12 best mic preamps with dynamic

Mic preamps with dynamic range capabilities are audio equipment designed to amplify and improve the quality of microphone signals. Here's what you should know about them:

  1. Microphone Preamps: A microphone preamp, often referred to as a mic preamp, is an electronic device used to amplify the low-level audio signals from microphones. These signals are typically weak and need to be boosted before they can be processed, recorded, or played through speakers.

  2. Dynamic Range: Dynamic range refers to the difference between the loudest and quietest parts of an audio signal. In the context of mic preamps, a high dynamic range means that the preamp can capture and reproduce a wide range of sound levels without introducing distortion or noise.

  3. Importance of Dynamic Range: A mic preamp with good dynamic range is essential for capturing audio accurately, especially in situations where there are significant variations in sound levels. This is common in music recording, live sound reinforcement, and broadcasting.

  4. Low Noise: Mic preamps with high dynamic range often have low noise floors.This means they introduce minimal hiss or background noise, allowing for clean and transparent amplification of audio signals.

  5. Applications: Mic preamps with dynamic range capabilities are used in various professional audio applications, including studio recording, live sound engineering, podcasting, and broadcasting. They are also essential for capturing the nuances of musical instruments and vocals.

  6. Types of Mic Preamps: There are various types of mic preamps available, including standalone units, channel strips, and built-in preamps in audio interfaces and mixers. Some high-end audio interfaces and standalone preamp units are known for their exceptional dynamic range performance.

  7. Adjustable Gain: Most mic preamps allow you to adjust the gain level, which determines how much the incoming microphone signal is amplified. This flexibility is essential for optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio and preventing clipping (distortion) during recording.

  8. Digital Preamps: Some mic preamps also include digital features, such as analog-to-digital conversion and digital outputs, making them versatile and suitable for modern digital recording setups.

  9. Brand Variations: Various audio equipment manufacturers produce mic preamps with different specifications and price ranges. Popular brands in this category include Universal Audio, Focusrite, API, Neve, and more.

In summary, mic preamps with dynamic range capabilities are crucial components in professional audio setups. They ensure that microphone signals are accurately amplified with minimal noise and distortion, making them a fundamental tool for high-quality audio recording and reproduction in various applications, from music production to live sound reinforcement.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best mic preamps with dynamic on the market
  

TRITON AUDIO FetHead in-Line Microphone Preamp

Triton Audio

Based on 507 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The FetHead from TritonAudio is a low-noise, in-line microphone preamplifier that provides improved sound for ribbon and dynamic microphones. The electronics are housed in a metal chassis with a balanced 3-pin female XLR input and a balanced 3-pin male XLR output. It is suitable for use at home, in the studio, on tour, and more. FetHead's circuit uses phantom power but shields it from the input and the microphone's output, providing protection to the microphone. Attach FetHead to a balanced microphone cable and plug it straight into the microphone. Switch on phantom power and enjoy clean gain. This works with any microphone.

User questions & answers

Question: I have a shure sm57 that tends to be quiet when recording through my usb interface. Will this give a stronger signal
Answer: Yes, it typically sees an increase of 26Db of boost in Gain. Be sure to drastically drop the input of your interface to where it’s only around 25% - 30% volume. No joke, your mic will be coming in hot. Also make sure your interface has phantom power. Cheers!
Question: Which end of the preamp goes to the microphone and which end to the cable
Answer: On all images i saw at online stores, i see that the top end goes to the microphone, & the bottom go to the cable.
Question: The k6 option is expensive can I used this for the sennheiser instead
Answer: Currently using it with sennheiser e935 here. It works really great!
Question: Why does it say it’s for condenser microphones in the description but shows dynamic mics in the pictures
Answer: The Fethead Phantom is for condenser microphones because it supplies phantom power to condenser mics that need it. The other version of this product, just a plain Fethead, does not supply 48 V. That is the version you would use for dynamic or ribbon mics. Though it may be possible for some microphones to use either one, I would not recommend it. Use the version of the Fethead that is intended for your particular type of microphone, condenser or dynamic. I have both, and I recommend both of them for the appropriate type of microphone. They do a really good job of adding gain with very little to no noise.

