Cranborne Audio 500ADAT

5.0 (1)

$1,499.00

$1,499.00 8 available New

$1,309.90 3 available Used

$1,499.00

4.8 (6)

$1,699.00 $1,690.00 $9.00 · All time low

5.0 (1)

$1,499.00

Average Price: $1,685

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Mixers category, Cranborne Audio 500ADAT is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Cranborne Audio 500ADAT". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

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The Cranborne Audio 500ADAT is a game-changer for studio enthusiasts seeking to integrate analog warmth with digital precision. This versatile unit is a multifunctional powerhouse, housing eight of your favorite 500 Series modules while doubling as an 8-in/8-out ADAT expander. Whether you're looking to expand your ADAT-equipped audio interface or add a touch of analog magic to your digital workflow, the 500ADAT is your perfect companion.

Experience seamless integration with its reference-grade AD/DA converters that ensure pristine audio fidelity, highlighted by a dynamic range of 121 dB and a frequency response from 2.2 Hz to over 80 kHz. The 500ADAT is not just about numbers; it's about musicality and flexibility. From its zero-latency cue mixer with two high-quality headphone outputs to its discrete analog summing mixer, this unit bridges the gap between analog warmth and digital clarity. Moreover, the innovative C.A.S.T. system reduces cable clutter by transmitting audio over a single Cat 5 line, making it a breeze to route signals wherever needed.

Its easy-to-use source select switches and bypass options offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to tailor your setup and maximize your gear's potential. Whether in the studio or on the road, the rugged 4U rackmount design ensures that your 500ADAT is ready for any challenge.

Key Features:

8-slot 500 Series rack with advanced routing
8-in/8-out ADAT expander
Zero-latency artist mixer with two reference-grade headphone outputs
Discrete 8x2 analog summing mixer
C.A.S.T. system for streamlined audio transmission
Dynamic range: 121 dB, frequency response: 2.2 Hz to >80 kHz
THD+N: <0.00032% at 1 kHz
Compatible with ADAT and SMUXII/IV up to 192 kHz
Designed and engineered in the UK

Owner's manual

Cranborne Audio 500ADAT User Manual

Product specs

Number of Slots	8
Inputs	8 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" (aux), 4 x RJ45 (Cat5)
Outputs	8 x XLR, 4 x 1/4" (aux), 2 x 1/4" (headphones)
Other I/O	8 x 1/4" TRS (insert), 1 x RJ45 (link), 2 x BNC (word clock)
Digital I/O	4 x Optical (ADAT)
USB	1 x Type B
Power Supply	24V power supply (included)
Height	7" (4U)
Width	19"
Depth	8.6"

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Cranborne Audio 500ADAT?: The Cranborne Audio 500ADAT serves as an 8-slot 500 Series chassis with ADAT I/O, designed to integrate 500 Series modules into your digital audio workstation (DAW) via ADAT connectivity, making it ideal for expanding your studio setup with additional preamps or processors.
How does the Cranborne Audio 500ADAT connect to my existing audio interface?: The 500ADAT connects to your audio interface using ADAT optical cables, allowing you to expand the input and output capabilities of your interface with up to 8 additional channels of 500 Series processing.
Can the Cranborne Audio 500ADAT be used standalone without a DAW?: Yes, the 500ADAT can function as a standalone 500 Series rack, providing analog processing capabilities for live or studio environments without requiring a DAW connection.
What type of power supply does the Cranborne Audio 500ADAT require?: The Cranborne Audio 500ADAT comes with a 24V power supply included, ensuring reliable power for all 8 slots in the chassis.
Is the Cranborne Audio 500ADAT compatible with all 500 Series modules?: The 500ADAT is designed to be compatible with a wide range of 500 Series modules, offering flexibility in choosing preamps, compressors, and other processors to suit your recording needs.

Videos

Add video

SpectreSoundStudios

Unboxing the Ultimate 500 Series Rack: Cranborne 500ADAT

SpectreSoundStudios

Cranborne Audio 500ADAT | 500 Series Rack / Lunchbox and ADAT Expander | Quick Overview

Cranborne Audio

Pulse 16 vs Craneborne 500adat vs Flock Audio Patch

Barry Johns Studio Talk

Cranborne Audio 500ADAT and Carnaby EQs | Full Demo and Review

Happy Mag

CRANBORNE AUDIO 500ADAT - Detailed Review & Audio Tests of this GOLD STANDARD 500 Series Chassis

askdrtk

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Versatile ADAT integration increases inputs and options
Solid build quality, described as "built like a tank"
Intuitive use, easy for beginners to understand controls
Compatible with Focusrite interfaces, supports plug-and-play
Can run multiple effect chains simultaneously
Allows recording from any unit at any chain point
Analog and digital signal routing without latency
Each slot can analog route to the next without signal loss

CONS

Some 500 series modules may not fit due to slot bypass switch design
Knobs and switches feel cheap, inconsistent quality
Requires a separate power brick, adding clutter
Some users may find it expensive for hobbyist use

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Cranborne Audio 500ADAT.

