Audio Connectors
All Audio connector types with specifications and compatibility.
Audio connectors encompass a range of analog and digital interfaces for sound transmission. The 3.5mm TRS jack remains ubiquitous in headphones and portable audio, while 6.35mm (1/4-inch) TRS connectors are standard in professional audio equipment. XLR connectors provide balanced audio for microphones and studio gear, and optical TOSLINK carries digital audio between components. The trend toward wireless audio and USB-C has reduced but not eliminated dedicated audio ports.
2.5mm TS
Smallest standard audio jack, once used on older Nokia phones and some walkie-talkies. Two contacts (Tip, Sleeve) for mono audio. Largely extinct in consumer electronics.
3.5mm TRRS
Four-contact variant of the 3.5mm jack adding a microphone channel. Used on smartphone headsets and gaming headphones for combined audio input and output.
3.5mm TRS
Standard headphone jack with three contacts (Tip, Ring, Sleeve) for stereo audio. The most ubiquitous audio connector for decades, though increasingly absent from smartphones.
6.35mm (1/4 inch)
Professional audio connector used on studio headphones, guitar amps, mixers, and audio interfaces. Larger and more durable than 3.5mm.
Banana Plug
Spring-loaded cylindrical connector for speaker wire and test equipment. Typically 4mm diameter. Used on Hi-Fi amplifiers, multimeters, and lab power supplies.
MIDI DIN
5-pin DIN connector for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. Connects synthesizers, drum machines, and controllers. Being supplemented by USB-MIDI and TRS-MIDI but still widespread.
RCA
Color-coded circular connectors for analog audio and composite video. Red and white for stereo audio, yellow for video. Still common on AV receivers and older …
S/PDIF Coaxial
RCA-style connector carrying digital audio over 75Ω coax cable. Found on AV receivers, soundbars, and sound cards. Supports up to 5.1 Dolby Digital or DTS …
Speakon NL4
Neutrik locking connector for high-power speaker cables in professional audio. 4-pole design handles bi-amped speakers. Twist-lock prevents accidental disconnection during live shows.
TOSLINK
Optical fiber audio connector transmitting digital audio via light. Common on TVs, soundbars, and AV receivers for surround sound. Immune to electromagnetic interference.
XLR
Professional balanced audio connector with 3 pins. Standard for microphones, studio monitors, and live sound equipment. Provides noise-free signal over long cable runs.