Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-2 Mic Activator
2-Channel Gain Amplifier
- +25 dB for dynamic or passive ribbon microphones
- To be used in conjunction with a microphone amplifier with standard phantom power on mixers/preamplifiers/audio interfaces with mic input
- Requires phantom power
- 2 x XLR input and output
- Metal casing
- Band for fixing to microphone stand included
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Available since August 2013
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Item number 320774
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Channels 2
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Number of microphone inputs 2
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Instrument input No
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Tubes No
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Compressor/Limiter No
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Equalizer No
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De-Esser No
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Phantom power No
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Phase Reverse No
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External effect loops No
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Analogue Outputs XLR
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Digitale Outputs None
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Headphone connection No
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Level Meter No
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Design Desktop
Give those mics a lift
The Cloudlifter CL-2 Mic Activator is a two-channel inline level amplifier, designed to be positioned between a pair of microphones and the main preamps to increase the mics' signal strength. This compact, well-built device utilises the phantom power supplied via the mics' XLR cable to provide 25dB of ultra-clean gain for each channel. This is ideal for maximising the performance of dynamic, ribbon, and tube microphones without colouring the signal. Manufactured in the USA – like all Cloud Microphone's products – the CL-2 combines a space-saving, intuitive design with a reliable solid steel housing. All this makes the CL-2 a Mic Activator that's suitable for both studio recording and demanding stage or touring environments.
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For home studios and pros
Suitable for both home studios and professional environments, the Cloudlifter CL‑2 Mic Activator naturally and reliably boosts low‑output dynamic and ribbon microphones, increasing their level without added noise and significantly improving the signal‑to‑noise ratio. Popular vocal microphones such as the Shure SM7B, SM57 and SM58 all benefit from a noticeable boost in output power, bringing out their familiar sound character even when used with quiet sources, whereas dynamic microphones such as the Sennheiser MD 421 and the broadcast-grade Electrovoice RE-20 gain clarity and presence. Whether connected to a mixing desk, a dedicated microphone preamp, or an ordinary audio interface, it delivers consistent results anywhere phantom power is available.
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Safe and sound
The CL-2 features a pair of XLR inputs and the corresponding XLR outputs, all equipped with safety locks to prevent cables from coming loose if they're tugged or pulled. A welded bracket on the rear allows the module to be attached to a mic stand or similar with a clamp, or just with the hook-and-loop fastener included. Four reassuringly sturdy rubber feet ensure stable, non-slip positioning even on smooth surfaces. The CL‑2 requires phantom power from the downstream microphone preamp to operate. However, it blocks that phantom power from reaching the mics (deliberately, to protect sensitive ribbon mics and the like), so if it's used with a condenser mic, the microphone itself will need a separate external phantom power supply.
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About Cloud Microphones
The US manufacturer Cloud Microphones has been developing and producing microphones and microphone preamplifiers since 2009. The company's founder, Stephen Sank, draws on a family tradition in microphone manufacturing that now spans three generations. Among other things, the company relies on ribbon microphones that stand in the tradition of classic RCA mics, but at the same time use modern design and proprietary patents. Another product series are the preamplification units called "Cloudlifter", which are inline units that use the phantom power of microphone inputs for uncoloured, noise-free signal amplification of dynamic and ribbon microphones. Cloud not only emphasise that their products are particularly robustly built, but also that all components are manufactured in the USA.
For everything from podcasts to Bluegrass
A convenient alternative to expensive high-gain preamps, the Cloudlifter CL-2 Activator will help podcasters, YouTubers, and other voice content creators get the most out of their favourite microphones. Equally, it's ideal for recording acoustic and traditional instruments that benefit from detailed microphone techniques: Quiet stringed instruments such as banjos, mandolins, and acoustic guitars, as well as woodwinds and subtle percussion, often place high demands on microphone gain. In these situations, the CL‑2 provides clean, noise‑free amplification. Finally, the Mic Activator will prove equally effective for direct recording via an audio interface whose preamp doesn't provide sufficient noise-free amplification – all in all a reliable solution for a host of recording applications, boosting microphone signals without the need for costly high‑gain preamps.
