A plasma processing system for performing a plasma processing application includes a plasma processing chamber, first and second electrodes residing in the plasma processing chamber, and a pneumatic counterbalance system operatively connected to the first electrode. The pneumatic counterbalance system is configured to support and maintain a position of the first electrode during a plasma processing application for gap control. A drive assembly separate from the pneumatic counterbalance system is configured to move the first electrode with respect to the second electrode in the plasma processing chamber for gap adjustment.