The 30 best xlr cable brands in 2026
Neutrik, Van Damme and Mogami lead our ranking of 30 xlr cable brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Xlr Cable brands, ranked
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1
Neutrik
Neutrik is best known for XLR connectors and panel jacks, and also sells some assembled audio cables.
Website: neutrik.com |Brands like Neutrik
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
Van Damme
Van Damme makes professional microphone and audio cables, including XLR cable assemblies.
Website: vandammecable.us |Brands like Van Damme
Popularity 5.3/10
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3
Mogami
Mogami makes studio-grade microphone and instrument cables, including its Gold series XLR cables.
Website: mogamicable.com |Brands like Mogami
Popularity 4.2/10
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4
designacable
As its name suggests, design cable manufactures cables that promise quality within a wide-ranging type. Their lines are perfectly made and an absolute stunner. They have an extensive range of cables and promise to find what you want. Apart from this incredible collection and aesthetically pleasing approach to their products, they provide excellent shipping assistance worldwide. Their products are cheap but do not use any cheap junk for manufacturing.
Website: designacable.com |Brands like designacable
Popularity 2.4/10
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5
Hosa Technology
Hosa makes a wide range of audio cables, including XLR microphone and balanced cables.
Website: hosatech.com |Brands like Hosa Technology
Popularity 1.8/10
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6
Canare
Canare makes professional microphone and studio cables, including XLR cable and connector products.
Website: canare.com |Brands like Canare
Popularity 1.7/10
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7
RCA
The electronics industry is one of those industries that saw a lot of changes. And surprisingly, this field is still under massive growth even today. RCA, the acronym for Radio Corporation of America, is one of the oldest companies in the area of consumer electronics. Established in 1919, the company first started by selling records and later moved on to other items. RCA now offers products like home security, remotes, audio, and many more.
Website: rcaaudiovideo.com |Brands like RCA
Popularity 1.2/10
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8
Stagg
Stagg makes musical instruments and accessories, including microphone and XLR cable assemblies.
Website: staggmusic.com |Brands like Stagg
Popularity 1.1/10
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9
Rockville
Rockville sells pro audio equipment and makes its own budget microphone and XLR cable assemblies.
Website: rockvilleaudio.com |Brands like Rockville
Popularity 1.0/10
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10
Switchcraft
Switchcraft is best known for XLR and audio connectors, and also offers cable assemblies.
Website: switchcraft.com |Brands like Switchcraft
Popularity 1.0/10
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11
PigHog
PigHog makes instrument, microphone and XLR cable assemblies for musicians and studios.
Website: pighogcables.com |Brands like PigHog
Popularity 1.0/10
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12
Seismic Audio
Seismic Audio sells pro audio gear and its own house-brand microphone and XLR cable assemblies.
Website: seismicaudiospeakers.com |Brands like Seismic Audio
Popularity 0.9/10
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13
Whirlwind
Whirlwind makes XLR cables, snake systems and audio connectors for professional sound use.
Website: whirlwindusa.com |Brands like Whirlwind
Popularity 0.8/10
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14
Belden
Belden makes professional audio and data cables, including balanced microphone cables with XLR connectors.
Website: belden.com |Brands like Belden
Popularity 0.7/10
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15
Adam Hall
Adam Hall makes audio cables, connectors and stage accessories, including XLR cable assemblies.
Website: adamhall.com |Brands like Adam Hall
Popularity 0.7/10
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16
VisioSound
VisioSound is a UK maker of audio and microphone cables, including balanced XLR cable assemblies.
Website: visiosound.co.uk |Brands like VisioSound
Popularity 0.7/10
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17
REAN
REAN makes audio connectors, including XLR and RCA plugs used in cable assembly.
Website: rean-connectors.com |Brands like REAN
Popularity 0.6/10
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18
Gotham Audio
Gotham Audio makes microphone and balanced XLR cable assemblies for studio and stage use.
