The
Mic Booster CT 1
from
Klark Teknik
is a pocket-sized microphone preamplifier that can deliver up to 25dB gain. It is suitable for most types of dynamic microphones (passive ribbons, plunger coils) and is characterized by its clean and high-quality sound. Despite its low price, the CT 1 is equipped with a sturdy metal housing and durable connectors. Operation via phantom power.
I should start by saying I am not a professional. I am a bloke, mucking about. I have not used anything to measure the noise floor or the signal to noise ratio. I just want a boost going from a cheap dynamic (Behringer XM8500) into my audio interface (Mackie Big Knob Studio).
I own a Fethead Phantom (used with a Rode Broadcaster) and wanted a similar product for dynamics. There is a dude making them on Ebay for £44. Fetheads cost around £60 new, £40 secondhand. Cloudlifters are £100+ and then there are a whole host of other products that fall somewhere between Fethead and Cloudlifter pricing.
Then I saw the CT1 for £17...... or, SEVENTEEN POUNDS. No brainer really. Took a punt and was not disappointed.
Are there any cons? Yes. The £5 postage was not pleasant.... and the unit itself cannot be plugged into the audio interface, it has to go on the back of the microphone or be in the centre of some cables (the male end does not plug directly into your interface),
Other than that.... awesome. I will be picking up another unit and am sad that I did not just buy 2, so that I could have combined postage.
If you are looking at this product thinking that it looks too good to be true..... it is not. Pull the trigger.
The first CT 1 mic booster that I purchased (elsewhere some months ago) is superb with no adverse effects. A great value useful tool.
...However the recent CT 1 purchased recently adds a faint but still noticeable chirping / clicking sound when the gain is brought to the required region for recording with my ribbon mics. I have compared the two boosters with the same equipment so am confident it is not a problem with the mic, cable or channel on the interface. This maybe a result of EMI as I normally have to use EMI shielded cables in my house to avoid picking up interference. My initial feeling is that somehow the newer CT 1 must be more susceptible to EMI.
I have 2 dynamic mics plugged into a USB audio interface. Which had to be cranked almost fully on the gain to get pretty much any sound. But then I came across these products and figured for the price it's worth a shot, so I grabbed 2. They work great now I don't need the gain on the interface cranked nearly as high & just gives me that bit more control over my mic levels. Highly recommended
An essential piece of gear to use with dynamic microphone. Improves gain and quality sound. Quite surprised how good it sounded. Yes changes your sound (for better) to a level you may need a rehearsal to get use of the change.
All at a very affordable price. Highly recommended.