How to Fix XLR Connector or Create a New Connection
WHAT IS XLR USED FOR?
XLR is a type of connector widely used in audio equipment to carry balanced signal traffic.
It is common to find this plug with only 3 pins, however there are models that have 4, 5 and even 6 or 7 pins
WHY IS THIS CONNECTOR USED SO MUCH?
The wide use of this type of connector is due to the fact that it enables high quality signal transmission. It's no wonder that every microphone cable has at least one such plug on one of its ends.
And when we say “at one of its ends” it is because there are other types of microphones, such as condenser, for example, which have the XLR at both ends of the cable. And that, together with a good cable, offers a high quality of signal transmission. Another cool thing about the XLR is that it has a lock that prevents the cable from accidentally disconnecting. And as it has a dedicated pin, it also has a grounding system.
So, if you need more efficiency and security, cables with XLR connectors are the perfect choice. Whether for recording studios, churches, live performances, rehearsals, lectures, etc.
Do you want to repair your XLR Connector or create a new connection? You’ll need to learn about the right way to build this specific connection. Read on to know the complete procedure.
WHAT IS THE XLR CONNECTION?
The 3-pin version is the most popular and widely used variant of the connector, however, there are versions with up to 10 pins, in addition to the mini versions.
It is a 3-pin connection, circular and balanced. All the three pins of the connection are represented by the numbers i.e., 1, 2, and 3. 1 is the ground wire, whereas no 2 and 3 is the hot and cold wire. Besides, there are two main parts of this specific connection, both, with a difference to make the connection possible.
WIRING OF THE XLR CONNECTORS:
Below is the complete process of XLR Connectors:
Step 1: Strip the ends of a cable using the wire cutters. Take off half an inch or 2cm of rubber insulation from the outside.
Step 2: You’ll see the thin wires. They form the internal insulation. Grab them all and twist them aside. So you get enough room to take the cloth insulation.
Step 3: Strip the black and white wire. A quarter of an inch would be enough. You’ll see the copper wire inside.
Step 4: Now you have to go for Tinning. Solder the internal wires using a soldering iron. For that, put the soldering material and the wire in front of the soldering iron to tin the wires.
Step 5: Now, place the solder in a stand as it might get hot during soldering. Place the solder material in the holes of the XLR connector. A lit bit of soldering material will be enough.
Step 6: Put the cable through the rubber housing. Solder it inside to make a connection. While connecting, remember the sequence as you’ll have to repeat it on the other side as well.
Step 7: Crimp the rubber part to secure the wires. Screw the rubber housing by aligning it with the hole in the main part.
Step 8: Notch it inside the main cover.
Step 9: Repeat it with the other part as well.
Step 10: Use the cable tester to check the XLR connection.