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XLR

XLR Connector

Standard: IEC 61076-2-103 Last updated: 2025-01-21

XLR was invented by James H. Cannon (hence 'Cannon connector') and the name comes from the X series with a Latch and Rubber compound. It became the professional audio standard due to its balanced design (which rejects interference), locking mechanism, and durability. The gendered connector design (male output, female input) allows daisy-chaining without adapter cables.

Quick Specifications

Max Speed

0.25 Mbps

Pins

3

Reversible

No

⚠️ Common Confusion Points

  • XLR cables and DMX cables use the same connector but have different impedance - don't mix them for long runs
  • 3-pin XLR is standard for audio, but DMX lighting officially uses 5-pin (though 3-pin is commonly used)
  • Male XLR is typically output, female XLR is typically input - opposite of most connectors
  • Phantom power (48V) on XLR can damage some ribbon microphones and unbalanced equipment
  • XLR to RCA/3.5mm adapters lose the balanced signal benefit and may introduce noise
  • Not all XLR cables are equal - microphone cables and DMX cables have different specifications
  • AES/EBU digital audio uses XLR but requires 110Ω cables, not standard mic cables

Protocols & Versions

Protocol Data Rate Power Max Length
3-pin XLR (Audio) (XLR3) Analog — 100m+ for balanced audio
5-pin XLR (DMX) (XLR5) 250 kbps — 300m per run
4-pin XLR (Power/Intercom) (XLR4) Analog/DC — Varies by application

3-pin XLR (Audio) Features

Balanced audio Phantom power capable (48V) Locking connector

Cable requirements: XLR cable with proper shielding

5-pin XLR (DMX) Features

DMX512 lighting control Digital protocol Daisy-chainable

Cable requirements: DMX-rated cable (110Ω impedance)

4-pin XLR (Power/Intercom) Features

DC power delivery Intercom systems Camera power

Cable requirements: 4-pin XLR cable

Connector Specifications

Shape
circular with key notch
Pins
3
Width × Height
19 × 19 mm
Depth
45 mm
Reversible
No

Electrical Specifications

Max Voltage
48V
Max Current
0.015A
Impedance
50-600Ω (audio), 110Ω (DMX)

Compatibility

Can Adapt To

  • 6.35mm TRS
  • 3.5mm (active)
  • RCA (not recommended)

Can Adapt From

  • 6.35mm TRS
  • 3.5mm (active)

Common Uses

  • Professional microphones
  • Audio interfaces
  • Mixing consoles
  • PA systems
  • Stage monitors
  • Lighting fixtures (DMX)
  • Professional video cameras
  • Intercom systems

Buying Guide

For microphones and general audio, standard XLR cables work fine. For DMX lighting, use proper DMX-rated cables (110Ω) especially for long runs - mic cables may work short-term but can cause flickering. Look for cables with Neutrik or similar quality connectors. Avoid adapting XLR to unbalanced connections when possible.

Also Known As

XLR Cannon connector Microphone cable 3-pin XLR

Data Sources