What Cables Do You Need for Audio? A Beginner-Friendly Guide
When you’re setting up your home studio or just trying to improve your sound setup, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different cables. XLR? TRS? TS? What does it all mean, and which ones do you need?
Don’t worry—we’re breaking it all down in a simple, beginner-friendly way so you know exactly which audio cables to buy, what they do, and why they matter.
1. XLR Cables – The Vocal Champion
If you’re working with a microphone, especially for vocals, podcasting, or voiceovers, you’ll most likely need an XLR cable. These are the thick cables with three pins and a lock-in connector. They’re balanced, which means they help reduce unwanted noise—perfect for clear, professional-quality sound.
Use XLR cables for:
Condenser or dynamic microphones
Audio interfaces or mixers
Long cable runs without noise
Pro tip: Make sure your mic and audio interface both support XLR. Most studio mics do!
2. TRS vs TS – What’s the Difference?
These cables may look similar, but they have different uses:
- TS (Tip-Sleeve) cables are unbalanced and usually used for instruments like electric guitars.
- TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) cables are balanced and better for professional audio. They’re great for studio monitors, line-level gear, or headphones.
Think of TS for instruments, TRS for clean, balanced audio.
3. RCA Cables – Old-School but Still Handy
You’ve probably seen these: red and white plugs used in older sound systems or stereo setups. RCA cables still have their place in DJ setups, turntables, and some audio interfaces.
Not balanced, but useful if you’re connecting to older gear or consumer-level devices.
4. USB Cables – For Plug-and-Play Simplicity
Some USB microphones or audio interfaces use standard USB cables to connect directly to your computer. These are great for beginners who don’t want to mess with a full setup just yet.
Just plug in and go—no interface needed.
5. Optical & Digital Cables – High-Tech Options
These aren’t as common in beginner setups but are worth mentioning. Optical (TOSLINK) or AES/EBU cables carry digital audio signals for super-clear sound without interference.
You’ll find these in high-end studios or when connecting to devices like digital mixers or audio processors.
Final Tips for Choosing Audio Cables
- Always check what connectors your gear has.
- Use balanced cables (XLR or TRS) whenever possible for better sound.
- Keep cables tidy and avoid tangling for longer life.
- Don't go overboard—buy the length you need, but not more.
Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your home studio, using the right cables is key to getting the best sound. Now that you know the basics, you can shop with confidence and focus on creating amazing audio!