheld recording scenarios or mounting situations where additional vibration isolation is beneficial.

In broadcast environments, these hoops accommodate longer shotgun microphones or microphones with significant front capsule weight that might cause standard hoops to flex excessively. The reinforced spine design maintains proper microphone positioning while preserving isolation effectiveness.

Compatibility and System Requirements

The hoops function with any RAD mount base configuration and integrate seamlessly into Radius windshield blimp systems. This universal compatibility allows sound recordists to standardize on a single hoop specification across multiple mounting scenarios, simplifying inventory management and field operations.

Microphone clips are sold separately, allowing users to select appropriate clip designs based on specific microphone models and mounting requirements. This modular approach provides flexibility in configuring the complete isolation system while ensuring optimal fit for different microphone body designs.

Field Maintenance and Care

The elastomeric material requires minimal maintenance under normal operating conditions. Regular inspection for cuts, tears, or material degradation ensures continued isolation performance. The hoops should be cleaned with mild soap and water when necessary, avoiding petroleum-based solvents that may damage the elastomeric compounds.

Storage in moderate temperature conditions extends material life and maintains consistent isolation characteristics. Extreme temperatures or direct sunlight exposure over extended periods may affect material properties and should be avoided during long-term storage.

Professional Workflow Integration

The dark grey color scheme integrates with professional broadcast aesthetics while reducing visual distraction in camera-visible mounting situations. This makes them suitable for on-camera microphone applications where equipment visibility is a consideration.

The soft firmness rating makes these hoops particularly valuable for documentary and field recording work where microphone handling and environmental vibration isolation are critical. The reinforced design supports the longer microphones commonly used in these applications while maintaining the isolation performance required for professional audio capture.