Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $3,833

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Crane Song HEDD 192". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Elevate your studio's sound with the Crane Song HEDD 192, a versatile signal processor that marries the clarity of digital precision with the warmth and character of analog sound. Ideal for both mixing and mastering, this unit stands out with its ability to emulate the harmonic distortion of tubes and tape entirely in the digital realm. Whether you're working on individual stems or your final mix, the HEDD 192 offers the flexibility of digital processing without the need for multiple conversions, ensuring your music carries the depth and texture of analog classics with the crispness of modern production.

Key Features:

  • Harmonically Enhanced Digital Device technology for tube and tape emulation
  • High-quality 24-bit/192kHz conversion for professional recording and mastering
  • Proprietary analog filtering and sub-picosecond jitter clocking for pristine sound quality
  • Flexible operational modes allowing the use of D/A and A/D concurrently at different sample rates
  • Digital I/O options including AES/EBU, TOSlink optical, and S/PDIF coaxial
  • Balanced analog I/O on XLR for seamless integration into any studio setup
  • Six word clock outputs on BNC, supporting complex studio configurations
  • 22-element VU metering for accurate visual monitoring
  • Triode and pentode tube emulation alongside analog tape compression emulation for sonic versatility
  • Compatible with 100/230V IEC mains socket for international use

Product specs

Brand Crane Song
Model HEDD 192 2-Channel AD/DA Converter with Digital Processing
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories AD/DA Converters

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Crane Song HEDD 192?

The Crane Song HEDD 192 serves as a 2-channel AD/DA converter with digital processing, designed to enhance audio quality through advanced harmonic processing.

Can the Crane Song HEDD 192 be used for mastering purposes?

Yes, the HEDD 192 is well-suited for mastering, offering high-quality conversion and processing capabilities that add warmth and character to audio tracks.

Does the Crane Song HEDD 192 support both analog and digital inputs?

Yes, the HEDD 192 supports both analog and digital inputs, making it versatile for integrating into various studio setups.

What kind of digital processing does the Crane Song HEDD 192 offer?

The HEDD 192 includes digital processing options such as tape emulation and tube emulation, allowing users to add analog warmth and character to digital recordings.

Is the Crane Song HEDD 192 compatible with modern DAWs?

Yes, the HEDD 192 is compatible with modern DAWs, providing high-quality AD/DA conversion that integrates seamlessly through its digital and analog connectivity options.

gearwire

gearwire

Crane Song HEDD 192 Is An Exciter With Three Different Flavors

Video thumbnail for Crane Song HEDD 192 Is An Exciter With Three Different Flavors by gearwire

Crane Song HEDD 192 Is An Exciter With Three Different Flavors

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Crane Song HEDD 192 Sound Demo (No Talking) by Producing Bonedo

Crane Song HEDD 192 Sound Demo (No Talking)

Producing Bonedo

Producing Bonedo

Video thumbnail for craneSong_Hedd192 by *d.a.s. TV

craneSong_Hedd192

*d.a.s. TV

*d.a.s. TV

Reviews

PROS

  • Open and transparent sound enhances clarity

  • Tighter bass and amazing imaging improve sound quality

  • Triode, pentode, and tape knobs offer versatile sound shaping

  • Effortless clocking simplifies setup

  • Improves tracking, mixing, and mastering significantly

  • Sturdy knobs and simple layout for ease of use

  • Incredible detail in mid-range and top end

  • DSP addition available for enhanced sound control

  • Tape saturation adds remarkable warmth and dynamics

CONS

  • Steep price point may deter some users

  • Requires specific cabling (AES/EBU) not included

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Crane Song HEDD 192.

Comparisons

  • The Crane Song HEDD 192, while still highly praised, is considered a step below the newer HEDD Quantum in terms of sound quality improvements.

    Source
  • Right-angle recording professionals opted for the HEDD Quantum due to an open box deal, illustrating its desirability despite availability challenges.

    Source
  • Many users prefer Lynx Aurora over Burl for a cleaner sound, while Burl is noted for imparting a more analog character.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The tape emulation feature on the HEDD 192 received mixed reviews; one owner found it less appealing but praised the converter’s overall performance.

