Shielded CAT5e etherCON SuperCAT Cable 25 ft - Flexible Pro-Grade

In this review the Sound Tools SuperCAT stands out as a practical, stage-ready shielded CAT5e etherCON cable aimed at audio and live production professionals who need a single, durable run for multiple signals. The 25 ft purple SuperCAT is designed to exceed Cat5e specs while remaining noticeably more flexible than many network cables, and the main reason to choose it is its ability to carry up to four channels of audio and control signals reliably over long runs, replacing several separate cables with one tidy, serviceable lead.

Key Features

• Shielded etherCON construction: The braided shield and etherCON connectors provide secure grounding and help prevent interference in noisy stage environments.
• 4-in-1 signal capability: One cable can carry up to four channels of analog audio, intercom, DMX, AES3 and phantom power, reducing cable clutter and setup time.
• Flexible polyurethane jacket: The rugged polyurethane jacket stays pliable even at extreme temperatures and coils like a mic cable for easier handling and storage.
• 26/19 AWG twisted pairs: Four twisted pairs of 26/19 AWG wiring deliver consistent signal transfer over long distances without the bulk of heavier multicore snakes.
• Neutrik etherCON connectors (2025 update): Nickel-plated Neutrik connectors provide improved durability and a solid locking connection for touring and rental gear.

Who It's For

The SuperCAT is best for live sound technicians, touring engineers, and rental houses that need a lightweight, durable cable which can replace multiple analog and control runs. It suits installations where flexibility and coil-ability matter, such as stage floors and temporary rigs, and where ease of handling speeds up load-in and strike.

It may be less relevant for pure office networking or installers who require Cat6 bandwidth for future-proofed data networks; those users should look for dedicated Cat6 solutions rather than this audio-focused Cat5e cable.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable construction with braided shield and flame-retardant polyurethane jacket for long-term stage use.
• Space and cost efficient by carrying up to four channels of audio and control signals in one run.
• Flexible jacket and coil-ability that handles like microphone cable rather than stiff network cable.
• Updated nickel-plated Neutrik etherCON connectors improve durability and grounding.

Cons

• Some users note variable perception of stiffness, so handling feel can differ by preference or compared to other cable types.

Specifications

Length	25 ft
Cable Category	Shielded Cat5e
Conductors	Four twisted pairs, 26/19 AWG
Jacket	Flame-retardant polyurethane, flexible
Connectors	etherCON Neutrik, nickel-plated (2025 update)
Signals	Analog audio, intercom, DMX, AES3, phantom power (up to 4 channels)

Our Verdict

The SuperCAT 25 ft is a sensible, pro-oriented cable that simplifies live setups by combining multiple signal paths into one flexible, shielded run. For sound crews and rental operations seeking durability, coil-ability, and reliable shielding at reasonable cost, it represents good value; those who need higher network bandwidth should opt for Cat6 alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable carry phantom power?
Yes, the SuperCAT is intended to carry phantom power along with analog audio and other control signals across its four pairs.

Are the connectors durable for touring?
Yes, the updated nickel-plated Neutrik etherCON connectors provide improved durability and grounding suited to touring and rental use.

Is this suitable for office Ethernet networks?
While it exceeds Cat5e specifications, users needing Cat6 bandwidth or future-proofed data rates should choose purpose-built Cat6 cables instead.