Gear article
Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik XLR to powerCON Hybrid Cable 3m
The Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik XLR to powerCON Hybrid Cable is a premium professional interconnect designed to transmit both power and balanced audio signals simultaneously. Manufactured in the EU, it features 99.999% oxygen-free copper and authentic Neutrik connectors to ensure high-fidelity signal transmission and reliable power delivery in demanding live and studio environments.
See live pricesOverview
The Adam Hall 5 STAR hybrid cable is a dual-purpose solution specifically engineered for pro audio applications that require streamlined cabling. By integrating a power line and an audio signal line into a single jacket, it eliminates the need for separate cable runs to active equipment. This 3-metre version is built with high-grade components, including 99.999% pure oxygen-free copper (OFC) wiring to maintain signal integrity over the distance.
Technical Features and Construction
This cable is part of the 5 STAR series, representing Adam Hall's premium tier of manufacturing. The internal wiring is protected by a dense braided shielding designed to prevent electromagnetic interference between the power and audio conductors. The exterior is encased in a soft PVC jacket that is specifically treated to be UV-resistant, ensuring the cable remains flexible and durable even when exposed to sunlight in outdoor festival settings. The use of industry-standard Neutrik connectors ensures secure, locking connections that are resistant to accidental disconnection.
Applications
The hybrid design is primarily intended for use with active PA speakers, subwoofers, and mixers. In a typical setup, a single cable can provide the mains power (via powerCON) and the balanced audio input (via XLR) to a powered monitor or front-of-house speaker. This significantly reduces 'cable spaghetti' on stage and speeds up load-in and load-out times for touring professionals and event technicians.
Sound and Performance
Due to the extremely high purity of the copper (99.999% OFC), the cable offers exceptionally clear signal transmission with minimal distortion. The robust shielding is critical in this hybrid format, as it prevents the 230V power signal from inducing hum or noise into the low-voltage audio signal. The result is a clean, transparent audio path suitable for high-fidelity professional audio systems.
Target Audience and Comparison
This product is aimed at audio professionals, rental houses, and touring musicians who require reliable, heavy-duty interconnects. While more affordable alternatives like the Studiospares Standard XLR or Gear4Music Essentials cables exist for simple audio-only tasks, they do not offer the integrated power delivery found here. Compared to standard separate leads, the Adam Hall 5 STAR hybrid cable offers a more organised, professional aesthetic and improved durability for rigorous touring schedules.
Related gear
£5.99 ($8)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm
£17.57 ($22)Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball P06049 10ft Straight-Angle Instrument Cable White
£32.00 ($41)LD Systems
LD Systems WS100BNC10 BNC to BNC Antenna Cable 10m
£4.99 ($6)Gear4Music
Essentials Dual Jack to RCA Phono Cable 3m
£10.50 ($13)Neutrik
Neutrik NC3FRX Right-Angled 3-Pole Female XLR Connector
£19.00 ($24)Neutrik
Neutrik NA2MP Male XLR - 1/4 Jack Adaptor
£30.00 ($38)Adam Hall
Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 5-Pin Lighting Cable 20m
£4.99 ($6)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Patch Cable 30cm
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary function of this hybrid cable?
- It is designed to transmit both electrical power and a balanced audio signal through a single integrated cable. This is typically used to connect active loudspeakers or subwoofers to a power source and a mixing console simultaneously.
- What specific connectors are used on this cable?
- The cable is equipped with authentic Neutrik XLR connectors for audio and Neutrik powerCON connectors for mains power. These are industry-standard locking connectors known for their durability and secure fit.
- How long is this specific cable model?
- This specific model has a total length of 3 metres. This makes it suitable for short-to-medium runs, such as connecting floor monitors or nearby PA speakers to a stage box.
- Where is the Adam Hall 5 STAR series manufactured?
- The 5 STAR premium cables are manufactured in the European Union. This ensures high quality control standards and the use of premium materials throughout the build process.
- What type of copper is used in the wiring?
- The cable features 99.999 percent pure oxygen-free copper (OFC). This high level of purity minimizes signal degradation and ensures exceptionally clear audio transmission.
- Is this cable suitable for outdoor use?
- Yes, the cable features a soft PVC jacket that is UV-resistant. This protection prevents the outer casing from becoming brittle or damaged when exposed to sunlight during outdoor events.
- Does the power signal interfere with the audio signal?
- No, the cable utilizes dense braided shielding to protect the audio signal from interference. This design ensures that the power and audio signals remain clean and isolated despite being in close proximity.
- What is the typical price for this 3m cable?
- The typical price range for this specific 3-metre hybrid cable is approximately GBP 70. This reflects its status as a premium professional-grade tool using high-end Neutrik components.
- Can this cable be used with passive speakers?
- No, this cable is designed for active equipment that requires both an AC power source and a line-level audio signal. Passive speakers typically use Speakon cables to carry an amplified signal and do not require separate powerCON inputs.
- What makes the 5 STAR series different from other Adam Hall cables?
- The 5 STAR series is Adam Hall's top-tier cable line, utilizing the highest purity copper and superior shielding. It is designed specifically for the most demanding professional live and studio environments.
- Is the outer jacket flexible?
- Yes, the cable uses a soft PVC jacket. This material is chosen to provide a balance between rugged protection and the flexibility needed for easy routing and coiling on stage.
- How does this compare to using a separate XLR and power cable?
- This hybrid cable provides a much neater setup by combining two leads into one, reducing clutter. It also saves time during setup and teardown while ensuring both connections are of high professional quality.