Triton Audio FetHead Germanium Microphone Preamp

Triton Audio

Based on 22 reviews Check latest price

Product description

FetHead Germanium is a high quality, in-line microphone preamplifier. It provides a punchy and direct, ‘larger than life’ germanium sound for ribbon and dynamic microphones, adding classy Germanium harmonics. Sounding full and rich it is reminiscent of much higher priced vintage gear, making FetHead Ge's desirable coloration a really great addition to (Interface) preamps which sound rather neutral. Germanium transistors were widely used in earliest transistor designs by Neve, EMI, Telefunken, and Fairchild, and have developed a reputation for a decidedly vintage mojo that remains sought after today. We created a novel hybrid circuit that consists of low noise JFets and a hand-selected ‘new old stock’ germanium transistor to take full advantage of the "Germanium" sound and at the same time achieve the same sonic quality we are known for.



Some ribbon microphone do not tolerate phantom power. FetHead Germanium circuit uses 48v phantom power but shields it from the microphone, your microphone is protected.



Box Contains



    Triton Audio FetHead Germanium Microphone Preamp

  • For Ribbon and Dynamic microphones
  • Easy install 2 clicks and done


  • For Ribbon and Dynamic microphones
  • Great addition to neutral sounding preamps
  • 29dB amplification
  • New old stock Germanium transistor
  • Easy install - 2 clicks and done

User questions & answers

Question: What is the difference with this germanium version? is this useful only for musical instruments? i will only do voice podcasting with shure sm58 mic
Answer: Yes I bought satin black
Question: Will this work for an Audiotechnica AT2035 for voice work
Answer: Yes, with all Bluetooth receivers which support the A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile). This applies to almost all devices available on the market. Best, Pro-Ject Audio Systems

TRITON AUDIO FetHead Filter In-Line Microphone Preamp

Triton Audio

Based on 48 reviews Check latest price

Product description

TRITON AUDIO FETHEAD FILTER Overview



The FetHead Filter from TritonAudio is a low-noise, in-line microphone preamplifier with a built-in 6 dB/octave high-pass filter, which has a corner frequency of 220 Hz. It can be used with microphones that exhibit an excessive proximity effect like long-motor ribbon mics and dynamic microphones. The electronics are housed in a metal chassis with a balanced 3-pin female XLR input and a balanced 3-pin male XLR output. It is suitable for use at home, in the studio, on tour, and more.



Attach FetHead to a balanced microphone cable and plug it straight into the microphone. Switch on phantom power and enjoy clean gain. This works with any ribbon or dynamic microphone.



  • Low-noise Class-A JFet amplifier
  • 22 dB of amplification
  • Single-ended amplifier topology
  • Balanced input and output
  • Significant headroom
  • 24 to 48V phantom power




  • For Ribbon and Dynamic Microphones
  • 27dB of clean amplification
  • 6dB per octave high pass filter
  • Reduce extreme proximity effect
  • Easy install - 2 clicks and done

User questions & answers

Question: Will it work on condenser microphone
Answer: Mine had a lot of pops and cracks. I backed the needle off slightly from the recommended amount and it cleared right up.
Question: Does this work with a goxlr
Answer: If you want to play 78's, and you have a lot of them, you should invest in a cartridge designed for 78s. This TT can play 78 like others have said, the problem with this TT is that it does not have a removable headshell, so you can not easily swap out cartridges. you have to do a complete geometry set up each time you change cartridges as well as rebalance the tone arm and adjust the tracking force. the Audio Techinca LP120 is a good deck that plays 78's and has removable head shells. not as good as this deck, but still pretty good.

Klark teknik Microphone Preamp (MIC BOOSTER CT 1)

Based on 39 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Compact dynamic microphone booster with high-quality preamp.

  • Dynamic mic booster adds extra gain to your sound
  • High-quality preamp provides up to +25 dB of gain
  • Phantom powered with no need for external power supply
  • Works with almost any dynamic or passive ribbon microphone
  • Rugged, road-worthy construction for years of dependable use

User questions & answers

Question: Is this safe to use on a dynamic microphone that does not use phantom power? Does this pass-thru phantom power to the microphone
Answer: This requires phantom power to work but It does not pass phantom through. Best used with condensers that take batteries. Like the NTG2 or sennheiser mke 600

Product features

MIC BOOSTER CT 1

  • Dynamic mic booster adds extra gain to your sound
  • High-quality preamp provides up to +25 dB of gain
  • Phantom powered with no need for external power supply

MIC BOOSTER CT 1

Whenever you need more headroom for any microphone in your podcast setup, recording studio or live rig, the MIC BOOSTER CT 1 is exactly the tool you need to get a crisp and clean microphone signal in a robust, compact and simple to use package.

