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How to Make an XLR to RCA Cable

Three-pin XLR cables are used in a multitude of pro audio applications, and most commonly used as microphone connectors. RCA-type connections are often found in home audio and video equipment, and carry a line level signal between DVD players, CD players and home theater receivers. When connecting two audio components, you may not always be presented with matching connection types, but you can wire up a simple adapter cable to solve the problem.

Things You'll Need

  • Wire strippers
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Soldering iron
  • XLR cable
  • XLR connector
  • RCA connector
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Instructions

    • 1

      Strip 1 inch of shielding from each end of an XLR cable using a pair of wire strippers. Strip 1/4 inch of insulation from each of the three inner wires.

    • 2

      Remove the screw from the XLR connector with a flat-head screwdriver, and slide out the inner connector from its casing.

    • 3

      Solder one of each of the three wires to the three numbered contacts of the XLR connector. Make a note of which color wire is connected to which numbered connector. The connector numbers are stamped next to the base of each contact.

    • 4

      Solder the wire connected to the number 2 XLR contact to the tip contact of the RCA connector. The tip contact is the shorter of the two contacts.

    • 5

      Solder both the wires connected to the numbers 1 and 3 XLR contacts to the sleeve contact of the RCA connector.

    • 6

      Replace the XLR connector's casing and secure it with the screw using a flat-head screwdriver. The casing only slides onto the XLR connector in one position, as it is slotted to match a groove on the inner part of the connector.

Recording Music

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