Cranborne Audio
Cranborne Audio EC2 2-Channel Microphone Preamp
Best professional grade preamplification for discerning audio engineers.
This professional 2-channel microphone preamp delivers exceptionally clean and transparent audio, drawing from acclaimed preamp topology. It offers the flexibility to add vintage character with variable analog saturation circuits. Featuring dual headphone amplifiers and discrete line mixers, it's perfect for creating artist cue mixes and zero-latency monitoring during tracking or reamping. Its robust connectivity and system integration make it a versatile front-end solution for any studio environment.
$999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
48
/ 566
#48 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-38%
Below average
Channels
Dual-Channel
/ Dual-Channel
Who it's for
- Audio engineers seeking creative tonal options for their recordings
- Home studio owners and project studios aiming for efficient connectivity
- Recording artists and producers prioritizing clarity and dynamic range
Who should skip it
- Engineers with existing non-Cranborne C.A.S.T. incompatible studio infrastructure
- Budget-conscious musicians or beginners seeking more affordable recording solutions
- Novice users preferring straightforward, plug-and-play audio equipment
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Camden topology delivers pristine, ultra-clean gain for any microphone source.
Saturation Versatility
Analog circuits provide authentic vintage warmth without sacrificing signal integrity.
Monitoring Flexibility
Integrated cue mixers and headphone amps simplify zero-latency artist monitoring.
Build Integrity
Rugged rack-mount chassis built to withstand demanding daily studio use.
System Integration
C.A.S.T. connectivity streamlines complex cable runs across professional studio environments.
DI Performance
Instrument inputs capture high-fidelity signals perfect for direct recording tasks.
Key Specs
Channels
Dual-Channel
Chassis
19-inch Rack-Mount
Rack Spaces
1U
Input Connectors
Combo XLR-TRS, 1/4-inch TRS
Output Connectors
XLR, 1/4-inch TRS
Power Supply
External high-current 24V, 1.25A power supply with latching connector
Preamp Circuitry Type
Transformerless
Instrument Input DI
Yes
Know before you buy
The Camden preamp is designed to be exceptionally clean, transparent, and linear. It provides a neutral foundation that accurately captures the source without adding unwanted coloration, though you can introduce vintage-style warmth using the built-in Mojo analog saturation circuits.
The Mojo circuits allow you to dial in variable analog saturation to add harmonic character and grit to your recordings. This gives you the flexibility to move from a pristine, modern sound to a more colored, vintage-inspired tone without needing external processors.
Yes, the EC2 features integrated discrete line mixers that allow you to blend your microphone inputs with external playback sources. This enables you to create custom, zero-latency cue mixes for performers directly from the unit.
C.A.S.T. (Cat 5 Analogue Snake Transport) allows you to send audio signals over standard Cat 5e, Cat 6, or Cat 7 cables. It simplifies your studio cabling by carrying high-quality audio between your preamp and other C.A.S.T.-enabled devices, reducing cable clutter.
Yes, the EC2 features high-impedance instrument DI inputs on the front panel. This makes it easy to plug in guitars, basses, or synthesizers directly for high-quality recording without needing a separate DI box.
Absolutely. The unit is built in a standard 19-inch, 1U rack-mount chassis, making it easy to integrate into any professional studio rack alongside your other outboard gear.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.