What is the primary function of this cable?

It is designed to connect audio equipment with a male XLR output to equipment with a 6.35mm (1/4") TRS jack input, or vice versa. It is commonly used for balanced line-level signals in professional audio setups.

How long is the Studiospares Standard XLR to TRS cable?

This specific model has a length of 2.5 metres, making it suitable for short-to-medium distance connections within a studio rack or a small stage setup.

What type of copper is used in the core?

The cable utilizes Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC). This material is preferred in audio applications because it minimizes signal degradation and maintains clarity over the length of the cable.

Does this cable offer any protection against interference?

Yes, it features spirally wound copper shielding. This design helps to protect the audio signal from external interference such as hum or buzz caused by power cables or electronic devices.

What material is used for the connector contacts?

The connectors are equipped with silver-plated contacts. Silver plating is used to ensure high conductivity and to prevent the degradation of the signal due to oxidation over time.

What is the purpose of the rubber boot on the connectors?

The built-in rubber boot provides strain relief at the point where the cable meets the connector. This reduces the mechanical stress on the internal solder joints, extending the cable's overall lifespan.

Is the cable jacket flexible?

Yes, it features a durable PVC jacket that is designed to stay flexible in various temperatures. This makes it easier to route behind equipment racks or use in varying environmental conditions.

Does it come with any cable management accessories?

Each cable includes a hook-and-loop cable wrap. This helps users keep their cable runs tidy and prevents tangling when the cable is coiled for storage or transport.

Can this cable be used for balanced signals?

Yes, because it uses an XLR connector and a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) jack, it is fully capable of carrying balanced mono audio signals, which helps in reducing noise over longer runs.

What is the typical price for this cable?

The Studiospares Standard XLR (M) to 6.35mm TRS Cable typically retails for approximately £10, offering a cost-effective solution for professional environments.

Is this cable suitable for live performance environments?

Yes, its robust design, strain relief boots, and flexible PVC jacket are specifically intended to withstand the rigours of both studio work and live stage use.

How does this cable compare to the Studiospares XLR to XLR version?

While the internal cable quality and shielding are identical, this version uses a 6.35mm TRS jack instead of a female XLR connector, allowing it to interface with different types of professional audio ports.

Gear article

Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - 6.35mm (M) TRS Cable

The Studiospares Standard XLR (M) to 6.35mm (M) TRS Cable is a 2.5-metre professional audio interconnect designed for studio and live sound environments. It features oxygen-free copper conductors and spirally wound shielding to ensure signal integrity and interference rejection between balanced equipment.

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Overview

The Studiospares Standard XLR to TRS cable is a utility-grade audio lead intended for balanced signal transmission. Measuring 2.5 metres in length, it serves as a bridge between equipment utilizing different connector standards, such as connecting a mixer output to an active studio monitor or an audio interface to outboard processing gear. The construction focuses on durability and signal purity, employing industry-standard materials to meet the demands of daily professional use.

Technical Design and Shielding

At the core of the cable is Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) wiring, selected for its ability to maintain signal clarity over distance by reducing resistance. To combat electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), the cable utilizes a spirally wound copper shield. The connectors feature silver-plated contacts, which offer high conductivity and resistance to oxidation, ensuring a stable connection over the product's lifespan.

Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm

Physical Construction

The cable is encased in a flexible PVC jacket designed to remain pliable across various temperatures, preventing the lead from becoming stiff or brittle in cold environments. Mechanical longevity is addressed through the inclusion of built-in rubber boots at the connector transition points. These boots act as strain relief, protecting the internal solder joints from damage caused by frequent bending or pulling. Each cable also includes a hook-and-loop wrap to facilitate tidy storage and transport.

Application and Compatibility

This cable is primarily suited for balanced mono signals. Common applications include:

Connecting balanced line-level outputs to amplifier inputs.
Patching between studio rack equipment and patch bays.
Interfacing audio interfaces with powered loudspeakers.

While the TRS jack is physically compatible with stereo headphone sockets, this specific configuration (XLR to TRS) is typically intended for balanced mono audio rather than stereo signals.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of this cable?: It is designed to connect audio equipment with a male XLR output to equipment with a 6.35mm (1/4") TRS jack input, or vice versa. It is commonly used for balanced line-level signals in professional audio setups.
How long is the Studiospares Standard XLR to TRS cable?: This specific model has a length of 2.5 metres, making it suitable for short-to-medium distance connections within a studio rack or a small stage setup.
What type of copper is used in the core?: The cable utilizes Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC). This material is preferred in audio applications because it minimizes signal degradation and maintains clarity over the length of the cable.
Does this cable offer any protection against interference?: Yes, it features spirally wound copper shielding. This design helps to protect the audio signal from external interference such as hum or buzz caused by power cables or electronic devices.
What material is used for the connector contacts?: The connectors are equipped with silver-plated contacts. Silver plating is used to ensure high conductivity and to prevent the degradation of the signal due to oxidation over time.
What is the purpose of the rubber boot on the connectors?: The built-in rubber boot provides strain relief at the point where the cable meets the connector. This reduces the mechanical stress on the internal solder joints, extending the cable's overall lifespan.
Is the cable jacket flexible?: Yes, it features a durable PVC jacket that is designed to stay flexible in various temperatures. This makes it easier to route behind equipment racks or use in varying environmental conditions.
Does it come with any cable management accessories?: Each cable includes a hook-and-loop cable wrap. This helps users keep their cable runs tidy and prevents tangling when the cable is coiled for storage or transport.
Can this cable be used for balanced signals?: Yes, because it uses an XLR connector and a TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) jack, it is fully capable of carrying balanced mono audio signals, which helps in reducing noise over longer runs.
What is the typical price for this cable?: The Studiospares Standard XLR (M) to 6.35mm TRS Cable typically retails for approximately £10, offering a cost-effective solution for professional environments.
Is this cable suitable for live performance environments?: Yes, its robust design, strain relief boots, and flexible PVC jacket are specifically intended to withstand the rigours of both studio work and live stage use.
How does this cable compare to the Studiospares XLR to XLR version?: While the internal cable quality and shielding are identical, this version uses a 6.35mm TRS jack instead of a female XLR connector, allowing it to interface with different types of professional audio ports.