AV over IP Network Cable: Choosing Cat6 vs Cat6A and Shielded Twisted Pair for AV Distribution
When AV Moves onto the Network, the Cable Becomes Part of the Signal Path
AV-over-IP systems — Dante audio, NDI video, SDVoE and other networked AV protocols — carry audio, video and control data over standard Ethernet cabling. For an installer, that changes how you buy cable: the network cable is no longer just data infrastructure, it is part of the AV signal path. A marginal cable that works for office data can cause dropouts, clicks and video glitches in a live system. This guide explains how to choose between Cat6 and Cat6A, and between UTP, FTP and SFTP constructions, for AV distribution projects.
Cat6 vs Cat6A for AV Distribution
LBS Cat6A series cables are built with heavy-duty 23 AWG solid oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors and an integrated internal cross-filler spline that physically isolates the four twisted pairs. The spline keeps geometric symmetry along the cable, which reduces Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT) and Far-End Crosstalk (FEXT) — the interference between pairs that degrades data signals on long runs. The LBS Cat6A range supports Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps / 1 Gbps) with transmission bandwidth up to 250 MHz and a working temperature range of -20°C to +70°C.
For higher-bandwidth AV-over-IP systems that move 4K video or large channel counts, the LBS6ASSTP-C6A Cat6A S/FTP 10G cable is designed for 10 Gigabit (10 Gbps) networks with bandwidth up to 500 MHz. It uses an S/FTP structure with individually foil-shielded pairs plus an overall high-density tinned copper braid, and pairs 23 AWG solid OFC conductors with foam-PE insulation for long-distance high-bandwidth AV and broadcast runs.
UTP, FTP or SFTP: Which Shielding Does an AV Run Need?
AV equipment is often installed near dimmers, lighting racks, power distribution and stage machinery — all sources of electrical noise. The shielding level determines how well the cable rejects that noise:
- UTP (unshielded twisted pair) — the twisted pairs alone reject common-mode interference. Suitable for clean, dedicated AV network runs away from power cables.
- FTP (foil-shielded twisted pair) — an aluminium foil shield around the four pairs plus a tinned-copper drain wire. The LBS Cat6A FTP cable adds predictable shielding for racks and cable trays near moderate noise.
- SFTP (double shielded) — aluminium foil plus an overall high-density tinned copper braid. The LBS Cat6A SFTP cable is the strongest option for stage environments, touring racks and other high-EMI locations.
For the practical difference between shielding types, see our UTP vs FTP vs SFTP Ethernet cable guide. For audio-over-IP specifically, the Dante audio network cable guide covers the requirements of networked audio systems.
Specifying Cable for an AV-over-IP Project
Three practical rules for ordering:
- Match the category to the protocol. Gigabit audio control systems run comfortably on Cat6A; video-heavy AV-over-IP (4K over SDVoE or NDI) benefits from the 10 Gbps Cat6A S/FTP variant.
- Shield the hostile runs. Any cable that crosses a stage, lighting rig, motor feed or power riser should be at least FTP, preferably SFTP.
- Buy one construction across the project. Mixing UTP and FTP sections on the same link creates grounding and performance questions; standardising on one shielded construction simplifies installation and stock.
For volume orders, the bulk Cat6 cable wholesale page lists the network cable range available from LBS for distributors and integrators.
AV over IP Network Cable FAQ
Q: Can I use ordinary office Cat5e for a Dante or AV-over-IP system?
A: Many low-channel-count systems will run on Cat5e, but AV installs with higher channel counts, longer runs or video traffic are safer on Cat6A. The LBS Cat6A series uses 23 AWG solid OFC conductors and a cross-filler spline that keep crosstalk low over the distances typical in AV projects.
Q: Why does AV-over-IP cable need shielding when office cable does not?
A: AV equipment frequently sits beside lighting, dimmers and power distribution — noise sources rarely found in an office. Shielded constructions such as the LBS Cat6A FTP (foil) or SFTP (foil plus braid) reject that interference before it reaches the equipment.
Q: Is the LBS6ASSTP Cat6A cable only for 10 Gbps networks?
A: No. It is rated for 10 Gbps / 500 MHz, but it also runs perfectly on 1 Gbps AV-over-IP systems. Its S/FTP double-shielded construction simply gives you more headroom and better noise rejection for demanding AV and broadcast runs.
Get a Quote for AV-over-IP Cabling
Tell us the protocol (Dante, NDI, SDVoE or other), the run distances, the number of links and the installation environment — or ask which Cat6A construction suits your project. Send your requirements through the contact page or message us directly on WhatsApp +86 133 5282 6333.