Whether you’re a DJ performing for an audience, a singer putting out music, or an audio technician that plans on hooking up a set of speakers on a soundstage, you probably have at least a basic understanding of the multiple cables and cable lengths out there, especially XLR cables.
So you probably already understand the importance (if not prevalence) of investing in the best XLR cables. But not all XLR cables are built the same.
Cable quality fluctuates. Many cable manufacturers produce a whole range of microphone cable options, cheap cables, and premium cables
Not only are some designed with various pin types, but durability plays a huge factor as does signal clarity and the number of “failure points”.
These all are important areas of focus and determine the overall quality of the XLR cable you’re going to use. In this overview, we’ll be checking out some of the best XLR cables you can get in 2022 and 2023 so that your audio sounds as clean, crisp, and clear as possible.
Best XLR Cable: Our Overall Choice
The Pig Hog PHM10 XLR Cable is our best overall choice. Pig Hog cables are designed to be overbuilt to deal with the most grueling conditions imaginable. They feature extra-thick 8mm wire, quality connectors, and tension-resistant stress relief. 10/10 from us!
3 Top XLR Cable Picks – Best, Premium & Value
Below, we’ll take the time to check out some of the best XLR cable options currently on the market while also giving you some tips on what to expect and look out for when getting the correct cabling that’s correct for you.
Pig Hog PHM10 XLR Cable (Best Overall)
The Pig Hog PHM10 is easily one of the top XLR cables you’re going to get. Pig Hog cables offer multiple cable length options to choose from, ranging from 10ft up to 50ft. These XLR cable picks also have individual options as well as bulk packs that go up to 10 in total.
This all culminates in essentially anyone getting what they want regardless if they’re looking for one or two for a casual performance or a large operation for a televised event.
The PHM10 XLR cables are one of the thickest and most durable options, with a gauge of 14 AWG. This sits well above the industry standard for cable thickness, making them far more resistant and resilient against any type of twists or knots.
This makes them great for dealing with hectic stages, busy DJ booths, and touring performances, where cable wires may not be given the greatest care.
What We Like:
- Complete Protection
- Variety Of Length
- Super Durable
What We Do Not Like:
- Difficult To Store Due To Thickness
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Mogami Gold Studio-15 XLR Cable (Premium Pick)
Last on the list (but certainly not least), the Mogami Gold Studio-15 XLR Cable is arguably the pinnacle of the best XLR cables. Mogami cables have been known to produce incredibly high-quality cable options.
Their audio professional XLR cables are pretty much the best in the business.
Built from high-quality XLR cable components, including Neutrik’s locking ends component, the Mogami cables use gold-plated contacts for greater conductivity as well as an additional layer of copper shielding. This is all packed well into a 24 gauge AWG rubber housing that is both durable as well as flexible.
While Mogami is known for producing some truly remarkable connectors, they are also known for selling at a premium. This can be a bit too much just for some high-quality connectors, potentially pricing them out to a lot of people.
If you’re planning to perform at an important event or need your cables to absolutely work 100% of the time, the Mogami is ideal. If you’re running a more casual setup, these cables may be a bit overkill.
What We Like:
- Gold-Plated Contacts
- Additional Copper Shielding
- Uses Neutrik Connectors
What We Do Not Like:
- Overkill for some setups
- Much More Expensive
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AmazonBasics XLR Cable (Best Value)
AmazonBasics’ XLR Cable is the ideal entry-level cable for those looking for something that works at a serviceable quality while also being a great value for money. This standard cable pick is very budget-friendly yet also can handle all of your essential jobs.
These cheap cable options are built using very minimal parts, avoiding screws entirely while keeping pace with Neutrik’s connector industry standards. These cables have a 6mm PCV jacket that surrounds a layer of spiraled copper. This protects the cable’s internal conductors.
Because the shielding of this particular XLR cable isn’t particularly thick, you’re more likely to run into different issues including RF interference.
The cables also aren’t as reliable as some of the more expensive alternatives due to the difference in quality components.
For most people getting started or using them in causal settings and performances, this lack of quality shouldn’t be too much of an issue. For those that expect to operate at a more professional level, however, it may be worth it to invest in something a bit higher in quality.
What We Like:
- Very Affordable
- Connectors Don’t Include Screws
- Neutrik connectors
What We Do Not Like:
- Quality Isn’t Great
- Lacks a Strong Shielding
Read this next: Building Your First Home DJ Setup
Our Alternative Top XLR Cable Picks
If the three options above aren’t well-suited to you, there are still a host of top XLR cable picks to choose from. Our team also highlighted the following options for those in search of excellent XLR cable options.
Behringer MIC2USB XLR Cable
If you’re someone that wants to enjoy all of the benefits of an XLR cable connection without dealing with the time and costs that can come with it, you may appreciate what the Behringer MIC2USB offers.
Created as a computer recording solution that moves to integrate an XLR cable with audio interfaces, the MIC2USB offers CD-quality analog-to-digital conversion for both Mac and Windows without needing drivers. Instead, it’s as simple as plugging your mic in and setting up your recording software before recording.
It’s a great option for handling very light and less demanding work. It’s also ideal for those that already have microphone cables or otherwise aren’t quite ready to transition directly to a USB mic.
