What is a XLR? What does XLR do or stand for?

XLR in music.

A XLR, or XLR connector, is a type of audio connector that is commonly used in professional audio equipment. The name XLR stands for “External Line Return,” and it is a type of connector that is designed to carry balanced audio signals.

A balanced audio signal is one that is designed to reduce the amount of noise and interference that can be picked up by the signal as it travels through a cable. This is achieved by using two separate signals, one for the audio and one for the ground, that are carried on separate wires within the cable. The XLR connector allows these two signals to be carried separately, reducing the amount of noise and interference that can be picked up by the signal.

The XLR connector has three pins, with the ground and audio signals being carried on the two outer pins, and the shield or ground being carried on the center pin. This design allows for a more secure and stable connection, making it less likely that the signal will be lost or compromised.

XLR connectors are commonly used in professional audio equipment, such as mixing consoles, microphones, and PA systems. They are also commonly found on professional-grade audio cables, such as microphone cables, and are used to connect microphones to audio interfaces, mixing consoles, and other devices.

In summary, a XLR connector, also known as an XLR, is a type of audio connector that is designed to carry balanced audio signals. It helps to reduce the amount of noise and interference that can be picked up by the signal as it travels through a cable, and it is commonly used in professional audio equipment such as microphones and mixing consoles. It has three pins, with the ground and audio signals being carried on the two outer pins and the shield or ground being carried on the center pin.