Hi friends welcome to the new post. Here we will learn About XLR Pinout (3-Pin, 5-Pin & 7-Pin) Types and advantages. In audio devices and sound systems, XLR connectors are the main types of tools. They are used to transmit balanced audio signal and provide quality sound. XLR connects comes with different pinouts that is 3 pin, 5 pin, and 7 pins. In this post, we will discuss XLR pinout, finding different types, and the advantages they have so let’s get started with Introduction to XLR Connectors
Introduction to XLR Connectors
XLR connectors were made by James Cannon who was the founder of Cannon Electric. So different connectors are called Cannon Plugs.
This plug is made by Cannon Electric as a Cannon X series. The module was configured with a latch to lock cables with each other and it was called Canon XL.
Finally model with a durable and rare rubber component covering the female XLR socket made called the Cannon XLR connector.
The XLR stands for Cannon X-Series connector with Latch and Rubber.
Anatomy of an XLR Connector
- . An XLR connector has 3 main parts:
- Connector Housing: it is the outer casing of connectors, made with metal offering protection and durability.
- Pins: Pins are based on types of connectors
- Latch or Locking Mechanism: XLR connectors come with a latch or locking function which provides a strong connection and prevents accidental disconnection during use.
XLR Pinout: The Basics
The XLR connectors are circular. The commonly used XLR is a 3-pin connector, with some other connectors from 2 to 7-pin configuring used. These types come wth male and female versions.
The pin of XLR connector is configured circularly.
3-Pin XLR Connectors
Understanding 3-Pin XLR Pinout
A 3-pin XLR connector is the basic type and is used for mono audio signals. Here’s his pinout
- Pin 1: Ground (Shield)
- Pin 2: Positive Phase (+)
- Pin 3: Negative Phase (-)
Common Applications of 3-Pin XLR Connectors
3-Pin XLR connectors are used in microphones, audio mixers, and different other audio devices. Their simple design and effectiveness make them a standard option in the industry.
5-Pin XLR Connectors
Unveiling 5-Pin XLR Pinout
5-Pin XLR connectors are used for stereo audio signals. Here are:
- Pin 1: Ground (Shield)
- Pin 2: Positive Phase Left (+L)
- Pin 3: Negative Phase Left (-L)
- Pin 4: Positive Phase Right (+R)
- Pin 5: Negative Phase Right (-R)
Where 5-Pin XLR Connectors Excel
These connectors are reliable for uses where stereo sound is required, like in high-quality headphones and some audio interfaces.
XLR6 Pinout
XLR6 comes with two types, the witchcraft type and the Neutrik type. Switchcraft is a symmetrical connector and the other is asymmetrical. The common use of XLR6 is a stage lighting control and professional stereo headsets with balanced microphones.
Pin Number | Details |
1 | Data+ |
2 | Data- |
3 | Data+ |
4 | Data- |
5 | Ground |
6 | Power(+12V) |
7-Pin XLR Connectors
7-Pin XLR Pinout
7-Pin XLR connectors are less common but have specialized uses, mostly complicated audio systems. Their pinout is are
- Pin 1: Ground (Shield)
- Pin 2-4: Positive and Negative Phases for Audio Channels 1, 2, and 3
- Pin 5-7: Positive and Negative Phases for Audio Channels 4, 5, and 6
Specialized Uses of 7-Pin XLR Connectors
We will encounter 7-Pin XLR connectors in conditions where different audio channels need to be transmitted and maintained separately, like in advanced recording instruments
XLR Female Pinout
The pinout for an XLR female connector is
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal (+ve)
- Pin 3: Signal (-ve)
it is a balanced connection, which means the signal is carried by two wires one is inverted. It cancels out noise or interference that is picked on the cable. These connectors are used for microphones but they are also used for audio instruments like speakers and mixers. it is a reliable and robust connector used in consumer audio applications.
XLR3 Pinout
The XLR3 pinout is :
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal (+)
- Pin 3: Signal (-)e.
