CAT BOX 8

Analog Audio Over CAT5 Stage Box

$ 200.00

The SoundTools CAT Box 8 offers both a male XLR and a female XLR on each of the four channels allowing the CAT Box 8 to be used for inputs, outputs, or a combination. Minimize the number of cables required by running up to four channels of analog audio, DMX, AES3, or COM lines through a single shielded CAT cable. The disconnectable CAT Box stage boxes can be daisy-chained and used in multiple configurations to build the optimum modular snake system.

DIMENSIONS

  • Height x Width x Depth:
  • 1.75 in (45mm) x 6.75 in (170mm) x
  • 3 in (77mm)
  • Weight: 12.8 oz (362 G)

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS

  • *Requires shielded cable for full functionality
  • Analog audio (including phantom power!)
  • DMX signals
  • AES3 compatable
  • Intercom

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

  • 4 channels of balanced analog audio over shielded CAT5e, CAT6 or CAT7
  • Supports phantom power on any or all channels
  • XLR male and female on each of the four channels
  • Removable internal jumper allows conversion to a dual CAT Box 4 (8 Channels)
  • Compatible with AES3, DMX, COM, and other 3-pin XLR based signals

DOCUMENTATION

PACKAGE CONTENTS

  • CAT Box 8
  • Rubber foot pad
  • User documentation

WARRANTY INFORMATION

  • Lifetime Happy Human Warranty

PART NUMBER

  • Male: CB851

VERSATILE SETUP

Build the perfect stage snake system around the versatile and durable SoundTools CAT Box 8. The SoundTools CAT Box 8 offers both a male XLR and a female XLR on each of the four channels allowing the CAT Box 8 to be used for inputs, outputs, or a combination. Minimize the number of cables required by running up to four channels of analog audio, DMX, AES3, or COM lines through a single shielded CAT cable. The disconnectable CAT Box stage boxes can be daisy-chained and used in multiple configurations to build the optimum modular snake system.

VERSATILE SETUP

CAT Box 8 with male and female XLR connectors

WORKS FOR YOU

The SoundTools CAT Box offers four XLR female and four XLR male connectors, and an etherCON input and etherCON parallel output. This all-analog, fully passive stage box can carry up to four channels or analog mic level, analog line level, AES3, DMX, or intercom signals.

Not all disconnects are created equally. Because of its design, the SoundTools CAT Box 8 can be used in a multitude of applications.

  • Send multiple signal formats down a single shielded CAT cable
  • Use as a low-cost hard-wire split
  • Daisy-chain units and drop the same channels in multiple locations
  • Connect two male or two female CAT Boxes together to create M-M or F-F adaptors
  • Remove an internal ribbon cable jumper to convert a CAT Box 8 into two CAT Box 4 units

  • FUNCTIONAL

    Not only is the SoundTools CAT Box 8 designed to work flawlessly, but we created it to look great too. SoundTools CAT Boxes are constructed with anodized machined aluminum and finished with stainless steel screws, so they are rust-resistant and rugged enough to handle life on stage. Stylish black and red coloring is finished with a laser-etched SoundTools logo. Our clearly-labeled inputs and outputs simplify set up and tear down, making this the stage drop box you'll be reaching for again and again.

    SoundTools is founded and run by audio professionals just like you. We know how much your happiness depends on high-quality tools that work every time. The SoundTools CAT Box 8 is covered by our Happy Human Warranty. If you're not happy with it within the first year, you can return it for a refund. At any time after that, if it fails, contact us and we'll send you a replacement.

    VERSATILE SETUP

    Function

    Attach your shielded CAT5e/6/7 cable to the input or thru etherCON connection on the end of the CAT Box 8. Attach either a second CAT Box or another SoundTools Analog Audio over CAT 5 product to the other end of the cable. Insert your XLR cable ends to channels 1, 2, 3, or 4. Now you can run up to four lines of audio down a shielded CAT(5,6,7) cable.

    Pair with an additional CAT Rack, CAT Box, CAT Rack, or WallCAT to send and receive four lines of balanced audio.


    F.A.Q.

    Do I need to use shielded CAT5 cable?

    Yes. Each of the channels share a common ground. This is especially important with digital signals.

    How far can I send a my mic lines?

    For balanced analog we've achieved distances of over 600ft using our SuperCAT cable. The results will vary with other CAT5 brands. For digital signals we reccommend distances up to 330 ft as per AES/EBU standards.

    Is there a ground lift?

    The CAT Box 8 comes with an internal jumper which will disconnect the ground from the box. Just open the box (remove 4 screws) and move the jumper from ground to ground lift. Helpful if you run into issues with the metal body grounding to something else.

    Can I use the CAT Box 8 with the SoundTools CAT Tails?

    Absolutely! All of the SoundTools Analog Audio over CAT 5 family will work together, bringing audio over CAT to the places you need​ it most. Connect CAT Box 8 to CAT Tails or CAT Racks, split signals using the parallell/thru jacks, and route your audio where you want.

    Can I send audio in both directions or do I need another gender CAT Box 8?

    The CAT Box 8 is capable of sending or receiving signals, just like an analog snake. You can use either the male or female XLRs, or both (which is a signal split). When sending mixed signals a high quality CAT cable is encouraged.

    Is shielded cable really required?

    The short answer is no. But in order to use phantom power and to minimize noise, we strongly suggest you use a properly shielded cable. You can check if your cable is shielded by checking for continuity on the RJ45 jack using a multi-meter. Still not sure? Just purchase SoundTools SuperCAT cable and you know you'll be covered.

    Can I use it with my (digital console)?

    While the CAT Box 8 will work with any console on the market, it is important to note that it does not do any D/A conversion. The beauty of the CAT Box is that it sends analog audio over lightweight CAT cable, no conversion required. Hook directly up to your XLR connections and let CAT Box do the rest.

    Do you have a wiring diagram available?

    You can download a PDF version of the CAT Family Wiring Diagram HERE

    SoundTools Warranty Policy

    All SoundTools products are covered by a one year no questions asked “Happy Human” warranty, wherein if a customer is unhappy for any reason they shall be able to return the item in the original packaging for a full refund from the place of purchase. Additionally, SoundTools strives for total customer satisfaction forever. If a customer wishes a replacement after the initial one-year warranty for any reason, we will replace it with one of equal or better condition.

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