The Radial Engineering R800 8028 Catapult Mini RX, TX, and TRS all act like a typical four-channel analog audio snake; they allow you to send mic or line-level signals from one location to another without signal loss, noise, or interference, and without any digital audio conversion needed. The difference is that instead of using bulky and expensive multi-channel audio cable, the Catapult system makes use of Cat 5 Ethernet cable, which is widely available, lightweight, and economical. Simply connect a shielded Cat 5 cable between any two Catapult modules and they will use the cable's analog conductors to deliver four balanced audio lines to any destination. As many buildings are already pre-wired for Cat 5, you can take advantage of this to transmit audio between distant rooms without the need to install or supply new cable. And since the Catapult system is modular, you can mix and match different transmit and receive boxes to best suit your application. The Catapult Mini RX and TX both feature XLR connectors, while the Mini TRS allows you to connect to devices using 1/4" TRS plugs.
Making Connections
As with all audio systems, it is good to turn volume levels down or audio systems off before making connections. This will avoid connection or powerup transients from damaging more sensitive components such as tweeters.
You can use any standard Cat 5 or Cat 6 Ethernet cable to connect Catapult modules to each other. In order to pass 48V phantom power to feed your condenser mics or active direct boxes, the cable and terminating connections must have a shield. If you are transmitting line level signals, the shield is not required due to the twisted pair configuration, but it will still be beneficial as shielded cables are less susceptible to noise.