Audio Cables, Adapters, and Connectors for DJs, Hifi, and PA Systems
With numerous different audio devices available on the market that often need to be interconnected, it goes without saying that audio cables also differ from each other. Here, we introduce where each type is used and with which connectors they are compatible.
The RCA Connector
The RCA connector, also known as the RCA plug, is primarily used in HiFi systems and DJ equipment, where a connection between the sound system and the amplifier or speakers needs to be established. For this purpose, an RCA cable with RCA connectors at both ends is required. They represent the most common variant of audio cables available on the market and are now also used in other electronic devices. For each transmission channel, a single-core cable with a so-called shielding braid is needed.
RCA cables are usually stereo cables - meaning that two individual single-core cables can be combined into a two-core cable. This is referred to as a ribbon cable, which also utilizes coaxial cable.
RCA connectors have been more widespread in the United States for longer than in Europe: until about 50 years ago, Europe primarily produced banana plugs, but today these have largely been replaced by the RCA connector. Here, the left audio channel is marked with white color and a white connector, while the right channel is indicated by red color.
The Jack Connector
Jack connectors are used worldwide when audio signals need to be transmitted. They are now available in various versions, ranging from 0 (optical) to 2 (mono) and 3 (stereo) up to 4 (stereo with additional) contacts. Especially for headphones, stereo jack connectors are commonly installed as standard nowadays, as they are essentially the successor to the simple mono plug.
MP3 players, smartphones, and other small electronic devices are typically equipped with a 3.5mm jack connector. Even headphone cables feature the 3.5mm connector. With an appropriate adapter, the connector can even be used in a larger socket with a diameter of 6.35mm. If desired, the 3.5mm connector can also be purchased in angled form, and the cable is usually excellently protected against external influences.
The 3.5mm jack is primarily intended for connecting headphones or earphones. Often, there is also a line-out socket, with which the audio signal can be routed to a HiFi system even without an additional amplifier. In this cable, there is a 3.5mm connector on one end, while at the other end, there are two RCA connectors. This allows small electronic devices such as smartphones or MP3 players to be connected to the HiFi system in the living room within seconds.
In the professional audio sector, jack cables with a diameter of 6.3mm are often used.
The Banana Plug
This plug is called a banana plug, which typically has a diameter of 4 mm. It has a built-in leaf spring that ensures a secure fit for the plug even without additional accessories. Banana plugs are primarily used in laboratory technology, but they are also widely used in amplifiers or speakers. Additionally, there are adapters for banana plugs that allow compatibility with other types of connectors.
What adapters are important for audio cables?
As you have learned in this article, there is a wide range of different audio cables. Their use depends primarily on the intended purpose, but often the plugs are also modern variations of similar types. If you own a very old device that doesn't fit into any socket, you can use a suitable audio cable adapter to still make a connection.
If you look on the market today, you'll quickly find that the selection of appropriate adapters is almost as extensive as that of plugs. So, it's easy to switch from a 3.5mm jack to a 6.3mm jack with the appropriate accessories: for this, you'll need a so-called jack plug adapter.
There are also compatible adapters for banana plugs, so you can connect them to a wide variety of devices.
Therefore, be careful when disposing of old hi-fi systems or record players, as the amplifier may not have a compatible port for the connection cables. First, be sure to check if suitable adapters are available on the market. Especially with older record players, there is often a connector called DIN. For this, you'll need just a DIN speaker adapter to easily use a cinch cable afterward.