dbx CT2 - Cable Tester

dbx CT2 - Multi-format Cable Tester with 9 Connector Types and Battery Test

The dbx CT2 is a compact, rugged cable tester designed to quickly and visually diagnose the condition of most cables used in professional audio and lighting. It features nine connector formats right on the chassis—including Speaker Twist (Speakon type) , XLR , 1/4” TRS/TS , RCA , BNC , 5-pin DIN/MIDI , 5-pin DMX , and banana plugs —and a 6-position rotary switch with pin-to-pin LEDs allows for continuity testing and pin-to-pin wiring with up to five contacts per connector. The CT2 can also test cables with different connector ends (e.g., TRS ↔ XLR) without additional accessories, and includes an internal battery check to prevent unexpected surprises during production.

It works immediately: connect each end of the cable to the left and right banks of the CT2, select the pin to be tested, and the paired LEDs indicate whether the connection is correct . If an LED appears on an unselected pin, it indicates a cross between pins; and the "Ground" LED warns of a short to ground . For single-wire (one-way) cables, the front panel includes a banana-terminal continuity tester with a buzzer and LED . All this is housed in a "tour-ready" chassis powered by a 9 V battery (not included), measuring 8.9 × 14 × 3.7 cm, making it easy to transport in any tool case.

Main features

• 6-position rotary selector with individual LEDs per pin (up to 5 pins) and integrated battery check .
• Continuity tester using banana terminals with buzzer and status LED.
• Integrated connectors (double per format) :
  • Speaker Twist (4-pin, Speakon type): 2 connectors.
  • XLR 3 pins : 1 male + 1 female.
  • TRS/TS 1/4” (6.35 mm) : 2 connectors.
  • RCA (phono) : 2 connectors.
  • BNC : 2 connectors.
  • DIN/MIDI 5 pin : 2 connectors.
  • DMX 5 pin : 2 connectors.
  • Banana : 2 terminals for continuity 1→1.
• Cross Test – Allows you to test cables with different connectors at each end (e.g., TRS ↔ XLR).
• Clear Indications : Paired LEDs for pin-to-pin continuity, cross-circuit detection, and shorts to ground .
• Ultra-rugged construction for intensive use on tour, in the studio, or for rental purposes.
• Power supply : 9V DC (battery not included) with quick access to the compartment.
• Dimensions : 8.9 × 14 × 3.7 cm (W × L × H).

Product benefits

• Save time : immediate diagnosis of wiring faults before assembly or during sound testing.
• True versatility : covers audio, video/signal and lighting with the most common formats (XLR, TRS/TS, RCA, BNC, DMX, MIDI, Speakon).
• Less uncertainty : The battery check ensures that the tester is ready when you need it.
• Reliable detection : LEDs per pin for continuity, shorts, and cross-circuits; banana plugs with beeper for quick checks.
• Road Ready : Compact and rugged design that stands up to everyday work.

Use cases

• Live and touring : checking hoses, stage hoses, monitor lines and intercom.
• Studios/broadcast : control of patch bays, snakes, inserts and outboard wiring.
• Theater and Lighting : Checking DMX lines and hybrid cables before the performance.
• AV Installation : Certification of RCA/BNC sections and mixed cables (TRS ↔ XLR) in rooms and auditoriums.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I test a cable with different connectors on each end? Yes. Connect each end to the corresponding bank and use the selector to check pin by pin.
• Does the CT2 emit an audible tone during tests? The buzzer is available on the continuity tester via banana plugs ; other tests are indicated by LEDs.
• What battery does it use? One 9V battery (not included). The selector includes a battery check position .
• Can I test cables with phantom power connected? No. Do not connect cables with phantom or other power present; you could damage the equipment.

Description for projects

dbx CT2 Multi-Format Cable Tester; 6-position rotary switch with pin LEDs and battery check ; built-in connectors: 2x Speaker Twist (4-pin), 1x XLR3 male + 1x XLR3 female, 2x TRS/TS 1/4”, 2x RCA, 2x BNC, 2x DIN/MIDI 5-pin, 2x DMX 5-pin, and 2x banana plugs (continuity tester with buzzer/LED); continuity, cross-circuit, and short-to-ground detection; 9 V DC power supply (battery not included); dimensions 8.9 × 14 × 3.7 cm .