We recommend using XLR connectors if you have enough space for all of their components (adapter and cable). They provide better audio quality with less interference from outside sources like electromagnetic fields. Is XLR Better Than TRS—Pros and Cons Explained

Affordability. If you have a limited budget, TRS is a reasonable choice. The sound quality is not that much different than the more expensive XLR, anyway. Power. XLR cable can run without being connected to a power source. It can even deliver power to a condenser microphone. This is called phantom power, and it can be such a useful advantage.

Expensive. XLR cable costs more than TRS cable. Sure, there are cheap XLR cables but they don’t last very long as they are low quality. It will not be cost-effective to keep buying cheap XLR cables. For live shows, XLR may not offer the same benefit as TRS because of its rather short length. However, XLR can provide more robust and balanced audio without catching too much noise. XLR also provides a more secure connection, whereas TRS connection loosens in time. But how does a TRS to XLR cable manage to achieve this feat? The secret lies in the cable’s balanced construction. A balanced cable, such as an XLR to TRS cable, contains three conductors to pass audio — a positive, a negative, and a ground. When the signal enters the cable, it is duplicated. One signal runs through the positive leg and the other runs through the negative leg in reverse polarities. At the destination device, the two signals are flipped to be in phase with each other again. If any interference occurs during transmission, the interference would be out of phase with itself, effectively removing it from the signal. In addition, if you want to connect two speakers, then a TRS will be appropriate. However, if you’re going to hook one speaker and a microphone, an XLR connection would be more appropriate because it handles the extra phantom power from the microphone without damaging your audio device.

Versatility. TRS cable is a standard choice for musical instruments such as guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers. While keyboard workstations are now supporting XLR connectors, there are still lots of instruments that only support TRS connectors.

What is the best TRS cable available?

The SC4 is a TRS to TRRS adaptor, designed to allow microphones with a 3.5mm TRS output to connect to deviceswith a TRRS input. This is ideal if you want to connect a RØDE VideoMic, lavalier or Wireless GO to a computer, smartphone or tablet. SC5 – 3.5mm TRS to TRS Cable for Wireless GO II (Not Available Separately) Unlike the TRS, the TS (tip-sleeve) unbalanced cable can relay stereo signals in long cables without interference. This allows you to give your fans a great show because you can move freely without worrying about noise distortion in your sound. Types of TRS Connectors There are three common TRS connector types: stereo, mono, and balanced. So what does each stand for? XLR Connectors Less Likely to Short Out: XLR connectors don’t short out during connection. TRS can short out and you risk blowing out your fancy ribbon microphone with a preamp when you have phantom power turned on while TRS is plugged in. XLR can be safer to use in such a scenario, especially if you leave phantom on (which isn’t advised anyway, but it’s something you should consider). The obvious pro to consider when using an XLR vs TRS is sound quality. With an XLR connector, there’s no chance of interference between the left and right channels, so all you’re left with is pure audio quality!