The Cloudlifter CL-Z Variable Impedance Mic Activator from Cloud Microphones is a compact, single-input solution for common audio problems in the field and in the studio involving low-output passive microphones, including ribbons.
 
The CL-Z uses any standard phantom-powered mixer or microphone input device to provide up to +25 dB of clean gain, variable input impedance, and a variable high-pass filter. Having an input impedance control that is sweepable from 150 Ohms to 15 kOhms allows you to creatively load the microphone's output transformer, with the result being a wide range of new tonal variations becoming available to each mic.
 
The CL-Z improves signal-to-noise ratio and improves the performance of passive microphone signals by driving stronger, cleaner signals over longer XLR cable runs, making them ideal for broadcast, live, and studio applications. It is housed in a rugged steel enclosure which offers shielding and durability.
 
The Variable High-Pass Filtering for Proximity Effect Control
The variable high-pass filtering works in conjunction with the impedance value, allowing for even more tonal shaping and control. When engaged, the frequency cutoff is affected by the impedance setting. This allows for a sweepable frequency cutoff range from below 20 Hz to approximately 200 Hz, just by turning the "Z" knob. This can be especially useful for tonal shaping or reducing the proximity effect of a ribbon or dynamic microphone
 
The Variable Gain
The CL-Z has a two-position gain switch allowing for more gain, or the maximum gain available. Most of the time the MAX (approx. +25 dB) position will be used, however, the reduced gain setting (approx. +12 dB) may be useful in situations where the source does not require as much gain, or where more of the preamp's color from additional gain is desired
 
The Features
- Fully sweepable variable impedance loading from 150 ohms to 15 kOhms
- High-Pass Filter frequency is variable from below 20 Hz to over 200 Hz
- Dual gain settings allow for a +12 dB or +25 dB increase
- Increases gain before feedback ratio in live & public address performances
- Self-contained design requires only phantom power
​​​​​​​- Compatible with tube, battery, or power supply driven microphones
​​​​​​​- Protects any passive ribbon with no transfer of phantom
​​​​​​​- Utilizes Patent Pending Class A, Discrete JFET circuitry
- Rugged, road ready and portable, for studio, stage and broadcasting
​​​​​​​- Handcrafted entirely in the USA