On the other hand, despite its convenience, the Behringer MIC2USB is more of a quick fix than anything long-lasting or permanent. It doesn’t have any analog-to-digital conversion control, nor does it include any headphone output options for sound quality monitoring. In addition, the MIC2USB only works with dynamic microphones as it is unable to pass phantom power, something condenser mics need.
If you need something immediate in case of an issue with your main XLR cable options, this is a great interim fix.
However, if you plan on transitioning to a more professional and permanent computer recording solution, you’ll want to keep this on as only a spare.
What We Like:
- Easy Plug-And-Play Setup
- Microphone Cables Direct To USB
What We Do Not Like:
- No Shielding
- Thin Gauge
- Only Works With Dynamic Mics
Read this next: How To Choose Your DJ Equipment? (Properly!)
Monoprice Premier Series XLR Cable
Also known as TRS cable connectors, the 1/4-inch balanced XLR cables are another industry-wide cable connection option, carrying the same signal type as XLRs.
Here, Monoprice’s XLR-to-1/4-inch cable makes a point of standing out, featuring a gold-plated connector that is both robust in internal shielding while also having a thicker AWG gauge of 16.
These thicker cables ensure high amounts of protection from electrical interference while also being highly durable and resistant to outside cuts or abrasions.
It is perfect for connecting mismatched pieces of balanced gear. However, one thing that you will need to consider is the cable’s housing. Unlike other connectors, the XLR-to-1/4-inch cable’s internal screws are likely to loosen over time.
This can progressively undermine the cable’s durability and reliability.
If you plan to use them during reasonably permanent setups, there shouldn’t be much of an issue. That said, if you’re someone that expects to connect and disconnect constantly, you’re better off looking at something with either sturdier screws or no screws at all.
What We Like:
- Thick Reinforced Shield Gauge
- Has A 16 AWG Gauge
- Gold-Plated XLR Connectors
What We Do Not Like:
- XLR Connector Screws Are Poor
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What is an XLR Cable?
First invented in the 1930s by James H. Cannon, the XLR cable was initially just meant as a small facet of Cannon’s multi-contact electrical plug business.
Over the years, XLR connectors have grown to become the industry standard, used in almost every area of the electrical business.
From microphone cables to speakers & mixers, to every other audio interface, the XLR cable connector and XLR connector have become an essential cable requirement when it comes to passing signals between professional equipment.
Best XLR Cable: Buyers Guide
It’s easy to think that all XLR microphone cables are the same, and, to a certain extent, that’s true. Just as all cars are designed to get you from point A to point B, all XLR cables are built as housing connectors to transmit sound from one point to another.
The difference comes in terms of quality as well as what equipment you’re connecting them to.
If you plan to make a lot of connections and disconnections, durability is a major factor to consider, as plugging cables in and out can progressively cause them to wear out, resulting in internal connection failure or parts of a cable breaking apart and getting stuck in equipment.
You also want to think about the type of equipment you’ll be connecting your equipment to. Virtually all microphones, mixers, and professional audio interface gear will use XLR connections.
Still, be aware as there are other pieces of equipment (amplifiers, certain speakers, and sound mixers or stereo receivers) that will require the use of TRS connectors instead.
You should be sure to double-check your equipment to make sure it will work best with XLR cables or you’ll want to look into TRS options instead.
Lastly, you’ll want to think about the number of quality XLR cables you plan to use. Just as quality is very important, so too is quantity. This is because large operations and events will require five, ten, or even more connection cables to keep everything running.
Small events may be fine with one or two, but if you’re working in a recording studio, a live venue, or a concert space, having as many cables as possible is incredibly important to ensure everything is running how it’s supposed to.
FAQs
What Does XLR Stand For?
The XLR Connector, which stands for External Line Return, it is a type of electrical connector found primarily in audio, video, and stage lighting environments.
There is also a theory that the “X” referred to the number of connectors while the “L” would specify whether the cable included a latch mechanism. The “R” denoted that a cable used rubber for its shielding.
How Do I Select The Best XLR Cable?
When selecting what cables would be included in the above list, several things had to be considered.
This included product impressions, market research, potential situations that most users would likely deal with, as well as how clean the signal was and which had the fewest points of failure to be on the lookout for.
Which XLR Works Best For Powered Speakers?
Powered speakers (also known as studio monitors) work with both XLR cables and TRS cable inputs. This means that your best option is likely going to be one that works with speakers as well as output devices.
This means you’ll be better off with an option like the Monoprice Premier Series, which connects to both XLR cables and TRS cables.
Best XLR Cables: The Verdict
Our top XLR cable pick is the Pig Hog PHM10.
As mentioned in the beginning, if you plan to use electronic sound devices, you’re going to probably need the best XLR cable possible.
Whether it’s playing your stereos, plugging in microphone cables, mixing on a DJ controller, or recording a track, XLR cables are one of the foremost options when it comes to balancing the audio signals and creating an incredible listening experience.
If you’re just starting, consider getting one of the more budget-friendly options and progressively look into higher and higher quality cables.
As you become more established, hold onto your initial working cables as spares.
Ultimately, no matter what you need XLR cables for, you want to make sure you’re using the best XLR cables available for you and your equipment so you can focus on the performance itself and not an otherwise avoidable technical issue.
