Crane Song HEDD Quantum AD/DA Converter and Master Clock
Best high-end converter for engineers seeking analog warmth in digital workflows.
The Crane Song HEDD Quantum is a professional 2-channel AD/DA converter and master clock, delivering pristine 24-bit/192kHz audio. Its unique HEDD technology allows you to add analog warmth, tube saturation, and tape compression directly into your digital signal. With sub-picosecond jitter clocking, it ensures exceptional imaging and transient response. This versatile unit functions as a standalone converter or a master clock, offering flexible operation and clean performance with separate analog and digital power supplies.
$5449.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
7
/ 489
#7 in Audio Converters
Price vs Category Average
+25%
Above average
Channels
2
/ Stereo (-channel)
Who it's for
- Mastering engineers demanding pristine, jitter-free digital conversion
- Producers seeking vintage analog warmth and harmonic character
- Studio owners integrating diverse digital hardware chains
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home recordists on a strict financial limit
- Beginners needing quick, plug-and-play saturation solutions
- Users wanting direct, single-cable DAW connectivity
Performance breakdown
Conversion Accuracy
Pristine signal path delivers industry-leading transparency for critical mastering tasks.
Clocking Precision
Sub-picosecond jitter ensures rock-solid imaging and exceptional transient response.
Analog Emulation
DSP-based tube and tape saturation adds authentic, musical harmonic character.
Connectivity Versatility
Six word clock outputs provide massive flexibility for complex studio setups.
Build Quality
Robust rackmount chassis features dedicated power supplies for clean, reliable operation.
Workflow Integration
Concurrent AD/DA modes streamline routing for professional tracking and mixing workflows.
Key Specs
Channels
Stereo (2-channel)
Max Sample Rate
192kHz
Max Bit Depth
24-bit
Digital I/O
AES/EBU, S/PDIF (Coaxial/Optical)
Analog I/O
2 x XLR Balanced
Word Clock Outputs
6 x BNC
Form Factor
1U Rackmount
Weight
15 lbs (approx. 6.8 kg)
Features
- Adds analog warmth and character via DSP
- Sub-picosecond jitter clocking for precision
- High-resolution 24-bit/192kHz conversion
- Standalone converter or master clock operation
- Tube and analog tape emulation
- Flexible concurrent A/D and D/A modes
- Selectable analog-generated dither
- Master clock with 6 Word Clock outputs
What customers say
The Crane Song HEDD Quantum is celebrated for its pristine sonic transparency and revolutionary clocking stability, delivering audio with exceptional depth and clarity. Users highly value the dual functionality, combining world-class conversion with a reliable master clock, which simplifies professional studio setups. The included HEDD processing offers engineers versatile, musical coloration options, adding analog warmth without losing definition. While positioned in the premium category, reviewers overwhelmingly agree that the significant sonic improvement and clock reliability fully justify the investment. This device is considered an essential tool for achieving the highest fidelity in mastering and recording.
Know before you buy
While it functions as a high-precision, transparent converter, the HEDD Quantum features built-in DSP that allows you to dial in tube, tape, and analog-style saturation. This gives you the ability to add harmonic character and warmth to your digital signal during the conversion process.
Yes, it is designed to function as a high-performance master clock. With six dedicated BNC Word Clock outputs, it can provide stable, sub-picosecond jitter clocking to multiple digital devices simultaneously.
Yes, the HEDD Quantum supports concurrent A/D and D/A operation. This allows you to record and monitor through the unit at the same time, making it a versatile centerpiece for your signal chain.
The HEDD Quantum offers robust digital I/O, including AES/EBU and S/PDIF via both coaxial and optical connections. This ensures broad compatibility with most professional audio interfaces and digital gear.
No, the HEDD Quantum is designed for zero-latency performance. The analog-style processing is handled by dedicated DSP, ensuring your signal remains perfectly timed regardless of the saturation settings you choose.
The HEDD processing is available on both the A/D and D/A paths. You can independently apply tube or tape emulation to your incoming signal during recording or to your output signal during playback and mastering.
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