QTX DMX Lighting Lead 3-Pin XLR Plug to 3-Pin XLR Socket - 10m

The QTX DMX lighting lead is a 10m shielded cable with a 3-pin XLR male plug at one end and a 3-pin XLR female socket at the other, designed to carry DMX512 control signals between lighting controllers and fixtures. The 4.0mm diameter cable uses a copper shield around the signal conductors to reduce electromagnetic interference from mains cables, radio frequencies and other sources that can corrupt DMX data in live event environments.

Used to link DMX-compatible lighting fixtures in a daisy-chain configuration, the lead connects the DMX output of a lighting controller to the first fixture, then from fixture to fixture along the rig until all are addressed. The 10m length suits medium-sized stage setups, mobile DJ rigs and installed church or theatre lighting where fixtures are spaced 3-8m apart. The cable is flexible enough to route through truss, around stage edges and behind equipment without kinking.

The 3-pin XLR connectors use a locking collar that rotates to secure the connection and prevent accidental disconnection when the cable is moved or tugged during rigging. The metal bodies on both plug and socket provide strain relief where the cable enters the connector, reducing wear at the point where cables most commonly fail. The shielded construction keeps the DMX signal clean over the full 10m run, maintaining reliable communication between controller and fixtures without requiring signal boosters or repeaters.

What is DMX512 and what does this cable carry?

DMX512 is a digital control protocol used in stage and event lighting to send instructions from a controller to multiple fixtures simultaneously. This cable carries the DMX512 data signal, which tells each fixture what colour, intensity, strobe pattern or movement to execute. It does not carry power — fixtures need separate mains or low-voltage power cables.

Can I connect multiple cables to extend the run?

Yes. You can connect multiple DMX leads end-to-end by plugging the male XLR of one cable into the female XLR socket of another. However, DMX512 has a maximum recommended cable run of 300-400m before signal degradation becomes an issue. For runs longer than 300m, use a DMX signal booster or splitter.

Is this compatible with 5-pin XLR fixtures?

No. This is a 3-pin XLR cable. Some professional lighting fixtures use 5-pin XLR connectors for DMX, which require a 5-pin cable or a 3-pin to 5-pin adapter. Check your fixtures before ordering.

Does the cable need to be terminated?

DMX512 specification recommends terminating the last fixture in a chain with a 120-ohm resistor to prevent signal reflections that can cause flickering or erratic behaviour. Some fixtures have a built-in termination switch; if not, you can use a separate XLR terminator plug on the last fixture in the line.