Buying a new microphone is one thing. Getting the right equipment setup that will deliver the sound quality you want is another different challenge. This is where the best XLR mic leads come into play.
As simple as this product seem to be, you may think that any kind of XLR cable can do the job. But here is the interesting thing. All cables are not created equally.
Besides the issues of compatibility with the microphone you want to use, some other interesting factors are worth considering before you make your purchase. Spare some minute to read through to the end of this XLR cable buying guide and these clarifications will help you make a better purchase decision.
While you are reading through the XLR lead reviews here, I want you to keep this in mind – a good functioning cable will give you great satisfaction regardless of the price you pay for it.
In other words, the XLR cable price is not a determinant of quality.
As you’ll discover in this post, a lot of mid-range and even low-priced leads can do the job without costing you a big amount of money. Assuming that price is not an issue, you may decide to pick one or two options and move straight to Amazon for eventual purchase. Whatever your preferences, let’s dive into the main reviews.
Best XLR Microphone Cable Comparison
Stagg SMC6 CBL 6 m XLR to XLR Microphone Cable
- Good quality microphone cable
The price of this mic lead made one of the best and most affordable leads you’ll find in the market today. If the impressive sales stats I saw during research is anything to go by, then It is safe to say that most buyers are finding great satisfaction in this cable.
Before proceeding, be informed that this is an XLR to XLR mic lead. Based on this fact, you should take into account the type of microphone you want to connect with this cable.
At the very point of purchase, you can choose between 1m – 20m models. This wide availability of varying options makes it possible to find and choose what is suitable for your intended usage space or distance. In case you want to use this type of cable on your laptop, consider buying XLR to USB mic cable.
Pros
- It is long enough to fit into varying distances
- The seller offers great customer service
- Very easy to plug and play with
Cons
- Slight fluctuations in a live performance environment
UGREEN Male To Female XLR Cable
- Versatile XLR to XLR Cable: UGREEN XRL extension cable is designed to carry the audio signal from your instrument or microphone to speaker system,...
If you have been in the market for computer networking, gaming or microphone cable in the past, it possible that you have come across this brand UGREEN. Interestingly, UGREEN is one of the bestselling cable brands in the market. From scart to Displayport and HDMI cables, you can find it from them.
Depending on the specific context in which you want to use it, this lead works well for extending the connection between your microphone and amplifier, mixing board, speaker system and studio recorder.
In this cable, you get what is called oxygen-free copper conductors. This is part of the core features that help users to enjoy optimum sound quality during any kind of usage.
To protect its audio signal transmission, the cables come with PE insulation and cotton cover. Moreover, it has a protective soft PVC jacket which allows users to move around freely without degrading sound quality. Whether you are a first-time buyer or not please note that this UGREEN product is a full-size XLR, not mini.
Pros
- Strong protection against signal interference
- Wide compatibility with a range of devices
- Clean and sturdy design
Cons
- The plastic screw cover doesn’t last long enough
VisioSound Male To Males XLR Lead
- Male XLR to Stereo TRS Jack
This is another male to male XLR that may have the capacity to deliver what you need now. It is a balanced microphone cable that is meant for seamless XLR to XLR connection of compatible devices. Whether you want to buy 1m, 5m or 20m, it is very easy to connect your devices and start using it in no time.
For some potential buyers in the market, it is important to clarify the fact that the length doesn’t include the main cable connectors. Among other things, this VisioSound male to male XLR cable supports 48v phantom power over long distances.
Like many others within this collection of XLR cable reviews, you can buy this particular one on Amazon.
Pros
- Great support for varying distances
- Comparatively more affordable
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- The build is not impressive
No BULL Premium XLR Microphone Cable
- ★ MAKING YOUR SIGNAL CLEANER ★ High quality 3 pin XLR connector plugs and Noiseless, Oxygen-Free Copper Wire ensure that your signal is as clear...