    Source
  • The HEDD Quantum is praised as "next-level," indicating a strong positive reception among owners familiar with high-end mastering gear.

    Source
  • Merging Horus users report consistent sound quality across old and new cards due to unchanged analog sections, indicating long-term value.

    Source
  • Metric Halo praised for its robust DAW integration and reliability, especially in professional film set environments.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The HEDD Quantum's low jitter is highlighted as a significant advantage, making it appealing for mastering professionals seeking precision.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention that the saturation settings, such as +3 and +6, create distinct tonal changes, particularly affecting frequencies between 3-7kHz and overall loudness.

    Source
  • Some owners experience frustration with Antelope's software, despite acknowledging the high quality of its hardware.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Antelope's software issues are highlighted, with specific complaints about mode-switching errors and a problematic 3Hz hum.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Lynx Aurora is highly recommended for transparent conversion, even though it's more expensive, with users considering it worth the cost.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Crane Song: HEDD 192 | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Crane Song HEDD 192 stands out as a groundbreaking signal processor, praised for its ability to infuse digital recordings with the warm, harmonically rich qualities of analog tape and tubes. Designed with precision by David Hill, its ease of use is matched by its innovative features like Triode, Pentode, and Tape emulation, which together create a more focused and vibrant sound. While it excels in adding musicality to digital recordings, it may not suit those seeking straightforward, uncolored digital processing. Overall, the HEDD 192 is lauded for its quality, versatility, and ability to breathe life into digital audio, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking analog warmth in a digital world.

positive

Crane Song HEDD 192

mixonline.com

Crane Song's HEDD 192 offers a compelling mix of analog warmth and digital precision, making it a favorite for producers seeking rich, full-spectrum sonic textures. Its simplicity and intuitive controls are standout features, allowing users to easily dial in harmonics with the Triode, Pentode, and Tape emulation knobs. While it's priced at $3,495, the sound enhancement capabilities justify the investment for serious sound engineers. However, potential buyers should note the current 96kHz limitation, pending an upgrade. Overall, HEDD 192 impresses with its controlled distortion and ease of use, marking a positive addition to any studio.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Hardwell uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Hardwell

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The Crane Song HEDD 192 can be seen near the bottom of Hardwell's new rack in this Instagram post

See how Kaskade uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Kaskade

Music Producer

Late Night Alumni

...
Verified via Emusician

"The Crane Song HEDD 192 was a new purchase for [Fire & Ice], and I'm really happy with the converters on that... I've got a few pieces of their outboard gear, most studios I've visited have their stuff, and I've definitely noticed a difference when I A/B against the last record."

See how Damon Albarn uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Damon Albarn

Singer, Guitarist

Gorillaz

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo from Studio 13's website, Damon Albarn is shown using the Crane Song HEDD 192, highlighting its role in his studio setup.

See how Headhunterz uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Headhunterz

Music Producer, DJ

Project One

...
Verified via Photo

In this instagram photo Headhunterz show's off his Crane Song HEDD 192 "One of my favorite tools in the kitchen."

See how Guy Gerber uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Guy Gerber

Music Producer

Gregor Tresher & Guy Gerber

...
Verified via Photo

as seen in the Resident Advisor "Machine Love" article https://www.residentadvisor.net/features/2347

See how Dave Clarke uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Dave Clarke

Music Producer

Hothouse Flowers

...
Verified via YouTube

Dave Clarke talks to future music about his production techniques

See how Rik Simpson uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Rik Simpson

Singer, Guitarist

The Darktones

...
Verified via Soundonsound

So I run my main mix through the Cranesong HEDD 192 converter, and through some outboard from my rack, and then into a Pro Tools session on the second laptop

See how Natalie Bibby uses Crane Song HEDD 192

Natalie Bibby

Audio Engineer

...
Verified via Photo

Natalie Bibby uses the Crane Song HEDD 192, as evidenced by a photo on Instagram by compress_her, where the gear is visible in her studio during a vinyl mastering session for Daydreamers' debut album.

Album Usage

The Crane Song HEDD 192 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

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

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Crane Song HEDD 192, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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