What are pre-assembled cables?

Pre-assembled cables are electrical or signal cables that arrive with connectors already attached at one or both ends. They are factory-terminated using professional crimping or soldering techniques, then tested for continuity and insulation integrity. In event technology, pre-assembled cables include DMX lighting cables, XLR audio snakes, powerCON mains feeds, and speakON loudspeaker assemblies. The main advantage is eliminating field termination errors and reducing installation time on-site. Each cable is built to precise length specifications with proper strain relief and shielding, ensuring reliable performance in touring and fixed installations.

What does cable assembly mean?

Cable assembly refers to the process of attaching connectors to cable ends and testing the finished product for electrical and mechanical integrity. Professional cable assembly involves stripping the cable jacket to the correct depth, preparing individual conductors, crimping or soldering contacts into connector housings, and installing strain relief components. The assembly is then subjected to continuity testing, insulation resistance measurement, and sometimes high-voltage dielectric testing. In event technology, cable assembly ensures that DMX, audio, and power cables meet industry standards for impedance, shielding effectiveness, and contact resistance, reducing the risk of failures during live events.

What are the advantages of pre-assembled cables over bulk cable?

Pre-assembled cables eliminate the need for on-site termination, saving installation time and reducing the risk of wiring errors. Factory assembly guarantees consistent quality through automated cutting, crimping, and 100% functional testing. Professional assemblies use strain relief and shielding techniques that are difficult to replicate in the field, especially under time pressure during event setup. Pre-assembled cables also arrive at precise lengths, eliminating waste and ensuring clean cable runs. For touring productions, the reliability of factory-tested assemblies reduces downtime and troubleshooting costs. The trade-off is higher upfront cost compared to bulk cable, but the time savings and reduced failure rate typically justify the investment.

Which connector types are standard for stage audio cables?

Stage audio cables primarily use XLR connectors for balanced microphone and line-level signals, following the IEC 61076-2-103 standard. Three-pin XLR connectors are standard for mono signals, with pin 1 carrying the shield, pin 2 the positive signal, and pin 3 the negative signal. SpeakON connectors are the industry standard for loudspeaker connections, with NL4 variants providing four poles for bi-amped systems. Quarter-inch TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) jacks are used for instrument cables and some line-level connections. Neutrik manufactures the majority of professional audio connectors, with XX series XLR and NL series speakON models dominating the touring market.

What is the difference between PVC, TPE, and PUR cable jackets?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) jackets are economical and flame-resistant but become brittle below 0 °C and degrade under UV exposure and oils. They suit indoor fixed installations. TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) jackets remain flexible from –40 °C to +80 °C, resist oils and solvents, and are halogen-free, making them ideal for portable outdoor setups. PUR (polyurethane) jackets offer the highest abrasion resistance and are the standard for touring-grade cables, withstanding repeated coiling and mechanical stress. PUR resists oils, fuels, and UV light, and maintains flexibility down to –30 °C. PUR cables cost approximately 30% more than TPE equivalents but last significantly longer in demanding touring environments.

How long can a DMX cable run be before signal degradation occurs?

DMX512 protocol specifies a maximum cable run of 300 metres between the console and the last fixture in a daisy chain, assuming properly specified cable with 120 Ω impedance and low capacitance. Beyond 300 metres, signal reflections and attenuation can cause flickering, missed commands, or complete data loss. To extend DMX networks beyond this limit, use DMX splitters or opto-isolators that regenerate the signal. Each splitter output can drive another 300-metre run. Cable quality significantly affects maximum distance – professional DMX cables with foil shielding and twisted pairs maintain signal integrity better than repurposed microphone cables. Always terminate the last fixture in a DMX chain with a 120 Ω resistor to prevent reflections.

What does a professional audio snake cost?

Professional audio snakes vary in price based on channel count, length, and construction quality. A basic 8-channel snake at 15 metres with XLR connectors costs approximately €80–€120. A 16-channel snake at 30 metres ranges from €180 to €280, while a 24-channel snake at 50 metres costs €350–€600. Touring-grade snakes with individually shielded pairs, PUR jackets, and Neutrik connectors command premium prices – a 32-channel snake at 60 metres can exceed €800. Stage boxes with integrated connectors add €100–€300 to the price. Custom-length assemblies and hybrid snakes combining audio, DMX, and power lines are available at higher price points. Investing in quality snakes reduces failures and extends service life in demanding touring environments.

