Cranborne Audio Brick Lane MC4
The Cranborne Audio Brick Lane MC4 is a powerful 4-channel digitally controlled analogue dynamics processor, designed to deliver the sound, feel, and musical behaviour of multiple classic compressors within a single, highly flexible unit. Built around Cranborne Audio’s advanced Modal PWM compression architecture, the MC4 represents a new generation of analogue dynamics processing for modern hybrid studios.
Unlike traditional compressors with fixed ratios and envelopes, the MC4 allows you to switch between fundamentally different compression behaviours using dedicated modes. From smooth vintage-style levelling to aggressive transient shaping and mastering-grade limiting, the MC4 adapts seamlessly to any production scenario.
Modal PWM Compression – Next-Generation Analogue Dynamics
At the core of the MC4 is Modal PWM compression, a unique system that modulates the control behaviour, timing, and harmonic response of the analogue gain stage itself. This enables a single signal path to emulate multiple compression styles with exceptional musicality and precision.
Each of the four channels features six compression modes, each paired with a dynamically linked analogue saturation circuit. This ensures that harmonic content evolves naturally with gain reduction, recreating the programme-dependent character of classic analogue compressors.
Flexible Workflow & Routing
The MC4 is designed for maximum versatility across tracking, mixing, and mastering. Each channel can operate independently or be combined using advanced routing options including stereo linking, Mid/Side processing, and internal channel chaining.
- Series Mode: Chain two channels for layered compression
- Dual-Band Mode: Two-band analogue compression with minimal phase interaction
- De-Esser Mode: Analogue lookahead for smooth high-frequency control
An enhanced Noise Gate with Analogue Lookahead is included on each channel, providing clean and predictable gating without artefacts.
Hybrid Control & Total Recall
While maintaining a fully analogue audio path, the MC4 offers complete digital control via USB or Ethernet. A dedicated plug-in allows real-time parameter adjustment, preset management, and total recall directly from your DAW, making it ideal for modern hybrid workflows.
With flexible sidechain routing, hardware insert points on every channel, and deep behavioural control via the ENIGMA system, the MC4 delivers both the musicality of vintage gear and the precision of modern production tools.
Features
- 4-channel analogue dynamics processor
- Modal PWM compression architecture
- Six compression modes per channel
- Dynamically linked analogue saturation
- Per-channel noise gate with analogue lookahead
- Advanced routing: mono, stereo, Mid/Side, series, dual-band
- Dedicated de-esser mode
- USB and Ethernet control with DAW plug-in
- Total recall and preset management
- ENIGMA system for deep parameter control
- Bypassable insert points on all channels
Applications
- Tracking and recording
- Mix bus and stem processing
- Mastering and final dynamics control
- Hybrid studio workflows
- Creative sound shaping and compression
Technical Specifications
- Format: 2U, 19-inch rackmount
- Channels: 4-channel analogue dynamics processor
- Compression: Modal PWM (digitally controlled analogue)
- Compression Modes: Velvet, Float, Smash, Tame, Glue, Polish
- Saturation: 6 analogue saturation styles (mode-dependent)
- Operating Modes: Mono, stereo-linked, Mid/Side, series, dual-band, de-esser
- Noise Gate: Per-channel with analogue lookahead
- Sidechain: Internal routing + 4 external inputs
- Insert Points: TRS inserts per channel (bypassable, position selectable)
- Control: USB, Ethernet, DAW plug-in with total recall
