MyGearMyGear

Gear article

Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 3-Pin Lighting Cable (1.5m)

The Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 3-pin Lighting Cable is a professional-grade interconnect designed for the high-speed transmission of lighting control signals. Manufactured in the EU, it features 99.999% pure oxygen-free copper and original Neutrik connectors to ensure signal integrity in demanding live and studio environments.

See live prices

Background and Construction

Part of Adam Hall’s premium '5 STAR' range, this cable is engineered for lighting professionals who require consistent performance under rigorous conditions. Unlike standard microphone cables, this DMX-specific cable is designed to handle the fast transmission of digital data required for lighting protocols. The cable is manufactured within the European Union, adhering to high production standards for professional audio-visual equipment.

The physical build focuses on longevity and environmental resistance. It utilizes a soft PVC jacket that is specifically UV-resistant, preventing degradation when used in outdoor settings or under high-intensity stage lighting. Internally, the cable employs 99.999% pure oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring, which is a hallmark of high-end signal transmission components.

Technical Features and Shielding

The primary technical goal of the 5 STAR DMX cable is to minimize signal loss and prevent interference. To achieve this, Adam Hall incorporates a dense braided shielding. This shielding is critical in 'high-energy' environments—such as concert stages or broadcast studios—where electromagnetic interference from power racks and wireless systems can otherwise corrupt digital lighting data.

The cable is terminated with original Neutrik connectors. These connectors are widely regarded as the industry standard for durability and secure latching, ensuring that the 1.5-metre span maintains a solid mechanical and electrical connection even when subjected to physical movement or vibration.

Professional Applications

At 1.5 metres (approximately 5 feet) in length, this specific model is ideally suited for short-run connections. Typical uses include:

  • Daisy-chaining adjacent intelligent lighting fixtures on a truss.
  • Connecting DMX controllers to nearby signal splitters or wireless transmitters.
  • Linking rack-mounted lighting interface hardware.

Its robust construction makes it suitable for both permanent installations in studios and the 'plug-and-unplug' nature of touring live sound and theatre.

Comparison to Alternatives

When compared to budget-tier alternatives like the Gear4Music Essentials series, the Adam Hall 5 STAR cable offers superior materials such as the 99.999% OFC wiring and branded Neutrik components. While basic XLR cables like the Studiospares Standard range might physically fit a 3-pin DMX socket, they lack the specific impedance characteristics and dense braided shielding required for reliable high-speed digital DMX data transmission.

For longer runs, Adam Hall offers variations such as the 20-metre 5 STAR 5-Pin DMX cable, which serves larger stage footprints. The choice between 3-pin and 5-pin variants typically depends on the specific hardware requirements of the lighting fixtures being used, though the 3-pin 1.5m version remains a staple for standard DMX512 setups.

Related gear

Frequently asked questions

What is the specific length of this Adam Hall 5 STAR cable?
This specific model is 1.5 metres long, making it ideal for short patches between lighting fixtures or rack gear.
Where is the Adam Hall 5 STAR DMX cable manufactured?
These premium cables are manufactured in the European Union (EU) to ensure consistent quality and production standards.
What type of copper is used in the wiring?
The cable features 99.999% pure oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring, which provides exceptionally clear signal transmission with minimal loss.
Which connectors are used on this cable?
The cable is equipped with original Neutrik 3-pin connectors, which are known for their reliability and professional build quality.
Is this cable suitable for outdoor use?
Yes, it features a UV-resistant soft PVC jacket that protects the cable from wear and environmental damage, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
How does this cable handle electromagnetic interference?
It uses a dense braided shielding designed to provide robust protection against interference, keeping the lighting signal clean in high-energy settings.
Can I use this cable for audio applications?
While it uses 3-pin XLR-style connectors, it is specifically designed and shielded for DMX lighting control signals. For audio, a dedicated microphone cable like the Studiospares Standard XLR is typically recommended.
What is the typical price range for this 1.5m cable?
The typical price for this professional-grade cable is approximately GBP 20.00.
What does the '5 STAR' designation mean for Adam Hall products?
The 5 STAR series represents Adam Hall's premium tier of cables, utilizing higher quality materials like Neutrik connectors and pure OFC wiring compared to their standard ranges.
Why is a DMX cable preferred over a standard XLR cable for lighting?
DMX cables are engineered for fast transmission of digital data and have specific impedance and shielding properties that standard audio XLR cables lack, preventing signal flickering or lag.
Does the jacket material affect the cable's flexibility?
Yes, the soft PVC jacket is designed to be flexible for easy routing while remaining durable enough to withstand the demands of live environments.
Is there a 5-pin version of this cable available?
Yes, Adam Hall produces 5-pin versions in their 5 STAR range, such as a 20m variant, for fixtures that require the 5-pin DMX standard.