# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Jack Connectors

XLR 4-Pin vs. XLR 5-Pin

Comparing 2 standards across 9 specifications. 9 key differences identified.

Comparing:
XLR 4-Pin
XLR 5-Pin
XLR 4-Pin →

4-pin XLR uses the same connector shell as standard 3-pin XLR but carries entirely different, incompatible signals depending on the equipment: intercom headsets, balanced headphone outputs, or 12V DC power -- with no universal standard or keying to prevent connecting the wrong device to the wrong port.

View full XLR 4-Pin spec sheet →
XLR 5-Pin →

5-pin XLR is the standard connector for DMX512 digital lighting control -- though 3-pin XLR is commonly, and per the DMX512 spec itself non-compliantly, substituted in practice. 5-pin XLR is also used for some stereo microphones and modular professional audio equipment.

View full XLR 5-Pin spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

9 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
XLR 4-Pin
XLR 5-Pin
Connector Family
Circular Audio / Power Interconnect (XLR4) Circular Stage & Lighting Interconnect (XLR5)
Conductors / Contacts
4 Pins 5 Pins
Signal Format
Broadcast Intercom / Balanced Headphone / 12V DC Power DMX512 Digital Lighting Control / Dual-Element Audio
Primary Applications
Broadcast television intercom headsets, audiophile balanced headphones, field video DC power Stage lighting consoles, moving head fixtures, dimmers, dual-channel stereo microphones
Intercom Pinout
Pin 1: Mic Gnd | Pin 2: Mic Signal | Pin 3: Phone Return | Pin 4: Phone Signal —
Balanced Headphone Pinout
Pin 1: L(+) | Pin 2: L(-) | Pin 3: R(+) | Pin 4: R(-) —
DC Power Pinout
Pin 1: 0V / Gnd | Pin 4: +12V DC (Pins 2 & 3 Unused) —
DMX512 Pinout
— Pin 1: Shield | Pin 2: Data 1(-) | Pin 3: Data 1(+) | Pin 4: Data 2(-) | Pin 5: Data 2(+)
Governing Standard
— ANSI E1.11 / USITT DMX512-A

Other Alternatives to Compare

Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 2.5mm TRRS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 2.5mm TRS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 3.5 mm TRRS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 3.5 mm TRS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 6.35 mm (1/4") TRS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. 6.35mm TS → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. Coaxial Cable Types (RG Series) → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. RCA → Compare XLR 4-Pin vs. XLR 3-Pin →