Frequently Asked Questions

Can you run analog audio over Ethernet cable?

Yes. Standard Cat5e/Cat6 Ethernet cable has 8 conductors arranged as 4 twisted pairs — exactly what's needed to carry 4 channels of balanced analog audio. The AES-72 standard defines how to wire this so equipment from different manufacturers can connect cleanly. Tetrapatch products use this approach. 

What's the difference between AES-72 and Dante / AVB / AES67?

Dante, AVB, and AES67 are digital audio networking protocols — they send digitized audio as data packets over an Ethernet network. AES-72 is different: it's purely analog. The cable is the same, but AES-72 uses Cat cable as a physical conductor for analog signals rather than as a data network. No converters, no clocking, no latency. 

Is AES-72 the same as a DB25 snake?

Both carry multiple channels of analog audio over a single cable, but AES-72 uses standard Cat cable and RJ45 connectors instead of the proprietary DB25 (Tascam) wiring scheme. AES-72 cables are cheaper, more flexible, easier to terminate, and don't require specialized tools. 

Can I use any Cat5/Cat6 cable for AES-72?

Yes, any standard Cat5e or higher cable will work. We recommend solid-conductor cable for fixed installations and stranded for any cable that will be moved or flexed regularly. Avoid the cheapest unbranded cables — the copper quality affects noise performance. 

Does Tetrapatch replace a traditional patchbay?

Yes. The TP3F patchbay handles balanced analog audio routing through RJ45 connections instead of TRS or DB25, giving you the same patching flexibility with far less cabling behind the rack. 

Will this introduce noise or signal degradation? 

No more than any other balanced analog cable run of equivalent length. Balanced audio is inherently noise-rejecting, and Cat cable's twisted-pair construction is well-suited to it. For very long runs in electrically noisy environments, shielded Cat cable (STP) offers extra protection. 

Do I need special tools to make AES-72 cables?

No. AES-72 uses the same RJ45 connectors and crimping tools as any networking installation. You can buy pre-terminated cables in any length, or make your own with standard Cat cable and an RJ45 crimper. 

What's the warranty on Tetrapatch products?

Tetrapatch products carry a full one-year warranty against defects in workmanship and materials. If something fails under normal use, contact us and we'll repair, replace, or refund it — whichever makes the most sense. We build this gear to last, and we stand behind it. Full warranty terms are here.

How do I get support?

Email info@ashton-research.com with your question and a description of your setup. We'll get back to you shortly.