If you've been around professional-grade audio for any length of time, you've certainly come across a set of XLR connectors at some point. They're easy to spot with their hefty, round, industrial-strength casing, and their covered internal pins. (The number of pins can vary from 3 all the way up to 7)
The first XLR connectors were engineered by James Cannon of Cannon Electric. Because of this, it had originally been better known as the Cannon Connector. (Although, that name has since gone out of style)
Where does the XLR name come from?
The original primitive connectors were called the Cannon X Series. Later, Cannon added a latch for convenience and called this new connector the Cannon XL series. Finally, the company released a more heavy-duty unit where the female connectors were encased in a durable polymer, which was called the Cannon XLR series.
These connectors are commonly used in microphones since they can effectively provide phantom power to condenser microphones, eliminating the need for an additional battery or other external power. This balanced power is also undetectable to other balanced mics that don't need it.
You might also see XLR connectors being used in very old rugged speaker systems, although more modern speakers have moved away from this standard in favor of the more modern Speakon connectors.
Three-pin XLR connectors are most commonly used for audio applications. Four-pin XLR connectors are designed to provide DC power, and are commonly used in professional video equipment. 5-pin XLR connectors are commonly used for professional lighting applications.
PlayDeRecord carries an assortment of high-end XLR hardware for all of your DJ, Mixing and Producing hardware.
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