Choosing the right microphone cables is crucial if you want to get the most out of your audio setup. From easy-to-use budget models to top-of-the-line professional cables, the best microphone cables will help you capture great-sounding audio every time.
In this guide, we reviewed the 15+ best microphone cables, along with our top 3 picks, so that you can pick the best one for you.
Whether you’re looking for a durable cable that can stand up to heavy use or a more affordable option, we’ve got you covered. We also included a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right microphone cable for your needs.
So, if you’re ready to find the best microphone cable for your needs, read on!
Best Microphone Cables (Our Top 3 Picks)
XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable
The Amazon Basics XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality microphone cable.
Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR
The Cable Matters 2-Pack of 15-foot premium XLR to XLR microphone cables is the ideal way to connect.
TISINO XLR Female to 1/4 Inch
The TISINO balanced signal lead is made of oxygen-free copper and shielded by aluminum foil and braid.
Why should you trust these reviews?
The market for microphone cables is filled with options, which can make it tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the best microphone cables on the market.
We consulted with audio experts and professional musicians to get their insights on what to look for in a great microphone cable. We also read through customer reviews and looked at product specs to find the best options out there.
In short, we’ve put in the work so that you don’t have to. So, if you’re looking for the best microphone cable for your needs, you can trust that our reviews are based on expert knowledge and real-world experience.
What Are the Best Microphone Cables?
When choosing the best microphone cable for your needs, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, think about the type of connector you need. Most microphones use XLR or TRS connectors, but some use other types.
Next, consider the length of the cable you need. If you’re using a long cable, you’ll want one that is durable and has low capacitance. Capacitance is a measure of the ability of a cable to store electrical charge, and it can affect the sound of your audio signal.
Finally, think about the price. Microphone cables range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end, professional-grade cables. It’s important to find a balance between quality and price that works for you.
With all of that in mind, here are our picks for the best microphone cables to try this year.
1. Amazon Basics XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable
The Amazon Basics XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality microphone cable. It is one of the best microphone cables that is made from oxygen-free copper wire and is 25 feet long, making it perfect for use in a studio or live setting. This one is the best budget XLR cable.
Key Features:
- FOR LIVE SOUND & RECORDING: This XLR male-to-female microphone cable is perfect for studio recording and live sound.
- 3 PIN CONNECTORS: With zinc alloy 3-pin connectors and nickelising, this cable is built to last.
- DURABLE & FLEXIBLE: The protective metal housing and flexible 6.0mm PVC jacket make this cable durable and flexible.
- CLEAR TRANSMISSION: The all-copper conductors with inner copper spiral shielding reduce noise interference, for clear transmission.
- PLUG & PLAY DESIGN: The easy plug-and-play design makes this cable compatible with XLR-compatible PA systems, speakers, and other sound equipment.
User Experience:
Users report that this microphone cable is well-constructed and sounds great. They also appreciate the fact that it is affordably priced.
2. Cable Matters 2-Pack Premium XLR to XLR Microphone Cable
The Cable Matters are 2-Pack of 15-foot premium XLR to XLR best microphone cables for recording is the ideal way to connect your microphones and other audio equipment. These oxygen-free copper (OFC) XLR cables are designed for maximum conductivity and low noise, and they feature Male to Female XLR connectors with integrated strain relief.
Key Features:
- PROFESSIONAL GRADE MICRO CABLE: Professional grade microphone cable is designed for microphones or other professional recording, mixing, and lighting equipment with the 3-pin XLR connectors.
- CONVENIENT AND COST-EFFECTIVE 2-PACK MICROPHONE WIRE: Convenient and cost-effective 2-pack microphone wire provides spare or replacement XLR cable (XLR male to female cable) to use on a set of microphones or on different systems.
- BALANCED MIC CABLE XLR WITH SOFT PVC JACKET: Balanced Mic cable XLR with soft PVC jacket is constructed with oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors for delivering pristine sound. Copper braided shielding of these Mic cables
User Experience:
These microphone cables are great! They are well made and have low noise. The XLR connectors are easy to use and the strain relief is a nice touch. The cables are also a good length, 15 feet, which is perfect for most uses.
Overall, these are great microphone cables and are a good value for the price. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a good-quality XLR cable.
3. XLR Microphone Cables 25 ft 6 Packs Braided
The MIKIZ XLR Microphone Cable 6 Packs 25 ft is a high-quality, professional-grade cable that is perfect for connecting your microphone to your mixer or amplifier. The cable is made of oxygen-free copper for maximum signal clarity and features a durable, Braided design that is built to last.
