Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 - What To Know & Where To Buy

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated June 28, 2026.

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5.0 (3)

$998.00

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$499.00

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5.0 (1)

$499.00 6 available New

$415.00 3 available Used

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$499.00

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5.0 (19)

$585.00 $579.00 $6.00 · All time low

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$499.00

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Average Price: $570

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 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 Carnaby 500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 is redefining EQ with its innovative Harmonic EQ circuit, offering a unique twist on traditional signal processors. This 500-series module uses harmonic saturation instead of phase manipulation to boost and cut audio frequencies, resulting in a rich, musical character. Its parametric 3-band EQ allows you to sculpt your sound with precision, while adding warmth and depth to your audio with its dynamic and euphonic saturation.

Perfect for both mixes and masters, the Carnaby 500 comes with OptoSync technology, allowing two adjacent units to function as a stereo pair without additional cables. This seamless integration is ideal for stereo tracks and stems, making it a versatile addition to any studio setup. The module’s auto-calibration ensures perfect stereo matching, while its stepped controls offer fast recall and a precise feel.

Whether you're looking to subtly enhance your low-end or add brilliance to your highs, the Carnaby 500 delivers with a dynamic response that increases harmonic content as the circuit is driven harder. With input and output levels offering a wide range of gain, you can easily dial in the right amount of saturation or distortion for your needs.

Key Features:

Unique Harmonic EQ circuit for musical saturation
Parametric 3-band EQ with ±10 dB cut/boost
OptoSync for stereo linking without additional cables
Stepped controls for precise adjustment and recall
Auto-calibration for perfect stereo matching
500-series module format for convenient integration

Product specs

Type	500 series Solid State
Number of Channels	1
Controls	Input, Hi level, Mid level, Lo level, Output
EQ	Lo, Mid, Hi
Number of Bands	3
Boost/Cut Range	±10dB
Q Type	Variable
Freq Range High	5kHz-25kHz
Freq Range Mid	200Hz-6.2kHz
Freq Range Low	20Hz-420Hz
Bypass	Yes
Frequency Response	20Hz-25kHz
Module Slot Size	Single
Depth	6.69"
Weight	0.66 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ?: The Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 is designed to add harmonic coloration and equalization to audio signals, serving as a 500 series EQ module with three adjustable bands for low, mid, and high frequencies.
How many bands does the Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 EQ have?: The Carnaby 500 EQ features three bands, allowing for precise control over low, mid, and high frequencies, each with adjustable boost and cut capabilities.
Can the Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 be bypassed?: Yes, the Carnaby 500 module includes a bypass function, allowing you to compare the processed and unprocessed audio signals easily.
What is the frequency range covered by the Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500's high band?: The high band of the Carnaby 500 EQ covers a frequency range from 5kHz to 25kHz, providing flexibility in shaping high-end audio content.
Is the Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 suitable for a single channel setup?: Yes, the Carnaby 500 is a single-channel EQ module, making it ideal for mono signal processing in a 500 series rack setup.

Videos

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Alec Brits

Where Science & Music Meet: Cranborne Carnaby Harmonic EQ Demo & Review #musictech #musicproduction

Alec Brits

Cranborne Audio - Carnaby 500 Equalizer - KMR Demo Room

KMR Audio

Why You Should Be Using Cranborne Audio’s Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ

Sweetwater

First Listen: Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Harmonic Equalizer

Vintage King

Carnaby 500 | HarmonicEQ® for 500 Series | Product Overview

Cranborne Audio

The First Analog Harmonic EQ: Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500

Audio University

Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Series Harmonic EQ Review

Audio Animals Studio

Carnaby 500 Sound Examples | Harmonic EQ for 500 Series

Cranborne Audio

Reviews

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Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

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The Carnaby 500 integrates passive and active EQ stages with an integral saturation core, differing from typical multi-band saturators.
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The Carnaby 500 is often paired with Cranborne’s Camden preamps, indicating a complementary synergy for users interested in sound design and synth processing.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners find the Carnaby 500 particularly effective on guitar DI tracks, significantly enhancing sound before amp simulation.
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The Carnaby HE2's M/S encoding and decoding with insert capability is highly valued for master bus processing.
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The Carnaby 500 is appreciated by users for its effectiveness in creating feedback loops, which can lead to unique and experimental sound design outcomes.
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Comparisons

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Users note that while plugins like Wavesfactory Spectre offer multiple band saturation, they do not replicate the Carnaby's unique EQ and cutting capabilities.
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Some users suggest that even two well-chosen Eurorack modules or guitar pedals can offer more versatility and experimental potential than a 500 series setup, hinting at the Carnaby 500's niche focus.
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Software and compatibility

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The Carnaby HE2 offers plugin control for enhanced mixing workflow and session recall, unlike the 500 series version.
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Build quality

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The Carnaby 500 and HE2 are noted for minimal phase shift and distortion between bands, contributing to their distinct analog sound quality.
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User experience

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Users with multiple Cranborne units, such as the Camden and Carnaby, report satisfaction in sound design applications, highlighting the brand’s reliability for creative processing.
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Other

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The Carnaby 500's popularity among enthusiasts interested in experimental sounds suggests its role as a favorite among those who enjoy hands-on, exploratory audio manipulation.
Source

Critic Reviews

Cranborne Audio: Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 is a game-changer in the audio processing realm, boasting an intuitive three-band EQ that offers more than just frequency adjustments—it enhances saturation too. Users will appreciate its subtle yet impactful results, especially in complex mixes like drums and bass, where it shines by adding depth without muddiness. The innovative OPTOSYNC feature allows for seamless stereo matching across multiple units, a standout in its design. However, some may find the effects too subtle at extreme settings, requiring careful level matching to perceive the differences fully. Overall, it’s a high-quality tool that feels worth every penny, though its nuances might not suit every producer's style.

positive

Full Review

Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ

soundonsound.com

Cranborne Audio's Carnaby 500 redefines the EQ landscape with its innovative Harmonic EQ technology, blending multiband EQ with tuned saturation for a vibrant, musically rich sound. While it excels at enhancing tonal character, it strays from traditional precision EQ, making it less ideal for surgical corrections. The familiar control layout is a plus, and the clever Optosync feature for linked module control adds versatility. However, its distinct approach may require some adjustment for users accustomed to conventional EQs. Overall, the Carnaby 500 is a compelling tool for those seeking creative audio enhancement, but not without a learning curve.

positive

Full Review

Review: Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ

mixdownmag.com.au

Cranborne Audio's Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ is a game changer, offering a unique approach to equalization that blends traditional EQ techniques with modern harmonic saturation. Its ability to subtly enhance sound without being overly precise is a refreshing twist, making it perfect for adding warmth and character to mixes. However, its non-traditional method may confuse those expecting straightforward frequency boosts or cuts. While it excels as a finishing touch, musicians may need time to adjust their expectations. Overall, the Carnaby 500 is a valuable addition for those seeking a colorful, saturated sound, though it may not fit the bill for those who prefer precision.

positive

Full Review

Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 EQ — A Mix Real-World Review - Mixonline

mixonline.com

The Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 EQ brings a fresh take on analog processing with its unique harmonic EQ design that enhances sound rather than simply adjusting frequencies. It excels in adding warmth and character to various sources, especially drums and vocals, and its wireless Optosync feature is a standout for multi-unit setups. However, the product suffers from sparse documentation, which may frustrate users trying to understand its full potential. While it may not replace a traditional EQ, its affordability and ability to sweeten mixes make it a compelling choice for those looking to inject analog warmth into their recordings.

positive

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