XLR

XLR is a type of audio connector commonly used in professional audio equipment.

The exact reason why the XLR connector is named as such is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories. One theory is that the “X” in XLR stands for “crossover,” as the connector was originally designed to connect different types of audio equipment, such as microphones and amplifiers. The “L” may stand for “locking” or “latch,” referring to the locking mechanism that secures the connector in place. The “R” may stand for “rubber,” as the original XLR connectors featured synthetic-rubber insulation.

XLR connectors are industry-standard, three-pin or more electrical connectors that are widely used in the audio and music industries for balanced audio signals.

So, why are XLR connectors so important in the audio and music industries? Well, they are essential for providing high-quality audio signals for recording studios, live performances, and other professional applications. XLR connectors offer a reliable and robust connection with noise reduction capabilities, making them indispensable in the audio and music industries.

The History of XLR and the Story Behind It

The story of the XLR connector begins with James H. Cannon, who founded the Cannon Electric Company in Los Angeles, California. Cannon was an inventor and entrepreneur who specialized in creating electrical components and connectors for a variety of industries.

In the 1940s, Cannon developed the Cannon X series of connectors, which were designed for use in military equipment.

In 1950, Cannon added a latching mechanism to the X series of connectors, creating the Cannon XL model. This made the connector more secure and easier to use.

By 1955, Cannon had introduced a new female connector that featured synthetic-rubber insulation polychloroprene (neoprene). This connector was identified with the part-number prefix XLR. There was also the XLP series of connectors with hard plastic insulation, but the XLR model name is commonly used for all of the variants.

The manufacturing of XLR connectors started with the ITT Cannon Company, which produced them in two locations: Kanagawa, Japan, and Melbourne, Australia. ITT Cannon was a leader in the industry.

In 1992, the Australian factory that produced XLR connectors was sold to Alcatel Components. Six years later, in 1998, the factory was acquired by Amphenol, one of the largest manufacturers of electrical, electronic, and fiber optic connectors in the world. Amphenol continued to produce XLR connectors and develop new designs.

In the early 1950s, Switchcraft Corporation began producing compatible connectors to ITT Cannon’s XLR connectors. These connectors were designed to be used with Cannon’s XLR cables and microphones, and they quickly gained popularity in the industry. Today, Switchcraft still produces XLR connectors, as well as a wide range of other audio connectors and accessories.

In the late 20th century, Neutrik Company introduced improvements to the XLR connector design. The company produced a second-generation X-Series design that had only four parts for the cable connector, eliminating the small screws used in the models of XLR connectors made by Cannon and Switchcraft. The new design made it easier to assemble and disassemble XLR connectors.

The Design of XLR Connector

When it comes to audio connectors, the XLR connector is often the go-to choice for many professionals in the industry. It’s a versatile connector that can handle a variety of applications, from microphones to lighting control.

At its core, the XLR connector is a three-pin or more connector with a male or female end. It’s available in different configurations and patterns to cater to specific applications. The connector consists of a housing, contact pins, and a latch system that secures the connection.

Different pin configurations and pinouts are available for XLR connectors, including the three-pin, four-pin, five-pin, six-pin, and seven-pin configurations. These configurations cater to different applications, from microphones to lighting control. The number of pins determines the number of conductors that can pass through the connector.

In terms of wiring, XLR connectors have a standard pin configuration and function. Pin 1 is always the ground, while Pin 2 is the positive signal and Pin 3 is the negative signal (AES Standard). However, there is also an EIA Standard that swaps the positive and negative signals, making Pin 3 the second positive signal. This configuration is less common but can be found in some equipment.

For custom wiring configurations, pin swapping for phase reversal is an option. This is done by swapping the positive and negative pins, which results in a phase-reversed signal. Pin bridging is also available for dual-mono operation. This is done by connecting Pins 2 and 3 together and wiring them to two separate outputs.

The Types and Patterns of XLR Connector

As we dive deeper into the world of XLR connectors, it’s important to understand the different types and patterns available on the market. Knowing the different connectors and adapters will help you make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing and using XLR cables.

Standard XLR Connectors

The standard XLR connectors come in two types: male and female. The male XLR connector has three pins, while the female XLR connector has three holes to receive the pins. These connectors are commonly used in the audio and music industry for microphones, mixers, and speakers.

In addition to the standard male and female XLR connectors, there is also the XLR Mini Connector. This smaller version of the standard connector is commonly used for smaller audio devices, such as portable digital recorders and wireless microphone systems.

