SM7B + Cloudlifter + Focusrite Setup Guide
Step-by-step signal chain setup, gain staging, recommended settings, and troubleshooting for the classic SM7B audio chain.
Last updated: March 2026 | As an Amazon Associate, StreamerW earns from qualifying purchases.
The Shure SM7B + Cloudlifter CL-1 + Focusrite Scarlett is the most popular pro-level audio chain in streaming. It's what creators like xQc use (swapping the Focusrite for a GoXLR). This guide walks you through the complete setup — from physical connections to OBS gain staging.
What You'll Need
| Gear | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Microphone | Shure SM7B | ~$439 |
| Inline Preamp | Cloudlifter CL-1 | ~$125 |
| Audio Interface | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) | ~$225 |
| XLR Cables (×2) | Any decent brand (Amazon Basics works) | ~$15 each |
| Boom Arm | Rode PSA1+ (or TONOR T20 budget) | $25–$100 |
| Total | ~$855–$925 |
Signal Chain Overview
The signal flows in this order:
Why the Cloudlifter? The SM7B is a dynamic microphone that needs about 60dB of clean gain. Budget interfaces like the Scarlett 2i2 max out around 56dB and introduce noise at high gain levels. The Cloudlifter CL-1 uses phantom power from the Scarlett to add 25dB of clean gain before the signal reaches the interface, so you only need ~35dB from the Scarlett — well within its clean range.
Step-by-Step Setup
Step 1: Physical Connections
- Mount the SM7B on your boom arm
- Connect XLR cable #1 from the SM7B output to the Cloudlifter CL-1 input
- Connect XLR cable #2 from the Cloudlifter output to Input 1 on the Scarlett 2i2
- Connect the Scarlett 2i2 to your computer via USB-C
- Press the 48V phantom power button on the Scarlett (the Cloudlifter needs phantom power to operate)
⚠️ Important: Always connect all cables BEFORE enabling 48V phantom power. And always disable 48V before disconnecting cables. Hot-plugging with phantom power on can cause pops and potentially damage equipment.
Step 2: Gain Staging
- Start with the Scarlett's gain knob at 50% (12 o'clock)
- Open OBS and check your audio meter — speak at normal volume
- Adjust the Scarlett's gain until your voice peaks between -12dB and -6dB in OBS
- The gain ring on the Scarlett should glow green — if it's orange or red, turn gain down
- Position the mic 2–4 inches from your mouth, slightly off-axis (angled, not straight-on)
Step 3: SM7B Switch Settings
The SM7B has two switches on the back:
- Bass Roll-Off (high-pass filter): Turn ON if you have a deep voice or your room has low-frequency rumble. This cuts frequencies below ~400Hz, reducing boominess.
- Presence Boost: Turn ON for streaming — it adds a 5dB boost around 5kHz, making your voice cut through game audio. Most streamers leave this ON.
Step 4: OBS Audio Settings
In OBS, select the Scarlett as your audio input, then add these filters to your mic source (in this order):
- Noise Suppression — Method: RNNoise (removes constant background noise)
- Noise Gate — Close: -32dB, Open: -26dB (cuts audio when you're silent)
- Compressor — Ratio: 3:1, Threshold: -18dB, Attack: 6ms, Release: 60ms, Output Gain: 3dB
- Limiter — Threshold: -1dB (hard ceiling to prevent clipping)
For complete OBS settings including video, see our OBS Settings Guide.
Recommended Settings Summary
| Setting | Streaming | Recording |
|---|---|---|
| Input Gain (OBS) | -6dB to -3dB | -18dB to -12dB |
| Compression Ratio | 3:1 to 4:1 | 2:1 to 3:1 |
| Noise Gate Close | -32dB | -40dB |
| High-Pass Filter | 80Hz (or SM7B switch) | 60Hz |
| Presence Boost | ON (SM7B switch) | Optional |
Troubleshooting
No signal at all
- Check that 48V phantom power is enabled on the Scarlett
- Verify all XLR connections are firm (wiggle each one)
- Make sure the Scarlett is selected as the audio input in OBS/Windows
- Try swapping XLR cables to rule out a bad cable
Audio is too quiet
- Turn up the gain on the Scarlett (don't exceed 80%)
- Move closer to the mic (2–4 inches is ideal)
- Verify the Cloudlifter is in the chain and 48V is on
- Check that the Scarlett is set to "Inst" mode is OFF (should be on "Mic" mode)
Too much noise or hiss
- Lower the Scarlett gain (noise means gain is too high)
- Add RNNoise suppression in OBS
- Move the Cloudlifter closer to the mic (shorter first XLR cable)
- Try a different USB port (avoid USB hubs)
Alternative: Shure SM7dB (No Cloudlifter Needed)
In 2024, Shure released the SM7dB — the same SM7B capsule with a built-in preamp. This eliminates the need for a Cloudlifter entirely. If you're buying fresh and want the SM7B sound with a simpler chain:
SM7dB route: SM7dB (~$549) + Focusrite Scarlett Solo (~$160) + 1 XLR cable + boom arm = ~$760–$830 total. That's ~$95 less than the SM7B + Cloudlifter route, and you get a simpler setup.
Related Guides
- Best Microphones for Streaming in 2026
- Best OBS Settings for Streaming in 2026
- Best Budget Twitch Setup Under $500
- xQc's Streaming Setup (uses SM7B + GoXLR)
- Streaming Equipment Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Cloudlifter with the SM7B?
It depends on your interface. The SM7B needs ~60dB of clean gain. Budget interfaces struggle at that level. A Cloudlifter adds 25dB of clean gain, keeping the Scarlett in its optimal range. Higher-end interfaces like the GoXLR or Rodecaster Pro can drive the SM7B without one.
What's the signal chain order?
SM7B → XLR cable → Cloudlifter CL-1 input → XLR cable → Focusrite Scarlett input (48V phantom power ON) → USB → Computer.
Is the SM7dB a better option?
If buying fresh, the SM7dB simplifies things — built-in preamp, no Cloudlifter needed, cheaper total cost. If you already own the SM7B + Cloudlifter, no reason to switch.
How much does the full SM7B chain cost?
SM7B ($439) + Cloudlifter ($125) + Scarlett 2i2 ($225) + 2 XLR cables ($30) + boom arm ($25–100) = ~$855–$925 total. The SM7dB alternative runs ~$760–$830.