Gear article
Adam Hall 3 STAR XLR (F) to XLR (M) Cable 30m
The Adam Hall 3 STAR XLR (F) to XLR (M) Cable 30m is a professional-grade microphone and signal lead designed for long-distance audio transmission. Constructed with 99.999 percent oxygen-free copper and a spiral shield, it provides a reliable connection for stage and studio environments.
See live pricesOverview
The Adam Hall 3 STAR XLR cable is a balanced audio lead intended for both professional musicians and audio enthusiasts. This specific 30-metre variant is designed to facilitate long-distance signal routing without the degradation typically associated with lower-quality materials. It utilizes a standard 3-pin XLR configuration, featuring a female connector at one end and a male connector at the other, making it compatible with a wide range of microphones, mixing consoles, and active PA systems.
Construction and Key Features
The core of the cable is built using 99.999 percent oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring. This high purity level is essential for ensuring precise signal transmission and reducing the internal resistance of the cable over its significant 30-metre length. Protection is provided by a durable PVC jacket, which is engineered to withstand the rigours of frequent stage use, including being stepped on or coiled repeatedly.
Connectivity is handled by original Adam Hall connectors. These components feature nickel-plated contacts, which are selected for their ability to maintain a stable, secure connection and resist corrosion over time. To combat electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), the cable incorporates a spiral shielding layer, maintaining signal integrity in electronically noisy environments.
Sound and Performance Character
The primary objective of the 3 STAR series is transparency. By utilizing OFC conductors and dense spiral shielding, the cable is designed to deliver a clean audio signal with minimal noise floor. The focus is on a dependable audio experience that does not artificially colour the frequency response, ensuring that the sound captured by the microphone reaches the preamp or mixer exactly as intended.
Intended User and Application
This 30-metre cable is particularly suited for large-scale venues, outdoor stages, and recording studios where equipment is situated far apart. It provides an affordable solution for touring musicians who require reliable backup cables or fixed installations that need significant reach. Because it balances cost and performance, it is often preferred by project studios and live sound engineers who need to manage budgets without sacrificing basic signal reliability.
Comparisons and Alternatives
Within the Adam Hall ecosystem, the 3 STAR range serves as a cost-effective alternative to the premium 5 STAR series, which often utilizes Neutrik connectors, such as the 5 STAR Neutrik DMX cables. Compared to shorter leads like the Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) 30cm or 60cm patch cables, the 30m Adam Hall cable is designed for distance rather than internal rack routing. While budget-friendly 'Essentials' cables, such as those from Gear4Music, focus on domestic connectivity like RCA, the Adam Hall 3 STAR is built for the more demanding balanced signal requirements of professional audio environments.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary use for the Adam Hall 3 STAR 30m XLR cable?
- It is primarily used for long-distance audio signal transmission between microphones, mixing desks, and active speakers in live sound and studio settings.
- What material is used for the internal wiring?
- The cable uses 99.999 percent oxygen-free copper (OFC) to ensure high conductivity and minimal signal loss.
- What type of shielding does this cable feature?
- It features a spiral shielding layer designed to protect the audio signal from external interference and noise.
- Are the connectors on this cable branded?
- Yes, the cable utilizes original Adam Hall connectors specifically designed for the 3 STAR series.
- What is the benefit of nickel-plated contacts?
- Nickel-plated contacts provide a durable surface that ensures a secure, stable connection while offering resistance against oxidation.
- Is the outer jacket suitable for touring?
- Yes, the cable is equipped with a durable PVC jacket designed to protect the internal wiring during frequent use on stage.
- How long is this specific cable model?
- This specific model measures 30 metres in length, making it ideal for large venues.
- What is the typical price for this cable in the UK?
- The typical price range for this 30-metre cable is approximately GBP 30.00.
- Does this cable work for DMX lighting applications?
- While it uses XLR connectors, it is designed for audio; for lighting, a dedicated DMX cable like the Adam Hall 5 STAR DMX series is generally recommended.
- Is this a balanced or unbalanced cable?
- As an XLR-to-XLR cable with three pins, it is designed for balanced audio transmission, which helps in cancelling out noise over long distances.
- Can I use this cable to connect a guitar to an amplifier?
- No, guitars typically require a 1/4 inch TS instrument cable, such as those made by Ernie Ball, rather than a 3-pin XLR microphone cable.
- How does the 3 STAR series differ from the 5 STAR series?
- The 3 STAR series offers reliable performance at a lower price point, whereas the 5 STAR series typically features premium components like Neutrik connectors.
