HOSA CBT500 Audio Cable Tester

Professional audio engineers and musicians know that faulty cables can derail any performance or recording session, which is why the Hosa CBT-500 Cable Tester has become an essential tool for comprehensive cable diagnostics. This compact, handheld unit efficiently tests an impressive range of cable terminations including XLR (3-pin and 5-pin), balanced and unbalanced phone connectors, phono (RCA), speakON® connectors supporting 2-pole, 4-pole, and 8-pole configurations, multi-pin DIN connections (including 5-pin DIN for MIDI equipment), Ethernet (RJ-45), and USB Type A to Type B connections commonly found on audio interfaces.

The CBT-500's user-friendly design centres around a front panel rotary knob and dual rows of 8 LEDs—one amber, one green—that make pin-by-pin testing straightforward and reliable. Users can systematically verify each connection by rotating through individual pins; when both LEDs illuminate, the connection is functioning properly, whilst a lack of illumination indicates a broken connection. This methodical approach ensures thorough testing of complex multi-pin cables like XLR connections, checking pin 1 to pin 1, pin 2 to pin 2, and pin 3 to pin 3 with precision.

Beyond standard cable testing, the unit includes removable test probes that prove invaluable for checking continuity on additional connectors and jacks, making it particularly useful during cable repairs when verifying replacement connectors. Built with a robust metal construction to handle the rigours of field use, the CBT-500 operates on a standard 9-volt battery (included) and features a built-in battery check function to ensure reliable operation before critical testing sessions.