Dynamic and Powerful

The CT 1 can work with almost any dynamic or passive ribbon microphone. Its high-quality preamp adds an incredible +25dB of gain to your mic pre’s which increases the headroom and allows you to dial in the perfect mic level at a much lower gain setting at the mixer thus leading to a cleaner sound.

Compact and Simple

The simplicity and size of the CT 1 means you can easily connect it to the end of any microphone in your setup and amplify the signal right out of the mic. This minimizes the risk of any potential noise being picked up by long cable runs in between the mic and preamp. It also runs on phantom power and needs no external power source. Just plug and play!

Rugged and Road-Worthy

The MIC BOOSTER CT 1 is designed and engineered in the U.K. and is made to withstand the rigors of the road for years of dependable use.

sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite Active In-line Microphone Preamp with 28dB Gain Bundle with 2 20-FT XLR Microphone Cables and 7-Pack Cable Ties

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DM1 Dynamite Active Inline Microphone Preamplifier 

The sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite is an active inline preamp intended to be inserted between a passive ribbon or dynamic microphone and a microphone preamplifier. It can be used to deliver a robust 28 dB of gain to boost the audio signal of a passive mic, which improves the level to a preamplifier without adding noise or coloration.

With a sophisticated class-A design and high-grade FETs, the DM1 has a low self-noise. It is built with a dedicated output buffer amplifier allowing it to drive long cable runs and reduce RF interference, buzz, and hum.

Specifications:

  • For Bundling and Organizing Cables
  • Reusable Ties are Earth-Friendly
  • Familiar Hook and Loop Fastener
  • One-Piece Band Self-Attaches
  • Discreet Ties Provide Reliable Grip
  • No Cable Damage or Residue

 

Item Includes:

SE Electronics DM1 Dynamite Active Inline Microphone Preamplifier

Limited 2-Year Warranty

XLR Mic Cable, 20 Feet

This XLR cable is a balanced & shielded 3-conductor audio cable with 3-Pin XLR male and female connectors on each end, specially designed to connect your microphone to an audio interface, mixer, or preamp. It is a professional balanced & shielded 3-conductor audio cable.

3.5 L Wrap Hook-&-Loop Cable Tie 

Forget about the headache of damaged cable insulation or sticky residue from twisty ties, tape or any other substitutes. Just grab a 7-pack of Mini Cable Wraps. These handy multi-purpose ties are perfect for organizing cables into one clutter-free bundle. 

  • DM1 OVERVIEW: The DM1 Dynamite Active Inline Microphone Preamplifier from sE Electronics is an active inline preamp intended to be inserted between a passive ribbon or dynamic microphone and a microphone preamplifier (sold separately). It can be used to deliver a robust 28 dB of gain to boost the audio signal of a passive mic, which improves the level to a preamplifier without adding noise or coloration.
  • LOW SELF NOISE: With a sophisticated class-A design and high-grade FETs, the DM1 has a low self-noise. It is built with a dedicated output buffer amplifier allowing it to drive long cable runs and reduce RF interference, buzz, and hum. Additionally, the DM1 Dynamite Active Inline Microphone Preamplifier offers a roadworthy, slim, all-metal design ensuring reliable operation for on-stage applications in difficult environments.
  • REJECTS ELECTRICAL INTERFERENCES - The rugged metal housing of DM1 Dynamite provides efficient rejection of noise and electrical interference. You can use the mic on stage or for studio recordings.
  • INCLUDES: sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite In-line Mic Preamplifier. 2 20-Foot Balanced XLR Cables Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female). 7-Pack of Hook-&-Loop Cable Ties.
  • PLEASE NOTE: Please note that the sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite 1 requires 48V phantom power provided by a preamp/mixer/audio interface so be sure to understand that before purchasing.

Cloud Microphones - Cloudlifter - CL-2 Dynamic/Ribbon Mic Activator Inline Preamp - Handmade in the USA

Cloud Microphones

Based on 101 reviews Check latest price

Product description

2-Channel +25dB in-line microphone preamplifier.

