What is the primary purpose of this cable?

It is designed for DMX512 signal transmission in professional lighting applications, specifically for connecting DMX-controllable fixtures and controllers.

What does the IP65 rating signify?

The IP65 rating means the cable is 'dust tight' and protected against water jets, making it suitable for use in varied weather conditions when used with compatible IP65 fixtures.

How long is this specific model?

This specific model has a length of 1.5 metres, making it ideal for short links between lighting units on a truss.

What type of copper is used in the conductors?

The cable uses 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC) to provide high signal clarity and minimise interference or signal loss.

What brand of connectors are fitted to this cable?

The cable features original Rean connectors, which are part of the Neutrik group's product portfolio.

Can I use this cable for standard audio applications?

While it uses 3-pin connectors similar to XLR audio cables, it is specifically designed for DMX data; using it for audio is possible, but its primary purpose is high-impedance digital lighting signals.

What kind of shielding does the cable have?

It features a dense spiral shielding designed to significantly reduce electromagnetic interference in complex environments.

What is the jacket material made of?

The cable is encased in a soft PVC jacket which offers a combination of flexibility and resistance to physical handling.

How does the 4 STAR series differ from the 5 STAR series?

The 4 STAR series typically uses Rean connectors for professional reliability at a lower price point, whereas the 5 STAR series uses premium Neutrik connectors for even higher durability.

What plating is used on the connector contacts?

The connectors feature either silver or nickel-plated contacts to ensure reliable connectivity and signal transfer.

Is this cable suitable for mobile lighting setups?

Yes, its flexible PVC jacket and robust Rean connectors are designed to stand up to the regular handling required for mobile shows and temporary events.

Where does this cable sit in the market price-wise?

Typical pricing for the 1.5m version is approximately GBP 10, positioning it as a mid-range professional lighting accessory.

Gear article

Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean IP65 DMX Cable

The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean IP65 Rated 3-Pin DMX Lighting Cable is a high-grade signal transmission solution designed for professional lighting rigs and architectural installations. Featuring oxygen-free copper conductors and specialized weather-resistant connectors, this cable ensures signal integrity in both indoor and outdoor environments.

See live prices

Technical Background

Part of Adam Hall’s 4 STAR series, this cable is engineered to meet the demands of modern lighting professionals. It is specifically designed for the transmission of DMX512 signals, which require more precise impedance characteristics than standard audio cables. The 1.5-metre length is particularly suited for short-distance daisy-chaining between moving heads, LED pars, or control interfaces in compact racks.

The inclusion of Rean connectors—a brand under the Neutrik group—provides a middle ground between entry-level components and the high-end 5 STAR Neutrik-equipped cables. These connectors feature silver or nickel-plated contacts to ensure low contact resistance over long periods of use.

Construction and Shielding

The core of the cable utilises 99.999% oxygen-free copper. This high level of purity facilitates excellent signal clarity and minimises internal resistance, which is critical for maintaining digital signal timing. To protect this signal from external noise, the cable employs a dense spiral shield. This design is effective at reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is often prevalent in environments with high densities of power cables and electronic ballasts.

The exterior is finished with a soft PVC jacket. This material choice balances two competing needs: the flexibility required for mobile lighting setups and the durability necessary for permanent architectural installations.

Ingress Protection (IP65)

A defining feature of this specific model is its IP65 rating. This indicates that when properly mated, the cable and its connectors are protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction. This makes the cable an appropriate choice for temporary outdoor stages or architectural lighting projects where exposure to moisture or debris is expected.

Use Cases and Comparisons

This cable is most suitable for professional lighting technicians and installers who require a reliable digital link. While those on a strict budget might look toward standard microphone cables like the Studiospares Standard XLR models, the specific impedance and IP65 rating of the 4 STAR DMX cable provide much greater stability for lighting data.

Compared to the Adam Hall 5 STAR series, which typically features premium Neutrik brand connectors, the 4 STAR Rean series offers a more cost-effective solution while maintaining professional performance standards. It provides a more robust and weather-resistant alternative to standard 3-pin cables such as the Gear4Music Essentials or LD Systems BNC options.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of this cable?: It is designed for DMX512 signal transmission in professional lighting applications, specifically for connecting DMX-controllable fixtures and controllers.
What does the IP65 rating signify?: The IP65 rating means the cable is 'dust tight' and protected against water jets, making it suitable for use in varied weather conditions when used with compatible IP65 fixtures.
How long is this specific model?: This specific model has a length of 1.5 metres, making it ideal for short links between lighting units on a truss.
What type of copper is used in the conductors?: The cable uses 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC) to provide high signal clarity and minimise interference or signal loss.
What brand of connectors are fitted to this cable?: The cable features original Rean connectors, which are part of the Neutrik group's product portfolio.
Can I use this cable for standard audio applications?: While it uses 3-pin connectors similar to XLR audio cables, it is specifically designed for DMX data; using it for audio is possible, but its primary purpose is high-impedance digital lighting signals.
What kind of shielding does the cable have?: It features a dense spiral shielding designed to significantly reduce electromagnetic interference in complex environments.
What is the jacket material made of?: The cable is encased in a soft PVC jacket which offers a combination of flexibility and resistance to physical handling.
How does the 4 STAR series differ from the 5 STAR series?: The 4 STAR series typically uses Rean connectors for professional reliability at a lower price point, whereas the 5 STAR series uses premium Neutrik connectors for even higher durability.
What plating is used on the connector contacts?: The connectors feature either silver or nickel-plated contacts to ensure reliable connectivity and signal transfer.
Is this cable suitable for mobile lighting setups?: Yes, its flexible PVC jacket and robust Rean connectors are designed to stand up to the regular handling required for mobile shows and temporary events.
Where does this cable sit in the market price-wise?: Typical pricing for the 1.5m version is approximately GBP 10, positioning it as a mid-range professional lighting accessory.