Infused with groundbreaking Harmonic EQ technology, Cranborne Audio’s Carnaby 500 made quite a splash here. Now, the Cranborne Audio Carnaby HE2 builds on the success of its 500 Series stablemate, expanding the concept with two channels, comprehensive digital control options, and mid-side (M-S) processing capabilities in a 2U, 19-inch rackmount format. Cranborne Audio’s innovative, trademarked technology allows the all-analog Carnaby HE2 to provide all the sound-shaping functionality of a traditional semi-parametric 3-band equalizer while enhancing vocals and instruments with euphonic harmonic saturation. Unlike conventional analog EQs that use phase to equalize audio signals, the Cranborne Audio Carnaby HE2 employs harmonic saturation to boost and cut frequency content.
3-band parametric EQ
The Carnaby HE2 features three interactive, bypassable bands of Harmonic EQ per channel that can be deployed in stereo, dual mono, or mid-side modes. Each band has 10dB of boost/cut and its own sweepable and overlapping frequency controls. For maximum musicality, each band incorporates a unique blend of harmonic content ideally suited to its frequency range. The high band (5kHz–25kHz) uses smooth saturation to naturally extend high frequencies beyond the audio band to add shimmering air that brings breathy vocals and acoustic instruments to life. The low band (20Hz–420Hz) uses hard-clip saturation to extend sub-harmonic frequencies into the audible low end — ideal for everything from subtle low-end warmth to extreme sub-harmonic saturation. The mid band is a peaking filter with a fixed Q that adds harmonic emphasis over a broad sweepable frequency range from 200Hz to 6.2kHz.
Dynamic response for variable harmonic enhancement
Unlike conventional equalizers, Carnaby HE2 delivers a dynamic response that increases total boost/cut harmonics as the circuits are pushed harder. To facilitate that, the input and output level control on each band allows for +/-20dB of level adjustment, enabling you to dial in the perfect amount of harmonic content while maintaining optimal gain structure. With judicious use of these controls, you can achieve everything from clean, subtle EQ to euphonic harmonic enhancement to full-on distortion. The Carnaby HE2 features a bypassable TRS insert on each channel. The inserts occur post-M-S encoding and pre-M-S decoding, allowing you to use them to connect outboard hardware before your signal hits the harmonic EQ processing.
The benefits of mid-side processing
Prized by audio pros for its coherent phasing and bulletproof mono compatibility, mid-side processing is a stereo encoding/decoding technique that opens up a tasty menu of image enhancement possibilities. Long used in vinyl disc mastering to limit lateral and vertical cutting lathe head excursion, mid-side processing is useful in mixing, mastering, and sound design for widening the stereo soundstage as well as for tightening and centering the low end by summing only the bass frequencies to mono. The Carnaby HE2 features a mid-side processing mode that allows you to apply harmonic EQ to the separate mid (center) and side (lateral) components of a stereo signal. The Carnaby HE2 handles all the necessary encoding and decoding, negating the need for additional M-S processing hardware or software. Effectively employed, the HE2’s mid-side functionality can result in mixes with increased width, depth, focus, and punch.
Digital remote control via USB and Ethernet
To maximize your productivity and streamline your workflow across a range of studio environments, the Cranborne Audio Carnaby HE2 offers complete remote operation, allowing all its controls to be operated remotely via USB or Ethernet network. Cranbourne’s included VST/AU/AAX control plug-in seamlessly integrates with the Carnaby HE2 hardware unit via its USB and NET ports, permitting convenient real-time control and recall right from your DAW, including the saving and loading of presets. With its dimmable LED rings and digital encoders, the Carnaby HE2 ensures a visually intuitive and user-friendly user experience even in dim control rooms, ensuring that all remote operation is reflected on the unit’s front panel.
Features:
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3-band analog EQ circuit and unique saturation-core technology for harmonically enriched EQ effects
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Stereo and dual-mono modes, as well as M-S operation for enhanced control over stereo imaging
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Intuitive, user-friendly interface equipped with dimmable LED rings and digital encoders
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Visually intuitive operation with remote control parameter adjustments reflected on the front panel
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Remote control and settings save/recall via USB and Ethernet connectivity
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Streamlined workflow across various studio environments
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Included VST/AU/AAX plug-in lets you recall previous settings, retrieve preferred settings, and control the unit remotely from your DAW
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Per-band bypass lets you audition and fine-tune your settings
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Per-channel inserts for easy outboard processing and smooth workflows
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Internal PSU with switchable mains for 100/240V operation