  • Ultra-Transparent World Class Design
  • Ideal For Low Output Passive Dynamic/Ribbon Microphones
  • Turns Phantom Power into +25db Inline Pre-Amplification
  • Free lifetime limited warranty for parts and labor, with registration
  • A Must-Have Tool for Dynamics and Ribbons

User questions & answers

Question: I see that it has 2 mic inputs. would this be useful for a 2 person podcast with 2 sm7bs
Answer: That would be a great use for it
Question: does it work with guitars
Answer: I suppose it could work, but I don't see the benefit of doing so; perhaps it might even introduce distortion.It is designed for low-output dynamic microphones and ribbon microphones. It takes XLR input; not 1/4" jack input.It doesn't have variable gain.It has just 3000 ohm mic impedence.It is designed to add additional gain for existing pre-amps that should already have enough gain for a guitars.Disregarding the above, isn't typical instrument output levels around -20 dBu? The Cloudlifter provides 20 to 25-db of gain, which is designed to bring microphones that output -60 db up to around -40-db; With a guitar already around -20 db, a cloudlifter might push signal output over line level -- I would suspect that there might be distortion as a result. I wouldn't even recommend the Cloudlifter for most condenser microphones for this reason, as they too have a loud output already.Ultimately, I don't know for sure, but I suspect the answer from most people will be no.
Question: How many inputs in this mic Preamp
Answer: It's a 2-channel "pre-pre amp" It is not a substitute for a mic preamp. It is used in conjunction with 2 channels of mic preamps which can supply phantom power to this "pre-pre". It is designed to add an additional 25 dB of gain which is useful if one's actual pream has only moderate gain and you are using low output ribbon or dynamic mics. It will not work with a phantom-powered condenser mic or an "active" ribbon mic which require phantom power.
Question: What type of xlr cables should i get to use this? i have a shure sm7b. female to male? the from the cloudlifter to a scarlett 18i8 what cable to get
Answer: 2 normal XLR mic cables will do it. One from the mic to the cloud lifter and one from the cloud lifter to the interface. The cloud lifter is designed to sit in between the mic and the interface. It’s powered by phantom power from the interface.

Acxico 3Pcs AD828 Stereo Dynamic Microphone Preamplifier Board Pickup Module DC 3.8V-15V MIC Preamp Module

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Note:

The on-board resistor R5 is adjusted by the magnification. If the magnification is not suitable, the resistance of R5 can be adjusted. It can be selected from 5k to 150k. The larger the resistance, the higher the magnification. If the plug-in resistor is used, the original chip resistor can be removed, and the plug-in resistor is soldered to the reserved pad on both ends of the original chip resistor.



We highly appreciate all customers opinions to improve the selling, also if anything you unsatisfied, please contact us for probable best solution.



Package Includes: 3pcs

  • The piezoelectric ceramic piece is sensitive to the sound wave vibration transmitted by the solid, and is not sensitive to the acoustic vibration of the gas, which can effectively reduce the environmental noise and avoid the whistling caused by the self-excitation. Can be used for guitar, erhu and other musical instruments.
  • Ultra-small volume dynamic microphone preamplifier board,two-channel design,suitable for a single lithium battery-powered,using AD828 fever op amp chip,suitable for low voltage power supply (3.8-15V)
  • If you only used one channel,the other channel needs to short-circuit the input with GND,To avoid interference with the signal crosstalk.
  • Working voltage:DC3.8V-15V.This microphone amplifier board without power regulator circuit,can only use the battery or linear power supply,can not use switching power supply,otherwise there will be interference.
  • Size:2.5x1.6cm/0.98x0.63inch

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with Analog Compression, 8 In/8 Out

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Scarlett OctoPre dynamic is the ideal way of adding eight extra mic/line inputs to your DAW. It also offers eight balanced line outputs, sourced directly from their respective mic preamps for use on stage in a live environment. Octopre dynamic features eight channels of Focusrite 2nd generation Scarlett preamps and a soft-knee VCA compressor on every channel. It lets you control the dynamics of all your input signals with an easy-to-use single-knob analog compressor on every channel. There's a transparent mode for subtle compression plus a "more" button that doubles the ratio for compression with effect. Scarlett OctoPre dynamic is ideal for expanding any high quality, multi-channel recording system. With its high-headroom mic, line and dual instrument inputs and analog compression, it's ideal for tracking drums as well guitars, keyboards, vocals and more. Meanwhile the eight outputs give you the option of expanding your analog outputs over and above the Scarlett OctoPre. Interested in what headphones are compatible with Scarlett? Search 'Headphones' on the Focusrite help centre for more information.

