MuxLab 500019 - Analog Audio Balun RCA Male to UTP Terminal Block
Optimize your professional and home audio installations with the MuxLab 500019 , a high-performance analog audio balun designed to overcome the distance limitations of traditional coaxial cables. This passive device allows you to transmit unbalanced line-level audio signals over unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) Cat 5e or Cat 6 cabling, facilitating a cleaner, more cost-effective, and versatile infrastructure.
The MuxLab 500019 acts as an essential bridge between your audio equipment and the structured cabling network. Thanks to its compact, pencil-like design, it connects directly to the RCA ports of equipment such as DVD players, audio mixers, amplifiers, or home theater systems. At the other end, it features a screw terminal block that eliminates the need for complex crimping tools, allowing for quick and secure connection of UTP cable wires. This feature is especially valuable in environments where space is limited or rapid installation is required.
This extender boasts outstanding transmission capabilities, reaching distances of up to 1.5 km (5,000 ft) depending on the signal frequency, making it an ideal solution for large venues where coaxial cabling would be impractical due to cost and signal loss. Being a completely passive device, it requires no external power supply, simplifying power management at the rack or destination point. Its gold-plated RCA connector construction ensures excellent conductivity and long-term corrosion resistance.
Main features
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Long-range transmission: Capable of sending audio signals up to 1.5 km through a Cat 5e/6 cable, maintaining an optimal frequency response for public address and distributed audio.
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Simplified connectivity: Transforms the signal from a male RCA connector to a two-screw terminal block, facilitating direct connection of the copper pairs without the need for additional RJ45 connectors.
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Efficient passive design: It operates without electrical power, reducing points of failure and eliminating the need for additional sockets in the installation.
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High signal fidelity: It offers a bandwidth of 20 Hz to 20 kHz at short distances (up to 305 m) and 100 Hz to 20 kHz at maximum distances, ensuring clarity in the transmission.
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Installation versatility: Its ultra-compact size (58 x 16 x 16 mm) allows it to be connected in rear panels crowded with equipment without obstructing other ports.
Benefits for the installer and the user
The MuxLab 500019 transforms the logistics of audiovisual installations. By using UTP cable, which is much more economical, flexible, and easier to run through conduits than shielded coaxial cable, material and labor costs are drastically reduced. Furthermore, it allows for the use of existing structured cabling in office buildings or schools to transmit audio, avoiding unnecessary construction work. Its integrated strain relief system protects the cabling against accidental pulls, ensuring superior durability in commercial environments.
Recommended use cases
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Public address and BGM systems: Ideal for sending background music or announcements from a central office to remote areas in shopping centers, airports or schools.
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Auditoriums and conference rooms: Connection of computers or mixers on the podium to the amplifiers located in the rear control room.
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Home and residential cinema: Multi-room audio distribution using the home's Cat 6 cabling network.
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Digital signage: Sending audio associated with information screens located a great distance from the multimedia player.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need two units for it to work?
Yes, baluns work in pairs (one as a transmitter and one as a receiver). They are generally sold individually to allow for flexible configurations, so you will need to purchase two units for a complete point-to-point link.
Does it work for stereo audio?
The MuxLab 500019 is a mono unit (single RCA connector). To transmit a stereo signal (left and right channels), you will need two pairs of baluns (4 units total) and will use two twisted pairs within the Cat 5e/6 cable.
Does it require electrical power?
No, this balun is passive and uses the energy from the line audio signal itself for transmission, so it does not need power adapters.
Project description
Passive analog audio extender (balun type) for transmitting unbalanced line-level signals over Cat 5e/6 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cabling. The device must have a gold-plated male RCA connector on the audio interface and a screw terminal block with strain relief for the UTP connection, without requiring RJ45 connectors. It must support transmission distances of up to 1.5 km (5,000 ft) with a frequency response of 100 Hz to 20 kHz at maximum distance, and 20 Hz to 20 kHz up to 305 m. Compact design in a flame-retardant plastic housing, maximum dimensions of 58 x 16 x 16 mm, and operation without an external power supply. Output impedance matched for transmission over 100 ohms twisted pair.
