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Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator

BH #CLCL1 • MFR #CL-1
Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator
Key Features
  • 1 Mic Input
  • Improves Signal-to-Noise Ratio
  • Use with Passive Dynamic and Ribbon Mics
  • +25 dB of Clean, Transparent Gain
The Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator from Cloud Microphones is a compact, single-input solution for common audio problems in the field and in the studio involving low-output passive microphones, including ribbon mics. The CL-1 uses any standard phantom-powered mixer or microphone input device to provide up to +25 dB of clean, transparent gain. This improves signal-to-noise ratio and improves the performance of passive microphone signals by driving stronger, cleaner signals over longer XLR cable runs, making them ideal for broadcast, live, and studio applications. The CL-1 is housed in a rugged steel enclosure which offers shielding and durability. Additionally, the CL-1 has provisions for stage or stand mounting.
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$149.00
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Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter Overview

  • 1Description
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4Transparent Gain
  • 5Useful for a Variety of Applications
  • 6Features at a Glance
The Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator from Cloud Microphones is a compact, single-input solution for common audio problems in the field and in the studio involving low-output passive microphones, including ribbon mics. The CL-1 uses any standard phantom-powered mixer or microphone input device to provide up to +25 dB of clean, transparent gain. This improves signal-to-noise ratio and improves the performance of passive microphone signals by driving stronger, cleaner signals over longer XLR cable runs, making them ideal for broadcast, live, and studio applications. The CL-1 is housed in a rugged steel enclosure which offers shielding and durability. Additionally, the CL-1 has provisions for stage or stand mounting.
Transparent Gain
Gives passive mics up to +25 dB additional active output and keeps the direct audio path free-and- clear of transformers, capacitors, and resistors. The CL-1 houses discrete JFET circuitry that delivers clean gain while preserving the natural sonic characteristics of the source
Useful for a Variety of Applications
  • Use with noisy or low-gain preamps
  • Use with mixers/preamps that negatively impact the sound at higher gain settings
  • Use with low-output dynamic microphones and ribbons
  • Mic softer sound sources such as acoustic instruments and voice
  • Use for long cable runs
Features at a Glance
  • Gives passive mics up to +25 dB additional active output
  • Provides 2 distinct stages of clean gain
  • Easy to use self-contained design requires only phantom power
  • Recommended for use with all passive dynamic microphones
  • Compatible with tube, battery, or power-supply-driven microphones  
  • Safe for all passive ribbons with no transfer of phantom
  • Utilizes Patent Pending Class-A, discrete JFET circuitry
  • Ideal impedance loading for optimal performance at 3 kilohms
  • Rugged, road ready, and portable, for studio, stage, and broadcasting

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter Specs

General
In-Line Accessory Type
Pre-Amplifier
Input / Output Level
Input: Mic Level
Output: Mic Level
Number of Channels
1
Gain
+25 dB (3-Kilohm Load)
Controls
None
Connectivity
Inputs/Outputs
1 x XLR 3-Pin Female Input
1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Output
Packaging Info
Package Weight
0.91 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
6.75 x 4.35 x 2.35"

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter Reviews

Top !

By Rodrigo
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2023-02-01

Very good! Excellent product!

Necessary For Shure SM7B + Moto M2 Combo

By Ken
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-02-22

Not a professional, but I like to release the occasional YouTube video, and I wanted to do voice-overs. Started out with a Rode PodMic and a Moto M2. My voice sounded terrible! I wasn't sure where the problem was, so I tried adding a Cloudlifter; no luck. Next I swapped in the Shure SMB7, and that completely fixed the problem. FYI, I needed to keep using the Cloudlifter to get loud enough recordings. Finally, I am happy with my setup.

The reviews don't lie

By Montgomery
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-01-25

This was a perfect addition to bring up the sound quality of my Shure MV7 without Distorting the audio.

I love it

By Angel
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-11-01

I thought I did not need a CLOUDLIFTER until I got one, extremely worthy. My microphone just sounds better with way less Gain.

Works with Rode PodMic

By Keoki
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-07-14

Not 100 percent necessary for the PodMic but definitely helps in boosting levels so you don't have to crank up your preamp.

