Can I directly wire to devices

Hello,
I am wondering if I need to use an emitter/receiver combo, or can I just put in a 3.5mm patch cable between the USB-UIRT zone1 and my Cable box?
I am wondering if I need to use an emitter/receiver combo, or can I just put in a 3.5mm patch cable between the USB-UIRT zone1 and my Cable box?