Website: gothamcables.com |Brands like Gotham Audio
Popularity 0.6/10
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19
bespeco
Bespeco is an Italian maker of audio and instrument cables, including XLR microphone cables.
Website: bespeco.it |Brands like bespeco
Popularity 0.6/10
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20
oyaide
Oyaide is a Japanese maker of audio connectors and cables, including XLR connectors and balanced cables.
Website: oyaide.com |Brands like oyaide
Popularity 0.5/10
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21
Chord
Chord is a range of excellent quality digital to analog converters (DACs), amplifiers, and more from award-winning British HiFi experts. Chord DACs are used in studios, music venues, and homes worldwide to create superior sound quality. The company prides itself...
Website: chordelectronics.co.uk |Brands like Chord
Popularity 0.5/10
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22
Amphenol
Amphenol makes connectors for many industries, including XLR connectors used in audio cable assemblies.
Website: amphenol.com |Brands like Amphenol
Popularity 0.5/10
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23
D'Addario
D'Addario makes instrument and audio cables, including microphone and XLR cable assemblies.
Website: daddario.com |Brands like D'Addario
Popularity 0.5/10
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24
Kopul
Kopul makes audio cables and connectors, including microphone cables with XLR connectors.
Website: kopulcables.com |Brands like Kopul
Popularity 0.5/10
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25
Elite Core
Elite Core makes microphone and XLR cable assemblies sold for studio and stage use.
Website: elitecoreaudio.com |Brands like Elite Core
Popularity 0.5/10
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26
Monoprice
Monoprice sells a large range of cables and its own house-brand audio cables, including XLR.
Website: monoprice.com |Brands like Monoprice
Popularity 0.5/10
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27
RapcoHorizon
Rapco Horizon makes microphone and XLR cable assemblies for pro audio and stage use.
Website: rapcohorizon.com |Brands like RapcoHorizon
Popularity 0.5/10
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28
Kirlin
Kirlin makes instrument, microphone and audio cable assemblies for musicians and studios.
Website: kirlincableshop.com |Brands like Kirlin
Popularity 0.4/10
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29
ProCo
ProCo makes microphone, instrument and XLR cable assemblies for professional audio use.
Website: procosound.com |Brands like ProCo
Popularity 0.4/10
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30
Audio2000'S
Audio2000s makes audio cables and connectors, including XLR microphone cable assemblies.
Website: audio2000s.com |Brands like Audio2000'S
Popularity 0.4/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neutrik | neutrik.com | /Neutrik | – | @NeutrikOfficial | ExperienceNeutrik |
| Van Damme | vandammecable.us | – | – | – | – |
| Mogami | mogamicable.com | /MogamiCable | mogamicable | @mogamicable | MogamiCable |
| designacable | designacable.com | /designacablecom-4122582294 | designacable | @designacable | – |
| Hosa Technology | hosatech.com | /HosaTech | hosatech | @hosatech | – |
| Canare | canare.com | /canareusa | canareusa | – | Canare Corporation of America |
| RCA | rcaaudiovideo.com | /RCA | – | – | – |
| Stagg | staggmusic.com | /staggmusic | staggmusic | – | – |
| Rockville | rockvilleaudio.com | /RockvilleAudio | rockvilleaudio | – | RockvilleAudio |
| Switchcraft | switchcraft.com | /Switchcraft | – | @Switchcraft | Switchcraft Conxall |
XLR Cables Buying Guide
When it comes to audio equipment, XLR cables are an essential component. They are used in most professional audio setups to connect microphones, speakers, mixers, and other audio equipment. Whether you are an audio professional or a hobbyist, choosing the right XLR cable can make a significant difference in the quality of your sound. In this guide, we will explore important factors to consider when buying XLR cables.
What is an XLR Cable?
An XLR cable is an analog audio cable that is commonly used in professional audio setups. It has three pins and is used to connect microphones, speakers, and other audio equipment. XLR cables come in different lengths, colors, and designs.
Cable Length
The length of an XLR cable is an important factor to consider when buying one. You need to ensure that the cable is long enough to connect your equipment, but not too long that it becomes tangled or difficult to manage.
