C54XR & C54XRS Hydrophones

Cetacean Research C54 series of hydrophones has been replaced by the C55 series and C57 series. The following is retained for reference. See the C55 and C57 pages for details.

Cetacean Research™ C54XRS hydrophone with cable

The Cetacean Research C54XR and C54XRS models are preamplified, cylindrical hydrophones designed for the detection of infrasonic, audible, and ultrasonic sounds. In addition to typical underwater use, these hydrophones can also be used for the detection of airborne and subterranean sounds and vibrations. The C54XR and C54XRS hydrophones include an integral connector and are encapsulated in a very rugged polyurethane material. The hydrophones are not individually calibrated but calibrated frequency response measurements can be performed on request.

  • Cetacean Research™ C54XRS hydrophone
  • Cetacean Research™ C54XRS power box and cable
  • Cetacean Research™ C54XRS frequency response
  • Cetacean Research™ C54XRS hydrophone and cable
  • Cetacean Research™ C54XRS frequency response

C54 hydrophone specifications

C54XR C54XRS
Linear Frequency Range [kHz] 0.016 to 50
(+2/-3dB)
122 to 250+
0.016 to 44 (+2/-3dB)
Usable Frequency Range [kHz] 0.006 to 82
(+2/-20dB)
92 to 250+
0.006 to 203 (+2/-20dB)
Transducer Sensitivity* [dB, re 1V/µPa] -200 -185
Preamplifier Gain [dB] 20 20
Effective Sensitivity* [dB, re 1V/µPa] -180 -165
Power Requirement [Vdc] 5 to 32 5 to 32
Maximum Operating Depth [m] 460 460
Operating Temperature Range [°C] -40 to 60 -40 to 60
RMS Overload Acoustic Pressure [dB, re 1µPa] 184 to 201 169 to 186
SPL Equiv. Self Noise at 1kHz [dB, re 1µPa] 58 42 (< Sea State Zero)
Output Impedance [Ω] 2.5Ω 2.5Ω
Dimensions [mm] 132 L x (19 to 25) dia. 132 L x (19 to 25) dia.
Integral Connector† Subconn MCBH3MSS Subconn MCBH3MSS

*  Transducer Sensitivity + Preamplifier Gain = Effective Sensitivity.
*** Connectors are rated to a depth of 7,000 meters; see below (or to the side) for mating connector and cables.

Shielded Cable Length [m]

  • mating connector molded to 15, 30, or 50 [m] shielded cable
  • other lengths available on a custom order basis
  • cable includes Integral Connector rated to a depth of 7,000 meters.

Directionality

  • omnidirectional below 10kHz;
  • very directional at high frequencies (e.g., ~15º solid angle at 200 kHz, –3dB);
  • directionality focused in a plane.

Options

  • water-resistant BNC connector on battery box
  • high-pass filter switch built into battery box
  • external power supply support
  • custom orders not listed above

Battery / Connector box

Battery boxes are rated NEMA-4X water resistant. Standard signal connection for the Cetacean Research C54 series hydrophone is through a 1/4" phone jack equipped with a water resistant cover or a watertight BNC connector. The hydrophones are powered by a single 9V battery (not included).

Signal Output 1/4" mono phone jack
Headphone Output Headphone amplifier required
(see accessories)
Battery Life [hours] 20
Volume Control yes - on headphone amplifier
Box Dimensions [cm] 9.8 long x 6.4 wide x 4.0 high