What is the primary purpose of this cable?

It is designed to connect audio equipment with a 1/4-inch TRS jack to equipment with an XLR port, maintaining a balanced signal between the two devices.

Is the signal transmission balanced?

Yes, because it uses 1/4-inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) and XLR connectors combined with a multi-strand core, it supports balanced audio signals to help eliminate hum and noise.

What material is used for the cable core?

The cable features a multi-strand oxygen-free copper (OFC) core wire, which is designed to ensure precise signal transmission and clarity.

How long is this specific Roland cable?

This model is 3 metres long, which is approximately 10 feet, making it suitable for standard studio and stage connections.

Does this cable protect against interference?

Yes, it features high-density spiral shielding that protects the audio signal from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.

Can I use this cable for an electric guitar?

While it will physically plug into a guitar, most guitars use unbalanced TS jacks. This cable is intended for balanced line-level interconnects between studio or live sound gear.

What does low-capacitance design mean for my sound?

Low-capacitance ensures that the cable does not filter out high frequencies, resulting in a transparent and full-range audio reproduction.

How does this compare to the Roland Gold Series?

The Black Series is designed for professional performance and exceptional value, whereas the Gold Series typically features higher-end enhancements like 24K gold-plated connectors.

Are the connectors on this cable heavy-duty?

Yes, Roland uses high-quality connectors designed for reliable operation and frequent use in both studio and live environments.

Can I use this cable to connect a microphone to an interface?

It can be used if the microphone has a 1/4-inch output or if the interface input requires an XLR connection, provided the signal levels are compatible.

Is this cable suitable for connecting studio monitors?

Yes, it is a common choice for connecting the TRS outputs of an audio interface to the XLR inputs of active studio monitors.

What is the typical price for this 3m cable?

The typical price for this Roland Black Series cable is approximately £15.00.

Gear article

Roland Black Series 1/4" TRS to XLR Interconnect Cable (3m)

The Roland Black Series 1/4" TRS to XLR interconnect cable is a professional-grade audio lead designed for balanced signal transmission between instruments, studio gear, and live sound equipment. Measuring 3 metres (10 feet), it features oxygen-free copper core wiring and high-density spiral shielding to ensure high-fidelity audio reproduction.

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Overview

The Roland Black Series interconnect cable is designed to bridge the gap between different audio connector standards while maintaining a balanced signal path. This specific 3-metre model facilitates connections between equipment using 1/4-inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) sockets and those using XLR inputs or outputs. It is positioned as a high-value, professional-standard component for modern studio and stage environments.

Technical Features and Construction

The internal architecture of the cable focuses on signal integrity. It utilizes a multi-strand, oxygen-free copper (OFC) core wire, which is a standard for reducing signal degradation and maintaining clarity.

Protection against external interference is provided by high-density spiral shielding. This construction method is effective at blocking radio frequency interference (RFI) and electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is critical when running audio near power sources or digital equipment. Furthermore, the cable features a low-capacitance design, ensuring that the full frequency response of the source material is delivered without the high-end roll-off often associated with cheaper leads.

Sound Character

Roland describes the Black Series as delivering 'perfect signal transmission.' The combination of high-quality connectors and OFC wiring results in a transparent sound character that does not colour the audio signal. By minimising noise through its shielding and maintaining phase coherence via its balanced design, the cable ensures that the output remains faithful to the source, whether that be a synthesiser, an audio interface, or a studio monitor.

Applications and Suitability

This cable is highly versatile and suits a variety of professional and semi-professional users:

Studio Musicians: Ideal for connecting balanced line-level outputs from audio interfaces to studio monitors.
Live Sound Engineers: Useful for patching equipment into mixing consoles or stage boxes where different connector types are present.
Synthesists: Perfect for connecting keyboards and workstations to outboard gear or mixers while preserving a balanced signal to reduce hum.

Its 3-metre length provides enough slack for standard studio desk layouts or small stage setups without creating excessive cable clutter.

Market Comparison

Within the wider market of audio interconnects, the Roland Black Series competes with products such as the Studiospares Standard XLR range and Essentials Dual Jack to RCA cables. While basic cables like the Essentials range focus on cost-effectiveness, Roland emphasises the use of higher-grade components such as high-density shielding. For those requiring specific custom configurations, technicians often look toward individual components like the Neutrik NC3FRX right-angled connector or the Neutrik NA2MP adaptor; however, the Roland Black Series offers a pre-manufactured, reliable solution for those who do not wish to solder their own leads.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of this cable?: It is designed to connect audio equipment with a 1/4-inch TRS jack to equipment with an XLR port, maintaining a balanced signal between the two devices.
Is the signal transmission balanced?: Yes, because it uses 1/4-inch TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) and XLR connectors combined with a multi-strand core, it supports balanced audio signals to help eliminate hum and noise.
What material is used for the cable core?: The cable features a multi-strand oxygen-free copper (OFC) core wire, which is designed to ensure precise signal transmission and clarity.
How long is this specific Roland cable?: This model is 3 metres long, which is approximately 10 feet, making it suitable for standard studio and stage connections.
Does this cable protect against interference?: Yes, it features high-density spiral shielding that protects the audio signal from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.
Can I use this cable for an electric guitar?: While it will physically plug into a guitar, most guitars use unbalanced TS jacks. This cable is intended for balanced line-level interconnects between studio or live sound gear.
What does low-capacitance design mean for my sound?: Low-capacitance ensures that the cable does not filter out high frequencies, resulting in a transparent and full-range audio reproduction.
How does this compare to the Roland Gold Series?: The Black Series is designed for professional performance and exceptional value, whereas the Gold Series typically features higher-end enhancements like 24K gold-plated connectors.
Are the connectors on this cable heavy-duty?: Yes, Roland uses high-quality connectors designed for reliable operation and frequent use in both studio and live environments.
Can I use this cable to connect a microphone to an interface?: It can be used if the microphone has a 1/4-inch output or if the interface input requires an XLR connection, provided the signal levels are compatible.
Is this cable suitable for connecting studio monitors?: Yes, it is a common choice for connecting the TRS outputs of an audio interface to the XLR inputs of active studio monitors.
What is the typical price for this 3m cable?: The typical price for this Roland Black Series cable is approximately £15.00.