RCA , 1/4", TRS, and TS Cables

The RCA Cable ("home stereo" cable) - Each cable in the RCA pair ) has only one conductor plus ground, it is for unbalanced signals. They are meant for short distances. Mostly used to connect input devices such as cd players,cd decks, effect machines, etc that are located around the DJ booth or studio.

The TRS "Tip-ring-sleeve" cable (2-conductor plus ground) This is a cable for balanced signals just like the XLR above, it just has different connectors. Note that TRS / 1/4" cables are typically used for mono, not stereo, signals in most studio gear. The exception being the headphone jack.Like the XLR these cables can go long distances, even to another room if required.The TS "Tip-sleeve" cable (2 conductor "phone jack") This cable is for unbalanced signals. These cables should be kept as short as possible. Keep them under 12 feet and away from power transformers (wall warts) or they may pick up dreaded hum and ruin your audio signal. Use RCA cables to connect cd players and similar devices to mixer. Use these cables to connect equalizers, effect processors and similar rack components with mixer. Also use 1/4" cables to connect mixer with amplifier.