Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-X
Mic Activator
- With Cinemag transformer
- 1-Channel level amplifier with up to +36 dB gain
- Suitable for ribbon microphones, tube microphones and dynamic microphones
- Operation with +48V phantom power (safe for passive ribbon microphones - no passing on of phantom power)
- Improves the signal-to-noise ratio and increases the microphone sensitivity
- +12 dB or +36 dB gain selectable via switch
- Frequency range: 5 Hz - 80,000 Hz
- Metal housing
- XLR input and output
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 120 x 49 x 49 mm
- Weight: 320 g
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Available since September 2024
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Item number 600866
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Sales Unit 1 piece(s)
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Channels 1
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Number of microphone inputs 1
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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 -
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Headphone connection No
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Level Meter No
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Design Desktop
Instant character, in-line gain
Fundamentally, the Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL‑X serves the same purpose as the other Cloudlifter devices: It pulls more usable signal from ribbon, valve, and dynamic microphones with low output levels. The crucial difference compared with models such as the CL‑1 lies in its approach to the sound: While other Cloudlifters are designed to provide the cleanest, most transparent gain possible, the CL‑X deliberately shapes the character and timbre of the signal. At the heart of this concept is a high‑quality Cinemag transformer, which doesn't just provide galvanic isolation, but also intentionally adds a sense of musicality to the mic signal. Depending on the microphone connected, the signal level, and the gain level selected, this can result in effects such as more intensity in the low‑mid range, a gentle smoothing of transients, and a subtle harmonic enrichment of the kind associated with classic transformer‑based circuits.
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Plenty of gain...
The Cloudlifter CL‑X pairs its tone-forming Cinemag transformer with an active gain stage that's purpose‑built for very quiet microphones and other signals. Unlike models such as the CL‑1, the CL‑X offers an unusually high amount of gain – up to +36dB, which is enough even for the hungriest microphones. A switch allows this boost to be reduced to +12dB instead, making it possible to bring the transformer in more subtly or to draw more gain from the downstream preamp. Passive ribbon microphones and dynamic broadcast mics with extremely low output levels benefit particularly from the generous headroom, while the lower setting is well suited to louder sources or finer tonal adjustment. Despite its one-button operation, the Cloudlifter CL‑X is a versatile tool for shaping both sound and gain, whether in the studio or in a live setting.
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...for focused functionality
A compact unit that sits directly at the microphone, the Cloudlifter CL‑X stands out among tone‑shaping devices for its focused functionality and its immediate usability. The resulting improvement in signal‑to‑noise ratio instantly delivers extra gain reserves and increased headroom – a benefit that's especially noticeable on stage, where it also helps to reduce feedback. Live vocals in particular, along with mobile recording and broadcast setups, benefit from the short, clear signal paths the CL‑X makes possible. It runs on 48V phantom power, which is intentionally prevented from reaching the microphone input: As a result, the CL‑X is well suited to use with sensitive passive ribbon microphones. Its sturdy metal housing reinforces its stage‑ready character – for situations where high gain reserves and low susceptibility to interference really matter.
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About Cloud Microphones
US manufacturer Cloud Microphones has been developing and manufacturing microphones and microphone preamps since 2009. Company founder Stephen Sank draws on a family tradition in microphone design that now spans three generations. The range includes ribbon microphones that follow in the tradition of classic RCA models, while combining this heritage with modern design and the company's own patented technologies. Alongside these sits the Cloudlifter line of preamp units. Designed as inline devices, they use the phantom power available at microphone inputs to provide clean, noise‑free signal gain for dynamic and ribbon microphones, without adding unwanted tonal colour. Cloud Microphones has built its reputation not only on the exceptional robustness of its devices, but also on the fact that all components are manufactured in the United States.
Simple, powerful, effective
With its effective blend of clean – and potentially very substantial – gain and a transformer‑based, tube-amp sound profile, the Cloudlifter CL‑X is aimed at users who want to add targeted character to their microphone signal. Voices that benefit from a sense of intimacy, broadcast speech, spoken-word podcasts – as well as louder sources like guitar and bass amps, warm‑sounding brass and woodwind, or complex acoustic instruments – all profit from the added richness, gentle smoothing, and lightly saturated low end that the Cinemag transformer brings to the signal. At the same time, the CL-X could scarcely be easier to use. Small touches such as the integrated bracket for attaching it to a mic stand, non‑slip feet and the robust build quality – made in the USA, like all Cloudlifters – underline its professional credentials. Simple, powerful, and focused, the CL‑X has a well‑defined role and carries it out brilliantly.
