VO-BB - 19 YEARS OLD! Forum Index VO-BB - 19 YEARS OLD!
Where A.I. is a four-letter word.
 
 FAQFAQ   SearchSearch   MemberlistMemberlist   UsergroupsUsergroups   RegisterRegister 
 ProfileProfile   Log in to check your private messagesLog in to check your private messages   Log inLog in 

Audio Lingo Clarification: XLR

 
Post new topic   Reply to topic    VO-BB - 19 YEARS OLD! Forum Index -> Research and Development
View previous topic :: View next topic  
Author Message
Mike Harrison
M&M


Joined: 03 Nov 2007
Posts: 2029
Location: Equidistant from New York City and Philadelphia, along the NJ Shore

PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2010 8:59 am    Post subject: Audio Lingo Clarification: XLR Reply with quote

I've read in more than several places where microphone cables are referred to as 'XLR cables.' For those VO people with limited audio experience who may find themselves in a discussion with an audio professional, a clarification is necessary.

A mic cable is a mic cable. The familiar (typically black) cable contains two signal conductors (wires) wrapped in a shield (ground), covered with the rubberized coating. The two signal conductors carry the audio from the mic to the device it's connected to, usually a preamplifier or a console/mixer. The shield also connects the two devices. Thus, we have three connections; the two signal conductors and the ground.

XLR refers to the type of connector (plug) used at either end of a three conductor audio cable. First made by Cannon Electric, they were originally known as 'Cannon' plugs. The 'X' series connector was the basic design we're familiar with. The 'L' refers to the latch that keeps the connector locked in place. The 'R' refers to the hard rubber insulator material between the three connector pins in the plug.

Because this type of connector is used to connect essentially all types of professional audio gear using balanced audio (a whole different topic), it is inaccurate to refer to a mic cable as an XLR cable - especially when speaking with a professional audio geek.

Hope this is helpful. Smile
_________________
Mike
Male Voice Over Talent
I have taken leave of my sensors.

Back to top
View user's profile Send private message Send e-mail Visit poster's website
Display posts from previous:   
Post new topic   Reply to topic    VO-BB - 19 YEARS OLD! Forum Index -> Research and Development All times are GMT - 7 Hours
Page 1 of 1

 
Jump to:  
You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum


Powered by phpBB © 2001, 2005 phpBB Group