XLRkabel

An XLR cable, commonly referred to as an XLRKabel in German, is a type of electrical connector primarily used in professional audio, video, and stage lighting equipment. Known for its robust and locking design, the XLR connector is a standard for transmitting balanced audio signals.

The most common version is the three-pin XLR connector. Pin 1 is connected to the cable shield, which acts as a ground. Pins 2 and 3 carry the audio signal, with one being a positive phase and the other an inverted phase. This balanced configuration allows cancelling out noise picked up along the cable run, resulting in a clean signal over long distances, which is critical in live sound and studio environments.

XLR cables are widely used to connect microphones, mixers, amplifiers, and other pro-audio gear. They are recognizable by their cylindrical metal connectors and a locking mechanism that prevents accidental disconnection. Beyond three-pin versions, other configurations exist. For instance, four and five-pin XLRs are used for specialized applications like connecting certain stereo microphones or supplying power to condenser mics, known as phantom power, which is typically delivered through a standard three-pin cable.

Due to their reliability and noise-rejection capabilities, XLR cables are a fundamental component in the professional audio industry, ensuring high-quality signal transmission.