Side-by-Side Comparison
Jack Connectors
6.35 mm (1/4") TRS vs. XLR 3-Pin
Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.
Comparing:
6.35 mm (1/4") TRS
XLR 3-Pin
6.35mm TRS is the 3-conductor version of the quarter-inch phone connector, wired for either balanced mono line/microphone signals in professional audio gear or stereo signals in full-size headphones -- the same wiring logic as 3.5mm TRS at four times the shaft diameter.
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
9 Parameters| Parameter / Spec | ||
|---|---|---|
|
Connector Family
|
Phone Jack (Quarter-Inch / Standard Phone) | Circular Audio Interconnect (Cannon XLR) |
|
Conductors / Contacts
|
3 (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) | 3 (Pins 1, 2, 3 + Shell) |
|
Signal Format
|
Balanced Mono / Unbalanced Stereo | Balanced Analog Audio / AES3 Digital |
|
Primary Applications
|
Studio reference headphones, audio interface line in/out, balanced mixer interconnects | Professional studio microphones, PA live sound, mixer connections, stage snakes |
|
Shaft / Plug Diameter
|
6.35 mm (1/4") | — |
|
Standard Stereo Pinout
|
Tip: Left | Ring: Right | Sleeve: Ground | — |
|
Balanced Mono Pinout
|
Tip: Hot (+) | Ring: Cold (-) | 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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