Jump to content

50M Unbalanced Line Level Cable Runs


Track21

Recommended Posts

Hi,

 

I'm going to be doing 2 50M cable runs in an installation for line level signal. 2 x Stereo. I've been looking at costings and what cable type would best suit the job:

 

Coax BNC - (With bnc - rca adaptors) - better shielding, twice as much cable

Double Shielded phono audio cable

CAT5

 

Can anybody shed some opinion, or make a suggestion?

 

Cheers!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

You don't say what the source is? If it's a playback machine with build out resistors, I'd advise against the idea altogether. If it's got something on the output that can drive a signal OK, then you may get away with it. However, "better" screening isn't really the answer - a twisted pair will achieve far better rejection of magnetic interference.

If it was me, I would balance the send and use any old twisted pair cable - even CAT5e would do nicely. If you have an unbalanced input at the other end, get that balanced too.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Yeah I know its a pretty long run for unbalanced! The source is 2x RCA line outputs from a DJM style Mixer, to jack unbalanced line in's of a small yamaha MG style mixer across the room. Short of getting 4 passive D.I's and running it all on mic cable ...?!
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Can anybody shed some opinion, or make a suggestion?

 

You may get away with it, but you're not going to know until you try - and check it with air con running, lights 1/2 dimmed etc. Then if it's no good you have to run another cable & balance everything up.

 

So, if it were me, I'd run balanced in the first place.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Just put one or two runs of CAT5/6 in and use transformers at either end to balance / unbalance. CPC sell plenty of appropriate black boxes. Don't get too hung up on the type of cable - UTP is fine and will handle (balanced) audio signals without a problem. Plus, six months down the line when someone decides they need to get composite video / VGA / HDMI / whatever from the DJ position to the mixer position, your cabling infrastructure can already handle it.
Link to comment
Share on other sites

AFAIK the stereo jacks on the MG series are balanced, pretty sure they are, on the larger ones anyway.

if not, are you short on channels, I would balance using a DI or similar, then into any channel via whichever connector is easier, on the mono channels the XLR or the jack can be used, its simply padded down for the appropriate level.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.