You've no doubt heard of XLR cables before. XLR connections are incredibly common in the world of audio, or anywhere where audio signals need to be routed from one place to another. Along with jack cables, XLR cables are by far the most popular audio cables.
What Does XLR Mean?
The very first XLR plug was introduced by Cannon in 1958, which is why it's still sometimes referred to as a Cannon plug. This plug has two predecessors: the X-series, which evolved into the XL-series (X-series with Latch), which ultimately turned into XLR, where the R refers to Resilient Polychloroprene - the material the contacts are secured in.
The XLR Plug: Male and Female
Just like jack and RCA plugs, XLR cables may come fitted with male and/or female plugs. Male plugs are easy to spot since they feature extending pins, while female XLR sockets have insert holes for the pins. Most microphones, for instance, are equipped with an integrated male plug and can be hooked up to, say, the XLR input of a mixing console using a standard microphone cable.
XLR Pins: 3-Pin To 7-Pin
XLR plugs and sockets are available in various forms, from 3-pin models to 7-pin models. In the world of audio, the 3-pin variant is the most common. The 4-pin version is often used for intercom systems and headphone plugs, while 5-pin XLR cables are the standard for DMX gear, so lighting equipment. That said, classic 3-pin XLR cables have been slowly replacing the 5-pin cables used to hook up lights and light effects. 6-pin as well as 7-pin XLR cables are the least common but can be used for neon light applications and various other rigs.
A Balanced Connection: Crucial for Microphone Signals
A standard XLR cable is a balanced audio cable furnished with two signal conductors and braided shielding. The difference between unbalanced and balanced connections may be negligible when it comes to shorter distances, but a balanced connection is definitely essential when you need to bridge longer gaps, especially if you want to keep noise and hum at bay. The same goes for very weak signals like microphone signals. Microphones are often hooked up using extremely long cables, which exposes them to a greater risk of interference. As such, the protection of balanced signal transmission should never be overlooked. After all, it's what turned XLR cables into the standard way to hook up microphones.
DMX or XLR?
At first glance, there's no difference between an XLR cable and a DMX cable. Both come equipped with XLR plugs and can be used to connect audio gear as well as lights. The invisible difference, however, lies in the electrical resistance (impedance). XLR cables have a 75-Ohm impedance which makes them suitable for audio signals. DMX cables, on the other hand, have a 110/120-Ohm impedance, making them ideal for lighting equipment. With basic and compact lighting set-ups you can often get away with regular XLR cables, while more extensive set-ups will require proper DMX lighting cables. If you're going for spectacular light effects, you're best off with DMX cables regardless. For more info, see our blog: What's the Difference Between DMX and XLR Cables?
Incompatible Audio Ports? XLR to Jack Cables and Adapters to the Rescue!
If your microphone has an XLR output while your sound system only features a 6.3mm microphone jack input, you're going to need an adapter or an adapter cable. In this case, that would be a female XLR to male jack model. There are all kinds of plug adapters and adapter cables available, including XLR-to-RCA, XLR-to-XLR and many more, so you can almost always find one to fix any audio port incompatibility problem.
What to Look for in Cables, Plugs and Adapters
Audio professionals like to opt for XLR adapters and cables from first-tier brands like Neutrik and Switchcraft. Both expert makers are known for offering high-end solutions and In addition, it's important to look at the material that the plugs have been made of. This can be metal or plastic, where metal plugs are naturally more robust and break-resistant. If you spend a lot of time on the road and make intensive use of your cables, it can certainly be worthwhile to pick up some heavy-duty cables.
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