Cranborne Audio N8 C.A.S.T. Distribution Hub

The Cranborne Audio N8 is a completely passive C.A.S.T. distribution hub that transforms standard network cable into high-quality 4-channel analogue snakes. By replacing multiple XLR cables with a single Cat 5e/6/7 cable, N8 simplifies cable management, reduces clutter, and maintains pristine analogue audio integrity across distances up to 330 ft. Perfect for routing I/O throughout studios, live spaces, or broadcast environments, N8 is the central hub for Cranborne’s innovative C.A.S.T. system.

Key Features

• Passive Design — no power required for operation.
• 16 Channels of Routing — 8 in / 8 out over DB25 (Tascam wiring) with 4 dedicated C.A.S.T. ports (2 channels in + 2 channels out per port).
• Audio Over Cat 5 — replaces 4 XLR cables with a single Cat 5e/6/7 cable up to 100 m (330 ft).
• Flexible Output Routing — switchable distribution allows shared stereo signals or separate mixes per output.
• High-Quality Audio Paths — fully balanced with full 48 V phantom power support.
• Compatible Devices — works with all C.A.S.T.-enabled products, including N22, N22H, Camden EC1, Camden EC2, 500R8, and 500ADAT.
• Rugged Design — durable metal enclosure with optional 19″ Half Rack Kit (sold separately) for rackmounting.
• Cost-Effective — Cat 5 cabling is inexpensive, widely available, and delivers superior performance over long distances compared to traditional analogue looms.

Specifications

• Inputs/Outputs: 8 × inputs, 8 × outputs via DB25 (Tascam standard, cable sold separately)
• C.A.S.T. Ports: 4 × RJ45 ports, each carrying 2 input and 2 output channels
• Cable Compatibility: Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 7 shielded network cable, up to 100 m (330 ft)
• Phantom Power: Full 48 V supported
• Construction: Ruggedised metal enclosure
• Mounting: Optional Half Rack Kit (OBDRK001) allows single, dual, or half-width 19″ rack installation
• Dimensions: 8.3″ W × 1.7″ H (1U) × 6″ D
• Unit Weight: ~2 lb
• Shipping Carton: 12″ W × 4″ H × 8″ D
• Shipping Weight: ~3 lb

Also Available

The C.A.S.T. Intro Bundle includes the N8 Distribution Hub, rackmount kit, N22H headphone amp, N22 breakout box, 2 × 10 m (33 ft) Cat 6e cables, and accessories — everything needed to get started with Cranborne Audio’s C.A.S.T. system.