How to Wire an XLR Connector: Balanced and Mic Cables
Learn how to wire an XLR connector to a balanced cable or a mic cable, from pin numbers to soldering and strain relief, plus tips for choosing one.
XLR is a connector that links a mic to other audio equipment, such as a mixer. Because it is such an important part, it has to be installed correctly to work well. Wiring a cable to an XLR jack is not easy, but you can do it by following the steps below.
Wiring a Balanced XLR Cable
A balanced XLR connector needs to be wired correctly because it can only be wired in stereo. That means you have to check compatibility, since some audio devices are not compatible with this component. Wiring is done by placing the body, hot and ground in the right positions. Next, cut the cable for the connector carefully, preferably with a knife.
There are usually three or four wires running through this connector, such as red, green and blue. If there are four, two of them are bare, with a copper coating. The correct lead is usually the red, green or blue wire on the left. For the base, use the wire with the copper coating. After that, continue by sliding the XLR jack connector onto the cable.
Then wrap each correctly placed wire around its terminal and tighten the screw so it does not slip. After that, check whether any wire sticks out or has too much length and touches another wire. If not, the wiring is done. If any wire is still too long, insulate each wire further.
Connecting a Mic Cable to an XLR Connector
Audio mixers that do not use a plug or jack often leave people confused about how to connect a mic cable. A wiring mistake can cause noisy sound or leave the microphone silent. To connect it, strip the cable until the core shows. Then twist the cover body to open the female jack, connect the wires and solder them.
You can read the numbers on the mic's female body to identify the function of each contact: number 1 is ground, number 2 is hot and number 3 is cold. Next, connect and solder the three wires. Then fit the cover body back onto the female XLR jack connector. If you are still unsure, use a multimeter to find which contacts connect, so the wires can be attached correctly.
Those are some ways to wire a balanced cable and connect a mic cable. To make wiring easier, choose an XLR connector with dependable features such as an upgradable chuck-type strain relief. That gives you a higher pulling force and faster assembly. Another important feature is a female connector with a solid metal latch, which makes it easier to handle.
