Analog Audio Over Cat 5 Wiring
The Radial Engineering Catapult MINI XLR Male System works like a typical four-channel analog audio snake; they allow you to send mic or line-level signals from one location to another without signal loss, noise, or interference, and without any digital audio conversion needed. What makes the Catapult system unique is that it utilizes Cat 5 Ethernet cable, which is widely available, lightweight, and economical. Simply connect a shielded Cat 5 cable between any two Catapult modules and they will use the analog conductors in the cable to deliver four balanced audio lines to any destination.
Straight-Wire Passive Operation
Catapult modules require no power to operate, and since they keep the signal in the analog realm, no digital conversion is necessary. Straight-wire connection from the XLRs to the RJ45 connector on a Cat 5 cable ensures that your audio passes through without coloration or distortion.
Utilize Pre-Existing Cable Installations
As many buildings are already pre-wired for Cat 5, you can take advantage of this to transmit audio between distant rooms without the need to install or supply new cabling. This eliminates the need for bulky and expensive multi-channel audio cable, and allows contractors to benefit from installed network cable and easily connect from one room to another.
Mix & Match
Three versions of the Catapult Mini are available: The Mini TX features female XLR connectors, the Mini RX has male XLRs, and the Mini TRS is equipped with 1/4" TRS jacks for balanced connection to any pro audio device.
All Radial Catapult modules are compatible with each other and sold individually, so you can select whichever combination best suits your needs. The Catapult Mini RX and TX can be used together as a pair, creating a compact 4-channel audio snake. However, if you prefer to have a stage box to plug microphones into, but want a compact breakout cable that fits in the case with the mixer, combine the Catapult TX4 with the Catapult Mini RX. With the addition of the Catapult Rack units, you can also incorporate equipment racks into your setups for greater flexibility, with each rack unit essentially functioning as three 4-channel modules in a 1RU rackspace. With a wide variety of modules available, you can customize your stage or recording studio setup to suit any application.