how to give phantom power solo 4th gen

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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06-02-2025

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How to Give Phantom Power to Your Solo 4th Gen

The Shure SM7B, a popular dynamic microphone, requires phantom power to operate optimally. While your Solo 4th Gen audio interface doesn't natively provide phantom power, there are several ways to get around this limitation and enjoy the rich sound of your SM7B. This article outlines the methods for providing phantom power to your SM7B when using the Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen).

Understanding the Problem: The Solo 4th Gen and Phantom Power

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is a fantastic audio interface for its price point. However, it lacks the built-in phantom power found in more expensive models. This means the Solo cannot directly power condenser microphones requiring this external voltage. The SM7B, a dynamic mic, doesn't require phantom power to work but often sounds better with it, particularly reducing self-noise.

Solutions for Providing Phantom Power to Your SM7B

There are two main solutions to power your SM7B with phantom power when using the Solo 4th Gen:

1. Using an External Phantom Power Supply:

This is the most straightforward and often recommended solution. An external phantom power supply is a small device that sits between your microphone and the audio interface. It provides the necessary 48V phantom power to your microphone, allowing the Solo 4th Gen to handle the audio signal.

• How it works: You connect the SM7B to the phantom power supply, and then connect the phantom power supply to your Solo 4th Gen. This provides the necessary voltage while keeping the signal path clean.
• Advantages: Simple setup, reliable power, isolates your microphone from the Solo's circuitry.
• Disadvantages: Added cost, one more piece of equipment to manage.
• Recommendation: Cloudlifter CL-1 or similar devices. These are specifically designed for dynamic microphones like the SM7B to boost the signal while providing phantom power.

2. Using a Cloudlifter or similar device:

A Cloudlifter is a dedicated microphone preamp with phantom power. It specifically boosts the signal of low-output dynamic microphones, and it does include phantom power. This addresses the issue of the SM7B's relatively low output level, which can be a problem for audio interfaces without sufficient gain.

• How it works: The SM7B connects to the Cloudlifter, which then connects to the Solo 4th Gen. The Cloudlifter both provides phantom power and boosts the signal strength.
• Advantages: Improved sound quality, eliminates potential noise issues.
• Disadvantages: Higher cost than a basic phantom power supply.
• Recommendation: Cloudlifter CL-1 is a popular and effective choice.

Connecting Your Equipment

Regardless of the chosen method, the connection process is relatively simple.

1. Connect your SM7B to your chosen device (either the phantom power supply or Cloudlifter).
2. Connect the output of your phantom power supply/Cloudlifter to the input of your Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
3. Ensure the phantom power is switched ON on the external device (if applicable).
4. Adjust the gain levels accordingly on both your external device and the Solo 4th Gen. Start low and increase gradually to prevent clipping.

Choosing the Right Solution

The best solution depends on your budget and needs. If you are primarily looking to simply power your SM7B with phantom power, a basic phantom power supply will suffice. If you want to improve the sound quality as well, a Cloudlifter or similar device is a better investment. Both approaches enable you to use your SM7B with your Focusrite Scarlett Solo 4th Gen. Remember to always prioritize safe and correct cabling practices to prevent damage to your equipment.