AVPro Edge 130m Stereo/Digital Audio Extender over CAT5e built in DAC (Toslink/LR)

Overview

The AVPro Edge 130m Stereo/Digital Audio Extender transmits stereo analog and digital audio signals over standard CAT5e cabling at distances up to 130 meters. A built-in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) at the receiver end provides both Toslink optical digital output and left/right analog stereo output simultaneously, eliminating the need for a separate DAC in most commercial audio distribution applications. This is an audio-only extender — it carries no video signal — designed specifically for long-distance audio distribution in commercial, hospitality, and institutional environments.

At 130 meters over CAT5e, this extender reaches distances that HDMI audio extraction and analog distribution over copper cannot achieve, making it the practical choice for background music zones, paging systems, and audio-only display locations where pulling HDMI cabling would be impractical or cost-prohibitive.

Description

The extender uses a balanced transmission scheme over CAT5e to maintain audio fidelity over the full 130-meter span. At the receiver end, the built-in DAC converts the transmitted signal to Toslink optical output for connection to AV receivers, soundbars, or digital amplifiers, and simultaneously provides LR analog stereo for connection to amplifiers, mixers, or ceiling speaker systems.

The audio-only design keeps signal paths simple and cost-effective for zones that require sound but not video. It is particularly effective in restaurants, retail environments, conference pre-function areas, and hotel corridors where background audio must be distributed across distances beyond what standard analog cabling can reliably cover.

Key Features

• Extends stereo analog and digital audio up to 130 meters over a single CAT5e cable
• Built-in DAC at receiver — provides Toslink and LR analog outputs without external conversion
• Dual output format: simultaneous Toslink optical and LR analog stereo
• Audio-only design — no video bandwidth consumed, optimized for audio distribution infrastructure
• 130-meter reach covers distances impractical for direct HDMI or analog wiring
• Compatible with existing CAT5e infrastructure — no new cabling required in most facilities
• Low-latency transmission maintains audio sync with independently distributed video sources

Typical Applications

• Restaurant and retail background music distribution over existing CAT5e infrastructure
• Hotel corridor and lobby audio zones from a central AV rack
• Conference center pre-function and breakout area audio distribution
• University lecture hall audio distribution to overflow rooms
• Healthcare facility ambient audio for patient rooms and waiting areas
• Audio-only zones in multi-room residential systems where video is not required
• Houses of worship distributing audio to overflow seating areas or cry rooms

Technical Specs

Competitor Comparison

The AVPro Edge 130m extender offers the unique combination of 130-meter reach with a built-in DAC providing simultaneous Toslink and LR analog outputs at the receiver. The Kramer 671T/671R reaches 300 meters but carries analog audio only and requires a separate DAC for Toslink output. The Atlona AT-A100SR is limited to 100 meters and analog-only output, requiring external conversion for digital destinations.

FAQ

Does this extender require a transmitter unit, or is it a receiver-only product?

This listing is for the receiver unit. A compatible AVPro Edge audio extender transmitter is required at the source end. Contact Creation Networks to confirm the correct transmitter pairing for your installation.

Can I use CAT6 instead of CAT5e?

Yes. CAT6 is backward-compatible with CAT5e-rated systems and will work correctly. CAT6 may provide marginally better performance at the upper distance limits. The rated 130-meter specification applies to CAT5e as the minimum cable grade.

Are Toslink and LR analog outputs active simultaneously?

Yes. The built-in DAC provides both Toslink and LR analog outputs at the same time, allowing connection to a digital amplifier or AV receiver via Toslink and a separate analog amplifier or mixer via the LR outputs without additional splitting or conversion equipment.

Is this suitable for distributing audio from a matrix switcher?

Yes. This extender is well-suited for receiving an audio zone output from a matrix switcher located in a central equipment rack and delivering that audio to a remote zone up to 130 meters away. Confirm the transmitter's input format matches the switcher's audio output format.

What audio formats does the Toslink output support?

The Toslink output supports standard S/PDIF stereo PCM audio. Multi-channel encoded formats such as Dolby Digital or DTS pass-through depends on the transmitter input and the specific product configuration. For surround sound distribution, confirm the extender's bitstream support with AVPro Edge specifications.