XLR4 Pinout
- Intercom headsets
- DC power connections for professional film and video cameras and related equipment
- Desk microphones with LEDs
The standard pinout for a four-pin XLR connector is
- Pin 1: Microphone ground (screen/shield)
- Pin 2: Microphone signal (hot) input
- Pin 3: Headphone ground (return)
- Pin 4: Headphone signal (hot) output
For DC power connections, the pinout is
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 4: Power
XLR4 Pinout
The XLR4 pinout is
Pin 1: Microphone ground (screen/shield)
Pin 2: Microphone signal (hot) input
Pin 3: Headphone ground (return)
Pin 4: Headphone signal (hot) output
These pins are used for intercom headsets DC power connection etc
For DC power connections, the pinout is
Pin 1: Ground Pin 4: Power
XLR5 Pinout
The XLR5 pinout are
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal A (+)
- Pin 3: Signal A (-)
- Pin 4: Signal B (+)
- Pin 5: Signal B (-)
This pinout is used for many applications, such as
- Dual-element or stereo microphones
- Stereo intercom headsets
- DC power for audio equipment
- DMX512 lighting control
XLR6 Pinout
The XLR6 pinout is used for different applications that are
- Dual-channel intercom systems
- Stage lighting control applications
- Professional stereo headsets with balanced microphone
- Some types of speakers and mixers
There are 2 incompatible XLR6 pinouts:
Neutrik XLR6 pinout:
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal A (+)
- Pin 3: Signal A (-)
- Pin 4: Signal B (+)
- Pin 5: Signal B (-)
- Pin 6: Mic Ground
Switchcraft XLR6 pinout:
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal A (+)
- Pin 3: Signal A (-)
- Pin 4: Signal B (+)
- Pin 5: Signal B (-)
- Pin 6: Center Pin
Hot Plugging
Hot plugging is the insertion and rehoming of components from the system when the system is working. In the XLR3 connector ground pin of the male and female make first contact when inserted. With that, it disconnects when removed.
It makes sure that not noise is produced in the system during connection creation. SO XLR connectors provdies good operation
XLR 3-Pin Wiring – Male/Female Type
for wirin xlr. 3 pin male or female connectors use these points
- The XLR 3pin male or female connectors
- a cable having three connectors one for a positive signal and the third one for a negative signal
- A soldering iron and solder
Instructions:
- remove the insulation at ens of three conductors left half inches wire
- Tin end of exposed wire with solder
- Put wires in related pin on XLR connector
- Solder wires with pins
- Trim extra wires
- Repeat steps for the other end of the cable
Pinout:
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal (+)
- Pin 3: Signal (-)
Tips:
- Confirm that wires are connected in the correct pins on XLR connectors
- Use soldering iron to fin tip to confirm that solder joints are clean and secure
- Remove extra wires to avoid shorting the connector housing
How do XLR connections work?
The positive audio single with ground signal plus negative signal is provided through XLR cable when two balanced devices are connected.
With inverted featues, these to signals are same to each other.
For electrical interference, noise enters both negative audio signals also positive audio signals. When both signals get balanced gadget at en on audio signals is inverted. However, these two signals are like to each other. The nose that was audio signals is inverted.
They are canceled each other when real noise is mixed with inverted noise. In result, only original audio signal is left
The XLR pinout on A-series models (A15, A20, and A30) is
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal (+)
- Pin 3: Signal (-)
Advantages of XLR Connectors
- They have features to provide 48 volts of phantom power that is needed to power the condenser microphone.
- Balanced wire cancels interference that is selected with the way.
- it has a small latch on connectors to save any unplugging.
How many conductor pins do most XLR connectors have?
The balanced cable comes with 3 connectors, positive, negative, and shield that are related to 3 pins of the XLR connector. These cables ensure accurate signal transmission and minimize interference.
What is 3-pin vs 5-pin XLR?
Are all XLR cables 3-pin?
Is 3-pin better than 5-pin?
Which is better Jack or XLR?
Are XLR cables strong?
FAQs
What do the pins mean in XLR?
- Pin 1: Ground
- Pin 2: Signal (+)
- Pin 3: Signal (-)
What is the use of 5-pin XLR?
5-pin XLR is used for different projects
- Dual-element or stereo microphones
- Stereo intercom headsets
- DC power for audio equipment
- DMX512 lighting control
What is the pin 1 on the XLR?
Pin 1 on the XLR is the ground pin. It provides a common reference for signals and helps to cancel noise and interference
What is the voltage of the XLR pinout?
The voltage of the XLR pinout is 48V DC, but can change based on the device.
Is XLR DC or AC?
XLR is DC.
How many ohms is XLR cable?
XLR cable is 110 ohms.
Is XLR low or high impedance?
XLR is low impedance.
What is the maximum distance for XLR cable?
The maximum distance for XLR cable is 300 feet.
Is XLR analog or digital?
XLR is analog.
What are the two types of XLR?
The two types of XLR are male and female.
Why does XLR have 3 pins?
XLR has 3 pins for ground, signal (+), and signal (-). it is a balanced audio connection, that helps to cancel noise and interference.
Why is XLR used?
XLR is used to provide a balanced line signal about long distances. Since signal is balanced it has less undesired noise from outer interference due to Reverse Polarity