🎚️🔌 1/4" Mono • XLR Mono Cable

These cables transmit mono audio signals between 1/4" TS (Tip-Sleeve) and XLR connectors. They’re used to connect instruments or line-level outputs to XLR-equipped mixers, recorders, or amplifiers. While unbalanced, they offer reliable signal flow for short to moderate cable runs.
 
🔧 Cable Variants & Use Cases
🔌 1/4" TS Male → XLR Female
Use Case: Connect mono XLR mic output to 1/4" input
Devices: Synth → audio interface, or drum machine → field recorder
Ideal for adapting legacy gear to pro-grade inputs
 
🖥️ Compatible Devices
🎹 Keyboards, synthesizers, and electric instruments
🎤 Mixers, audio interfaces, and field recorders
📼 Cameras and broadcast gear with XLR inputs
🛠️ DI boxes, patch bays, and signal processors
📡 Amplifiers and powered speakers with XLR ports
 
✅ Common Uses
🧠 Route mono instrument signals to XLR-equipped gear
🎚️ Connect line-level outputs to mic-level inputs (with caution)
🛠️ Bridge consumer and professional audio formats
🔁 Enable modular routing in studio and live environments
🧪 Test signal paths between TS and XLR endpoints
 
🧠 Signal Format Notes
⚙️ TS (Tip-Sleeve): Unbalanced mono audio (Signal, Ground)
⚙️ XLR: 3-pin connector typically used for balanced audio
📡 These cables wire TS signal to XLR pin 2, ground to pin 1
📉 No balancing—susceptible to noise over long runs
🔊 Mono only—no stereo or phantom power support
 
⚠️ Things to Watch Out For
🚫 Not suitable for balanced audio or stereo signals
🔌 XLR inputs may expect mic-level—line-level TS may clip
🧯 No phantom power pass-through—avoid with condenser mics
📉 Long cable runs may introduce hum or interference
🧪 Always test with known-good gear before deployment
 
🛠️ Quick Tips for Beginners
🧠 Identify TS by one black ring; XLR by its 3-pin layout
🔍 Use short, shielded cables to reduce noise
🧲 Choose metal connectors with strain relief for durability
🧼 Clean contacts gently—dust can cause crackling or dropouts
🏷️ Label cables by direction and signal type—especially in shared rigs