Gear article
Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Balanced 1/4" TRS Jack Extension Cable 90cm
The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Balanced 1/4" TRS Jack Extension Cable is a high-performance audio interconnect designed for professional live and studio applications. Featuring 99.999% oxygen-free copper and dense spiral shielding, it provides low-distortion signal extension for line-level sources and instruments.

Overview
The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Balanced 1/4" TRS Jack Extension Cable is a 90cm utility cable intended to extend the reach of existing audio connections without compromising signal integrity. It is specifically engineered for professional environments where high-quality audio transmission is required, such as recording studios and live stages. The cable utilises Rean connectors, a brand known for providing reliable terminations that balance cost-effectiveness with durability.
Technical Design and Construction
The internal construction of the cable focuses on purity and protection. It features conductors made from 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC), which is selected to minimise signal degradation and distortion over the length of the run. To protect the signal from external noise, the cable employs a dense spiral shield designed to deflect electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is particularly prevalent in complex rigs with multiple power cables and electronic devices.

Handling and Durability
For mobile audio setups and frequent handling, the 4 STAR series uses a soft PVC jacket. This material provides significant flexibility, allowing the cable to be coiled easily and laid flat during use. The jacket is also designed to be robust enough to withstand the mechanical stresses associated with regular setup and teardown in professional environments.
Applications
This extension cable is versatile, supporting a wide range of equipment. Common uses include:
- Extending guitar or bass cables for larger stage areas.
- Connecting keyboards and line-level synthesizers to mixers.
- Extending the reach of DI boxes in studio floor plans.
- Use in headphone extension setups where a TRS connection is required.
Because it is a balanced (TRS) cable, it is capable of carrying balanced mono signals or unbalanced stereo signals, depending on the connected hardware.
Comparison to Alternatives
Within the Adam Hall range, the 4 STAR series sits as a professional-grade option, often compared to the 5 STAR Neutrik series which typically features higher-specification Neutrik connectors for even more demanding touring applications. In contrast to budget alternatives like the Gear4Music Essentials range, the 4 STAR cable offers superior shielding and higher-purity copper. While shorter than standard 3m or 6m instrument cables like those from Ernie Ball, this 90cm extension serves a specific role in modular setups where minimal extra length is required to avoid clutter.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary purpose of this cable?
- It is designed to extend the length of an existing 1/4" TRS connection by 90cm. It is suitable for professionals needing high-quality audio transmission for instruments or line-level sources.
- Is this cable balanced or unbalanced?
- This is a balanced TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cable. It can carry balanced mono signals, which helps in reducing noise over longer distances, or it can carry unbalanced stereo signals.
- What brand of connectors are used on this cable?
- This 4 STAR series cable features Rean connectors. Rean is a brand under the Neutrik Group, known for producing reliable and professional-grade audio connectors.
- What is the benefit of 99.999% oxygen-free copper?
- Oxygen-free copper (OFC) provides excellent signal clarity by reducing the resistance and potential for oxidation within the wire. This results in minimal distortion and an authentic sound experience.
- How does the cable handle electromagnetic interference?
- The cable is equipped with dense spiral shielding. This layer acts as a barrier against electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring the audio signal remains clean even in environments with many electronic devices.
- What material is the outer jacket made from?
- The cable features a soft PVC jacket. This material is chosen for its balance of flexibility and durability, making it suitable for both stationary studio use and mobile live setups.
- Can this cable be used with a guitar?
- Yes, it can be used to extend guitar cables, especially when connecting to DI boxes or amplifiers. However, users should ensure the rest of their signal chain is compatible with TRS connectors if they wish to maintain a balanced signal.
- Is 90cm long enough for stage use?
- The 90cm length is specifically intended for 'short-reach' extensions. It is ideal for bridging small gaps in racks or extending a cable just enough to reach a performer without creating excessive cable slack.
- How does this compare to the Adam Hall 5 STAR series?
- The 4 STAR series uses Rean connectors, whereas the 5 STAR series typically features premium Neutrik connectors. The 4 STAR offers a high-quality professional standard at a slightly more accessible price point.
- Is this cable suitable for line-level sources?
- Yes, it is perfectly suited for line-level sources such as keyboards, mixers, and audio interfaces. The balanced design helps maintain signal integrity for these types of connections.
- Will this cable work for headphones?
- If the headphones use a standard 1/4" (6.35mm) TRS jack, this cable can function as an extension. Its balanced construction is compatible with the stereo TRS wiring used by most professional headphones.
- What is the typical price for this cable?
- The typical price for the Adam Hall 4 STAR 90cm TRS extension cable is approximately £10. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and current market conditions.
