People searching for “XLR pin out” on Google are likely looking for technical information about the wiring configuration of XLR connectors, which are commonly used in professional audio equipment. Here’s a comprehensive guide to XLR pin out configurations and their applications.
Table of Contents
What is an XLR Connector?
XLR connectors are circular connecting interfaces with 3-7 pins that have become the standard in professional audio applications. The most common variant is the 3-pin XLR, widely used for balanced audio connections in microphones, mixing consoles, amplifiers, and other professional audio equipment.
Standard 3-Pin XLR Connector Pin Out
The standard pin assignment for 3-pin XLR connectors follows:
- Pin 1: Ground/Shield (protects against electromagnetic interference)
- Pin 2: Hot/Positive (+)
- Pin 3: Cold/Negative (-)
This configuration creates a balanced audio connection that significantly reduces noise and allows for longer cable runs without signal degradation.
Male vs. Female XLR Connectors
XLR connectors are gendered:
- Male XLR: Contains pins and typically appears at cable ends that send signals (outputs)
- Female XLR: Contains sockets and typically appears at cable ends that receive signals (inputs)
Other XLR Pin Out Configurations
While 3-pin XLR is most common, other configurations exist with specific applications:
4-pin XLR
Primarily used for intercom headsets and broadcast equipment where power and audio need to travel through a single cable. The typical pin layout includes:
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Microphone audio
- Pin 3: Headphone audio
- Pin 4: Power (+12V to +30V DC) This configuration is common in Clear-Com, RTS, and Telex intercom systems, allowing for single-cable connection of headsets with both microphone and earpiece.
5-pin XLR
Serves dual purposes in audio and lighting.
- In audio: Used for stereo microphones with pins 1 (ground), 2 (left +), 3 (left -), 4 (right +), and 5 (right -)
- In lighting: Standard for DMX512 lighting control systems where pins 1 (ground), 2 (data -), 3 (data +), 4 and 5 (optional secondary data pair) The AES/EBU digital audio standard also sometimes uses 5-pin XLR for transmission of digital audio signals.
6-pin XLR
Found in specialized audio equipment including:
- Some Sony and Tascam professional recording equipment
- Certain broadcast intercom systems requiring additional functionality
- Stage lighting control systems with more complex needs The pin assignment varies by manufacturer but typically includes ground, balanced audio, and multiple power or control signal paths.
7-pin XLR
Primarily associated with vintage and specialty microphones:
- Common in older Neumann microphones where the additional pins carry phantom power
- Used in some AKG microphones with built-in bass roll-off switches
- Found in specialized broadcast microphones with remote pattern switching capabilities The extra pins allow for remote control of microphone functions or alternative powering schemes for tube microphones that require separate heater voltage and plate voltage supplies.
Some FAQs
What is the pin out for XLR cable?
The standard 3-pin XLR cable pin out is:
- Pin 1: Ground/Shield
- Pin 2: Positive/Hot (+)
- Pin 3: Negative/Cold (-)
What is an XLR out?
An XLR out is an output connection on audio equipment that uses the XLR connector format. It’s designed to send balanced audio signals to other devices like amplifiers, mixers, or speakers.
What is a connector pin out?
A connector pin out is a diagram or specification that shows the function of each pin in a connector. It tells you which pin carries which signal, allowing you to properly wire or troubleshoot connections.
Are all XLR outputs balanced?
Are all XLR outputs balanced?
Most XLR outputs are balanced, but exceptions exist. While 3-pin XLR connectors were designed for balanced signals, some equipment uses them for unbalanced connections. In professional audio gear, XLR outputs are typically balanced to minimize noise and support longer cable runs.
Conclusion
Understanding XLR pin outs is essential for audio professionals, technicians, and hobbyists working with professional audio equipment to ensure proper connectivity and optimal signal quality.
If you want to DIY your own audio cables or can’t find the right audio cable wire brand, I hope the following article can help you:
