Understanding the differences between TS, TRS, and TRRS connectors is essential for anyone involved in audio recording or production. These connectors, often seen on various audio devices, play a crucial role in ensuring the right type of signal transmission.
This type of connector is the simplest, featuring just two contact points: the tip and the sleeve. TS connectors are commonly used for mono, unbalanced signals. They are often found in electric guitar cables and some basic audio equipment.
The tip carries the audio signal, while the sleeve acts as the ground or shield. Due to their unbalanced nature, TS connectors are more susceptible to noise and interference, making them less suitable for long cable runs or environments with significant electromagnetic interference.
- TS cables are perfect for connecting audio interfaces to monitor speakers and guitars to amplifiers due to their short length and mono signal.
TRS connectors are versatile and can carry either a balanced mono signal or an unbalanced stereo signal. In a balanced configuration, the tip carries the positive signal, the ring carries the negative signal, and the sleeve serves as the ground.
This setup helps to reduce noise and interference, making TRS connectors ideal for professional audio applications, such as connecting microphones, mixers, and other studio equipment.
The majority of RØDE microphones, such as those in the Lavalier, Wireless and VideoMic series, feature TRS 3.5mm connectors. These connectors are chosen for their ability to provide high-quality audio capture with minimal noise and interference.
TRRS connectors are commonly used in devices that require both audio and microphone signals, such as smartphones, tablets, and some laptops. The additional ring allows for the transmission of a stereo audio signal along with a microphone signal. Typically, the tip carries the left audio channel, the first ring carries the right audio channel, the second ring carries the microphone signal, and the sleeve serves as the ground.
This configuration enables TRRS connectors to support headsets with integrated microphones, making them a popular choice for communication devices and multimedia applications.
- RØDE microphones like the SmartLav+, VideoMic NTG, and NTH-100M use the TRRS connection.
For details on which cables you need to connect your RØDE Microphone, watch our video below.
For more information or questions about our RØDE products, please contact us here.