Cloud Microphones CLZ - 1 channel with Vari-Z impedance control

I didn't see too many reviews for this product so I was a little unsure. It works tremendously well, almost like magic considering my signal originates with a USB 2.0 audio interface (Steinberg UR22), so, NO AC is being used from the Steinberg, but it has phantom power, which powers this unit. It is UNBELIEVABLE how much gain I am getting, and how much noticeable improvement results from my Rode Promaster, I rarely turn the dial on my UR past the halfway mark, whereas before it was just barely getting the job done at 100%. The extra features on this unit are nice to have, and though I can hear the difference at the extreme ends of the center wheel, there is more experimenting to be done, but it is nice knowing I have the versatility to use this same module with other microphones, even if the exact differences in sound might be difficult to perceive, in order to optimize the signal. Build quality is exceptional, and the lifetime warranty is nice to have. Tremendous product from a great company!

Love it. Have a Heil PR-30B that I use for broadcasting that needed some tone adjustment and after switching from the basic cloudlifter to this, the change is perfect. With the APF setting enabled I was able to finally get the right amount of pickup for my voice and volume level while the APF Switch improved my sound clarity and consistency which was an issue I'd had with that mic long before mostly due to its wide frequency pickup range The APF Setting eliminates this and keeps the tone noce and consistent. A perfect buy for Broadcasters using certain mics. I Found that vocal mics with built in bassrolloff seemed not to need more than a standard cloudlifter.

After 5 years, I give up. Thought there would be special magic and versatility by spending the extra money for the seemingly fabulous fine-tuning/enhancing voodoo "mojo" knob and switches. First sign of possible "mistake! wasted money!" was the inexplicably nebulous nature of the nice smooth Control Knob: adjusts impedance AND simultaneously the bass roll off/tonal balance when that high-pass switch is engaged? Huh? Found the main effect was introducing varying degrees of Additional hum and buzz with a little added RF/ambient Hiss to the signal. Careful orientation far from everything else helps, but still. NONE of that unwanted noise is heard through the basic CL-1 and CL-2 boxes I absolutely love. Not to mention they just sound as good and clean as can be, without variation or exception, no matter what Dynamic/Ribbon element mic is plugged in. Other "red flag" I should have picked up on: the "cute" level pad switch labeled "Max" and "More". So WTF is that supposed to mean: You switch between "More than straight mic output" with the option to go all the way to Maximum capability? Or is average boosted output called "Max", and you have the option to add even "More"? Yeah, you can figure it out by listening to the difference, but it's still hyperbolic kitschy BS labeling for a serious purely plain utility pro audio tool. Anyway - don't waste your money. Just get a regular Cloudlifter box - it's great. And solidly reliable. Or maybe spend a bit more for the new Royer non-powered mic signal booster, which I'm about to do, because I trust the company for ultimate quality. Not that there's a thing wrong with a CL-1 or 2. But most likely the Royer R-DB20 for a bit more will actually perform up to the excellence specs promised by this lousy overpriced CL-Z nonsense box. I'll be happy if it's only slightly more excellent than a plain ol' Cloudlifter.

I had bought the CL-1 to make better use of a ribbon mic that had been collecting dust in my mic cabinet. I like the sound enough to take a chance on the CL-Z, and I'm glad I did. The flexibility of being able to vary the impedance, as well as the hi-pass filter gives a much wider, useable range of tones.

I am an amateur musician and for years have been trying to get that 'present' sound when recording vocals. I have been frustrated because even with very good mics and DA interface I couldn't quit get there. Until now! I have only made a few recordings with this, but it did the trick. It's really good and it could't be easier to use.