The issue you have is you are overloading your inputs. The VSL22 only supports microphone inputs or instrument level. Instrument level means you can plug an electric guitar like a PRS or Fender straight into the box. If you are plugging a compressor - which outputs at line level - into an instrument level input you are liable to blow the input. You are simply not gain staging correctly or connecting correctly. Adding the cloud lifter, running thru the compressor into the instrument (6.3mm/1/4" jack) connection is adding too much gain (amplification) to the signal. Peaking at -6dB is too hot for an SM57 track. Plug the sm57 into the audio box vsl22, aim to PEAK at -15dB to -12dB. This will allow headroom in the mix for compression and e.q. at the mixing stage. Stop plugging that compressor into the VSL22 because you overloading the inputs when you do. There are three levels to look at when recording. Line level for external compressors, external e.q, synthesizers, drum machines or some Guitar FX . Instrument level is for passive instruments like most electric guitars/passive electro guitars or basses directly connected to the box. Then mic level for most microphones.