If you are working in a large studio with a lot of space, you can choose a longer cable. However, if you have a limited space, you may need to consider a shorter cable to avoid tangling.
Cable Gauge
The gauge of an XLR cable refers to its thickness. Thicker cables are generally better than thinner ones because they have more copper inside, which improves conductivity and reduces signal loss.
The most common gauge for XLR cables is 22 AWG, but you can also find cables with a higher gauge, such as 20 or 18 AWG. Thicker gauge cables can handle more current, which makes them ideal for longer cable runs or high-powered applications.
Cable Quality
XLR cables come in different qualities, and you need to choose the one that works best for your needs. A high-quality cable will provide better sound, durability, and reliability.
The quality of an XLR cable is determined by the materials used to make it. High-quality cables use copper conductors that are shielded to reduce interference and noise. They also have stronger insulation, which makes them more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Some XLR cables have gold-plated connectors, which improve conductivity and reduce oxidation. However, these cables are more expensive than regular ones.
Cable Color
The color of an XLR cable is not a critical factor to consider, but it can be useful in some situations. For example, if you have multiple cables connected to a mixer, you can use colored cables to help you identify which cable goes where. This can save you time and make your setup easier to manage.
You can find XLR cables in a range of colors, including black, blue, red, and green. However, black is the most common color for XLR cables, as it is neutral and doesn't draw attention to itself.
Cable Design
The design of an XLR cable can affect its durability and ease of use. Some cables have a straight design, while others have a coiled design. Coiled cables can be useful because they are stretchable, which can give you extra reach when you need it. However, straight cables are more durable and less likely to become tangled.
You should also consider the type of connector on the cable. XLR cables can have either male or female connectors. Male connectors have pins that protrude from the connector, while female connectors have holes to receive the pins.
XLR Cable Brands
There are many brands of XLR cables available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some brands are known for their quality and reliability, while others are not. Here are some of the most popular XLR cable brands:
- Mogami: Mogami cables are known for their exceptional sound quality and durability. They are made in Japan and are used by many professional audio engineers.
- Canare: Canare cables are also made in Japan and are known for their high-quality copper conductors and excellent shielding. They are a popular choice among audio professionals.
- Hosa: Hosa cables are a more affordable option and are ideal for home recording setups or hobbyists. They are still reliable and of better quality than most budget cables.
- Monster: Monster cables are known for their high-quality materials and gold-plated connectors. They are a bit pricier than other brands, but they offer exceptional sound quality.
- Pro Co: Pro Co cables are made in the USA and are known for their durability and sound quality. They are a popular choice among guitarists and musicians because of their reliability.
XLR Cable Prices
XLR cables come in a wide range of prices, and you should choose the one that fits your budget and needs. Budget cables can cost as little as $5, while high-end cables can cost as much as $50 or more. The price of an XLR cable is influenced by its length, gauge, quality, and brand.
While it's tempting to opt for the cheapest cable available, keep in mind that a low-quality cable can affect the sound quality and introduce noise and interference into your setup. Investing in a higher-quality cable can improve the overall sound quality and also last longer in the long run, saving you money in the long term.
XLR Cable Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of your XLR cable, you need to take care of it properly. Here are some tips to help you maintain your XLR cable:
- Coil your cables properly: Avoid wrapping your XLR cables tightly around your hand or elbow, as this can damage the internal wiring. Instead, form loose loops and secure them with cable ties or Velcro straps.
- Store your cables properly: Keep your XLR cables in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Do not leave them on the floor or other high-traffic areas, as they can be tripped over or damaged.
- Clean your cables regularly: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to wipe your cables clean of dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the cable's insulation or connectors.
Conclusion
Choosing the right XLR cable can make a big difference in the sound quality of your audio setup. Whether you are a professional, hobbyist, or just starting, consider the factors discussed in this buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Remember to also take care of your cables to ensure they last longer and perform better over time.