When should pre-assembled cables be replaced?

Pre-assembled cables should be replaced when they show signs of mechanical damage, electrical degradation, or intermittent failures. Visible indicators include cracked or abraded jackets, exposed conductors, bent or corroded connector pins, and loose strain relief. Electrical symptoms include crackling noise, intermittent signal loss, or complete failure during continuity testing. Cables used in touring environments typically require replacement every 3–5 years, depending on usage intensity and handling practices. Inspect cables before each event for jacket damage, connector integrity, and cable flexibility. Test audio and DMX cables with a cable tester to verify continuity and shielding effectiveness. Retire cables that fail insulation resistance tests or show intermittent faults, as they pose safety risks and can cause equipment damage.

Ready-made cables

Extension Cable Schucko/Schucko Titanex with ABL 15m, 3x2,5mm

DAP-Audio Extension Cable Schuko/Schuko Titanex with PCE 3x 2.5 mm² 15 m

Extension Cable with Titanex 3x 2.5 mm² / AWG 14 H07 RN-F and ABL Sursum rubber male and female Schuko connector. Available in 5–25 m. : Rated Current (A): 16 A • Connector 1:...

€84.50 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

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Currently not available

ExpoLite TourLED Power IN Kabel; 1,6m, Schuko => IP65 Stecker

Expolite TourLED in Kabel

control Connections: 1x Schuko plug 1x IP65 power coupling housing Material: Plastic Color: black Dimensions / Weight Dimensions: 1.6 m length Weight: 0.5 kg

€23.44 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

ExpoLite TourLED Power Link Kabel IP65 Verbindungskabel 5m

Expolite TourLed Link cabel 5m

control Connections: 1x IP65 power plug 1x IP65 power coupling housing Material: Plastic Color: black Housing protection class: IP65 Dimensions / Weight Dimensions: 5m length Weight: 1 kg

€38.45 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

ExpoLite TourLED Power Link Kabel IP65 Verbindungskabel 10m

Expolite TourLed Link cabel 10m

control Connections: 1x IP65 power plug 1x IP65 power coupling housing Material: Plastic Color: black Housing protection class: IP65 Dimensions / Weight Dimensions: 10m length Weight: 2 kg

€49.00 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Magic FX Schuko zu Neutrik Powercon - Kabel 1.5m.

Magic FX Schuko to Neutrik Powercon - cable 1.5m.

Size (LxWxH) 150 CM • Weight (KG) 0.2 • Voltage 230 V •

€31.51 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

OMNITRONIC XLR cable 5pin 0.5m bk

Package contents 1 x XLR cable • Cable construction: Audio cable • Cable length: 0,5 m • Plug A: 1 x 5-pin XLR (M) • Plug B: 1 x 5-pin XLR (F) • Color: Black • Weight:...

€4.90 *

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Extension 3x1.5 5m

THE extension cable for the entertainment industry Heavy rubber coating with rubber safety plug and connector • H07RN quality for permanent outdoor use • 250 V/16 A with 3 x 1.5...

€16.44 *

incl. tax, plus shipping costs

Availability:

Currently not available;
Article is coming soon

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PSSO Extension 3x1.5 5m 3-fold bk

The 3-fold extension cable for the entertainment industry Heavy rubber coating with rubber safety plug and 3-fold connector • With self-locking flap covers • H07RN quality for permanent...

€43.50 *

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OMNITRONIC XLR cable 3pin 5m bu

Package contents 1 x XLR cable • Cable construction: Audio cable • Cable length: 5 m • Plug A: 1 x 3-pin XLR (M) • Plug B: 1 x 3-pin XLR (F) • Material: Metal • Color:...

€7.50 *

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Details

PSSO Combi Cable DMX PowerCon/XLR 3m

This DMX+POWER hybrid cable combines a shielded light control wire and the power supply wire. The DMX-cable, which is shielded by a tin-coated copper braiding is perfectly suited for the control of...

€74.90 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
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DAP FL08 - bal XLR/M 5 p. > XLR/F 5 p. 10 m

DAP-Audio FL08 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P 10 m

This 110-ohm DMX cable is designed for the optimal transmission of AES/EBU digital signals. : Connector 1: XLR 5P • Connector 2: XLR 5P • Cable Length: 10 m • Pins: 5...

