Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-Zi
Microphone Preamplifier
- Compact preamplifier for high-impedance instruments and dynamic and ribbon microphones
- Up to 25 dB crystal clear gain for microphones and 12 dB gain for instruments
- Variable gain control in three steps: Min, More, Max
- Variable input impedance from 150 ohms to 15k ohms
- Variable high-pass filter from 20 Hz to 200 Hz
- No voltage is passed on connected microphones, sensitive ribbon microphones are accordingly protected against damage
- Uses a patented, discreet Class-A circuit
- Works with phantom power
- Neutrik XLR combination input
- XLR output
- Robust, roadworthy quality
-
Available since July 2017
-
Item number 417961
-
Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
-
Channels 1
-
Number of microphone inputs 1
-
Instrument input Yes
-
Tubes No
-
Compressor/Limiter No
-
Equalizer No
-
De-Esser No
-
Phantom power No
-
Phase Reverse No
-
External effect loops No
-
Analogue Outputs XLR
-
Digitale Outputs -
-
Headphone connection No
-
Level Meter No
-
Design portable
Give any input a lift
The Cloudlifter CL‑Zi Activator is a versatile mic and instrument preamplifier, designed to deliver ultra‑clean gain and tonal control at the very front of the signal chain. Built around the same technology as the CL‑Z, it adds direct instrument input capability and expanded gain staging, making it equally at home with guitars, basses, and keyboards, as well as mics: It's ideal for maximising the performance of dynamic, ribbon, and tube microphones, and won't colour the signal unless the user deliberately chooses to. Which they can, of course: The killer feature of the CL-Z and CL-Zi models is the selectable input impedance, ranging from 150 ohms to 15 kOhms, which lets users dial in the input's character, from tight and focused to full‑bodied and rich. A switchable high-pass filter enables further sound shaping. Manufactured in the USA – like all Cloud Microphone's products – the CL-Zi combines a space-saving, intuitive design with a reliable solid steel housing. All this makes the CL-Zi suitable for both studio recording and demanding stage or touring environments.
)
For home studios and pros
Suitable for both home studios and professional environments, the Cloudlifter CL‑Zi Mic Activator naturally and reliably boosts low‑output dynamic and ribbon microphones as well as passive instruments, 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 used with microphones or connected directly to passive instruments, and whether feeding a mixing desk, a dedicated microphone preamp, or an ordinary audio interface, the CL‑Zi delivers consistent results anywhere phantom power is available.
)
Safe and sound
The CL‑Zi Mic Activator features a combo XLR/6.3mm input and an XLR output, both 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‑Zi requires phantom power from the downstream microphone preamp to operate. However, it blocks that phantom power from reaching the connected source (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.
)
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 and standalone DI boxes, the Cloudlifter CL‑Zi Activator is ideally suited to passive instruments that demand clean gain and precise front‑end control. Electric guitars and basses with passive pickups, vintage synths and keyboards, and other Hi‑Z sources benefit from direct connection and noise‑free amplification, while the variable impedance control allows their tonal character to be shaped at the very start of the signal chain. Equally, the CL‑Zi is an excellent choice for podcasters, YouTubers, and other voice content creators looking to get the most out of low‑output dynamic or ribbon microphones. Whether connected to a mixing desk, a dedicated microphone preamp, or an audio interface with limited headroom, it delivers consistent results wherever phantom power is available – a versatile solution for a broad range of applications, boosting and shaping signals without unnecessary complexity.
