With so much focus on the latest digital audio solutions and network topologies, we often overlook tools that help streamline our workflow. StageStrike — an Orlando-based company founded in 2023 by audio engineer Caster Milano — offers a line of durable, intuitive tools to help audio professionals protect, organize and deploy wireless bodypack and handheld devices.
As an A-2 on a large corporate event, Milano became frustrated with the taped-grid-on-a-table technique for deploying wireless beltpacks and handhelds. Thinking there must be a way to make this process more efficient, he sat down at his computer, fired up the 3D printer and the first packHolder prototype was born. He used them on gigs and soon other A-2s were asking for their own packHolder set. From this humble beginning, StageStrike’s patent-pending product lineup has grown.
Pack ‘em Up
The StageStrike packHolder is a modular, stackable, interlocking system designed to hold wireless microphone or IEM bodypacks. Working directly with major wireless equipment manufacturers including Shure, Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, and Wisycom, StageStrike customizes packHolders for specific bodypack microphone transmitter and IEM receiver models. A flexible insert with identifier in each packHolder cradles the bodypack while the packHolder’s standard size housing allows them to clip together.
The result is a compact, organized deployment solution that takes up minimal space on a crowded production table. To help users identify their bodypacks, packHolders are available in basic black with color-coded base caps — or in solid colors. A full offering of accessories allows packHolders to clip to a mic stand, attach to a drum lug, mount to a surface or hang from a lanyard, making the system even more versatile.
Handhelds, Too
Complementing the packHolder is the MiQb modular tabletop storage system for handheld transmitters. The rugged MiQb blocks hold the transmitter vertically, with space for spare AA batteries. Like packHolders, they are also available in black with color-coded top plates or in solid colors. MiQb blocks are sized to fit handheld transmitters from Shure, Sennheiser and the newer Audio-Technica models. For Sennheiser transmitters with elongated antennas, a fitRing accessory holds them securely in the MiQb. Unfortunately, my older A-T 3000 series with its smaller diameter handle was too loose in the MiQb block. But I’m guessing after reading this, StageStrike will soon have a dedicated A-T fitRing solution.
Additionally, StageStrike offers a special MiQb block for the Sound Devices A20 HH transmitter and — for Shure transmitters using the SB series rechargeable battery pack —they offer an “Eco” version MiQb with a slot for a spare battery.
Each MiQb block has side tabs, allowing them to connect for a customized deployment solution. When not needed, the MiQbs stack for convenient storage in a road case or workbox and for more permanent installations, a series of miQb trays lock them together.
It’s All About the Base
The StageStrike packBase accessory desktop stand serves as a compact central hub for packHolders and MiQbs ensuring a clean and organized workspace. The high-capacity base supports up to ten packHolders in a vertical configuration, allowing quick grab-and-go access to the bodypacks. If desired, add two MiQbs on each side of the base for easy access to handheld transmitters. For larger deployments, simply add more packHolders or MiQbs as needed. The modular configuration allows users to customize the setup to suit their specific needs, making it ideal for both large and small events.
3D Durability
All StageStrike system components are custom 3D printed using high-quality ASA filament materials. Tougher than typical PLA printing material, this lightweight, weather-resistant construction can handle the summer heat and UV rays at an outdoor gig without deforming. Also, on-demand 3D printing allows StageStrike a faster development cycle and the ability to provide immediate design updates based on user input.
For this review, StageStrike sent an assortment of packHolders, MiQbs, a packBase and accessories contained in a rugged carry case. At first, I was a bit skeptical, as my previous experience with a friend’s 3D printed mic clips was disappointing. However, after a few minutes working with the StageStrike products, I knew these represented a whole new 3D ballgame.
I assembled a stack of packHolders, noticing the precision design and attention to detail in the units. They securely locked together but were easy to take apart. The packBase provided a sturdy support for my 10 pack holders and soon I was building complex setups using all the parts. (Think “Legos” for sound…). But enough fun in the shop, time to take them to a gig.
Real World Convenience
I first tried the StageStrike system at my community theater’s recent musical. The compact packHolders took up much less space backstage and the actors could quickly grab their transmitters. The stage manager liked it as well. We labeled each packHolder with each actor’s name, so they knew where to put their bodypack. At the end of the night, the stage manager could quickly see who did not return their wireless.
I also visited a local church sound engineer who employs IEMs and handheld mics for his six-person worship team. I showed him how a MiQb and packHolder could be configured together, making it easy for each team member to find their mic and IEM.
To save running long audio lines, I often use my IEM system to send audio to remote speakers. But finding a place on the speaker to hang the IEM pack was always a problem. StageStrike makes a single packHolder with a packHanger accessory and a lanyard. I simply looped the lanyard through the speaker’s top handle to secure the IEM pack, and I was good to go.
The Verdict
This is truly one of those tools you didn’t think you needed until you used it. The build quality is spot-on, and the materials are second to none. It was easy to use and allowed me to customize the configuration to meet my specific gig needs.
Every setup had a clean, organized, professional look that is important especially at corporate AV gigs. In a crowded monitor world workspace, the compact packBase configuration takes up minimal room while providing easy access to the bodypacks.
As I was writing this review, I had the StageStrike website open for part number reference. I swear Milano added several new accessories as I was writing. If you deploy wireless mics and IEMs, StageStrike has a solution for keeping them under control.
At a Glance
Antidote to Chaos
Caster Milano’s StageStrike company has come up with ingenious modular customizable solutions to protect, organize and deploy wireless bodypack mics, IEMs and handheld transmitters.
StageStrike packHolder
PROS
- Versatile configurations
- Robust build
- UV resistant
- Colors
- Made in USA
CONS
- Pricey
- True onboard mixer would be nice
- Not a fan of the open grille
SPECS
- Material: ASA Filament UV resistant
- Construction: 3D Printed
- Pricing: packHolders (4-pack) $80; MiQb (4-pack) $80
MANUFACTURER: StageStrike
More Info: www.stagestrike.com
