SpeakOn

Speakon is a family of circular, locking electrical connectors used to connect loudspeakers to amplifiers in professional audio systems. Developed by Neutrik, the Speakon (often marketed as SpeakON) connectors are designed to carry speaker‑level signals with secure locking, high current capability, and good contact reliability. They are widely used in touring rigs, installed sound, and other pro audio applications.

The connectors consist of a metal shell with a plastic insert that houses the contacts. Mating is accomplished by inserting the plug and giving a short twist to lock, providing a audible confirmation of connection. When unplugged, the contacts are recessed to reduce the risk of touching live conductors. Speakon connectors are available in several pole counts, most commonly 2-pole (NL2), 4-pole (NL4), and 8-pole (NL8), as well as various panel‑mount and cable assemblies. They are gendered, with male plugs containing pins and female receptacles containing sockets, and they mate only with the same pole-count counterpart.

Usage and compatibility: Speakon connectors are standard on many powered loudspeakers, amplifiers, subwoofers, and stage-wiring setups. They are favored over some alternative connectors for their locking action and reduced risk of accidental disconnection. Within each pole count family, NL2 pairs with NL2 and NL4 pairs with NL4 (NL8 with NL8); cross‑mating between different pole counts is not supported.