In addition, the XLR connectors are gold-plated for superior conductivity, and the cable is shielded to protect against interference.
Key Features:
- GET THE SOUND YOU WANT: Stop dealing with cheap, thin cables that sound terrible. With our premium balanced XLR cables, you’ll get the sound you want every time.
- BUILT TO LAST: Our cables are made with high-quality materials, ensuring that they last for years to come.
- EASY TO USE: These cables are easy to use and connect to any device with a 3-pin XLR port.
- CONNECT ANYWHERE: With a 25-foot length, these cables can be used in any situation.
User Experience:
The MIKIZ XLR Microphone Cable 6 Packs 25 ft are a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, professional-grade microphone cables. The cables are made of oxygen-free copper for maximum signal clarity and feature a durable, Braided design that is built to last.
4. TISINO XLR Female to 1/4 Inch
The TISINO balanced signal lead is made of oxygen-free copper and shielded by aluminum foil and braid. It has low capacitance, which keeps your audio signals clear and free from interference. The connectors are made of metal and have a professional look and feel. The cable is flexible and easy to route.
Key Features:
- GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SOUND SYSTEM: Don’t let your equipment hold you back! With this TISINO XLR Female to 1/4 Inch (6.35mm) TRS Jack Lead Balanced Signal Interconnect Cable, you can connect your sound system and get the most out of your music.
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: This cable is made with high-quality materials, ensuring that it lasts for years to come. Plus, the balanced signal interconnect ensures clear and distortion-free sound.
- EASY TO USE: This cable is easy to use, making it perfect for any level of experience. Simply plug it in and you’re ready to go!
User Experience:
I’m very happy with this purchase. The cable is well-made and sounds great. I highly recommend it!
5. XLR Cable 25ft-6 Pack, FIBBR Microphone Cable
The FIBBR XLR Cable is the perfect choice for connecting your microphones, speakers, and other audio equipment. The cable features a heavy-duty construction with a nylon braided jacket that is built to last. The XLR connectors are gold-plated for superior conductivity and the cable is flexible and easy to coil.
Key Features:
- HEAVY DUTY CONSTRUCTION: These XLR cables are built to last! The heavy-duty connectors and thick, durable cable jacket protect your cables from damage and wear, while the nylon braiding keeps them tangle-free.
- BALANCED SIGNAL: The balanced signal ensures clear, distortion-free sound reproduction, making these cables perfect for use with preamps, speaker systems, and more.
- FLEXIBLE DESIGN: With a 25-foot length, these cables give you plenty of room to move around on stage or in the studio. And the 90-degree angle connector allows you to connect to tight spaces.
User Experience:
The FIBBR XLR Cable is a great choice for anyone in need of a high-quality, heavy-duty microphone cable. The construction is solid and the cable is flexible, making it easy to use in a variety of settings.
6. TISINO Female XLR to 1/4 (6.35mm) TS Mono Jack Unbalanced Microphone Cable
The TISINO unbalanced microphone cable is made of a 24 AWG oxygen-free copper core, shielded by 90% OFC spiral shielding and PVC jacket. It can minimize outside interference and make the signal transmission stable.
Moreover, this professional microphone cable has a durable metal XLR connector and a 1/4” TS Mono jack, which can provide you with excellent sound quality.
Key Features:
- CONNECT YOUR MICROPHONE: This TISINO microphone cable is the perfect way to connect your dynamic microphone to a mixer or audio interface. With a female XLR connector on one end and a 1/4 (6.35mm) TS mono jack unbalanced connector on the other, it’s easy to get started with your recording or live sound setup.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The cable is made of thick, durable copper wire that resists interference and provides clear signal transmission. It also has a PVC jacket that protects the cable from damage and makes it easy to handle.
User Experience:
The TISINO unbalanced microphone cable is a great option for connecting a dynamic microphone to a mixer or audio interface.
7. Gearlux XLR Microphone Cable
The Gearlux microphone cable is a great option if you are looking for a durable and reliable XLR cable. This microphone cable is made of high-quality materials and is designed to be fully balanced. The cable is also 25 feet long, making it a great option for those who need a longer cable.
Key Features:
- Gearlux XLR Microphone Cable: It is a high-quality microphone cable. It’s fully balanced and shielded. The connectors are gold-plated for maximum signal transfer. This cable is ideal for use with microphones and other audio equipment that require XLR connections.
- Length of 25 Feet (7.62 meters): It features an attractive black color that will blend in nicely with your existing cables and equipment. This microphone cable can easily be stored away when not in use thanks to its compact design.