Here is a 3-pin XLR cable that delivers noiseless performance and great sound quality in different contexts. From studio to live performance environment, you can use this anyhow you like. For example, you can use it a mic extension lead, DMX cable, power amp and speakers
For potential buyers that care somehow about aesthetics, you’ll have assorted colors to choose from. The main connecting pins are made of metal. That means, it is not prone to sudden damage when something falls on it.
In case you want to use this cable between an amp and CD player with balanced connections, you can do that with ease as this has been confirmed to work really.
One thing I always tell readers of this website is to test what they buy completely as soon as it arrives in their home or office. This will give you enough time for a prompt return and replacement or refund. Please don’t buy and keep for future use.
Pros
- Wide assortment of length options
- Strong and sturdy design
- Zero traces of any cracking during usage
Cons
- Not the best for long-distance connections
Neewer 6-Pack Male To Female XLR Mic Lead
- 6-Pack 6.5ft/2M XLR Male To XLR Female Color Cables
Among the best XLR mic leads found during my research for this buying guide, this brand seems to be less popular but the sales stats are impressive. At least, you and I know that popularity is not the same as quality performance. Just as the name suggests you’ll get 6 packs of 1m, 2m or 7.6m cable at the point of purchase.
If you have searched for where to buy XLR cable online before, look no further. This cable can be bought ordered directly from Amazon.
Assuming you end up buying this one, it comes with 3 solid metal pin connectors. From one end to the other, rubber shielding help to protect audio signal transmission even in a hyper-active usage environment. That means you don’t have to worry about unexpected interruptions in the middle of your gig. Again, whatever the device you want to use this cable for, test it completely when you receive it.
Pros
- Strong signal protection
- Bundled pack for a cheaper price
Cons
- No indication of warranty
Stagg SAC3PXM XLR Male to Jack Cable
- Length 3 meters
This is the second Stagg XLR cable in this buying guide. One interesting thing I found was that most of the cables that this brand has on Amazon have impressive sales statistics. Besides that, a great percentage of past buyers have found this lead to be working well for their devices.
If you are among the potential buyers wondering if this is Rohs compliant, the answer is a resounding yes. Depending on your intended use cases, you’ll find both XLR to jack and XLR to XLR options at the point of purchase. And then there is the jack to jack models meant for some applications.
During my research for these XLR cable reviews, I also found that some people were wondering and asking whether they can use this for their laptop or PC. The answer is no.
Interestingly, if you want to connect a pedal to your guitar or amp, this Stagg SAC3PXM cable has been proven to work well for that.
Pros
- Very cheap in comparison to others in the same category
- Good for studio monitors and audio interface
Cons
- Not compatible with electric guitars
XLR Mic Lead Buying Questions And Answers
What does XLR stand for?
The meaning is External Line Return. It is a type of electrical connecting cable used mostly for audio signal transmission between compatible devices like microphones, speakers, amp, mixing board and so on.
What is the best XLR microphone cable?
If you skipped straight to this section of the best XLR mic lead reviews, consider scrolling backward to read each of the product reviews in this post. From there you’ll be able to discover some of the bestselling brands in this niche market.
How far can XLR cable run?
Right from the shortlist above, you’ll find great options between 1m – 20m. If you have a perfect idea of the distance that needs to be covered, it will be easier for you to pick the best option.
How much does XLR cable cost?
Except in a few cases where some sellers offer bundle packs, most of these cables can be bought between $3 and $10. Generally, XLR mic cable price seems to be affordable for most people.
Where can I buy an XLR microphone cable?
Follow the links around each of the products reviewed in this post and you’ll land on Amazon. On each product sales page, you can ask more questions as well as confirm warranty, return and replacement policy.
Conclusion
To make the purchase decision easier for you, we’ve narrowed down the options to a large extent. This will help you to save time while skimming through the best XLR mic cables that may suit your current needs. Even though most of these products are identical, slight differences still abound between them.
Here is the reason why I always remind potential buyers to test everything immediately after arrival. Please don’t forget to do this in your own case.
Finally, whether you are looking for XLR to XLR or XLR to jack, there is a great chance you’ll find what you want without having to move further from one page to the other.