Studio Monitors: What's In The Box?

Studio monitors are a must-have for any recording engineer or audio enthusiast, but they can be confusing to set up if you're new to the world of recording. While monitors may look like regular speakers, they require specific cables to connect to your audio interface or computer.

Studio monitors typically have different inputs for different purposes, and you need to choose the right cables to get the perfect balance between clarity and richness in your recordings. The most common types of cables used with studio monitors are XLR, TRS, and TS.

XLR cables are known for their strong connection and are commonly used for microphones or outboard audio equipment. TRS cables, on the other hand, are often used for speakers since most audio interfaces have TRS outputs. TS cables are unbalanced and typically used for certain applications like recording guitars or digital pianos.

When choosing studio monitor cables, it's important to consider your budget, the type of connection you need, and the length of the cables. While longer cables may be tempting, shorter cables usually work better as they reduce the chances of signal noise and syncing issues.

Additionally, it's worth investing in high-quality cables to ensure clear and noise-free audio. Some reputable brands for studio monitor cables include Cable Matters, Hosa, Monoprice, and Rattlesnake Cable Co.

In conclusion, while studio monitors may not come with cables, choosing the right cables for your setup is crucial to achieving the best sound quality from your recording and mixing sessions.

TRS to XLR cables are ideal for connecting studio monitors to audio interfaces

Studio monitors are important tools for recording engineers and audio enthusiasts, providing accurate feedback during recording, mixing, and mastering. However, connecting them can be confusing for newcomers to the world of recording, as they have different inputs for different purposes.

When purchasing TRS to XLR cables, it is important to consider the length, durability, and price. Longer cables might be needed for specific studio setups, but shorter cables generally perform better and reduce the chances of signal noise and delay. Look for cables with gold-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper wiring, which improve signal clarity and reduce corrosion. Additionally, some cables feature double shielding for added noise isolation.

• Cable Matters 6 ft TRS to XLR Cable
• EBXYA 6 ft TRS to XLR Cable
• Cable Matters 50 ft TRS to XLR Cable
• Monoprice 50 ft TRS to XLR Cable

These cables will help you achieve the perfect balance between clarity and richness in your recordings by providing a secure and high-quality connection between your studio monitors and audio interfaces.

TRS to TRS cables are suitable for patching connections between monitors or patch bays

Studio monitors do not typically come with cables, so you will need to purchase these separately. When it comes to TRS cables, these are suitable for patching connections between monitors or patch bays.

TRS cables are versatile and can be used for both mono and stereo signals. They are also suitable for balanced connections, which is important for maintaining signal integrity and reducing noise. In the context of studio monitors, TRS cables can be used for patching connections between multiple monitors or other audio equipment. This allows for greater flexibility in routing audio signals and connecting different devices together.

For example, you can use TRS cables to connect a studio monitor's direct outs, sends, and returns to a patch bay. This enables you to easily route audio signals from one monitor to another or to other audio equipment in your setup. Additionally, TRS cables are commonly used with audio interfaces, allowing you to connect your monitors to an interface for recording or playback purposes.

When purchasing TRS cables, it is recommended to buy cables that are longer than you need. This provides flexibility in case you rearrange your studio setup or need to connect equipment that is farther apart. It is also a good practice to use the same cable length for each speaker to ensure that audio signals reach each speaker simultaneously.

TRS cables are widely available from various brands and in different lengths to suit your specific needs. They are a standard type of cable used in audio setups and are essential for patching connections between monitors and other equipment in your studio.

XLR cables are commonly used for microphones and outboard audio equipment

XLR cables have a locking circular connector with three pins that provide a balanced signal for transmitting audio with low noise interference. This makes them ideal for long cable runs and environments with a lot of electrical interference. The locking connector is particularly useful for equipment such as microphones and speakers, ensuring they stay securely connected.

XLR cables are also commonly used to connect microphones to audio mixers and audio mixers to powered speakers. They are the standard connector for microphones because they can carry a balanced audio signal, which is essential for getting a clean sound. The female XLR connection has a locking clip, allowing you to swing the microphone around without disconnecting it.

XLR cables are also used for outboard audio equipment such as compressors and equalizers. They are often used for long cable runs, as their balanced design helps to reduce noise and interference.

When purchasing XLR cables, it is recommended to buy cables longer than you need, as this provides flexibility when setting up your equipment. It is also good practice to use the same length of cable for each speaker to ensure that each speaker receives audio at the same time.

RCA to RCA cables are used for stereo connections between studio monitors and portable players/recorders

RCA cables are widely used for carrying signals to many types of electrical hardware and devices. They are most often used for applications where analogue stereo A/V signals need to be sent separately between devices at the same time. They are commonly used to connect speakers, microphones, or various outboard analogue music equipment.

RCA cables are colour-coded, with white for the left audio channel and red for the right audio channel. These colours are standard, but cables with different-coloured connectors may be used as long as the cable is compatible with the application.

When purchasing RCA cables, it is important to buy cables longer than needed as this can be useful when moving your setup around or upgrading to new equipment. It is also recommended to use the same cable length for each speaker to ensure each speaker receives audio at the same time.

There are different types of RCA connectors available, including right-angle connectors and straight connectors. Right-angle connectors are useful when a cable needs to terminate with a socket in a tight space, while straight connectors are the standard body type for A/V plugs and sockets.

In addition to RCA cables, there are other types of cables that can be used for studio monitors, such as TRS and XLR cables. These cables provide a balanced connection, which is important for reducing noise and allowing for longer cable runs.

TS to TS cables are unbalanced and suitable for short-distance stereo connections

Studio monitors may or may not come with cables, so it's important to check before you buy. If you're purchasing cables separately, it's crucial to understand the different types available and their specific uses.

TS to TS cables, also known as unbalanced cables, are primarily used for carrying mono, unbalanced signals. They are commonly used with electric guitars and other instruments, such as keyboards and digital pianos. These cables have two conductors, which means they can only transmit one audio signal. As a result, if you want to use TS cables for stereo audio, you will need two cables.

TS cables are best suited for short distances due to their unbalanced nature. Being unbalanced means that the audio signal is sent directly from the source to the receiving equipment without any additional processing. While this makes the TS cable simpler and more cost-effective, it also increases the risk of distortion and noise in the audio signal, especially over longer distances. To minimise this risk, it is recommended to keep TS cables shorter than 20 feet.

In contrast, TRS cables are balanced cables that can carry both mono and stereo signals. They have three conductors, allowing them to transmit two audio signals (left and right) or one balanced audio signal. The extra conductor in TRS cables helps to eliminate noise and interference, resulting in a cleaner and purer audio signal. This makes TRS cables ideal for connecting studio monitors to ensure a high-quality audio experience.

Frequently asked questions