Comparisons

0 0

Opting for the 500ADAT over the Neve 1070 with ADAT card is preferred for long-term versatility and future module swapping capabilities.
Source
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The Cranborne 500ADAT clock is considered superior to the Apollo's, with a jitter measurement of 0.5 pico seconds, enhancing audio stability.
Source
0 0

The 500 series gear, while compact, may lack the control and space of larger racked formats, which can be crucial for SSL EQs and 1073 modules.
Source

Other

0 0

Sturdy optical cables are recommended, as thin wires can loosen easily from ADAT ports.
Source
0 0

The built-in summing mixer of the 500R8 is highly useful, and Cranborne Audio's customer support is praised for its quick response and replacement service.
Source

Mods and upgrades

0 0

The BAE 1073MPL and Retro Doublewide II Tube compressor are popular 500 series module choices for users expanding their setups.
Source

Use cases and applications

0 0

It's noted that using the 500ADAT with an Apollo Twin X has limitations due to the lack of ADAT out, but ADAT in still offers significant advantages.
Source
0 0

The unit is used in three configurations: as an audio interface for composing, as additional inputs in a control room, and in Dante configurations for remote recording.
Source
0 0

The 500ADAT is effectively used as an ADAT expander for live drum recording with Camden500 preamps integrated into a UAD Apollo x4 interface.
Source
0 0

The 500ADAT allows users to collect signals after each hardware chain point, making it suitable for those looking to future-proof their setup.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Users report that the 500ADAT requires powering on alongside the interface to function as the master clock, even when no 500 series modules are used.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The 500ADAT's chain link feature allows users to create custom channel strips, recording them as a chain or individually, providing more control during recording sessions.
Source
0 0

The Cranborne Audio 500ADAT offers summing mixers and optical I/O, enhancing its versatility for mixing and tracking workflows.
Source
0 0

The 500ADAT's flexibility allows integration into Dante configurations using VERTO 32 for setups located on different floors from the main studio.
Source

Build quality

0 0

Owners praise the 500ADAT for its robust build quality and sound, emphasizing its suitability as a long-term investment.
Source

Value and pricing

0 0

While initially cheaper than 19" gear, 500 series equipment can become a significant investment as users tend to buy more modules.
Source

User experience

0 0

Owners find the hands-on workflow of swapping modules, using insert points, and reamping with the 500R8 enriching but potentially distracting.
Source

Critic Reviews

soundonsound.com

Cranborne Audio's 500ADAT offers impressive sound quality and versatility, seamlessly integrating with existing setups while adding valuable 500-series capabilities. The innovative CAST system enhances functionality, and its user-friendly design makes operation a breeze. However, adjusting sample rates can be cumbersome, especially in rack-mounted configurations. Overall, this unit delivers exceptional value and is a smart investment for anyone looking to expand their audio interface capabilities.

positive

Full Review

Cranborne Audio: 500ADAT Expander/500 Series Rack | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Cranborne Audio 500ADAT shines as a versatile 8-channel converter and expander, seamlessly integrating into existing setups while providing impressive sound quality and a solid feature set. Its ease of use and extensive connectivity options make it a dream for remote sessions. However, some users may find the reliance on firmware updates a hassle, especially if they prefer straightforward interfaces. While it enhances the functionality of ADAT-compatible systems, the price tag might give potential buyers pause. For those in need of expandability and flexibility, though, the 500ADAT is a worthy investment that elevates any recording rig.

positive

Full Review

Cranborne Audio 500ADAT: Review | Headliner Magazine

headlinerhub.com

Cranborne Audio's 500ADAT is a game-changer for anyone looking to integrate 500 series modules into their setup without the clutter of cables. Its high-quality A/D-D/A conversion and flexible routing options make it incredibly user-friendly, especially for DAW integration. However, the rear dip switch for sample rates can be a hassle if the unit is mounted, limiting some functionality. That said, the 500ADAT excels in providing an efficient, versatile solution for both recording and monitoring, making it a top choice for serious musicians and studios alike.

positive

Full Review

Add review

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Rock

Metal

Folk, World, & Country

Funk / Soul

Indie Rock

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