QED Reference Ethernet Cable (5m)

The QED Reference Ethernet sits at the top of QED's network cable range, engineered specifically for high-resolution audio streaming between networked components. Where the Performance Ethernet Graphite handles everyday streaming duties, the Reference Ethernet is built to carry the most demanding digital audio formats — up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD512 — with the lowest possible jitter and maximum signal integrity.

Class I Cat 8.1 Construction

At its core, the Reference Ethernet uses four twisted pairs of 99.999% oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors in 24 AWG gauge, with customised twist rates optimised to minimise crosstalk between pairs. The cable is built to Class I Category 8.1 specification, supporting data rates up to 40Gb/s — far beyond what current audio streaming protocols require, providing substantial headroom for future network standards.

The F/FTP (foiled/foiled twisted pair) shielding architecture wraps each individual pair in its own foil screen, then encloses all four pairs in a further overall foil shield. This dual-layer approach tackles both internal crosstalk and external electromagnetic interference. The outer jacket is impregnated with ferrite to provide an additional layer of noise rejection, helping to reduce jitter at the receiving device.

Telegärtner Connectors

The cable is terminated with gold-plated Telegärtner Profinet CAT 8 plugs — a professional-grade connector chosen for its 360-degree shielded die-cast zinc body. The full-surround shielding eliminates the gap in RF rejection that standard RJ45 plugs exhibit at the connector-to-cable junction, maintaining the cable's shielding integrity right through to the equipment socket.

Application

The Reference Ethernet is designed for the critical link between a network streamer, music server, or NAS drive and the home network infrastructure. In systems where audio data is being pulled across the network in real time, the quality of the Ethernet connection directly affects jitter performance at the DAC. The 100-ohm characteristic impedance matches standard network infrastructure, ensuring compatibility with routers, switches, and access points.

The White Pearl PVC jacket provides a clean aesthetic that sits unobtrusively alongside hi-fi equipment, with a 9mm outer diameter that routes easily behind furniture and through cable management.