Gear article

Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Multicore Cable Drum (8-Channel)

The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Multicore is a professional-grade 15-metre cable reel system featuring an integrated stagebox with six sends and two returns. Engineered for both live and studio environments, it utilizes 99.999 per cent oxygen-free copper and a dense spiral shield to ensure high-fidelity audio transmission and electromagnetic interference protection.

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Overview and Design

The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Multicore Cable Drum is designed to provide a streamlined solution for audio signal routing. By integrating a stagebox directly into a cable reel, the system allows for rapid deployment and tidy cable management. It is specifically configured with eight channels, partitioned into six sends and two returns, making it particularly effective for patching compact stage setups, such as miking a drum kit or a small vocal ensemble.

The build quality centres on the '4 STAR' series philosophy of balancing professional performance with practical handling. The use of a soft PVC jacket ensures the 15-metre cable remains flexible even under regular use, while the reel mechanism assists in preventing tangles during setup and teardown.

Technical Specifications

At the core of the cable is 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC). This high purity level is critical for maintaining signal integrity over the length of the 15-metre run, as it minimises resistance and prevents the oxidation that can degrade audio quality over time.

To combat the electrical noise often found in busy live environments or studios filled with electronic equipment, the multicore features dense spiral shielding. This layer acts as a barrier against electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring that the audio remains transparent and free from audible hum or buzz.

Applications

The unit is versatile enough for both stationary and mobile applications. In a live setting, it serves as a central hub for stage-front inputs that need to be sent to a mixing console, while providing return lines for monitoring. In a studio context, it can be used to connect a live room to a control room without the need for permanent wall installations. Its robust construction makes it suitable for hire companies and touring professionals who require gear that can withstand frequent handling.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard XLR cables, such as the Studiospares Standard range or Gear4Music Essentials cables, the Adam Hall 4 STAR Multicore offers a much cleaner workflow by consolidating eight individual lines into a single jacket. While smaller patch cables like the Studiospares 30cm or 60cm variants are better for internal rack wiring, the 15-metre 4 STAR multicore is designed for distance.

Unlike consumer-grade RCA or instrument cables like those from Ernie Ball, this system uses balanced XLR connections for superior noise rejection. Within the Adam Hall ecosystem, it sits alongside specialised products like the 5 STAR DMX Lighting cables, though it is specifically voiced and shielded for analogue audio rather than digital lighting control.

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Frequently asked questions

How many channels does this multicore have?
The system features 8 channels in total, configured as 6 send lines and 2 return lines.
What is the length of the cable?
The cable drum comes with a 15-metre length of multicore cable.
What materials are used for the conductors?
The conductors are made from 99.999 per cent oxygen-free copper (OFC) to provide excellent signal clarity.
Is the cable flexible for touring use?
Yes, it features a soft PVC jacket that offers high flexibility while being durable enough for regular handling in mobile setups.
What type of shielding does it include?
It uses a dense spiral shield to significantly reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and keep the audio signal clean.
What brand of connectors are used?
The system utilizes professional Rean connectors, which are part of the larger Neutrik family.
Is the stagebox built into the drum?
Yes, the product is a complete cable reel with a built-in stagebox for an all-in-one cable management solution.
Can I use this for a full drum kit?
With 6 sends, it is ideal for miking a standard drum kit or smaller groups where 8 combined channels are sufficient.
Is this suitable for studio recordings?
Yes, the 99.999% OFC construction ensures the authentic sound experience and low distortion required for studio work.
How does the drum mechanism benefit the user?
It allows for clean cable runs and makes the 15-metre cable easier to transport, deploy, and retract without tangling.
What is the typical price for this unit?
The typical price range for this specific 8-channel 15m multicore is approximately £142.
Are the return channels different from the sends?
While the internal cable quality is consistent, the returns are specifically intended to send signals back from the desk to the stage for monitoring or playback.