Description
Overview
The Cloudlifter CL-Zi is a versatile 1-channel DI and Mic Activator designed to provide ultra-clean gain and precise tonal shaping for a wide array of audio sources. Combining the power of a microphone activator with the functionality of an active DI box, the CL-Zi allows engineers and musicians to optimize signals from low-output microphones and high-impedance instruments before they ever reach the preamp.
By utilizing patented Class A discrete JFET circuitry and a premium CineMag transformer, the CL-Zi ensures that your signal remains pristine while eliminating the noise often associated with low-gain preamps or long cable runs. Whether you are capturing a delicate vocal performance or plugging a bass guitar directly into a console, the CL-Zi provides the professional headroom and impedance matching required for studio-grade results.
Key Details
- Variable Impedance (Vari-Z): Use the Vari-Z function to actively shape and contour your tone. This is particularly effective when miking cabinets or adjusting the interaction between a microphone and its source.
- Variable High-Pass Filtering: Features a continuously variable high-pass filter at -6dB per octave, working in tandem with the impedance control for advanced tonal sculpting.
- Flexible Gain Stages: Offers three gain settings to suit different sources, providing up to +25dB of ultra-clean gain for XLR microphones and up to +15dB for 1/4″ instrument inputs.
- Combo Input Connectivity: Equipped with a professional Neutrik Combo Input Connector, making it fully compatible with both 1/4″ Hi-Z instrument cables and XLR Lo-Z microphones.
- Premium Componentry: Built with a high-quality CineMag instrument transformer for Hi-Z to Lo-Z conversion, ensuring maximum transparency and sonic integrity.
- Rugged Construction: Manufactured in the USA with a road-ready chassis designed for both permanent studio installation and portable live use.
Use Cases
- Direct Instrument Recording: Ideal for bass, guitar, and keyboard players who want to go direct into a DAW or mixer while maintaining a rich, full-bodied tone.
- Low-Output Microphones: Perfect for ribbon microphones or dynamic mics (like the SM7B) that require significant clean gain to reach optimal levels without introducing preamp hiss.
- Live Performance: Use as a reliable active DI to ensure a strong, clean signal over long cable runs from the stage to the front-of-house console.
- Podcast & Voiceover: Enhances the signal of soft sound sources, allowing for lower preamp gain settings and a lower noise floor in the final recording.
Installation
The Cloudlifter CL-Zi is designed for a simple “plug-and-play” workflow. To install, connect your microphone or instrument to the Neutrik Combo Input. Connect the output of the CL-Zi to your preamp or audio interface via a standard XLR cable. Because the unit is powered by +48V Phantom Power from your preamp or interface, no external power supplies are required. Once connected, simply select your desired gain setting and adjust the Vari-Z knob to dial in the ideal tonal response for your specific source.
Compatibility
- Input Compatibility: 1/4″ Hi-Z instrument inputs (Bass, Guitar, Keyboards) and XLR Lo-Z microphones.
- Power Requirement: Requires +48V Phantom Power from the connected microphone preamp or audio interface.
- Output: Standard XLR output compatible with any professional audio interface, mixer, or preamp.
Additional Details
- Manufacturer: Cloud Microphones
- Model: CL-Zi
- Dimensions: 6.75 x 4.25 x 0.21 inches
- Weight: 1.49 lbs
- Fulfillment: Physical
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