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.

XLR Mic Input    Select Impedance: 150 Ohms to 15 Kilohms    HPF Variable from 20 Hz to 200 Hz    +12 or +25 dB Gain Settings    Increases Gain Before Feedback Ratio    Ideal for Long Cable Runs    Requires Only Phantom Power to Operate    Use with Low-Output Mics, Noisy Preamps    Balanced 6' XLR Cable, Silver Contacts    Balanced 20' XLR Cable, Silver Contacts

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 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

• 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

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. Can I use this shock mount with either the Blue Encore 200 or the Rode M3?

A: Compatibility:For smaller diameter microphones such as pencil-style condenser mics, most dynamic or condenser handheld mics and some cylindrical shaped ribbon mics.Both mics should work with this mount.

Q: 2. What are the dimensions of the desk surface?

A: According to Onstage, Desktop 43.25 x 23.5 with usable/open space depth of 13 7/8 . Top Shelf will be 38 7/8 x 16 7/8 .

Q: 3. What are the specs on the tires? Tube/tubeless? Diameters?

A: The length is extendable from 30 to a very long 52", providing the space for some of your largest gear. The wheels are large enough to support the payload, with the front casters at 8" and the back wheels 10". These wheels do not have tubes.

Q: 4. I'm looking at the Cloudlifter CL-1, CL-2 (2-channel), the CL-4 (4-channel 1-up rackmount) and this CL-Z. I understand the value of a switchable high-pass filter (removing low-end rumble, etc.), but I don't understand the value of variable impedance, especially since the CL-Z appears to add a potentiometer to the signal path. Does the "knob" allow you to "tune" the mic to what sounds best to you? What are the physics behind the "Z"? Thanks for your help!

A: Each mic will have it's own resistance rating that will sound best. By being able to adjust it you can fine tune the Cloud Lifter to sound as best as it can with each mic, instead of a one size fits all option. You can also use it creatively to create sounds the mic normally would not be able to do.

Q: 5. What kind of adapter do you need to attach a Rode NTG3 shotgun mic?

A: You can use a shock mount like the Rycote INV-7 InVision Microphone Suspension for Stand and Boompole Mounting (B&H # RYINV7) to mount the Rode NTG3. The shock mount has a 3/8" thread (for boompoles and light stands) while the On-Stage mic stand has a 5/8" thread (standard size for US style microphone stands), so you will need to use a thread adapter like the Auray AD-5838-B 5/8"-27 Female to 3/8"-16 Male Mic Stand Adapter (B&H # AUAD5838B). This setup will do the job well.

Q: 6. Does it come with wheels?

A: No, the On-Stage Utility Cart Tray for UTC Series does not come with wheels; you would need to purchase the On-Stage UTC2200 Utility Cart.

Q: 7. What's the maximum height of the stand itself, not the boom pole?

A: The maximum height of the On-Stage SB9600 base is 80", and the boom extends to 89", so the maximum elevation of anything mounted on the stand should be close to 165" with more reach available with the 7" boom extension. Due to the shape of the stand, maximum mounting height would depend on the boom angle and how you manage to balance your microphone, but that would be a rough estimate for a best-case scenario.

Q: 8. What is the folded length?

A: The stand is 44-inches when folded up, but the boom portion is 82-inches. If you are looking for a more mobile option that collapses to a smaller size, you may consider the Impact Multiboom Light Stand and Reflector Holder (13'), BH #IMLSRH. This light stand is only 40-inches when folded up, and can be used as a mic boom, with the addition of a thread adapter, such as the Impact Female 1/4"-20 to Male 3/8"-16 Thread Adapter, BH #IMCA109.

Q: 9. What is the thread size of this stand?

A: The On-Stage SB9600 features a 5/8 threading.

Q: 10. (4) Threaded Lugs screws on a 5/8” -27 threading for Mics. Unscrew it, what size/threading is that male lug?

A: The four threaded lugs on the On-Stage MY900 Ceiling Bar for Microphones and Lights (46.5") are 5/8"-27.