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Ethernet Cables

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Networked audio is taking over worship applications, commercial installations, and professional studios because it provides high-speed, high-volume data transfers over long and short distances. It allows large facilities to connect all their rooms together without having to worry about latency issues and can carry up to 40 channels of audio in a single cable. For those who want maximum speed, ethernet cables are the fast lane you want to be in. Many professional studios will run ethernet cables through the floors and walls to route audio to various headphone systems in the control room, vocal booth, live band room, and beyond.


Ethernet cables have become a popular choice for a variety of audio applications due to their affordability, reliability, and consistent performance. Unlike traditional Wi-Fi networks, ethernet cables are very secure because you connect to the network via a physical plug. Because these cables are so readily available, it is the modern protocol for high-speed data transfer and the most widely used local area networking (LAN) technology today.


Cat 5e vs Cat 6 Ethernet Cables


As you shop for ethernet cables, you’ll notice there are a few variations to choose from like Cat 5e and Cat 6. The term “cat” is short for category and the number that follows refers to the specification of the cable manufacturing. The “e” in Cat 5e stands for “enhanced.” You can think about it like this: the higher the number, the higher the frequency in MHz, which equals faster speed. Like most cables, the longer it is, the slower the transmission speed, so keep that in mind as well.


It may be confusing at first to decipher between all the different types of ethernet cables, but the two most common are Cat 5e and Cat 6. Cat 5e ethernet cables and Cat 6 ethernet cables have one thing in common: they can reach a max transmission speed of 1,000 Mbps, which is the data transfer rate. The difference between these two ethernet cables is their max bandwidth. While Cat 5e cables max out at 100 MHz, Cat 6 cables max out at 250 MHz. Cat 6 ethernet cables are often outfitted in braided shielding or foil. The shielding’s main job is to protect the twisted pair of wires inside the ethernet cable as a means of preventing noise interference and crosstalk, which will keep your audio recordings and playback squeaky clean.


What Is an Ethercon Cable?


An Ethercon cable can provide your Ethernet-based digital snakes with a more secure, reliable connection. These protected ethernet cables lock into place and shield your digital audio gear from harsh stage and studio environments, keeping your signal uninterrupted so the show can go on without a hitch. Ethercon cables can also increase the lifespan of your ethernet components, saving you some hard-earned money that you can spend on that new mixer you’ve got your eye on.


Buy Ethernet Cables & Ethercon Cables Online


For the best ethernet cables and ethercon cables, shop Sweetwater’s large online inventory. We carry multiple lengths of Cat 5e and Cat 6 ethernet cables from brands like Pro Co, Whirlwind, Startech, Hosa, Digital Audio Labs, Behringer, and many more. Not sure what cable will work best for you? Contact one of our expert Sales Engineers today. We have the knowledge and expertise to point you in the right direction, and with a free, two-year warranty and free tech support, you’ll never feel alone on your cable-buying journey. Our Cable Finder is also a great tool to help you find the right cable for your needs. Order your ethernet cables and ethercon cables today to receive fast, free shipping!

Why shop Ethernet Cables at Sweetwater.com?


With a massive selection of Ethernet Cables, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Ethernet Cables, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.