Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK Review – Fantastic Studio Stands

Gator Frameworks offers a wide range of high-quality and affordable studio accessories. In this review, we check out the GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK. A sturdy set of studio monitor stands for your workstation.

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK are some of the best studio monitor stands available today. They offer excellent construction and useful features. Check out the quick pros and cons before we analyze these stands in more detail.

Features

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK (Wow that is a long product name!) is an attractive set of studio monitor stands. The black metal look blends seamlessly into any studio environment. The attention to detail is also high with a few notable improvements over similar monitor stands on the market. Plus they are an affordable set of studio monitors with a bunch of excellent features. Below we take a closer look at what these stands have to offer.

Flexibility

The GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK features a fantastic pin locking system for height adjustment. Finding the perfect height for your stands can be a challenge but these make that job much easier. You’ll have access to height settings between 10.5″ to 14″ (267mm – 356mm). This is higher than comparable stands which make these a great choice if you are tall.

The height adjustment system allows you to get your monitors to the correct height.

Assembly is quick and simple and takes around 5 minutes. The pin lock system is secure and easy to adjust. There are plenty of holes available so you can fine-tune the height to your needs. This system also offers plenty of security for your monitors. With a solid metal pin, there is no risk of the pole sliding down. Something which can be an issue with other stands that just rely on a screw.

But the flexibility doesn’t end there. You’ll also have access to adjust the tilt of the top plate. With a full range of 0-15 degrees, you can further customize placement. This combination of pin lock system and tilt functionality makes quick work of finding the sweet spot for your monitors.

Stability

One of the most important features of any stand is how stable they are. This is another area where the Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK excels. The large 10-inch base provides a substantial footprint for maximum stability. But if you do have a narrow depth desk you may find it tricky to squeeze these in.

The base also offers four rubber feet. These add plenty of grip to your work surface and prevent them from sliding around. It also offers some sonic decoupling to reduce vibrations. One of the things I like is how clean the base looks. Other stands will have adjustable feet but with an exposed screw. I prefer the streamlined appearance of the feet on these stands.

The large base adds plenty of stability.

The top plate is also secure and there is minimal wobbling. The EVA lined plate does a good job of keeping your monitors securely in place. The stands do support a horizontal and vertical placement of small to mid-sized monitors. But I would be hesitant to use larger monitors with the tilt functionality in an upright position. This can lead to tipping issues.

With a load capacity of 60 lbs. (27.22kg) these stands can handle hefty monitors. Despite the high rating, I’d still avoid large monitors that will sit beyond the available plate size. But smaller heavier monitors will be perfectly fine.

Build Quality

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK also offers excellent build quality. Especially at this price point. The entire frame is tough powder-coated steel. Highly durable and long-lasting.

The pin-locking system and the tilt adjustment system are also well-executed. The plastic handles are solid and dependable. These plastic components feature the Gator Frameworks logo and an easy-to-use twist design. Much better than a simple handle that I’ve seen on other stands.

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK features high build quality.

The only issue I have with the GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK is the foam on the top plate. It is quite thin. But that is the same for most monitor stands at this price point. The issue is that there can be a little bit of ringing. The foam does a great job of securing your monitors. But doesn’t do a great job of preventing resonance through the pole. It is a small issue and one that is common across budget stands. If you have a bit more to spend I’d suggest adding some isolation pads to your setup to go with the stands.

Despite the thin foam, these stands are fantastic. Ultra-tough and dependable and a lot better than you’d expect at this price.

Dimensions

The GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK stands do have a large base that does demand some space. But thanks to the singular pole system they can still squeeze into tight spaces.

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK features a large top plate.

The top plate is also large enough to handle laptops making this a good alternative to laptop stands. At 8.6 lbs. (3.9kg) these are a little lighter than I’d like. Usually heavier stands provide more stability. But despite the low weight, these are still very stable.

All stands run the risk of tipping from accidental knocks so be mindful of placement. Especially if you have curious pets!

Value

The Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK offers exceptional value. These are amazing stands that don’t come with a hefty price tag. Excellent features and intelligent design. When you consider the quality of the components it’s even more impressive. If you are a bargain shopper these are a fantastic choice.

Customer Reviews

The GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK from Gator Frameworks is a very popular set of studio monitor stands. It is not surprising considering the excellent reputation they have for all their studio accessories. Even at major retailers with hundreds of reviews these score 4 or 5 stars for well over 90% of reviews.

Other Uses For Studio Monitor Stands

Generally, studio monitor stands are meant for the studio but there are a couple of other uses that you should consider.

The first option is to use the stand as a laptop stand. Any studio monitor stand with a large flat top plate will be suitable. This is a great option for DJs that use DJ software and a connected controller. It helps bring the laptop up to eye level for a more ergonomic workflow. But it is also useful for people that want a detached keyboard and mouse but still use their laptop’s screen.

Studio monitor stands also work great as laptop stands.

Beyond the studio, monitor stands can also be useful for other media applications. You can use stands to elevate speakers for your TV. This helps bring them up to ear level. This gives you a better listening and viewing experience.

You can also utilize monitor stands for other small instruments like launchpads and FX units. The grippy foam top is often enough for you to effectively use this type of gear without having to hunch over.

So the next time you are looking at monitor stands consider the other ways you could utilize them. You may end up with something that becomes the most versatile accessory in your lineup of gear.

Other Options

Studio monitor stands are an integral part of any studio setup. Below are some other options worth considering depending on your needs.

IsoAcoustics Aperta Review

If you want the very best the IsoAcoustic Aperta range is a great option. These premium quality studio monitor stands offer excellent features and superior decoupling.

• Ultra-durable aluminum frame. Built to last.
• Excellent floating isolation provides you with the most transparent sound possible.
• These are very expensive compared to the Gator Frameworks stands.

On-Stage Stands SMS4500-P Review

The SMS4500-P from On-Stage Stands offers a very similar design to the Gator Frameworks stands. They are versatile and flexible while maintaining a low price point.

• Height adjustable pin-lock system and tilt functionality like the Gator Frameworks stands.
• Hefty construction that offers a great level of stability.
• Doesn’t reach as high at a maximum height of 12.5″ (317mm).

Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-SM50 Review

If you prefer to remove your monitors from your workstation altogether these are a great option. These large stands can sit next to your desk as opposed to on them freeing up much-needed space.

• Flexible height options featuring the pin-lock system. Up to 50” (134.6cm).
• Stable and secure with adjustable feet. Carpet screws are also provided.
• The spacing of holes is a little broad which may cause issues in finding the ideal height.

Should You Buy?

There is plenty to love about the Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK. The construction quality is very high making these a great investment. Stability is fantastic for smaller monitors. Plenty of flexibility in both height and tilt. Plus a refined and sleek design that looks great in the studio. Even more impressive is you get all this at a very affordable price.

If you want capable studio monitor stands the Gator Frameworks GFW-SPK-STMN-DSK is a great choice.