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TechTalk: Balanced audio connectors
When discussing balanced audio connections, XLR connectors often come to mind first due to their widespread use. However, there are several other connectors that support balanced audio outputs, each with its unique advantages and limitations.
XLR Connectors
Predominantly used in professional studios and high-end home audio systems, XLR connectors are renowned for their robustness and clear signal direction—male connectors serve as outputs and female connectors as inputs. This design facilitates straightforward connections and extensions by simply combining male and female ends. The ubiquitous XLR cable includes one of each gender, simplifying multi-cable setups. A potential downside is their size; XLR connectors are quite large, making them less ideal for space-constrained environments.
XLR connectors are used on our DAC2 Pro XLR, Studio DAC/ADC and Studio ADC.
1/4″ Jacks (TRS)
Popular among musicians, 1/4″ jacks—also known as TRS (Tip/Ring/Sleeve) connectors—are common in various instruments and require less space than XLR connectors. For example, a single rack unit could accommodate up to 48 TRS jacks, compared to only 16 XLR connectors. Despite their convenience, TRS connectors have drawbacks. They can handle either balanced mono or unbalanced stereo connections, but the exact nature of the connection isn’t always apparent just by looking at the plug. Additionally, unlike XLRs, TRS connectors lack directional coding, which can lead to accidental mismatches of outputs and inputs in complex setups.
Our Studio DAC/ADC uses a combo input connector that can be used with both XLR and 1/4″ TRS jacks.
DB25 Connectors
Though DB25 connectors may evoke memories of old printer cables for some, they remain relevant in studio audio for transmitting multiple channels of balanced audio. These connectors are highly efficient, capable of handling eight channels on a single DB25-equipped Pi HAT. Their utility shines in setups requiring high channel density, but their complexity makes them less favored for quick connect/disconnect applications compared to XLR or TRS jacks. Nevertheless, DB25 cables are still readily available from most music equipment dealers.
The Studio DAC8x uses a DB25 connector.
StudioHUB+
Emerging as a potential standard, StudioHUB+ employs standard shielded RJ45 connectors, allowing the use of ordinary Ethernet cables for audio connections. This innovative approach offers simplicity and potential cost savings. However, it’s not without its challenges. The commonality of RJ45 in networking raises the risk of incorrect connections to Ethernet ports, which, while not damaging, can lead to troubleshooting delays. Furthermore, only shielded cables are suitable due to reliance on the cable’s shield for grounding. StudioHUB+ adapters to standard audio connectors like XLR are primarily produced by StudioHUB and may not always be readily available.
In summary, each audio connector type presents a set of features and considerations, from the sturdy and user-friendly XLR to the compact TRS and the dense DB25, down to the innovative but nuanced StudioHUB+. Understanding these can help in selecting the right connector for specific audio setups.
There are also other balanced audio connectors used in niche applications, designed to meet specific requirements or to integrate seamlessly with specialized audio equipment. These less common connectors provide unique solutions tailored to the needs of particular audio environments.
February 17, 2025