Audix CBLM3XLR - RJ45 to 3x XLR Breakout Adapter Cable for M3 Ceiling Microphone
The Audix CBLM3XLR is an essential component for professional in-ceiling audio system installations, specifically designed to complement the Audix M3 Tri-Element microphone series. This breakout adapter cable performs a critical function in the signal chain: it converts the network (RJ45) termination used by the M3 microphone for its run through the ceiling into three standard analog audio connections that can be directly connected to mixers, preamplifiers, or DSP processors.
Since the M3 microphone has three independent capsules for capturing audio in 360 degrees or specific zones, this adapter separates (hence the term "breakout") the unified signal traveling through the network cable into three individual balanced XLR channels . This allows the sound engineer or installer to have complete control over each element of the microphone separately, facilitating equalization, gain, and processing for each zone of the conference room or auditorium.
Manufactured to Audix's quality standards, the CBLM3XLR ensures clean, noise-free signal transmission. Its shielded construction protects low-level microphone signals from electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), vital in corporate environments filled with LED lights, projectors, and Wi-Fi networks.
Main features
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Interface Conversion: Transforms the M3 microphone system's female RJ45 output into three standard 3-pin male XLR connectors.
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Triple Channel Design: Maintains the independence of the three M3 microphone capsules, delivering three discrete audio signals.
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Professional Shielding: Internal wiring designed to reject external noise and maintain the integrity of the audio signal.
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Robust Construction: High-quality connectors designed to withstand the stress of fixed installations and ensure a firm connection.
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Ease of Installation: Eliminates the need for complex soldering or homemade adaptations at the connection point to the audio rack.
Benefits for the installer and the user
Using the Audix CBLM3XLR dramatically simplifies workflow in commercial audio installations. For system integrators, it means transforming a run of Cat7 cable (used by the M3 for its ease of routing through ceilings and plenums) into professional analog audio in seconds. By offering industrial-grade XLR connectors, it ensures universal compatibility with any mixing console or professional audio interface without the need for additional tools.
Furthermore, by physically separating the signals before they enter the preamplifier, crosstalk is avoided and it is ensured that vocal clarity—the M3 microphone's strong point—reaches the processing system intact, guaranteeing crystal-clear meetings and video conferences.
Use cases
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Corporate conference rooms: Connecting the central ceiling microphone to the AV equipment rack.
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Distance education classrooms: Integration of teacher and student audio into videoconferencing systems.
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Courtrooms and tribunals: Forensic audio capture where each area must be recorded on separate tracks.
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Operating rooms and medical wards: Clean facilities where cabling must be minimal and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this cable convert the signal to digital or Ethernet?
No. Although it uses an RJ45 connector (common in networks), the signal traveling through the cable is balanced analog audio. This adapter simply uses the physical RJ45 format to carry the three audio channels and then separates them into XLR connectors.
Does it work with microphones other than the Audix M3?
This cable is designed with the specific pinout (pin configuration) of the Audix M3 Tri-Element. Its compatibility with other brands of ceiling microphones that use RJ45 is not guaranteed, as the internal wiring may differ.
Do I need extra power for this adapter?
The adapter is passive and does not require external power. However, please note that the Audix M3 microphone does require phantom power (48V) from the mixing console or DSP, and this cable allows that power to reach the microphone via the XLR connectors.
Project description
Breakout adapter cable designed for the Audix M3 Tri-Element ceiling microphone system. Input interface via female RJ45 connector and output via three 3-pin male XLR connectors, allowing for the separation of analog signals from the three microphone capsules. Shielded construction for RF/EMI interference immunity. Approximately 1.5 meters long for rack or wall mounting. Tool-free termination required.
