Choose the accessory that solves your actual setup problem
A Stenomask setup includes more than the microphone. The mouthpiece determines the surface against your face, the foam insert is a replaceable part inside the mask, a stand supports desk positioning, and an audio adapter connects a compatible analog microphone to a computer. These parts do different jobs. Start by identifying the problem you want to solve: worn foam, a mouthpiece that needs replacement, awkward positioning, or a computer that lacks the required microphone input.
Write down your mask model before ordering. Two accessories that look similar may not be intended for the same mask or recording path. Martel’s product pages identify the current parts and package contents; contact us when you need confirmation for an older mask, an unfamiliar connector, or a mixed-brand setup.
Replacement foam: single insert or a 12-pack?
Martel offers a single replacement foam insert and a 12-pack of Stenomask foam inserts. The single insert suits an immediate replacement need. The pack provides spares for an ongoing routine, so a worn insert does not become a last-minute ordering problem.
Martel’s current listing recommends monthly replacement with regular use. Treat that as the published maintenance recommendation, and follow the care instructions supplied for your particular mask. Check the insert’s condition when preparing your equipment; do not wait for an important recording to discover that a replaceable part needs attention.
After fitting a replacement, make a short recording using the same position and input settings as your earlier reference sample. Compare the saved audio. A replacement part is one variable in the setup; unexpected audio may also come from input selection, recording level, cable connections or position. The Stenomask troubleshooting guide helps separate those causes.
SS1 and SS4 mouthpieces: compare the contact surface
The SS1 mouthpiece is the standard replacement mouthpiece listed for Martel Steno Mini Masks. The SS4 mouthpiece is a Soft Seal leather mouthpiece offered as an optional cushioned alternative. Select the part by mask compatibility and your preferred working feel. Ask Martel to confirm fit if you are unsure which mouthpiece is already installed.
A useful fit check happens at your normal workstation. Sit as you would during practice, position the mask, and read a short passage at a comfortable pace. Notice whether the mask stays in position without cable tension and whether you can maintain the position while looking between your reference material and screen. Repeat the same passage after one adjustment, rather than changing the mouthpiece, stand and audio settings together.
Follow the cleaning instructions for the specific material and component. A leather cushion, a silicone mouthpiece and the microphone assembly should not be assumed to share the same cleaning method. If care instructions are missing, request them before applying a cleaning product or taking the assembly apart.
A hands-free stand: support the mask at the desk
The Martel Stenomask Flex Stand offers an adjustable arm and desk clamp for supported positioning. Plan its position around your chair, screen, writing area and cable route. Before mounting, confirm that your desk provides an appropriate clamping surface and that the stand is compatible with your mask.
Set the arm so the mask meets your working position. Keep the connection cable relaxed through the movement you expect during practice, and check that the clamp and arm remain secure according to the stand’s instructions. Test ordinary movements such as turning toward the screen or reaching for your notes. A satisfactory setup should let you return to the same mask position consistently.
Keep a short reference recording from your original setup. After changing the mouthpiece or stand position, record the same passage with the same input settings. Compare comfort and the saved speech before making the next adjustment.
A USB adapter: confirm the entire audio route
The Andrea USB-SA is an external USB sound card with separate 3.5mm microphone input and speaker output. Andrea marks the microphone connection pink and the speaker connection green. It can form part of a compatible analog Stenomask computer setup, but the computer detecting the adapter is only one checkpoint. The selected input must receive and save the mask’s speech.
For the MM-18’s 3.5mm microphone connection, follow the MM-18 connection and recording guide. For an XLR or quarter-inch mask, confirm the required receiving equipment rather than treating a plug converter as proof of compatibility. Martel’s MM-14 listing specifically warns against using that model with Andrea or USB sound cards.
A direct USB Dragon mask and an analog mask connected through a USB adapter are different arrangements. If you are still choosing the mask itself, use the Dragon, Double Dragon 2 and MM-ST1 comparison before adding accessories to your order.
Build a small, clearly identified accessory kit
- Identify: record the mask model and the part numbers of the mouthpiece, foam and stand you use.
- Prepare: keep the appropriate replacement foam available and retain the instructions for each component.
- Connect: label the intended destinations of separate microphone leads when your mask has more than one output.
- Verify: make a saved practice recording after a replacement or connection change.
- Document: note the input selected in your recording application and where the practice file was saved.
For support, describe the symptom, mask model, installed accessory and receiving device together. “My MM-18 records quietly through this adapter after changing the mouthpiece” is more actionable than “the mask is bad.” A short fictional sample and a clear description help us determine the next useful check.
Common accessory questions
Will a new foam insert correct every audio problem?
No. Replace worn parts as directed, but also verify the microphone route and saved recording. A wrong application input will remain wrong after a foam change.
Does a stand add another microphone or recording channel?
No. It supports the mask’s position. Independent audio paths depend on the mask, receiving devices and recording configuration.
Can I buy accessories before choosing a mask?
Choose the mask and receiving equipment first, or have the complete proposed combination checked together. This avoids buying a useful part for the wrong connection or model.
Sources and product details
This original guide uses the linked Martel accessory listings, the MM-18 and MM-14 product specifications, and the Andrea USB-SA specification sheet, reviewed November 9, 2026. Product links provide current ordering details. For a particular part or older mask, ask Martel about fit and care.