Connecting to a mixer

[Tiggermc1]

A noob question here. I just purchased a HX Stomp.

 

The Cheat Sheet and manual say that TRS to XLR cables must be used for connecting to a mixing desk. My understanding of a TRS is a stereo Jack plug. I have many of mono Jack to XLR cables. Would these not work? If so, what are the benefits of using one or the other? I want to connect to the mixer in stereo.

 

your advice would be appreciated.

 

cheers

Jim

[phil_m]

TRS can be used for unbalanced stereo connections, but it’s also a common way to connect balanced mono connections. A typical microphone cable is a balanced cable, and at the XLR you have positive, negative and ground. A TRS jack is just another way to make these connections.

[Tiggermc1]

Thank you Phil

 

Yes, I had been reading up on this, but the “balanced” versus “unbalanced” made little sense to me. I will use normal mono Jack to XLR microphone cables.

[bobcoss]

Tigger, 

 

A 1/4 TRS to XLR cable is always mono (balanced).  This is essential to reduce signal noise picked up on long runs of cable to the FOH.  If you wire up a normal 1/4 cable to an XLR, it won't have one of the sides and will pick up noise.

 

It's a bit confusing at first because folks often associate TRS with a stereo connection.    The stomp uses 1/4 TRS because of the small footprint of the box.

 

Best to get the correct cable(s) so you can use it in all situations.

[Tiggermc1]

Thanks Bob

 

it makes perfect sense to me now. I’ll get myself a set of TRS to XLR cables.

 

Cheers