User Experience:
I am thoroughly impressed with the Gearlux XLR Microphone Cable. The cable is well-made and feels very durable. The connectors are also gold-plated, which is a nice touch. The length of the cable is great, and I appreciate that it comes in black color.
8. Monoprice 104752 Premier Series XLR Male to XLR Female
Monoprice 104752 Premier Series is one of the best microphone cables which uses 16AWG Copper Wire conductors. This material helps in providing great sound clarity and low resistance. In addition, the gold-plated connectors of this microphone cable are resistant to corrosion. The end result is a great-sounding, long-lasting microphone cable that you can rely on.
Key Features:
- HIGH-QUALITY CONNECTORS: Our Premier Series XLR connectors are made with 16AWG copper wire and gold-plated contacts for superior sound quality.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The 10ft cable is wrapped in a durable black PVC jacket that protects it from wear and tear.
- EASY TO USE: The XLR connectors are easy to use and make connecting your audio equipment a breeze.
User Experience:
I have been using the Monoprice 104752 Premier Series XLR Male to XLR Female – 10Ft – Black – Gold Plated | 16AWG Copper Wire conductors for a few months now and I am very happy with the results.
The sound quality is excellent and the build quality is very good. The gold-plated connectors are especially nice and have resisted corrosion well. Overall, this is an excellent microphone cable.
9. GLS Audio 25-Foot Mic Cable Balanced XLR Patch Cords
GLS Audio 25 is made of high-quality materials to give you the best sound quality possible. The cloth jacketing of this product makes it more durable than other microphone cables.
The GLS Audio 25 is also very easy to use. You can simply connect it to your microphone and start recording. This product also comes with a lifetime warranty so you can be sure that it will last long.
Key Features:
- MAKE SURE YOUR MICROPHONE IS CONNECTED PROPERLY: With these GLS Audio 25-foot mic cables, you’ll have no problems connecting your XLR microphone to any sound system. The balanced cables ensure a clean, clear signal, perfect for any type of performance or recording.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION FOR LONG-LASTING USE: These cables are made with high-quality materials, ensuring that they’ll last through countless performances and studio sessions. The cloth jacket is also designed to protect the cable from wear and tear, making them a great choice for on-the-road use.
- BALANCED SIGNAL FOR CRISP AUDIO: The balanced XLR connector provides a clean and clear signal, free of any interference. This ensures that your audio is captured perfectly, whether you’re recording in the studio or performing live.
User Experience:
I’ve used these GLS Audio 25-foot mic cables for both live performances and studio recordings, and they’ve worked great for both. The balanced signal ensures a clean, clear sound and the durable construction means that they’ll last for a long time. I would definitely recommend these cables to anyone in need of a good microphone cable.
10. Blucoil Audio 2-Pack of 20-FT Balanced XLR Cable
The Blucoil XLR cable is made of 24AWG oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors and shielded with 98.5% copper braid to deliver pristine sound quality. The 20-foot-long cable features a PVC jacket that can withstand day-to-day wear and tear.
Key Features:
- GET THE PERFECT SOUND QUALITY: No more sound distortions! These balanced XLR cables are perfect for connecting audio interfaces, mixers, preamps, and recorders. The cables have a PVC jacket that protects the wire from wear and tear.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: The cable has a copper conductor with a 24 AWG gauge. This allows for accurate signal transmission and minimal noise interference. Plus, the 3-pin male-to-female connectors are corrosion-resistant and have a secure grip.
- EASY TO USE: The 20-foot length is ideal for studio or live performances. The cables are also color-coded (red and black) for easy identification.
User Experience:
The Blucoil XLR cables are well-made and deliver great sound quality. They are easy to use and the perfect length for studio or live performances. The color coding is also a nice touch.
11. EBXYA XLR Cable 50ft 2 Packs
XLR Cable 2 pack, 50 ft each, with 3-pin XLR male-to-female connectors for connecting a microphone to a speaker. The black cables are made of high-quality materials and have a professional look.
These microphone cables are the perfect choice for any application where you need to connect a microphone to a speaker. The XLR connectors provide a secure connection and the black color gives them a professional look.
The cables are made of high-quality materials and are designed to last. They are also easy to use and install.
Key Features:
- PREMIUM BALANCED MICROPHONE CABLE: Get the most out of your sound equipment with our premium balanced microphone cable! Our cable is designed to provide crystal-clear sound quality and eliminate any background noise or interference.
- 3-PIN XLR CONNECTORS: Our cables feature 3-pin XLR connectors that are compatible with a wide range of devices, including microphones, mixers, amplifiers, and more.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: With its durable construction, our microphone cable is built to last! It’s perfect for use in live performances, recording studios, and more.
