Gear article
Stagg 2 x Female Stereo Jack to Symmetrical Male XLR Adaptor
The Stagg 2 x Female Stereo Jack to Symmetrical Male XLR Adaptor is a compact utility component designed to interface stereo 1/4 inch signals with single male XLR connections. Constructed with a rugged metal housing, it provides a reliable solution for routing audio from stereo sources like headphones or instruments into professional mixing consoles and amplifiers.
See live pricesOverview
The Stagg 2 x Female Stereo Jack / Symmetrical Male XLR Adaptor serves as a critical bridge between consumer or semi-professional stereo equipment and professional-grade audio interfaces. By providing two female stereo inputs that terminate into a single male XLR connector, it allows for streamlined signal management in both live sound and recording environments. The device is specifically engineered to handle symmetrical signals, ensuring compatibility with balanced audio systems.
Design and Construction
Built to withstand the rigours of professional use, the adaptor features a rugged metal construction. This choice of material offers protection against physical impact and helps shield the internal connections from electromagnetic interference. Furthermore, the unit is ROHS compliant, adhering to safety and environmental standards for electronic components. Its compact form factor makes it an essential 'tool-kit' item for sound engineers who need to solve connectivity issues quickly on stage.
Applications
This adaptor is primarily used for connecting stereo sources to inputs that typically accept mono balanced signals. Common applications include:
- Connecting stereo headphones to audio mixers or dedicated headphone amplifiers.
- Interfacing stereo instruments or effects units with XLR-based snake systems or stage boxes.
- Routing dual-jack outputs from keyboards or synthesizers into a single XLR input for long-distance signal transmission.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to simple mono adaptors like the Neutrik NA2MP, this Stagg unit provides dual-input capability, which is essential for preserving stereo wiring schemes. While patch cables like the Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) are used for simple extensions, this adaptor acts as a physical converter for different connector types. Unlike longer cables, such as the Ernie Ball P06049 instrument cable or 10m BNC cables, this adaptor provides a fixed, zero-length connection point that reduces cable clutter near the input source.
Related gear
£5.99 ($8)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm
£17.57 ($22)Ernie Ball
Ernie Ball P06049 10ft Straight-Angle Instrument Cable White
£32.00 ($41)LD Systems
LD Systems WS100BNC10 BNC to BNC Antenna Cable 10m
£4.99 ($6)Gear4Music
Essentials Dual Jack to RCA Phono Cable 3m
£10.50 ($13)Neutrik
Neutrik NC3FRX Right-Angled 3-Pole Female XLR Connector
£19.00 ($24)Neutrik
Neutrik NA2MP Male XLR - 1/4 Jack Adaptor
£30.00 ($38)Adam Hall
Adam Hall 5 STAR Neutrik DMX 5-Pin Lighting Cable 20m
£4.99 ($6)Studiospares
Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Patch Cable 30cm
Frequently asked questions
- What is the primary function of this Stagg adaptor?
- The adaptor is designed to convert two female stereo 1/4 inch jack connections into a single male XLR output. It allows stereo sources to interface with equipment that uses professional XLR inputs.
- Is this adaptor suitable for stage use?
- Yes, its rugged metal construction is specifically designed to handle the demands of both stage and studio environments. The durable housing protects the internal soldering and connections from physical stress.
- Does this adaptor meet safety standards?
- Yes, the product is ROHS compliant. This ensures that the materials used in the manufacturing process meet strict safety and environmental regulations regarding hazardous substances.
- Can I use this for connecting headphones to a mixer?
- Yes, the manufacturer explicitly lists connecting stereo headphones to audio mixers or headphone amplifiers as a primary use case. It allows for flexible routing of headphone signals in professional setups.
- Is the XLR connection on this adaptor male or female?
- This specific adaptor features a male XLR connection. This makes it suitable for plugging directly into a female XLR input on a mixing desk, stage box, or powered speaker.
- How many jack inputs does it have?
- It features two female stereo jack inputs. These inputs accept standard 1/4 inch (6.35mm) jack plugs commonly found on instrument cables and headphones.
- What does 'symmetrical' mean in the context of this XLR adaptor?
- Symmetrical refers to the balanced wiring configuration of the XLR connector. This setup helps reduce noise and interference when transmitting audio signals over longer distances.
- How does this compare to a standard XLR cable?
- While a standard XLR cable like the Studiospares 60cm cable extends an existing XLR signal, this Stagg unit changes the physical connector type from jack to XLR. It is a converter rather than just an extension.
- What is the typical price for this adaptor?
- The typical price range for this Stagg adaptor is approximately 5 EUR. This makes it an affordable utility for musicians and sound technicians.
- Can I use this for DMX lighting signals?
- No, this is an audio adaptor. For lighting applications, you should use dedicated DMX cables, such as the Adam Hall 5 STAR 5-pin DMX lighting cable.
- Is the housing made of plastic or metal?
- The housing is made of metal. This provides better durability and shielding compared to plastic alternatives often found in lower-cost consumer electronics.
- Does this adaptor support phantom power?
- While the metal construction and XLR format are compatible with phantom power environments, the adaptor is primarily intended for stereo signals. Users should ensure their equipment is correctly configured before applying phantom power to avoid damaging stereo sources.
