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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Crane Song Avocet IIA". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Crane Song Avocet IIA is a powerhouse of precision and versatility, designed to elevate your studio's monitoring capabilities to professional heights. Whether you're managing complex 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound setups, or simply looking for crystal-clear stereo monitoring, this high-end integrated 192kHz / 24bit Quantum D/A Converter is engineered to meet your needs. Its sophisticated design includes both digital and analog inputs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of equipment and formats.

With its dedicated subwoofer output for each stereo speaker set, the Avocet IIA offers unparalleled control over your sound environment. The analog audio section operates with Class-A technique, providing a pristine audio path devoid of compromise. The system’s volume control is executed via relays, ensuring precise adjustments without the degradation of signal quality.

The Avocet IIA is more than just a monitor controller; it’s a command center for your studio. It features three analog stereo inputs and three balanced XLR stereo monitor outputs, allowing you to switch effortlessly between sources and outputs. Each input and output level can be finely adjusted and stored, thanks to its non-volatile memory. Additionally, the built-in headphone amplifier and talkback function—complete with a microphone connection—make this unit a comprehensive solution for any studio setup.

Key Features:

  • 5.1 & 7.1 surround sound capability via extensions
  • High-end integrated 192kHz / 24bit Quantum D/A Converter
  • 5 digital stereo inputs: 3x XLR AES, SPDIF RCA, and TOSLINK
  • 3 analog stereo inputs and outputs: XLR balanced
  • Dedicated subwoofer output for each of the three stereo speaker outputs
  • Analog audio section in Class-A technique
  • Volume control via relays
  • Integrated headphone amplifier
  • Talkback function with mic connection
  • All inputs/outputs individually adjustable and stored in memory

Product specs

Analog Inputs 6 x XLR
Analog Outputs 6 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" (headphones)
Digital Inputs 3 x AES XLR, 1 x AES 2 wire XLR, 1 x S/PDIF
Other I/O DB25 (linking units)
Form Factor Rackmount I/O, Table top remote
Height 1.6" (remote)
Width 8" (remote)
Depth 7.5" (remote)

FAQs

What types of inputs and outputs does the Crane Song Avocet IIA offer?

The Crane Song Avocet IIA provides 6 XLR analog inputs, 6 XLR analog outputs, 2 quarter-inch headphone outputs, 3 AES XLR digital inputs, 1 AES 2 wire XLR, and 1 S/PDIF input, along with a DB25 connector for linking units.

Is the Crane Song Avocet IIA suitable for both tabletop and rackmount setups?

Yes, the Crane Song Avocet IIA features a rackmount I/O and a tabletop remote, making it versatile for different studio configurations.

Can the Crane Song Avocet IIA be used to manage multiple monitor setups?

Yes, the Crane Song Avocet IIA is designed to manage multiple monitor setups, providing comprehensive control over various audio sources and outputs.

Does the Crane Song Avocet IIA support digital audio inputs?

Yes, the Crane Song Avocet IIA supports digital audio inputs with 3 AES XLR, 1 AES 2 wire XLR, and 1 S/PDIF input, allowing for high-quality digital audio integration.

Ronan Chris Murphy

Ronan Chris Murphy

What is that big green knob? How I use the Crane Song Avocet II in my studio.

Video thumbnail for What is that big green knob? How I use the Crane Song Avocet II in my studio. by Ronan Chris Murphy

What is that big green knob? How I use the Crane Song Avocet II in my studio.

Ronan Chris Murphy

Ronan Chris Murphy

Video thumbnail for Crane Song Avocet II Monitor Controller - Quick n' Dirty by soundpurestudios

Crane Song Avocet II Monitor Controller - Quick n' Dirty

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional DAC quality for pristine sound clarity and depth

  • Transparent and dynamic sound, especially at low volumes

  • Remote II unit offers user-friendly control and precise volume adjustments

  • Integrated high-quality converter ideal for mastering applications

  • Features like mono, phase, and talkback buttons enhance usability

  • Handles multiple analog and digital inputs with ease

  • Allows connection to three different monitoring systems

  • Enhances detail perception in mixes and familiar recordings

CONS

  • Initial buzzing issues with monitors and headphones reported

  • Requires careful setup to prevent environmental interference

  • High price point may deter budget-conscious buyers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Crane Song Avocet IIA.

Comparisons

  • The Crane Song Avocet IIA is recommended alongside the Grace m905 and Dangerous D-Box+, highlighting their suitability for both DA conversion and monitor control.

    Source
  • The Crane Song HEDD is praised for its stereo imaging and depth, offering a more natural listening experience compared to other converters like Burl and Lynx.

    Source
  • Lynx Aurora (n) converters are noted for their clear and resolute sound, with some users preferring their transparency over Burl's more colored output.

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  • The Crane Song Avocet IIA's reputation for flexibility in monitor management is paralleled by the HEDD's ability to deliver a solid stereo image and depth.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Crane Song Avocet IIA is suited for users who prefer integrated monitor control and D/A conversion, providing a streamlined solution for studio setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the Crane Song Avocet IIA for its flexibility in combining D/A conversion with monitor management, making it ideal for users planning future expansions, such as adding monitors.

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  • Owners of Crane Song gear find the HEDD's color option reminiscent of tape, resembling analog warmth without sacrificing clarity.

    Source
  • Crane Song HEDD users describe its audio quality as feeling like there's no microphone or preamp between the ear and the instrument, highlighting its transparency.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Crane Song Avocet IIA is noted for offering a combination of high-quality D/A conversion and comprehensive monitor control, making it a versatile choice for mastering engineers.

    Source
  • Crane Song's conversion technology is seen as providing a lifelike listening experience, making it ideal for those seeking an immersive and detailed soundstage.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Crane Song Avocet IIA Monitor Controller

mixonline.com

The Crane Song Avocet IIA Monitor Controller is lauded for its high-fidelity, transparent sound and versatile expandability to 7.1 surround, making it a staple in any studio setup. The inclusion of Quantum DAC offers a noticeable improvement in audio clarity, stability in stereo imaging, and an enhanced soundstage. The Avocet IIA's precision in volume control and output level adjustments are standout features, simplifying the calibration process when switching between different audio setups. While priced at $3,149, the lack of any significant cons in the review emphasizes its value as a top-tier audio tool.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Martin Garrix uses Crane Song Avocet IIA

Martin Garrix

Music Producer

AREA21

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Verified via Photo

In this Instagram post by Martin Garrix, the buttons on the right side of the Crane Song Avocet IIA Stereo Monitor Controller can be seen just next to his left shoulder. This photo is taken in his studio, and he captions it:

"Long days in the studio and I love it"

Genre Usage

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

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