Description
Product Overview
Overview
The Cloudlifter CL-1 is the industry-standard 1-channel mic activator designed to unlock the full potential of dynamic and ribbon microphones. By providing active, ultra-clean gain, the CL-1 eliminates the struggle of recording low-output microphones into interfaces or preamps that lack sufficient gain or introduce unwanted noise at high settings. It ensures your microphones perform with maximum clarity and character, regardless of the recording environment.
What Stands Out
Key Details
- Active Ultra-Clean Gain: Delivers up to +25dB of transparent gain across two distinct stages, providing optimal impedance loading for dynamic and ribbon microphones.
- Patented Discrete JFET Circuitry: Utilizes premium electronics to preserve the natural sound of the source. The signal path is intentionally kept clear of transformers, capacitors, and resistors to maintain audio purity.
- Phantom Power Conversion: Efficiently converts 48V Phantom Power into clean gain. Crucially, it does not pass phantom power through to the microphone, protecting delicate ribbon elements from damage.
- Feedback Reduction: Increases gain before feedback, allowing performers to cut through live mixes with greater stability and volume.
- Rugged Construction: Built for both studio and road use, the CL-1 is manufactured in the USA for long-term durability.
Best For
Use Cases
- Studio Recording: Ideal for miking soft sound sources or using low-gain preamps when recording with classic dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B or various ribbon microphones.
- Live Performance: Provides the necessary boost to ensure dynamic mics are audible in high-volume stage environments while reducing feedback.
- Podcasting & Streaming: Ensures a professional, noise-free signal level when recording into DAW interfaces that may have noisy gain stages.
- Long Cable Runs: Maintains signal integrity and strength when using extended cable lengths in large studio or stage setups.
Setup Notes
Installation
The Cloudlifter CL-1 is a Plug & Play device requiring no complex configuration:
- Step 1: Connect your dynamic or ribbon microphone to the CL-1 input using a standard XLR cable.
- Step 2: Connect the CL-1 output to your mixer, audio interface, or preamp via another XLR cable.
- Step 3: Engage +48V Phantom Power on your preamp or interface. The CL-1 uses this power to generate gain, but will not send it to the microphone.
Compatibility Check
Compatibility
The Cloudlifter CL-1 is compatible with:
- Microphones: All dynamic and ribbon microphones.
- Hardware: Any mixer, audio interface, or preamp capable of providing 48V Phantom Power.
Verified Product Facts
Additional Details
- Manufacturer: Cloud Microphones
- Model: CL-1
- Fulfillment: Physical
- Dimensions: 6.75″ x 4.5″ x 0.15″
- Weight: 0.9 lbs









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