User Experience:
This microphone cable is exactly what I needed to connect my microphone to my mixer. It’s well made and the connectors are very secure.
12. 4 Pack 25 Foot Male to Female 3 Pin XLR Mic Microphone Cable
These 4 Pack 25 Foot Male to Female 3 Pin XLR Mic Microphone Cables are top-of-the-line microphone cables. Each one is made with oxygen-free copper conductors and a durable PVC jacket. The connectors are gold-plated for optimal signal transfer. These cables are great for live performances, recording studios, and more.
Key Features:
- GET THE CABLES YOU NEED: This 4-pack of 25-foot male-to-female 3-pin XLR mic microphone cables gives you the length you need to connect your equipment.
- HIGH-QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: With a copper conductor and spiral shielding, these cables are built to last.
- FLEXIBLE DESIGN: The durable PVC jacket allows for easy maneuvering, while the molded strain reliefs keep the connectors in good condition.
- MALE-TO-FEMALE CONNECTIONS: These cables are designed to connect microphones to audio mixers, preamps, and other equipment.
User Experience:
These cables are great. They’re the perfect length for what I need and they work well. The connectors are solid and the signal transfer is great. I would definitely recommend these to anyone looking for a good-quality microphone cable.
13. GLS Audio 25ft Mic Cable Cords
The GLS Audio mic cables are very rugged and have a thick rubber jacket. They are also flexible, which makes them easy to work with. The connectors are made of solid metal and are very sturdy. The GLS Audio mic cables are a great value for the price.
Key Features:
- COLORED CABLES: These mic cables are a great way to color-code your audio gear. With 6 different colors to choose from, you can easily identify which cable is for which device.
- BALANCED MIKE CORD: A balanced connection provides a clean, noise-free signal that is less susceptible to interference. This is ideal for use in professional settings where quality sound is essential.
- XLR MALE TO XLR FEMALE: The XLR connector is a common type of connector used in professional audio equipment. It has a sturdy build and offers a secure connection.
User Experience:
The GLS Audio mic cables are well-built and offer great value for the price. They are easy to work with, and the connectors are very sturdy. The cables are also a great way to color-code your audio gear.
14. Shure C15AHZ 15-Feet Cable with 1/4-Inch Phone
The Shure C15AHZ is a 15-foot cable with a 1/4-inch phone plug on the equipment end. It is terminated with a standard 1/4-inch phone plug.
The cable is made of oxygen-free copper for maximum conductivity and low resistance. The PVC insulation eliminates handling noise. The cable is shielded with OFC copper braid and foil for maximum EMI and RFI rejection.
Key Features:
- Equipment Connected: Keep your equipment connected with this Shure C15AHZ 15-foot cable! This cable has a 1/4-inch phone plug on the equipment end and is perfect for connecting your equipment to a sound system or amplifier.
- System or Amplifier: This cable has a 1/4-inch phone plug on the equipment end and is perfect for connecting your equipment to a sound system or amplifier.
User Experience:
The Shure C15AHZ is a great microphone cable. It’s well-made and sounds great. I’ve used it to connect my microphone to a sound system and it works great.
15. Cable Matters (1/8 Inch) 3.5mm to XLR Cable
The Cable Matters 1/8″ to XLR Cable is the ideal solution for connecting a microphone, smartphone, or portable audio player to pro audio gear. It is also referred to as an XLR to 3.5mm cable or a 3.5mm to XLR cable.
This professional quality mic cable features 2 shielded twisted 26 gauge Conductors with 96% spiral-wound copper shielding for a clean and clear signal. The rugged metal XLR connectors have gold-plated contacts for reliable connections with durability.
Key Features:
- CONNECT YOUR DEVICES: The Cable Matters 3.5mm to XLR cable is the perfect solution for connecting your devices. With a 6 ft length, this male-to-male cable is ideal for a variety of applications.
- EASY TO USE: The 3.5mm to XLR cable is simple to use and easy to connect. With a 1/8-inch connector on one end and an XLR connector on the other, this cable is perfect for a variety of devices.
- HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: The Cable Matters 3.5mm to XLR cable is constructed with high-quality materials for lasting performance. With a molded connector design, this cable is durable and reliable.
User Experience:
The Cable Matters 3.5mm to XLR cable is the perfect solution for connecting my microphone to my pro audio gear. The cable is well made and the connections are solid. The 6 ft length is just right for my needs.
Tips And Strategies For Using Microphone Cables
Microphone cables are an important part of any audio setup, and choosing the right ones can be a challenge. There are a few things to consider when selecting microphone cables, including length, type of connector, and shielding.
