Capturing a great performance starts long before the signal reaches your converters. The Cranborne Audio Camden EC2 dual-channel microphone preamp delivers exceptional transparency when you need pristine recordings and rich analog character when a source calls for more personality. Based on the award-winning Camden 500 preamp, this 1U rackmount unit combines two low-noise preamps with variable Mojo analog saturation, dual reference-quality headphone amplifiers and flexible studio connectivity. Whether tracking vocals, recording stereo instruments, reamping guitars or creating zero-latency monitor mixes, the Camden EC2 provides the precision, versatility and sonic performance demanded by today’s professional and project studios.

Reference-Grade Preamps Capture Every Detail

Each channel employs Cranborne Audio’s acclaimed Camden preamp topology, delivering exceptionally low noise, distortion and phase shift across its gain range. This clean, linear response lets the Camden EC2 capture delicate transients and subtle tonal details without introducing unwanted coloration. Its low-noise performance also supports low-sensitivity microphones that require substantial gain, while Hi-Z instrument inputs accommodate direct guitar and bass signals. Dedicated Link outputs simplify reamping workflows by routing an instrument signal to an amplifier or effects pedal while the second preamp captures the processed sound.

Variable Mojo Adds Vintage Analog Character

When transparency is not the goal, the Camden EC2 offers Cranborne Audio’s variable Mojo analog saturation circuits. Thump introduces the weight and low-frequency harmonic character associated with transformer-based preamps, while Cream adds the warmth and harmonic richness of tube-inspired designs. Unlike preamps with a fixed sonic character, Mojo is continuously variable, allowing you to move from subtle harmonic enhancement to more pronounced saturation. This flexibility makes it possible to shape each source independently while retaining access to the clean, transparent Camden preamp sound.

Built for Flexible Recording and Monitoring

Two reference-quality headphone amplifiers feature independent line mixers that combine the preamp signals with external playback sources for zero-latency monitoring during tracking. Engineers can listen directly through the Camden EC2 while adjusting microphone placement, helping them find the ideal position before recording. Rear-panel Aux inputs also make it possible to blend playback from a recording system with the live preamp signals, creating independent artist monitor mixes without software-monitoring latency. Together, these tools make the Camden EC2 a versatile front end for recording sessions and reamping workflows.

C.A.S.T. Connectivity Simplifies Studio Integration

Integrated C.A.S.T. connectivity allows the Camden EC2 to distribute analog audio over a single shielded Cat 5e, Cat 6 or Cat 7 cable, simplifying signal routing throughout the studio. When connected to a Cranborne Audio 500R8 or 500ADAT, the preamps and headphone amplifiers can be relocated to a live room, vocal booth or isolation space. The same cable sends the preamp signals to the recording system while returning the monitor mix to the Camden EC2, reducing cable runs and freeing 500 Series slots for EQ, compression and other processing modules.

A Complete Front End for Modern Studios

By combining transparent preamplification, variable analog saturation, reamping tools and independent headphone monitoring in a compact rackmount design, the Camden EC2 can serve several roles within a recording setup. It can capture sources with minimal coloration, add transformer- or tube-inspired character through its Mojo circuits and provide direct monitoring for performers during tracking. This blend of clean audio performance and workflow-focused functionality makes the Cranborne Audio Camden EC2 dual-channel microphone preamp a flexible studio front end for engineers, producers and musicians.