€23.90 *

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DAP FL08 - bal XLR/M 5 p. > XLR/F 5 p. 1,5 m

DAP-Audio FL08 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P 1.5 m

This 110-ohm DMX cable is designed for the optimal transmission of AES/EBU digital signals. : Connector 1: XLR 5P • Connector 2: XLR 5P • Cable Length: 1.5 m • Pins: 5 • Outer...

€11.90 *

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DAP FL08 - bal XLR/M 5 p. > XLR/F 5 p. 20 m

DAP-Audio FL08 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P 20 m

This 110-ohm DMX cable is designed for the optimal transmission of AES/EBU digital signals. : Connector 1: XLR 5P • Connector 2: Power Pro True In (Female) • Cable Length: 20 m...

€46.38 *

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DAP FL08 - bal XLR/M 5 p. > XLR/F 5 p. 3 m

DAP-Audio FL08 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P 3 m

This 110-ohm DMX cable is designed for the optimal transmission of AES/EBU digital signals. : Cable Length: 3 m •

€13.90 *

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DAP FL11 - 6 farbige unbal. Klinken-Patchkabel 90 cm

DAP-Audio FL11 - 6 coloured unbal. patch 90 cm

90 cm : Connector 1: TS 6.3 mm unbalanced • Connector 2: TS 6.3 mm unbalanced • Cable Length: 0.90 m • Pins: 2 • Material: PVC • Colour: Multi-colour • Conductors: 2...

€16.75 *

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DAP FL71 - bal. XLR/M 3 p. > XLR/F 3 p. 3 m (Neutrik)

DAP-Audio FL71 - bal. XLR/M 3P to XLR/F 3P Neutrik 3 m

For the demanding user we offer the FL-71 which is a microphone cable with an exceptional audio-quality and a connector made by Neutrik®. : Cable Length: 3 m •

€21.50 * €11.46 *

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DAP-Audio FL82 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 3p. > XLR/F 3p. Neutrik - 6 m

DAP-Audio FL82 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 3P to XLR/F 3P Neutrik XX HD 6 m

: Cable Length: 6 m •

€39.90 *

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DAP-Audio FL83 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5p. > XLR/F 5p. Neutrik - 1,5 m

DAP-Audio FL83 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P Neutrik XX HD 1.5 m

: Cable Length: 1.5 m •

€52.50 *

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DAP-Audio FL83 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5p. > XLR/F 5p. Neutrik - 3m XX

DAP-Audio FL83 - IP65 DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P Neutrik XX HD 3 m

: Cable Length: 3 m •

€54.90 *

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Currently not available

DAP-Audio FL84 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5p. > XLR/F 5p. Neutrik - 3 m

DAP-Audio FL84 - DMX/AES-EBU XLR/M 5P to XLR/F 5P Neutrik 3 m

: Cable Length: 3 m •

€56.50 *

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DAP-Audio FL74 XLR M/F Mic/Linecable - 10 mtr Neutrik

DAP-Audio FL74 XLR M/F Mic/Line Cable Neutrik XX series 10 m - silver plated

Microphone/line cable constructed out of MC-226 double insulated cable and Neutrik NC3 mXX + NC3FXX cable connectors. 3-pin male and female cable connectors with Nickel housing and silver contacts....

€28.90 *

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Currently not available

DAP-Audio FL74 XLR M/F Mic/Linecable - 3 mtr Neutrik

DAP-Audio FL74 XLR M/F Mic/Line Cable Neutrik XX series 3 m - silver plated

Microphone/line cable constructed out of MC-226 double insulated cable and Neutrik NC3 mXX + NC3FXX cable connectors. 3-pin male and female cable connectors with Nickel housing and silver contacts....

€21.50 *

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Availability:

Currently not available

dB Technologies DPTC-160L, 160 cm

PowerconTRUE1 Link Cable 160 cm

€79.00 *

incl. tax, free shipping to Germany
[International shipping costs]

Availability:

Not in stock
Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Delivery time: approx. 2 weeks

Monacor MEC-100/SW XLR-Verlaengerungskabel

MONACOR MEC-100/SW XLR cable

XLR cable, line and microphone extension cable. 1 x XLR inline jack and 1 x XLR plug, balanced • Shielded low-noise OFC cable material, Ø 6.5 mm • Length: 1 m • : Intended...

€13.00 *

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Availability:

Currently not available