What is a TRS Cable and how are they different? Do you need TRS cable? There are a plethora of audio cables. Making sense of them all can be difficult. We going to try to make sense of TRS cables and clear up that confusion.
What Is A TRS Cable?
A TRS cable is an audio cable often used to send balanced audio signals. TRS stands for Tip, Ring, and Sleeve. The TRS acronym refers to the three conductors within the cable. TRS cables are often referred to as insert cables. The tip refers to the pointed metal end or jack plug. The ring sits between the tip and sleeve, which is where a ground wire is housed. A TRS insert cable is also easily identified by the two black bands on the cable. These black lines sit on both sides on the ring.
The tip, ring, and sleeve make up three contract points which allow TRS cables to house positive and negative wires. This allows TRS cables to produce a balanced audio signal. It’s why TRS cables are sometimes called balanced cables. This is despite the fact TRS cables can produce unbalanced and balanced audio signals. Balanced audio signals are usually cleaner with less distortion and interference. TRS cables are also compatible with a mono or stereo audio signal. This allows TRS cables to be used with multiple different pieces of audio equipment.
It’s a combination of all these things which make TRS cables popular audio equipment. A TRS cable is often reserved for work that requires a balanced signal though. TRS cables are ideal for connecting to devices like microphones, audio interfaces, mixers, speakers, etc. A TRS cable is likely to be found in a concert hall or recording studio. The versatility of TRS cable can lead to confusion, unfortunately. You might hear them referred to as an insert cable, headphone cable, or balanced cable due to their varied use case.
What Is A TS Cable?
TS cables are typically used to connect instruments and send unbalanced signals. While audio is sent through the tip, the sleeve houses the ground wire. The TS acronym refers to the two conductors within the audio cable. Unlike TRS cables, a TS cable is unbalanced and does not include a positive and negative signal wire. This gives them a slightly different use case. TS cables are sometimes called mono cables, as they cannot send stereo signals. Their ability to carry single channel or mono signals makes them a good fit with certain devices. TS cables are popular to use with instruments like electric guitars, keyboards, and single switch amps. These are use cases where sending just a mono signal is not a concern.
When isn’t a TS cable a good idea? Whenever a balanced signal or stereo audio is required. RCA audio cables are also unbalanced, but come in pairs. TS cables can not send two audio signals. TS cables only send an unbalanced signal which means it’s more likely to produce distortion. For this reason, it’s also best not to use TS cables with devices that can produce high interference.
TS cables may also be referred to as an unbalanced cable, instrument cable, or guitar cable. They can also be identified by the single black band separating the jack plug or tip and the sleeve. A TS cable has one black band, while a TRS cable has two. The most popular use case for TS cable connectors is connecting guitars. TS cables are also typically available in longer sizes to allow musicians to move around on stage.
In Conclusion: The Right Audio Signal
As you can see, pro audio gear can get a little complex. Here’s the simplest takeaway. Knowing the right type of audio signal you need is key when comparing these two audio cables. A TS cable will suffice when connecting guitars or instruments that only require a mono signal. TS cables sending unbalanced signals will be ideal for this use case. A TRS cable will be a good fit when a balanced signal and clean, stereo audio is a priority. Balanced connections require a TRS cable due to their ability to produce two audio signals. Whether you’re a music producer or musician, it’s key to pick the correct tools for the job.
Keith Collins has been writing for over 15 years for various publications. He’s a lover of music, home theater, and excellent sound quality. His fondness for technology in addition to his non-stop curiosity fuels his writing ventures.