XLR Adapters

Sometimes, you may need to connect an XLR cable to a device that doesn’t have an XLR input. This is where XLR adapters come in handy. Here are some of the most common types of XLR adapters:

• XLR to 3.5mm: This adapter allows you to connect an XLR cable to a device with a 3.5mm input, such as a smartphone or laptop.
• XLR 1/4 Adapter: This adapter is used to connect an XLR cable to a device with a 1/4 inch input, such as a guitar amplifier or audio interface.
• XLR to USB Adapter: This adapter allows you to connect an XLR cable to a computer or other device via USB.
• XLR to TRS: This adapter is used to connect an XLR cable to a device with a TRS input, such as a headphone jack.
• XLR to RCA: This adapter allows you to connect an XLR cable to a device with RCA inputs, such as a stereo receiver or DJ mixer.

XLR Cable Types

There are three main types of XLR cables: microphone cables, speaker cables, and snake cables.

• XLR Microphone Cable: This type of cable is commonly used to connect microphones to mixers or other audio equipment.
• XLR Speaker Cable: Speaker cables are used to connect speakers to an amplifier or other audio device. They are designed to handle high levels of power and are generally thicker and more durable than microphone cables.
• XLR Snake Cable: A snake cable is a bundle of individual cables wrapped together in a single jacket. Snake cables are commonly used for live sound and recording applications, where multiple inputs and outputs are required.
• XLR Splitter Cable: This type of cable is used to split the signal from one XLR output into two or more inputs.

XLR Applications

If you’re in the audio and music industry, you probably know that XLR cables are essential for high-quality audio connections. But did you know that XLR cables are also used in other industries, such as industrial measurement and control, lighting and stage production, video production, and even medical and scientific applications?

Let’s start by looking at XLR applications in the audio and music industry. If you’re a live sound engineer, you’re probably familiar with XLR cables for microphones, mixers, and speakers. XLR snake cables are also commonly used for connecting multiple channels. If you work in a recording studio, you’ll likely use XLR cables for microphones, preamps, and interfaces. XLR splitter cables are also useful for parallel processing. And if you’re recording at home, XLR cables are great for connecting microphones and interfaces. XLR to USB adapters are also available for direct computer connection. And let’s not forget about DJ equipment – XLR cables are often used for mixers, turntables, and speakers, and XLR to RCA adapters are available for consumer equipment.

But XLR cables aren’t just for the audio and music industry. They’re also used in industrial measurement and control, where they’re commonly used for sensors and transmitters. XLR to BNC adapters are available for oscilloscopes, too. In lighting and stage production, XLR cables are used for DMX512 lighting control. XLR to powerCON adapters are also available for power distribution. In video production, XLR cables are useful for connecting microphones and cameras, and XLR to HDMI adapters are available for monitors. And in medical and scientific applications, XLR cables are used for sensors and instruments, with XLR to DB9 adapters available for serial communication.

What about XLR boost?

XLR Boost is a device designed to amplify the signal level of an audio source while also correcting the signal impedance. In simpler terms, it takes the weak signal from your instrument or microphone and boosts it to a level that is more suitable for recording or live performance. By doing so, it helps to reduce the amount of noise and interference in your signal, resulting in a cleaner and clearer sound.

How to use XLR Boost

Using an XLR Boost is a straightforward process. First, you’ll need to connect it to both your source and destination. This can be done using XLR cables, which are designed to carry balanced audio signals over long distances without introducing noise or interference. Once you’ve connected the XLR Boost to your setup, you can begin adjusting the gain and EQ settings to achieve the desired sound.

Benefits of using XLR Boost

The benefits of using an XLR Boost are numerous. Firstly, it improves the signal quality and clarity of your audio, which is especially important for live performances or recording sessions. This is achieved by boosting the signal level and correcting any impedance issues, resulting in a cleaner and more dynamic sound.

Additionally, XLR Boosts also offer increased headroom and dynamic range, which allows for greater control over the audio signal. This means that you can push your levels higher without risking distortion, resulting in a more powerful and impactful sound.

The Future of XLR

As technology advances, it’s essential to consider the future of XLR and its continued role in the audio industry. Despite being around for over 75 years, XLR cables and connectors have remained a popular choice for audio professionals due to their reliability and quality.

XLR cables and connectors are widely recognized as the industry standard for audio connections, and it’s unlikely that this will change anytime soon. XLR cables have proven to be extremely reliable and capable of handling high-quality audio signals with minimal interference.

In addition, many audio professionals have invested in XLR equipment, making it difficult to replace the standard without significant cost and effort. It’s likely that XLR will remain the go-to option for audio professionals for years to come.

While XLR is known for its analog audio capabilities, there has been an increasing interest in digital protocols in the audio industry. The emergence of digital audio workstations and audio interfaces has led to a rise in the popularity of digital audio signals.

Despite this, XLR has adapted to the changing times, with XLR connectors being used to transmit digital audio signals. This integration of digital protocols with XLR connectors has allowed audio professionals to use XLR cables for both analog and digital audio signals.

As technology continues to advance, it’s possible that XLR will integrate even more with digital protocols, potentially offering higher-quality audio signals and greater versatility for audio professionals.