Audio Wiring Reference
This reference shows how to wire common balanced and unbalanced audio connectors for use with Cognio hardware.
Important Notice
The wiring diagrams on this page are included for information purposes only. Symetrix cannot anticipate every connector type on non-Symetrix products. It is the user's responsibility to determine what connection is needed. In addition, Symetrix accepts no responsibility for injury or damage caused by user-created wiring.
Balanced Connections
Any of these connectors can appear on either side of a balanced connection.
Note
In the case of an XLR connector, the female connector attaches to an output, while the male connector attaches to an input. Female XLR connectors are always used coming from the output of a device; male connectors plug into the input of a device.
Unbalanced Connections
The RCA connector and the 1/4" TS connector are unbalanced connectors. They are wired with a single strand shielded wire and can be placed on either end of an unbalanced connection.
The RCA connector and the 1/4" TS connector are unbalanced, but the wiring differs depending on whether they are sending to, or receiving from, a balanced connector.
Unbalanced Out to Balanced In
In this case, the unbalanced connector sends signal to a balanced connector. Use a shielded twisted pair cable. Wire the balanced side the same as a standard balanced connection. On the unbalanced side, wire the white (minus) wire together with the ground. This provides some common mode rejection at the balanced input.
Balanced Out to Unbalanced In
When the output requires a balanced connector but the signal is sent to an unbalanced input, the rules change. Use a single strand shielded wire. Wire only to the plus and ground terminals of what would typically be the balanced connector.