  • Eight natural-sounding 2nd generation Scarlett mic preamps, eight balanced line inputs, and dual front panel instrument inputs
  • Flexible analogue compression on every channel. Two high-headroom instrument inputs will handle high output guitar pickups
  • Focusrite precision AD/DA conversion up to sample rates of 192 kHz
  • Eight balanced line outputs - ideal for live use; Simple ADAT connectivity via optical cables
  • Includes Red 2 & Red 3 AAX, AU & VST Plug-in Suite, and Softube Time & Tone Bundle as a free download upon registration; Focusrite now offers a 3-Year Warranty on this and all other Focusrite products.

User questions & answers

Question: Can the Octopre be chained to the Octopre Dynamic for a combined 16 record able channels
Answer: It can be used with 110V and 230/240volts. There are 3 adapters included: A, C and G. Best, Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Question: how to set this up with a audio interface since the pre dosent have output
Answer: /Duration 0:07Loaded: 0.00%Stream Type LIVESeek to live, currently playing liveLIVERemaining Time -0:07 Playback Rate1xChaptersChaptersDescriptionsdescriptions off, selectedCaptionscaptions off, selectedAudio TrackFullscreenThis is a modal window. .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : none; } .noScriptNotDisplayExpander { display : none; } .noScriptDisplayLongText { display : block; } Video/Pic attached. The specific power supply model can variate, but the adapter are always the same three. From left to right: … see more Video/Pic attached. The specific power supply model can variate, but the adapter are always the same three. From left to right: A: North America, Mexico G: UK, Some Asian and African countries C: Europe, Russia, Some African countries Best, Pro-Ject Audio Systems see less Video/Pic attached. The specific power supply model can variate, but the adapter are always the same three. From left to right: A: North America, Mexico G: UK, Some Asian and African countries C: Europe, Russia, Some African countries Best, Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Question: Can I use this to play four separate channels from my Macbook
Answer: Yes! Best, Pro-Ject Audio Systems
Question: Can i record noise by connecting it with a philips microphone directly? i have to tune the gain to its maximum so that i can hear the sound recorded
Answer: Yes the evo does come in a green finish.

Product features

EIGHT SCARLETT MIC PRES

Building on the features of the Scarlett OctoPre, Scarlett OctoPre Dynamic brings you the ultimate Scarlett expansion with eight Scarlett mic preamps and analogue compression on every input channel providing a musical, soft-knee style of compression for more subtle control of your dynamics.

Samson R21 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone for Live Performance and Studio Recording (3 Pack) Bundle with 3-Pack of Blucoil 10-FT Balanced XLR Cables, and 5-Pack of Reusable Cable Ties

blucoil

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Samson R21 Cardioid Dynamic Microphone



Get your money's worth with Samson's 3-Pack R21 Dynamic Microphone deal! This mic offers a linear frequency response of 80Hz to 12kHz for superior sound reproduction. It can be used for both studio recording and live performance as it can withstand high sound pressure levels. The microphone uses a tight cardioid polar pattern to reduce feedback problems and effectively reject signals from the sides and rear. The special shock-mounted element minimizes handling noise.



TECHNICAL SPECS:

  • Microphone Type: Dynamic
  • Polar Pattern: Cardioid
  • Frequency Response: 80Hz~12kHz
  • Output Impedance: 500 Ohm
  • Sensitivity: -53dBV/Pa (1.8mv/Pa)
  • Connector: 3-pin gold-plated balanced XLR male
  • Dimensions: 2.13" head length, 4.56" main unit length
  • Weight: 217g


Also Comes With:



Blucoil 10-FT Balanced XLR Cable

The 10-foot Blucoil cable interconnects your microphone to an audio interface, mixer, or preamp. It is made with premium Male-to-Female Neutrik-equivalent Zinc Alloy connectors that are protected with a high-density PVC jacket. The 92% shielding protects your audio signal from EMI and RFI. The OFC wire ensures that the best possible conductivity is provided. The Blucoil Balanced XLR Cable also avoids unwanted lost signals or degeneration.



Get this bundle today and receive 5-Pack of Blucoil Reusable Velcro Cable Ties!

