Speaker cable - XLR vs 1/4"

[M-Bass-M]

I have an old Trace cabinet that has both XLR and 1/4" jack inputs. I understand the benefits of a balanced XLR connection when it comes to line/mic signals, but not so for speakers. For speaker cables, are XLR better than 1/4"?

Also, is it possible to match a speakon connector to either an XLR or 1/4"? And again, which is preferable?

Cheers

Mark

[Grissle]

Try here: http://www.thomann.de/gb/cordial_ctl_5_fl25gr.htm

[icastle]

Those XLRs and Jack Sockets are all wired in parallel, so it makes no odds which you use from an electronic point of view.

From a practical point of view, the XLRs might be a better option as they lock into place and won't get accidentally pulled out.

Speakons can connect to either 1/4 jacks or XLRs - same advantages as above.

HTH

[BigRedX]

Jack connections are a really bad idea for anything over 50W IMO. Either use the XLR sockets and get OBBM to make you a Speakon the XLR lead, or replace the panel with a Speakon loaded one.

[icastle]

[quote name='BigRedX' timestamp='1373998703' post='2144114']
or replace the panel with a Speakon loaded one.
[/quote]

This is by far the best idea.

[M-Bass-M]

Thanks for all the responses. Having a speakon:XLR lead made by OBBM was my original thought, so I imagine I will go down that route. Seems a bit of an easier option than having the panel replaced!

Cheers

Mark

[stevie]

You shouldn't have to replace the entire panel as a Speakon normally fits straight into the hole left by an XLR socket. You may have to solder a couple of tags though.

[keving]

Last year I did just that, but the holes weren't quite big enough, I had to make them a bit bigger first using a sheet metal punch. I picked mine up on eBay for about £7. I now have a lot more confidence in my speaker connections.