Some computer setups go for splashy color while others like to be monochromatic — often black and white, or one or the other. In today’s featured setup, an iOS and macOS software developer sets a Studio Display in a black-and-white scheme that hides an M1 MacBook Pro.
And they go for quality sound in the mix, too, with one of the world’s most popular USB microphones and an exceptional pair of open-back headphones.
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Developer builds black-and-white M1 Pro MacBook and Studio Display setup
Developer and Redditor alexandersandberg showcased the distinctive black-and-white setup in a post entitled, “Software Engineer WFH Setup — Studio Display + (hidden) 14″ MBP.”
Sandberg notes the M1 Pro MacBook Pro is “hidden.” That’s because it’s in a drawer, out of the way.
“I used to have the MBP on a stand behind the monitor, but I really like not seeing it all the time,” Sandberg said. “Totally worth the 179 EUR cable (3 meter Thunderbolt 4).”
A commenter thinking of stashing a laptop in a drawer asked if Sandberg’s suffers any problems from that placement.
“The new MBP doesn’t get very hot, so it’s not an issue for me. But depending on your laptop, it might not be the best idea,” he replied.
Studio Display on an Ergotron arm with VESA mount
The setup features a new 27-inch 5K Studio Display. It sits on a white Ergotron LX monitor arm — in keeping with the color scheme — with a VESA mount.
“Just read some reviews that say that the monitor wobbles. Any issues with this?” a commenter asked. “I was thinking about acquiring the Studio Display as well but unsure with VESA or with stand.”
Sanberg was bullish on Ergotron.
“With the VESA mount, the wobbling would depend on the monitor arm,” he replied. “I don’t know about the stands. While not the cheapest, Ergotron makes very good arms. I haven’t had any wobbling issues.”
Sandberg maintains the color scheme with white input devices — your basic short Magic Keyboard and Magic Trackpad 2. They sit on a black mat.
Shure microphone and Sennheiser headphones
The setup’s other black elements are the audio gear, a widely admired microphone and a pair of open-back headphones.
In the right rear corner of the desk, Sandberg has the ever-popular-among-podcasters Shure MV7 USB microphone. It features dual USB/XLR outputs for digital or analog recording, plus an all-metal build and a touch-control panel.
The Sennheiser HD660S wired headphones feature an open-back design for a wide soundstage. Improved transducers in this model deliver low harmonic distortion and a frequency response running from 10 to 41,000Hz (10dB).
An app for work-life balance
Along with a soothing black-and-white aesthetic, the setup features one of Sandberg’s apps.
“Curious what is the name of the white app you have open on the left?” asked a commenter about a window on the Studio Display’s screen. “Looks look a time tracker of sorts.”
“Funny you ask, it’s actually an app I’m working on to help with work/computer-life balance. It’s called Balance,” Sandberg replied. The app is currently in beta testing.
Photo: alexandersandberg@Reddit.com
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If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to info+setups@cultofmac.com. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches or challenges.
