XLR vs TRS Cables: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Use?

When setting up studio monitors, audio interfaces, or live sound equipment, you’ll often face the choice between XLR cables and TRS cables.

XLR vs TRS Cables

Both are widely used for balanced audio connections, but they’re not identical. Knowing the differences helps you avoid noise issues and choose the right cable for your setup.

1. What is an XLR Cable?

An XLR cable is one of the most common professional audio cables.

• Connector: Circular with 3 pins (though versions with more pins exist).

• Gender: Male (pins) and Female (holes).

• Design: Locks in place for secure connection.

• Use: Microphones, mixers, powered speakers, professional audio gear.

💡 Key Advantage: Rugged and reliable, designed for long cable runs with minimal interference.

2. What is a TRS Cable?

A TRS cable looks like a standard headphone plug but with two black rings on the connector tip.

• TRS = Tip-Ring-Sleeve

• Shape: 1/4 inch (6.35mm) or 1/8 inch (3.5mm).

• Use: Balanced line-level signals or stereo unbalanced signals.

• Typical Applications: Studio monitors, audio interfaces, patch bays, headphones.

💡 Key Advantage: Compact and versatile, can carry either stereo (left/right) or balanced mono signals.

3. XLR vs TRS: Physical Differences

4. Balanced vs Unbalanced Signals

Both XLR and TRS can carry balanced audio, which reduces noise over long distances.

• Balanced (XLR / TRS):

  • Uses 2 signal wires + 1 ground.

  • Noise picked up along the cable is canceled.

  • Ideal for professional audio setups.

• Unbalanced (TS, RCA):

  • Uses 1 signal wire + 1 ground.

  • More prone to interference.

  • OK for short cable runs.

👉 XLR is always balanced.
👉 TRS can be balanced or stereo unbalanced.

5. Typical Use Cases

• XLR Cable:

  • Microphones to mixers

  • Audio interface to studio monitors

  • Stage equipment (long runs)

• TRS Cable:

  • Audio interface to studio monitors

  • Mixer inserts and patch bays

  • Headphones (stereo TRS, aka 'aux jack')

6. Which Should You Use: XLR or TRS?

It depends on your equipment:

• Choose XLR if:
  ✅ Your device has XLR outputs/inputs
  ✅ You need secure, rugged connections
  ✅ You’re running long cables (20ft or more)

• Choose TRS if:
  ✅ Your device has TRS outputs/inputs
  ✅ You want a compact connection
  ✅ You’re patching short runs in a studio

👉 If both are available, XLR is usually preferred for reliability.

🔎 Conclusion

Both XLR and TRS cables deliver balanced, professional-quality audio. The main difference lies in the connector type, durability, and use case.

• XLR = secure, rugged, long runs (microphones, stage use).

• TRS = compact, versatile, short runs (studio monitors, patch bays).

When in doubt, check your device’s inputs/outputs. If it supports both, choose XLR for critical connections and TRS for convenience.

📌 Next Reads

• The Ultimate Guide to IEC Power Cables: From C13 to C19

• C13 vs C14 Power Cords: What You Need to Know

• C19 vs C20: High-Power IEC Cables Explained