K&M 18880

NOTE: This review has been updated as of 31 July 2021.
I have been using this stand for over 2 years now, and can say that it is (a) the most unique, (b) sturdy & light, (c) compact, (d) keyboard stand that can adapt to any size keyboard. The stand is sturdy enough to attach Triad-Orbit clamps, joints, and other Triad accessories, including a laptop platform plus Lenovo Legion laptop, without tipping or feeling unstable. I have been so impressed, that I have bought a second unit from Thomann - they've got the best prices and availability!


This is my very first order from Thomann - I ordered this stand and the two stacker kits A + B (18881 & 18882).

The 18880 stand was easy to assemble. Instructions in English were clear, with descriptive diagrams.

A little disappointed when received, as parts could be heard rattling around inside: knobs, washers, and screws. No parts bag, so they must have been loose when packaged by K&M.

After assembling and adjusting the height to a standing position for playing, I set my 60-pound Korg Triton Extreme88 on it. Looks nice in situ; hope it's rock-steady when I jam on songs like Highway Star or Carry On Wayward Son.

PROS
- Quick assembly / height adjustment (tool included)
- Lightweight, collapsible for transport
- 2nd/3rd tier stackers

CONS
- Fixed stacker width (need trays for smaller modules / keyboards - 18819, 18824)
- May wobble sideways with heavy keyboards while playing

/TLDR: Good stand, but not 100% great. Varying stability bar lengths would allow for different main keyboard widths/stacker widths.

I bought this stand after it was recommenced by a friend, who has used it for 15 years with no problems. The stand is of excellent quality, and hosts my Nord C1 organ without any stability problems. The inclusion of the stability bar with the keyboard stand is a good idea, however not even necessary even for the organ; without the stability bar you can take the stand down in seconds and fit it into a very small space as it's very compact and convenient. When packing up the stand, try not to loosen the screws excessively as they can come off, but apart from that this is a great stand which I'd highly recommend and will last you years.

I bought the three tiers as a package. They are great for temporary studio setups. I've never gigged with them. Setting up all 3 tiers takes a while, but once configured it can be quickly collapsed without changing anything but the width. Much better than a multi-tier X-style stand, which I will never go back to. Not perfect, though: To keep stand parts from getting in the way of your playing, the tiers must be spaced 6-8" apart, and (vertically) shorter keyboards may need a height boost.
For studio users like myself, if you have 2 or 3 keyboards to keep stacked long-term, and you're willing to spend a bit more money and time, DIY solutions yield better results. There are a few good methods: Wood and construction adhesive; structural pipe connectors such as MakerPipe; or a combination, which is what I use now.