Collection: XLR Connectors

The internationally recognised standard (IEC 60268-12) for balanced audio XLR wiring is: pin 1 = shield/ground, pin 2 = hot (positive/non-inverting), pin 3 = cold (negative/inverting). Some older equipment — particularly older US-manufactured gear — used a reverse convention (pin 2 cold, pin 3 hot), but the IEC standard is now universal in professional audio. Always confirm the convention of the equipment you are connecting before wiring a custom cable. Explore our full XLR Connectors range.

3-pin XLR is the standard format for balanced mono audio signals — microphone cables, line-level connections, AES3 digital audio (one channel). 5-pin XLR is commonly used for DMX512 lighting control (where pins 4 and 5 carry a secondary universe) and for some stereo balanced audio applications or intercom systems. Make sure to match the connector type to your equipment — mixing 3-pin and 5-pin requires an adapter and can damage equipment if connections are incorrect.

XLR connectors can be used to carry speaker-level signals from a power amplifier to a passive loudspeaker cabinet — a practice sometimes found in installed AV systems. However, the Speakon connector (NL4 or NL8) is the preferred professional standard for speaker cable terminations because it handles higher current levels more safely and provides a more secure latching connection. XLR to speaker wiring is not recommended for high-power PA applications. For lower-power or installed system use, XLR may be acceptable — check the amplifier manufacturer's guidance.

For reliable solder-type XLR connections you need: a temperature-controlled soldering iron (40–60 W with a fine chisel or conical tip), quality solder (60/40 or lead-free), wire strippers, heat-shrink tubing or electrical tape for insulation, and a small clamp or third-hand tool to hold the connector while soldering. Clean the iron tip before each joint. Tin the wire ends and the connector pins before joining them to ensure a cold-joint-free, low-resistance bond. Allow each joint to cool before moving the connector.

Yes — standard 3-pin XLR connectors are fully compatible with 48V phantom power, which is supplied by mixing desks and mic preamps to power condenser microphones. Phantom power is delivered via pins 2 and 3 (at equal positive voltage relative to pin 1) and does not damage balanced dynamic microphones or DI boxes correctly wired to the standard pinout. Ensure all solder joints are clean and there are no pin-to-pin shorts before connecting phantom-powered equipment.

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Cable-mount XLR connectors are designed to be fitted to the end of a cable — they include a strain-relief clamp and a body that grips the cable jacket. Panel-mount (chassis) XLR connectors are designed to be bolted or screwed into a cutout in an equipment enclosure, stage box, wall plate or rack panel, providing a fixed connection point. For audio installations, panel-mount female XLR connectors on wall plates create clean, professional-looking input points in fixed installations. Browse our full Connectors & Terminals range for all options.