Radial Catapult RX4 4-Channel Cat5 Balanced Audio Snake

Radial Catapult RX4 4-Channel Cat5 Balanced Audio Snake
The Radial Catapult is a 4-channel audio snake that lets you send analog or AES digital audio signals over standard Cat5 or Cat6 shielded twisted pair cable. This allows stage techs to take advantage of the relatively low cost of this abundantly available cable for return snakes or for transporting balanced audio across a large stage. For the system contractor, the Catapult lets you take advantage of pre-wired networks to connect audio from one room to another.

Six configurations are offered with a choice of three input modules and three output modules. Each input module features four XLR inputs, four XLR thru-puts along with two Neutrik Ethercon outputs to connect the Cat5 cable to the desired output module. These are equipped with RJ45 type Ethercon input and thru-put plus two sets of XLR outputs. These may be ordered without transformers for sub-snakes or to transmit AES audio signals; with mic isolation transformers for signal splitting between FOH, monitors or the recording system, or with line level isolation transformers to eliminate system noise. A ground lift switch is provided at each end for the Ethernet cable connection to help eliminate hum and buzz caused by ground loops.

As with all Radial products, the Catapult is constructed with solid 14-gauge steel to handle the rigours of live touring and is finished in a powder-coat finish to keep your Catapult looking good for years! Inside, a two-sided PCB is used to mount the connectors and transformers doubling up the solder joints for maximum durability.

Analog Audio Over CAT 5 Wiring
The Catapult TX4 and RX4 act like a typical four-channel analog audio snake; they allow you to send mic or line-level signals from one location to another without signal loss, noise, or interference, and without any digital audio conversion needed. What makes the Catapult system unique is that it utilises Cat 5 Ethernet cable, which is widely available, lightweight, and economical. Simply connect a shielded Cat 5 cable between any two Catapult modules and they will use the analog conductors in the cable to deliver four balanced audio lines to any destination.

Straight-Wire Passive Operation
Catapult modules require no power to operate, and since they keep the signal in the analog realm, no digital conversion is necessary. Straight-wire connection from the XLRs to the RJ45 connector on a Cat 5 cable ensures that your audio passes through without coloration or distortion.

Utilise Pre-Existing Cable Installations
As many buildings are already pre-wired for Cat 5, you can take advantage of this to transmit audio between distant rooms without the need to install or supply new cabling. This eliminates the need for bulky and expensive multi-channel audio cable, and allows contractors to benefit from installed network cable and easily connect from one room to another.

Mix and Match to Add Transformer Isolation
All of the Radial Catapult modules are compatible with each other, and each is sold individually, so you can select whichever combination best suits your needs. The Catapult RX4 and TX4 can be used together as a pair, creating a 4-channel audio snake. However, if you need transformer isolation to prevent hum and buzz when splitting audio signals, two additional models of Catapults are available. The TX4L and RX4L have line level isolation transformers for splitting playback tracks or outputs to amp racks, while the TX4M and RX4M can be employed when splitting mic signals on stage. Use any combination of these six models, along with the compact Catapult Mini RX and TX to create a custom snake designed for your unique application.

Features:

• For Routing AES/Audio over Cat 5
• For Use with Catapult TX4
• 8 x XLR Outputs
• 1 x RJ45 Output, 1 x RJ45 Through-Output
• For Live-Sound Applications
• For Networking Audio Throughout Rooms
• Ground-Lift Switch on Cat 5 Connection
• Steel Handle for Transportation
• 4 Bumpers Protect Connections & Switch
• Milspec-Grade Circuit Board

Specifications:

• Audio Circuit Type: Passive splitter, transformer based
• I/O: 8 x XLR outputs (2 banks)
• 1 x RJ45-type EtherCON input
• 1 x RJ45-type EtherCON through-output
• Frequency Response: 7Hz to approximately 20kHz
• Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.0005% at 1kHz
• Dynamic Range: 140dB
• Maximum Input: +35dBu
• Minimum Load Impedance: 100Ohms
• Common Mode Rejection: >103 dB
• Ground Lift: Disconnects ground on RJ45 connector
• Construction: 14-gauge steel chassis and outer shell
• Finish: Durable powder coat
• Dimensions: 20.6cm x 10.5cm x 5.1cm
• Weight: 1.3kg