Length is an important consideration because longer cables can introduce noise into the signal. The type of connector is also important because some are more durable than others. Shielding is important to reduce interference from other electronic devices.
When choosing microphone cables, it is also important to consider the quality of the cable. Cheap cables can introduce noise into the signal and cause problems with the audio quality. It is also important to make sure that the cables are compatible with the equipment that they will be used with.
There are a few different types of microphone cables, including XLR, TRS, and RCA. XLR cables are the most common type of microphone cable and are typically used for professional audio applications.
TRS cables are often used for home recording and are less expensive than XLR cables. RCA cables are the least expensive type of microphone cable and are often used for consumer audio applications.
What Are The Benefits of Using Microphone Cables?
The benefits of using microphone cables are many.
- Microphone cables help to connect your microphone to other devices such as amplifiers, mixing consoles, and sound cards.
- Microphone cables also help to protect your microphone from damage, interference, and Electromagnetic fields.
- Microphone cables help to transfer the sound from your microphone to the other devices without any loss in quality.
- Microphone cables are also very durable and can last for a long time if they are taken care of properly.
- Microphone cables come in different varieties such as coiled, shielded, and unshielded.
- Coiled microphone cables are flexible and can be stretched to a certain length.
- Shielded microphone cables are enclosed in a metal casing which helps to protect the wires from interference.
Microphone Cables FAQ
How do I choose the right microphone cables?
The first thing to consider when selecting microphone cables is what type of connectors you need. The most common type of connector is the XLR connector, which is typically used on professional microphones. If you’re using a consumer-grade microphone, you may need a 1/4″ TRS or TRRS connector.
What does XLR stand for?
XLR stands for “eXternal Line Return.” XLR connectors are typically used on professional microphones and other high-end audio equipment.
What is a TRS connector?
TRS stands for “Tip, Ring, Sleeve.” TRS connectors are typically used on consumer-grade microphones and other audio equipment.
Is XLR the same as the microphone cable?
No, XLR is a type of connector, not a type of cable. Microphone cables can have XLR connectors on either or both ends, or they can have other types of connectors.
What is the difference between shielded and unshielded microphone cables?
Shielded microphone cable has an extra layer of insulation around the inner conductor, which helps to reduce interference from electromagnetic fields. Unshielded microphone cable is less expensive but more prone to interference.
What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced microphone cables?
Balanced microphone cable has two inner conductors, each with its own shield. This helps to reduce noise and interference. An unbalanced microphone cable has only one inner conductor and is more susceptible to noise and interference.
What are some other factors to consider when choosing a microphone cable?
Some other factors to consider include cable length, flexibility, durability, and connector type. Longer cables may require thicker gauges to avoid signal loss, while more flexible cables may be more convenient for certain applications. Durable cables with sturdy connectors are important for live performances and other situations where cables may be subjected to wear and tear.
What is the difference between microphone cable gauges?
The gauge of a microphone cable refers to its thickness or diameter. Thicker cables (with lower gauge numbers) can transmit audio signals over longer distances without signal loss, but they are also heavier and more expensive. Thinner cables (with higher gauge numbers) are lighter and less expensive, but they may not be suitable for long-distance transmissions.
What is the difference between shielded and unshielded microphone cables?
Shielded microphone cables have a layer of shielding (usually made of copper) that helps to protect the audio signal from interference. Unshielded microphone cables do not have this layer of protection and are more susceptible to interference.
What is the difference between balanced and unbalanced microphone cables?
Balanced microphone cables have three wires (positive, negative, and ground) that work together to reduce unwanted noise and interference in the audio signal. Unbalanced microphone cables have two wires (positive and ground) and are more susceptible to interference.
What are the different types of microphone cables?
The most common types of microphone cables are XLR, TRS (or “jack”), and USB. XLR cables are typically used for professional audio applications, while TRS cables are more commonly used for consumer audio devices. USB cables are used to connect microphones directly to computers.
Executive Summary
There you have it – our list of the best microphone cables. We hope you found this information helpful in choosing the right cables for your needs. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments below.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning that if you click on one of the links and purchase an item, we may receive a commission. This does not cost you any extra money.
That’s all! You can also check out 15+ Best Microphones for Vocals (Recording Vocals) and 15 Best Audio Technica Open Ear Headphones.
Want to know more about musical instruments? Check out our BandMag blog.
John is the Senior Content writer at BandMag. With 8+ years experience in content writing and SEO, he loves talking about content creation, SEO and his dog.
