Side-by-Side Comparison
Jack Connectors
2.5mm TRS vs. XLR 3-Pin
Comparing 2 standards across 8 specifications. 8 key differences identified.
Comparing:
2.5mm TRS
XLR 3-Pin
2.5mm TRS is the smallest common member of the phone-connector family -- the same tip-ring-sleeve wiring as 3.5mm TRS, scaled down to a 2.5mm shaft. It was used for headset jacks on cordless phones, two-way radios, and early portable tape recorder remotes before 3.5mm became the standard smaller size.
Standard 3-pin XLR audio connectors use Pin 1 for chassis ground/shield, Pin 2 for the positive (hot) signal, and Pin 3 for the negative (cold) signal. 48V phantom power is supplied equally across Pins 2 and 3 relative to Pin 1.
Specification Comparison Table
8 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Connector Family
|
Phone Jack (Micro-Mini) | Circular Audio Interconnect (Cannon XLR) |
|
Conductors / Contacts
|
3 (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) | 3 (Pins 1, 2, 3 + Shell) |
|
Signal Format
|
Unbalanced Stereo / Balanced Mono | Balanced Analog Audio / AES3 Digital |
|
Primary Applications
|
Cordless phones, two-way radios, legacy mobile headsets, micro audio gear | Professional studio microphones, PA live sound, mixer connections, stage snakes |
|
Shaft / Plug Diameter
|
2.5 mm | — |
|
Standard Stereo Pinout
|
Tip: Left | Ring: Right | Sleeve: Ground | — |
|
Standard Balanced Pinout
|
— | Pin 1: Ground/Shield | Pin 2: Hot (+) | Pin 3: Cold (-) |
|
Phantom Power Support
|
— | 48V DC (+/- 4V) IEC 61938 P48 |
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