Why I Mounted My Audio Interface Under My Desk (and Why You Should Too)

Ever feel like your workspace is more cluttered than a thrift store on Black Friday? I did—especially with my Apollo Twin Audio Interface hogging my precious desk space. So, I took matters (and a 3D printer) into my own hands and designed an under-desk mount to tuck it neatly out of the way. The result? A desk as clear as my intentions to make music, not clean up.

Now, I want to share the love. You can download the design for free (link at the end), print it on your 3D printer, and join me in the land of desk liberation. Of course this is designed specifically for the Apollo Twin.

Here’s the story behind it, and why I think decluttering your setup is essential—especially for those lightning-round On the Hook games.

   The Apollo Twin, snug and out of sight—just how I like it.

Decluttered Desk, Decluttered Mind

They say a cluttered desk is a sign of genius, but I’d argue it’s more a sign of frustration. Trying to make music with cables and gear piled up is like running a marathon in clown shoes—technically possible, but a total pain. Once I mounted my interface under the desk, it was like my brain found extra space, too.

Left arm, right arm, and base—assembly so easy, even your grandma could do it.

On the Hook Requires Speed – And Clutter Slows You Down

If you’ve played an On the Hook game, you know we work fast—no time for fumbling through messes or untangling cables. The under-desk mount keeps my Apollo Twin accessible yet out of sight, leaving room for the essentials (and maybe a coffee cup… or three). And with slots for airflow, my interface stays cool, calm, and collected, even if my creative process is anything but.

Ample cable space and airflow slots—your interface deserves to breathe easy.

Designing the Mount – My Way of Taking Control

I didn’t want some big, bulky contraption. The mount is minimalist, with screw holes galore for those who love extra security (five per side, to be exact). I only used two screws per side with 30mm wood screws, and let’s just say it holds like a charm. But hey, if you’re in the mood to go all out and use every screw hole, I won’t judge.

My final design - using 3D software called Fustion360

Five screw holes per side. Go big or go minimalist—it’s your call.

Clear Space, Clear Focus

Clearing my desk with this mount inspired a mini-makeover. I tidied up my file organization, cleaned up my DAW folders, and even changed my desktop background to something that doesn’t scream “organized chaos.” Now, when I sit down to play an On the Hook game, I’m laser-focused. No more wrestling with clutter; it’s just me, my gear, and the music.

Clean desk, clear mind, creative vibes.

Download the Design – Join the Clutter-Free Revolution

Ready to free your desk from chaos? I’m sharing this under-desk mount design for free, so you can print it out and try it for yourself. Grab the 3d print file HERE (if you have access to a 3d printer), totally free, and let me know how much better your workspace feels when it’s not drowning in clutter. 

This week's game, at On the Hook...

Oh, and speaking of clearing space—why not put that newly freed-up mental bandwidth to good use? Join us this week for the Hide and Seek On the Hook game. Picture a haunted mansion, eerie sounds, and a little girl asking if you “want to play a game.” It’s the perfect chance to put those spooky vibes into your music and test the power of focus in a clutter-free setup.

I’ll see you in the mansion… moohahahaha

Zion