While only a few different types of wire go into audio cables, there is a much bigger variety of connectors or plugs.

In most analog audio applications, there are 5 major audio jack connections that you will find on most equipment.

TRS, or tip, ring, sleeve, cables are balanced cables that typically feature a 1/4 connection. The TRS refers to where each connector pin is connected on the jack (IE Tip is positive, Ring is negative, Sleeve is ground). They are commonly mistaken for a run of the mill 1/4 instrument cable, but you can easily tell the difference by looking for the 3rd connector “ring” on the shaft of the jack.

TRS cables are typically used to connect sources like headphones, outboard gear, or audio interfaces. They are commonly used in place of XLR connectors where space is a concern (such as on interfaces). The ubiquitous “aux cord” is typically an 1/8 (3 5mm) stereo TRS cable.

The most commonly used 3-pin balanced cable, XLR cables are the standard for microphones, preamps, mixers, or line-level signals to speakers. They are also commonly called microphone cables (or mic cables).

XLR cables are generally preferred for the ability to have locking connectors, which can prevent them from accidentally being unplugged while in use. This combined with their overall ruggedness makes them reliable in live situations.

XLR cables feature two different types of connectors. XLR male connections are typically found on equipment for “sending” signals, such as on the output of a microphone, DI box, or piece of outboard gear. XLR female connections are typically found on the receiving connection, such as on the input of a mixer, interface, or preamp.

Because of this particular feature, XLR cables can be chained together in case one is not long enough.

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