Gear article
Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Z Series IP65 CAT6A Cable (5m)
The Adam Hall 4 STAR Rean Z Series is a 5-metre professional-grade CAT6A network cable designed for high-speed data transmission in both live and studio environments. It features IP65-rated Rean connectors and oxygen-free copper conductors to ensure signal integrity and weather resistance.

Background and Design
Part of Adam Hall's 4 STAR series, this cable is engineered to meet the demands of modern digital audio and lighting networks. Unlike standard domestic Ethernet leads, the Rean Z Series is built for durability and frequent handling. The construction utilizes high-purity 99.999% oxygen-free copper, which is a hallmark of high-end signal cables designed to reduce distortion and maintain signal clarity over distance.
The cable is specifically tailored for professional networking tasks, including digital snake systems, lighting control via Art-Net or sACN, and studio equipment interconnectivity. Its robust build quality targets the mid-to-high professional tier, offering a balance between cost-effectiveness and touring-grade reliability.
Technical Features and Protection
The most distinctive feature of this model is the integration of IP65-rated Rean Z Series connectors. This rating ensures the connection point is protected against dust and low-pressure water jets, making the cable suitable for outdoor stages or festivals where environmental exposure is a concern.
Internally, the cable comprises four individually shielded conductor pairs. This design is critical for CAT6A specifications, as it significantly reduces electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk between the internal wires. The exterior is finished with a soft PVC jacket, providing the necessary flexibility for neat routing on stage and easy coiling during strike, while remaining tough enough to withstand regular handling.

Suitability and Applications
This cable is best suited for:
- Live Sound Engineers: Connecting digital consoles to stage boxes using protocols that require CAT6A bandwidth.
- Lighting Designers: Running stable data lines for modern LED fixtures and DMX-over-Ethernet applications.
- Mobile DJ and Event Technicians: Who require reliable, weather-protected cabling for outdoor temporary setups.
- Studio Professionals: Seeking high-clarity networking for DAW-based recording systems where EMI from other electronics is prevalent.
Comparative Context
Within the Adam Hall ecosystem, the 4 STAR series sits as a professional alternative to basic consumer cables. While the Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX cables represent a premium choice for lighting, the 4 STAR Rean Z Series provides a dedicated networking solution with similar environmental protection.
Compared to general utility cables like the Gear4Music Essentials RCA or Studiospares Standard XLR patch leads, this CAT6A cable is a specialised tool for high-speed data rather than simple analogue signals. It offers significantly more shielding and mechanical protection than a standard office-grade RJ-45 cable, which often lacks the PVC flexibility and IP-rated housing found here.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is the IP65 rating used for on this cable?
- The IP65 rating applies to the Rean connectors, providing protection against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction. This makes the cable suitable for outdoor use in adverse weather conditions.
- What type of copper is used in the conductors?
- The cable is manufactured using 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC). This high purity level is designed to provide excellent signal clarity and minimise distortion during data transmission.
- How is the cable protected from electromagnetic interference?
- It features four individually shielded conductor pairs. This configuration effectively reduces EMI and crosstalk, which is essential for maintaining signal integrity in complex environments with many electronic devices.
- Is the jacket suitable for mobile use?
- Yes, the cable features a soft PVC jacket. This material is chosen for its flexibility, allowing the cable to be easily handled and coiled while remaining durable enough for touring and mobile applications.
- What is the length of this specific model?
- This specific Adam Hall 4 STAR model is 5 metres (approximately 16.4 feet) long. It is designed for short-to-medium distance runs in live or studio setups.
- Can this cable be used for digital audio snakes?
- Yes, its CAT6A specification and shielded design make it ideal for high-speed data transmission required by digital audio snakes and networked stage boxes.
- Who manufactures the connectors on this cable?
- The connectors are original Rean Z Series RJ-45 connectors. Rean is a brand under the Neutrik Group, known for providing reliable connectivity solutions.
- What is the typical price range for this cable?
- The cable typically retails for approximately GBP 30. This price reflects its professional-grade shielding and weather-resistant connector components.
- Does this cable support 10 Gigabit Ethernet?
- As a CAT6A rated cable, it is designed to support 10Gbps data transfer rates. This makes it future-proof for high-bandwidth professional audio and lighting protocols.
- How does the '4 STAR' designation relate to the product quality?
- The 4 STAR series is Adam Hall's professional tier of cabling. It is designed to offer high-quality materials, such as OFC copper and robust connectors, suitable for daily professional use.
- Is this cable suitable for permanent studio installations?
- Yes, the oxygen-free copper and high-quality shielding make it an excellent choice for stationary studio setups. It ensures an 'authentic sound experience' by minimising signal interference.
- Can I use this for Art-Net lighting control?
- Absolutely. The CAT6A standard and IP65 protection make it highly suitable for Art-Net or sACN lighting data transmission, especially in outdoor or high-interference environments.
