Cranborne Audio Camden EC2

The Camden Philosophy: A Transparent Preamp That Also Knows How to "Color"

The Camden EC2 combines Cranborne Audio's approach in a 1U rack format: a very clean preamplification base designed to respect the source, with the option to add musical analog saturation when the track calls for it. This dual identity makes it a particularly effective tool in the modern studio: a two-channel reference microphone preamplifier for serious tracking, and a true character processor when you want to thicken a vocal, add attack to a DI, or fatten a line signal.

Who Is It For and What Studio Uses?

The Cranborne Audio Camden EC2 is aimed at demanding sound engineers, producers, and home studio users who want a 2-channel microphone preamp capable of covering both vocal and instrument tracking, stereo configurations (XY pair, ORTF, overheads), and daily hi-z DI needs. Thanks to its dedicated microphone, line, and hi-z input modes, it can also serve as a line-level saturator and dual DI, while offering immediate workflow comfort via two headphone outputs with independent mixes.

Mojo, Monitoring, and Precision: Features That Make the Difference

Two Camden Preamps: Stereo Coherence and Gain Control

Each channel features a 12-position rotary gain switch designed to achieve a perfect match between the two preamps during stereo recordings. The design targets very low distortion and minimal noise floor, while maintaining remarkably stable frequency response and phase across the entire gain range. The result: a clear, detailed capture that is easy to mix, even with dynamic sources or demanding microphones.

Analog Mojo Saturation Circuits: From Nuance to Character

The Camden EC2 integrates two discrete analog saturation circuits (one per channel) to add controlled coloration without relying on plugins or compromising dynamics. The idea is simple: start with a very transparent sound, then dial in saturation to achieve more presence, harmonic density, and a "mix-ready" feel right at recording. This is especially useful on vocals, bass DI, synths, drum machines, or stem reamping.

Dedicated Microphone, Line, Hi-z Inputs and Link Outputs: DI, Splits, and Flexible Workflows

With dedicated microphone, line, and hi-z input modes, the Camden EC2 instantly adapts to the context: mic tracking, line signal processing, or direct instrument recording. The dedicated Link outputs on 6.35 mm jack simplify clean splits (e.g., recording a DI while feeding an amp) and turn the unit into a true two-channel hub for modern recording.

Two Headphone Amplifiers and Line Mixers: Direct Monitoring and Zero-Latency Artist Mixes

The Camden EC2 features 2 headphone amplifiers with independent mixes and discrete line mixers. You can monitor both preamps directly or create zero-latency artist headphone mixes by combining preamp signals with external playback via the rear Aux inputs. A real time saver for clean recording without relying on software for playing or performing comfort.

C.A.S.T. Interface: Studio Integration

The C.A.S.T. interface enhances the Camden EC2's integration into a studio environment, complementing its rack design. Whether you're looking for a high-quality recording front-end or a controllable analog coloration module for daily use, the EC2 is designed to remain reliable, simple, and consistent from session to session.

Technical specifications

Number of channels

2

Rack unit

1

Equivalent input noise (EIN)	less than -129 dBu (150 Ohm source, unweighted)	THD + N	less than 0.00025% (1 kHz, 35 dB gain, plus 24 dB output)
Frequency response	+/-0.7 dB (from under 1 Hz to over 1000 kHz, 35 dB gain)	Dimensions	19-inch rack format - 1U
Phase deviation	less than 4 degrees (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 63 dB gain)