  • WITHSTANDS HIGH SPL - Samson designed the R21 microphone to withstand high sound pressure levels so you can use it for studio recording and live performance such as DJing, FOH, and more.
  • REPRODUCES EXCELLENT SOUNDS - This mic features a smooth, flat frequency response of 80Hz~12kHz that delivers exceptionally crystal clear sound.
  • MINIMIZES HANDLING NOISE - The R21 microphone's tight cardioid pattern reduces feedback problems and cancels out sound signals coming from the sides and rear of the mic capsule. Its unique shock-mounted element significantly lessens the handling noise.
  • CONNECT WITH BLUCOIL AUDIO - The 10ft Balanced XLR Cable from Blucoil composes of 24 AWG wires and 98% braided shield, which blocks RFI and EMI noise in your signal. The cable easily connects your microphones to preamps, recorders, mixers, and audio interfaces.
  • INCLUDES - 3-Pack of Samson R21 Cardioid Dynamic Microphones. 3-Pack of Blucoil Audio 10-Feet Balanced XLR Cables - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers and Pro Devices. Blucoil 5-Pack of Reusable Velcro Cable Ties.

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator for Dynamic, Ribbon, and Tube Microphone (2-Pack) Bundle with Blucoil 20-FT Balanced XLR Cables (2-Pack)

  • OPTIMIZES THE SOUND OF DYNAMIC AND RIBBON MICS - The CL-1 Cloudlifter is a plug-and-play inline device that converts phantom power from a mixer or preamp into +25db of ultra-clean gain.
  • ENSURES ZERO TONE COLORATION - CL-1's discreet JFET circuitry boosts the audio signal without adding any color to your microphone's natural sound. You can hear more of the actual mic itself.
  • PROVIDES REDUCED FEEDBACK - You can improve the gain before feedback ratio with the Cloudlifter. CL-1 also cuts the line noise on long cable runs.
  • BOOSTS THE SIGNAL AT THE SOURCE - Cloudlifter unleashes the true sound of low output dynamic mics and raises the signal of quiet instrument sources such as acoustic guitars and percussions.
  • INCLUDES - 2-Pack of Cloud Microphones CL-1 Cloudlifter 1 Channel Microphone Activator. 2-Pack of Blucoil 10-Foot Balanced XLR Cables - Premium Series 3-Pin Cable for Microphones, Speakers, and Pro Devices (Male-to-Female).

Product features

Instant Noise-Free Amplification

The original Cloudlifter CL-1 offers up to +25dB of ultra-clean gain to low-output microphones. Your dynamic or ribbon mic pre-works more efficiently without adding any tonal coloration thanks to the Cloudlifter's active ultra-clean gain. Hear more of your microphone's character with deep clarity without the unwanted noise.

Active Ultra-Clean Gain

The CL-1 Cloudlifter helps your low-output microphone come to life. It provides up to +25dB of ultra-clean gain for dynamic and ribbon mics.

Zero Tone Coloration

Cloud Microphones use patented discrete JFET circuitry in the CL-1 to preserve your audio source's natural sound. T​he Cloudlifter cuts through the mix on stage with the increased gain, thus reducing feedback.

Mic Compatibility

CL-1 turns phantom power into clear gain without passing it through to your delicate ribbon mics. You can also use the Cloudlifter with condenser mics as long as there's a dedicated external power supply or battery powering your microphone.

Plug-and-Play

Simply plug your microphone in the XLR input and connect a mixer or preamp to the output. CL-1 does the rest.

Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 Mic Activator

Cloud Microphones

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1-Channel +25dB in-line microphone preamplifier.

  • Uses Phantom power to give passive mics (mainly used for dynamic and ribbon mics) up to +25dB without passing Phantom power on to mic
  • Easy to use self contained design requires only Phantom power to work. **Does not use Phantom power to power mics
  • Recommended for use with all passive dynamic microphones
  • Compatible with tube, battery, or power supply driven microphones – safe for all passive ribbons with no transfer of Phantom
  • Does not power the mics themselves using Phantom power (that is not what this is designed for). instead, place the cloudlifter at the front of your dynamic mic, then hit it with Phantom Power and your basic mic (even an SM58 style mic) will shine like never before

