3

I have a Sound card (Audio Interface) with ‘balanced’ outputs for Left and Right channels. Also I have two reference monitors with balanced XLR inputs. My audio cables have XLR male jacks (to the monitors) and ¼” TS (i.e. not TRS) jacks for soundcard. Further, I removed the cover of the XLR jack and noticed that not all three terminals were used. Only 1 and 3 were (where 1 is for ground and 3 is for the signal, I believe).

Could you please advise whether that these cables can be used to connect the Sound Card and the monitors. I mean, can I use ¼” TS mono jacks with the balanced L&R output channels of sound card? If I use, will it damage any of the equipment (Sound card or Monitors)?

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2

You can use TS mono jacks in TRS balanced outputs but the resulting connection will be unbalanced. The cable wiring you describe, however, sounds weird: leaving 2 open in the XLR connector is a recipe for trouble.

I think you'll be better off getting TRS-to-XLR balanced cables: using balanced connections is your best bet against ground hum and other noise.

Improve this answer
2
  • Many thanks for your answer which is highly appreciated!!!
    – maheshqs19
    Dec 3, 2017 at 12:20
  • Mahesh - if an answer helps you, please use the upvote button, don't leave a comment. tour will help guide you.
    – Rory Alsop ♦
    Dec 4, 2017 at 7:37

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.