If you’re an audio professional or hobbyist, you’ve probably come across XLR (balanced) connectors and USB (unbalanced) connectors. Although they serve different purposes, it’s not uncommon to convert XLR signals to USB signals for various reasons. Whether it’s for recording, streaming, or live performances, understanding the wiring diagram for XLR to USB can be incredibly valuable. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to wire XLR to USB connectors and the various components involved in the process.
What is XLR?
XLR is a professional audio connector that’s commonly used for microphones, mixers, and speakers. XLR connectors are balanced, meaning they have three pins instead of two. These pins are responsible for carrying the positive signal, the negative signal, and the ground. This three-pin design ensures that the audio signal is transmitted with the least possible interference and noise.
There are two types of XLR connectors: male and female. The male XLR connector has three pins (positive, negative, and ground) protruding from the connector. The female XLR connector, on the other hand, has three holes (positive, negative, and ground) for the male connector pins to be inserted into.
What is USB?
USB is a universal serial bus that’s used to connect various devices to a computer. USB connectors are unbalanced, meaning they have only two pins. These pins are responsible for carrying the signal and the ground. USB connectors are commonly used for devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and audio interfaces.
XLR to USB Wiring Diagram
To convert XLR to USB, you’ll need a special converter box or an audio interface that has XLR inputs and USB outputs. These devices usually have a built-in preamp that amplifies the XLR signal and converts it to a USB signal. Here’s a wiring diagram for XLR to USB:
| XLR Connector | USB Connector |
|---|---|
| Pin 1: Ground | Pin 2: Signal |
| Pin 2: Positive | Pin 3: Ground |
| Pin 3: Negative |
The wiring diagram shows that the XLR connector’s pin 1 (ground) should be connected to the USB connector’s pin 2 (signal). The XLR connector’s pin 2 (positive) should be connected to the USB connector’s pin 3 (ground). Finally, the XLR connector’s pin 3 (negative) should not be connected to any pin in the USB connector.
Components Involved in the XLR to USB Conversion
There are three main components involved in converting XLR to USB: the XLR connector, the USB connector, and the converter box or audio interface. Let’s discuss each component in detail.
XLR Connector
The XLR connector is responsible for carrying the audio signal from the microphone or mixer to the converter box or audio interface. There are two types of XLR connectors: male and female. The male XLR connector is usually used for microphones, while the female XLR connector is used for mixers and speakers.
USB Connector
The USB connector is responsible for carrying the audio signal from the converter box or audio interface to the computer. Most computers have USB Type-A connectors, while most converters or audio interfaces have USB Type-B connectors.
Converter Box or Audio Interface
The converter box or audio interface is responsible for converting the XLR signal to a USB signal. Most of these devices have built-in preamps that amplify the XLR signal and adjust its level to match the USB signal. Some examples of converter boxes and audio interfaces include Behringer UCA202, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, and Mackie Onyx Artist.
FAQ
Q: What is the purpose of XLR to USB conversion?
A: XLR to USB conversion is usually done for recording, streaming, or live performances. It allows you to connect professional audio equipment such as microphones and mixers to a computer, making it easier to record, stream, or perform live with high-quality audio.
Q: Can I convert USB to XLR?
A: Yes, you can convert USB to XLR using a similar process. You’ll need a USB to XLR converter box or audio interface that has USB inputs and XLR outputs. The wiring diagram will be slightly different, so make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
Q: How do I choose the right converter box or audio interface?
A: Choosing the right converter box or audio interface depends on your specific needs and budget. Some factors to consider include the number of XLR inputs and USB outputs, the quality of the preamp, the compatibility with your computer, and the price. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and compare different products before making a purchase.
Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when wiring XLR to USB?
A: Some common mistakes to avoid when wiring XLR to USB include connecting the XLR connector’s pin 3 (negative) to the USB connector’s pin 2 (signal) and vice versa, using the wrong type of XLR or USB connector, and not using a converter box or audio interface. These mistakes can result in poor audio quality or even damage to your equipment.
Q: Can I use XLR to USB for gaming?
A: Yes, you can use XLR to USB for gaming if you want to capture high-quality audio for streaming or recording. However, keep in mind that XLR to USB conversion requires additional equipment and may not be necessary for casual gaming. It’s also important to choose an appropriate microphone and adjust the levels and settings accordingly.