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone used this with a heil pr-40 microphone
Answer: Hi Jeremy...Have not used my cloudlifter with the Heil pr-40.... but since it is a dynamic mic the cloudlifter might just be what the doctor ordered. As you probably know... the unit is great for a 20-25 db boost for mics that would be noisy when you crank the gain/trim pot on a preamp or mixer. I had that experience with an RE-20... noisy as can be when cranking the mixer gain... but clean as a whistle when hooked to the Cloudlifter. Just so you know my signal chain is Neumann TLM 102 mic into an Aphex 230 pre... through a small mackie mixer... into a Presonus firebox interface and finally a PC running Adobe Audition CS6. I have the gain on the pre set at about 2 o'clock and the output level turned all the way down. That means my initial record level is about -16 db and then I just boost it about 5 bd... do my eq and compression processing... then normalize to -3 db. This gives me a pristine noise floor. Hope this helps in spite of the fact I have not have the direct pr-40 through cloudlifter experience.Regards
Question: Is this better used for condensor or dynamic microphones
Answer: The CL-1 is useful only for dynamic and ribbon microphones, and will not work at all with condensers. The reason for this is that the 48v phantom power supplied from a USB interface, or a mixer, is used by the CL-1 to generate ~25dB of very clean gain. However, this means that the power doesn't get distributed further down the line. If your mic requires phantom power, the CL-1 is useless. However, if you're using a dynamic, the CL-1 is WONDERFUL, it helps generate very clean gain from almost any source. Definitely recommended for dynamics and ribbon microphones.
Question: Will this do anything for me if my preamps are already pretty great? I'm using an SM7b
Answer: The answer hinges on your definition of "pretty great". What you need from a preamp when you're using an SM7b is plenty of quiet gain. There are many really great preamps that don't have that. This mic needs so much boost that you're going to bring out the noise in just about every pre. The SM7b is a great mic, but I would simply not record it without a Cloud Lifter regardless of the quality of the pre.
Question: Do i need 2 xlr cables for this to work? or will just one cable do
Answer: Yes, you will need two XLR cables. The CloudLifter CL-1 is intended to be used with both a microphone and a mixer, or a mic and n XLR/USB interface. The CL-1 takes the 48v phantom power from a mixer or interface and turns it into around 25dB of very clean gain. It's intended for use with ribbon microphones, like the Fathead, or dynamics, like the SM58; if you are using a condenser microphone, like the NT1-A, then the CL-1 won't work, since it DOES NOT transfer 48v phantom power to the microphone. In my setup, I've used an SM58, going into the CloudLifter, then going into the FocusRite Scarlett 2i2 XLR/USB interface. (You may want to use the Scarlett Solo, if you only intend to use one mic. It's got the same preamp, but is slightly cheaper.) The end result is very clear, loud, and not at all noisy. I hope this helps you out!

sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite 1-Channel Active Inline Preamp

SE Electronics

Based on 163 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GearNuts has a toolbox essential for all recording and front-of-house engineers. If you've shied away from using low-output mics you love the sound of because you don't have access to a high-gain preamp, well, those days are over! The sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite is an active in-line preamp that boosts the signal of your passive ribbon and dynamic mics by a robust 28dB. Inserted between a passive ribbon or dynamic microphone and a mic preamplifier, the DM1 will also reduce the possibility of interference, while providing a healthy level to your preamp — without any added noise or coloration. Get optimum performance from the mics you love with the sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite!

  • Active In-line Preamp for Passive Dynamic
  • Ribbon Mics with 28dB of Gain

User questions & answers

Question: would this work with the shure sm7b? and do you need a cloudlifter as well
Answer: should work...needs phantom power....I have no experience with that mic but other reviews mentioned it works with that mic....used with SM57 and Sennheiser 609 where you need some signal boost
Question: Does it need phantom power? will it work with sennheiser mke
Answer: The sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite 1 requires 48V phantom power provided by a preamp/mixer/audio interface. It only works with ribbon/dynamic passive microphones and incompatible with phantom-powered microphones such as condenser and active ribbon microphones.
Question: Can it work for sennheiser ew100 G4 wireless mic
Answer: No. It works with wired mics only.
Question: can you hide this or does it have to be plugged straight into the mic? for example I have the shure sm7b and was wondering if it would be seen from it
Answer: You can connect the sE Electronics DM1 Dynamite anywhere in the chain. You can plug it like Shure sm7b → XLR cable → sE DM1 → XLR cable → audio interface. Please make sure that you connect DM1's XLR cable into a phantom powered microphone input. Otherwise, it might not work or cause damage.

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