Cranborne Audio Camden EC2

The Cranborne Audio Camden EC2 is a two-channel preamp and signal processor that combines pristine audio performance with versatile tonal shaping capabilities. Building upon the acclaimed Camden preamp topology, the EC2 delivers ultra-low noise and distortion, ensuring a transparent and natural sound across all gain settings. This makes it an excellent choice for recording vocals, instruments, and line-level sources with exceptional clarity.

A standout feature of the Camden EC2 is its "Mojo" analog saturation circuit, offering two distinct styles: 'Thump' and 'Cream'. 'Thump' enhances low-end content by introducing harmonics that add depth and punch, making it ideal for bass instruments and kick drums. 'Cream' imparts a smooth, vintage-style saturation, adding warmth and character to mid and high frequencies, which is perfect for vocals and guitars. This variable saturation allows you to dial in the desired amount of coloration, from subtle warmth to rich harmonic distortion, providing flexibility to suit various recording scenarios.

Additionally, the Camden EC2 features two reference-quality headphone amplifiers with independent line mixers. This setup enables direct monitoring of the preamps during recording, facilitating precise mic placement and zero-latency artist mixes by blending the preamp signals with external playback. The inclusion of Cranborne Audio's C.A.S.T. system allows for efficient audio distribution over standard Cat 5e, Cat 6, or Cat 7 cables, simplifying studio connectivity and integration.

In summary, the Cranborne Audio Camden EC2 offers a comprehensive solution for audio professionals seeking high-fidelity preamplification with the added benefit of versatile analog saturation and advanced monitoring capabilities.

• Dual Camden Mic Preamps: Two ultra-clean, low-noise preamps for capturing high-quality sound.

• Mojo Analog Saturation: Adds vintage warmth and analog character with adjustable saturation control.

• Headphone Monitoring: Independent headphone outputs with customizable monitoring for each channel.

• Low-Latency Mixer: Allows for real-time, zero-latency monitoring during recording.

• Versatile Inputs: Accepts mic, line, and instrument signals, making it suitable for various audio sources.

• Wide Frequency Response: Ensures crystal-clear capture of both subtle and powerful audio details.

• High-Quality Construction: Built to last with professional-grade materials and design.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• Two-channel 19" 1U preamp featuring award-winning Camden preamps

• Mojo analogue saturation circuits with variable control and true bypass

• Dual reference-quality headphone amplifiers with discrete line mixers

• C.A.S.T. IN and OUT ports for integration with other Cranborne Audio devices

• External high-current 24V, 1.25A power supply with latching connector

PREAMP SPECIFICATIONS:

Input Impedance:

• Mic: 8.9 kOhms (48V off), 5.4 kΩ (48V on)

• Line: 24.3 kOhms

• Hi-Z: 1.5 MOhms unbalanced, 3 MOhms balanced

Maximum Input Level:

• Mic: +17.6 dBu (<0.003% THD)

• Line: +26.5 dBu (<0.02% THD)

• Hi-Z: +24 dBu (<0.02% THD)

• Gain Range:

• Mic: 8 dB to 68 dB

• Line: 0 dB to 60 dB

• Hi-Z: 3 dB to 63 dB

Equivalent Input Noise (EIN):

• <-129.5 dBu (150 Ohms source, unweighted)

• <-135.5 dBu (inputs common, unweighted)

• Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (THD+N):

• <0.00025% (1 kHz, 35 dB gain, +24 dBu out)

Frequency Response:

• ±0.7 dB (<1 Hz to >1000 kHz, 35 dB gain)

• ±1 dB (<5 Hz to >200 kHz, max gain)

• Phase Shift:

• <2.75 (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 40 dB gain)

• <6 (20 Hz to 20 kHz, max gain)

• Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR):

• 70 dB, typically >85 dB at 35 dB gain, 10 Hz to 20 kHz, 100 mV common mode

MOJO ANALOGUE SATURATION CIRCUIT:

• Two discrete styles: 'Thump' and 'Cream'

• Thump: Enhances low-end by boosting lower odd/even harmonics from ~160 Hz to 20 Hz and below

• Cream: Boosts odd/even harmonics while reducing fundamental frequencies and applying transformer-style transient shaping

HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER SPECIFICATIONS:

• Frequency Response: <±1 dB, <1 Hz to >100 kHz

• Output Impedance: 0.33 Ohm

• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.0003% at 1 kHz

• Output Wattage:

• 2x250 mW @ 600 Ohms

• 2x450 mW @ 220 Ohms

• 2x250 mW @ 100 Ohms

CONNECTIVITY:

• Balanced XLR outputs

• Impedance-balanced ¼" jack outputs

• Dedicated impedance-balanced ¼" jack Link outputs for instrument DI functionality

• C.A.S.T. OUT port for connecting to 500R8/500ADAT

• C.A.S.T. IN port for connecting N22/N22H Cat 5 snakes