A nice boost in clarity

By Mark
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2021-06-23

I use the Rode PodMic and as it's a dynamic mic, it does just fine. But, I do need to boost the gain quite a bit for a nice sound. The Cloudlifter really helped drop my gain down for better overall sound. I use this in conjunction with the Rodecaster Pro. Awesome combinations!

Adds a TON of noise at the lowest gain levels

By Neal
Rated 1 out of 5
Date: 2022-06-09

I purchased this to accompany my SM7B and was so frustrated at how much noise I've been getting in my recordings. I tried different XLR cables and settings and it was as simple as removing the Cloud Lifter and the noise is gone! Sure I have to push the pre-amp in my Apollo Solo but it's clean now. Based on other reviews I'm thinking I got a defective product? But my return window is now closed.

Cheap shipping and superb quality... What more do you need?

By Bojan
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2022-03-15

The title says it all. I had this item shipped to Macedonia, and it arrived within 4 days, which is really impressive. I really recommend this product if you have a low sensitivity mic like the Shure SM7B (for which this preamp is a must). Overall great experience and I am looking forward to buying something again from B&H!

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I got the Shure SM7B for use with portable recorders (like the Sony D100). I realize I need this to boost the output, but the D100 does not provide phantom power. What do you recommend?
Asked by: Ali
I would suggest a battery-powered phantom power supply, such as the Mackie M48 Single-Channel 48V Phantom Power Supply, BH #MAM48, and a Comprehensive EXF Series Stereo 3.5mm Mini Male to 3-Pin XLR Female Cable - 1.5', BH #COCSMMXF1.5 cable to go into the external mic input of the Sony PCMD-100 audio recorder.
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What''s the difference between the Cloudlifter ...

What''s the difference between the Cloudlifter and just a regular mic preamp? I was think of getting a Rolls MP13 Mini-mic preamp. How does the Cloudlifter compare to it?
Asked by: Kirby
The cloud lifter is desinged to make up gain for low outpit mics, such as the SM7-B and RE-20. It does this very quietly without adding the noise of most mic pre-amps when running at full gain. A Mic preamp is still needed
Answered by: James Cruz
Date published: 2022-01-19

I'm going to be using this with a RODE ProCaster, ...

I'm going to be using this with a RODE ProCaster, ( which does not require Phantom Power, I'll be connecting it to the Scarlet 2i4. Will the Scarlett only send that power to the Cloudlifer ( and it won't damage my microphone ) which DOES NOT need Phantom Power ? thank you
Asked by: Mark
It does not pass phantom power. It is made for dynamic mics (like your procaster). The phantom power is to power the cloud lifter. In other words, you're fine. The way you want to use it is correct.
Answered by: Anonymous
Date published: 2021-02-01

I am using a SM58 and running it directly into a ...

I am using a SM58 and running it directly into a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and that plugs into my laptop. Do I need a Cloudlifter?
Asked by: Kirby
No, a Cloudlifter is not required to use an SM58 microphone with a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB interface. The 2i2 does have built-in mic preamps that should supply enough gain for the SM58. However, if you do want to add more gain, you can add a Cloudlifter to your signal chain between the mic and mic input on the 2i2.
Answered by: Lisa
Date published: 2020-12-01

question

I am planning to buy a decent dynamic microphone (probably Electro-Voice RE20) and I have the Zoom F4. Do I need the Cloudlifter?
Asked by: Seungmin
IF you purchase a dynamic or ribbon mic such as an re20 or sm7, purchasing a cloudlifter will make the mic more versatile as they require a fair amount of gain. The cloudlifter will help the mic be more viable for softer material.
Answered by: Ariel B.
Date published: 2022-01-19

question

Do I need preamp for Shure SM7B if I connect mic to the Roland UA-55 Quad-Capture sound card?
Asked by: Mihail
I have several SM7B mics from Shure. I worked with them in college radio, and liked them then. Owning them, though, I've been consistently disappointed with the fact that I have to run the gain so high in various recorders that the s/n ratio becomes distracting. I bought the Cloudlifter CL-2 to use with some new ribbon mics that I picked up. Since I had it laying around, I tried my old SM7B mics in conjunction with the CloudLifter, and it was a near-miraculous improvement! Now I get that mellow large-diaphragm sound I craved without all the high-gain noise.
Answered by: Tom
Date published: 2022-01-19
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