MuxLab 500086 - Digital Audio Extender Kit (S/PDIF and Toslink) over Cat5e/6 up to 150m
The MuxLab 500086 is a professional digital audio extension system designed to overcome the distance limitations of conventional audio cables. This transceiver kit allows you to send high-fidelity digital audio signals, both coaxial (S/PDIF) and optical (Toslink), over distances of up to 150 meters using a single Cat5e or Cat6 network cable. It's the ultimate solution for integrators who need to deploy distributed sound systems without sacrificing signal quality or dealing with fragile, short-length optical cables.
More than just an extension, the MuxLab 500086 functions as a versatile format converter. Thanks to its intelligent design, the receiver unit outputs the audio signal simultaneously through its coaxial and optical outputs, regardless of which input was used on the transmitter. This facilitates integration between legacy and modern equipment, allowing, for example, the connection of a source with an optical output to an amplifier that only has a coaxial input, all while transmitting the signal through the existing structured cabling infrastructure.
The device guarantees absolute signal integrity, supporting sampling rates up to 96 kHz and full compatibility with surround sound formats such as Dolby Digital, DTS, and 2-channel LPCM. Its Power over Cable (PoC) technology adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing both the transmitter and receiver to be powered by connecting the power supply to only one end, thus reducing cable clutter in racks or behind televisions.
Main features
The MuxLab 500086 stands out for its technical capabilities and ease of use in demanding environments:
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Long range extension: Transmits digital audio up to 150 meters (500 feet) using a standard Cat5e or Cat6 UTP cable.
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Input and output versatility: It has inputs and outputs for both Coaxial (RCA) and Optical (Toslink) cables, selectable by means of a switch on the transmitter.
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Integrated signal conversion: Performs automatic conversion between optical and coaxial formats; the receiver delivers audio through both outputs simultaneously.
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High fidelity audio: Supports sampling rates up to 96 kHz and 24 bits, ensuring transparent and lossless transmission.
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Power on Cable (PoC): Only requires an external power supply connected at one end (Tx or Rx) to power the entire system through the network cable.
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Supported formats: Compatible with LPCM, Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS and Dolby True HD.
Benefits for the integrator and the end user
This extender eliminates common headaches in audiovisual installations. For the professional integrator , using Cat5e/6 cable simplifies conduit routing and drastically reduces costs compared to long-distance audio cables. The PoC power capability frees up power outlets at critical points, such as behind wall-mounted displays or ceiling projectors.
For the end user , the main benefit is the purity of the sound. By keeping the signal in the digital domain throughout the entire transmission, it avoids the interference and hum typical of long analog extensions. Furthermore, its compact and discreet design allows it to be easily concealed, maintaining a clean and professional look in the room.
Use cases
The flexibility of the MuxLab 500086 makes it ideal for multiple scenarios:
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Home Cinema and Multimedia Rooms: To connect smart TVs (optical output) to AV receivers located in a distant technical rack or in a closed cabinet.
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Public Address Systems and Auditoriums: Audio distribution from the mixing console or digital sources to amplifiers located in different areas of the venue.
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Digital Signage: Sending synchronized audio from centralized multimedia players to screens distributed in shopping centers or airports.
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Corporate Environments: Conference rooms where the audio source (PC or videoconferencing codec) is far from the room's amplification system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of network cable should I use?
It is recommended to use good quality Cat5e or Cat6 twisted-pair cable. Using solid (non-stranded) cable generally offers better performance over long distances.
Do I need to connect both outputs on the receiver?
No, you can use only the Coaxial output, only the Optical output, or both at the same time if you need to send audio to two different devices simultaneously.
Does it support 7.1 audio?
The device supports compressed formats such as Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS, as well as 2-channel LPCM. Although the base specification is 5.1, the bandwidth allows for the pass-through of compatible formats within the S/PDIF standard.
Does it include audio cables?
The kit usually includes a small optical cable for testing or short connections, but for long runs you must purchase the Cat5e/6 cable separately according to the length required for your project.
Project description
The MuxLab 500086 digital audio extender kit allows the transmission of S/PDIF (coaxial) and Toslink (optical) audio signals over distances of up to 150 meters using a single Cat5e/6 cable in a point-to-point configuration. The system supports sampling rates up to 96 kHz and audio formats such as LPCM, Dolby Digital, and DTS. It features format conversion functionality, offering simultaneous coaxial and optical outputs at the receiver. It incorporates Power over Cable (PoC) technology, requiring an external 5V DC power supply at only one end (transmitter or receiver). The unit comes in a compact housing suitable for surface mounting or rack integration with compatible accessories.
