Cranborne Audio Carnaby HE2

The Carnaby HE2 by Cranborne Audio is a powerful 19" rackmount evolution of the Carnaby 500 HarmonicEQ, designed to bring rich analog saturation and precise tonal control to professional audio workflows. Unlike traditional parametric equalizers, the Carnaby HE2 shapes sound using harmonic saturation, allowing users to boost or cut frequencies while adding musical warmth and depth. Its three-band HarmonicEQ circuit covers a wide frequency range, offering dynamic tonal enhancement with a natural, organic character. Whether used on individual instruments, mix buses, or entire mixes, the Carnaby HE2 provides an intuitive and flexible approach to shaping sound, making it an essential tool for producers, mixing engineers, and mastering professionals.

Expanding beyond a simple dual-channel EQ, the Carnaby HE2 features multiple operational modes, including dual mono, stereo, and mid/side processing, offering tailored control for different mixing and mastering applications. Additional filtering options, per-band bypass switches, and precise input and output level adjustments further refine its versatility. The included Carnaby HE2 Control software enables seamless remote operation via USB or network connection, integrating easily with DAWs for recall and automation. With its high-quality analog signal path and innovative approach to EQ, the Carnaby HE2 brings a new level of harmonic depth and creative sound shaping to any studio.

• HarmonicEQ Technology " A 3-band parametric EQ using harmonic saturation for tone shaping.

• Per-Band Saturation " Independent control over low, mid, and high frequencies with harmonic saturation.

• Dual Mono, Stereo & Mid/Side Processing " Flexible modes for different mixing and mastering applications.

• High & Low Cut Filters " Additional filtering options for fine-tuned frequency control.

• USB & Network Control " Remote operation via a plugin or standalone software.

• External Inserts " Allows integration with outboard gear for expanded processing options.

• Rackmount Design " 19" format with adjustable rack ears for different setups.

• LED Meters " 12-segment peak output meter for precise monitoring.

• Standalone or DAW Integration " Works with major DAWs for recallable settings and automation.

• Simple Powering Options " Auto power mode available for rack-based setups.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:

• 19" rackmount HarmonicEQ

• 3-band parametric EQ with harmonic saturation

• Dual Mono, Stereo, Mid/Side processing modes

• Front panel controls, USB & Network remote control

• VST3, AU plugin, Standalone application compatibility

• Firmware updates via USB

HARMONICEQ SPECIFICATIONS:

• Lo Band: Hard clipping, 20Hz"420Hz, shelf filter

• Mid Band: Peaking filter, 200Hz"6.2kHz, fixed Q

• Hi Band: Soft saturation, 5kHz"25kHz, shelf filter

• Per-band Level Control: ±10dB, 0.5dB steps

• Per-band IN Buttons: Enables/disables individual bands

• Input Level Control: ±20dB, 1dB steps

• Output Level Control: ±20dB, 1dB steps

FILTERS:

• Hi Cut: Progressive slope low-pass filter (-3dB at 8kHz"40kHz)

• Hi Cut 1st order: 3dB/octave

• Hi Cut 2nd order: 6dB/octave

• Hi Cut 3rd order: 12dB/octave

• Lo Cut: Progressive slope high-pass filter (-3dB at 18Hz"180Hz)

• Lo Cut 1st order: 6dB/octave

• Lo Cut 2nd order: 12dB/octave

• Lo Cut 3rd order: 18dB/octave

• Per-filter IN Buttons: Enables/disables Lo Cut and Hi Cut filters

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS:

• USB/Network Indicators

• Input Level Control: Adjusts saturation and gain

• Lo, Mid, Hi Band Controls: Frequency, Level, and ON/OFF

• Insert IN Button: Engages/disengages external processing loop

• Mode Buttons: Selects processing mode (Dual Mono, Stereo, Mid/Side)

• 12-Segment LED Meter: Peak output with clip indicator (+24dBu max)

• Power Button: Tap to power on, hold to power off

REAR PANEL CONNECTORS:

• Channel Inputs: Balanced XLR or TRS ¼" line-level

• Channel Insert Send/Return: TRS balanced ¼" jacks (post input, pre-output)

• XLR Output: Balanced, +24dBu max

• ¼" Jack Output: Impedance-balanced, +18dBu max

• Network Port: Future support for remote control (not C.A.S.T compatible)

• USB Port: Software control & firmware updates (no audio interface functionality)

• Power Inlet/Fuse Holder: IEC AC input, Littelfuse 0235003 (F3AL250V)

SOFTWARE CONTROL:

• Plugin Formats: VST3, AU

• Standalone Application for non-DAW users

• Preset Saving & Recall per channel

• DAW External Effect Insert compatibility

• Compatible DAWs: Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, WaveLab, Nuendo, Reaper, Studio One

RACK MOUNTING OPTIONS:

• Standard: Flush-mounted rack ears

• Recessed: Protective configuration for transport

POWER & SAFETY:

• Powering On/Off: Rear mains switch + front panel button

• Auto Power Mode: Internal jumper configuration for rack power control

• Operating Temperature: +5 to 35C

• Storage Temperature: -20 to 50C

• Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS

• Electromagnetic Compliance: EN & FCC standards

• Environmental Limitations: Not for operation above 3000m altitude or in tropical conditions

INCLUDED ACCESSORIES:

• IEC Power Cable

• 2mm Allen Key

• Quickstart Guide