When dealing with audio hardware, the 1/4 inch connection is probably the most common connector you will deal with. There are a few considerations you need to keep in mind when you buy 1/4 inch connectors for replacements or to make your own cables.
Instructions
1. Determine if you need a 1/4 inch plug or a 1/4 inch jack. When dealing with 1/4 inch audio connectors, the plug is the name given to the female connector and the jack is the male connector. Typically, you need a plug if you are replacing the 1/4 inch connector on a piece of equipment. A jack can be used to replace a faulty one on an audio cable or to enable you to build your own audio cables.
2. Buy a tip-ring-sleeve, or TRS, connector if you need a balanced connector. A balanced connector will have three connection points, one corresponding with each of the tip, ring and sleeve. Two of the connections are for AC electrical signal, one being positive and the other being negative, and these will correspond to the two wires in the cable. The ground connection will be connected to the shielding of the cable or to a grounded connection on the piece of equipment.
3. Purchase a tip-sleeve, or TS, connector if you don't need a balanced signal. The TS connector typically will have one connection for signal and a second that is for a ground. TS connectors are typical for instrument cables like guitar cables.
4. Decide the quality of the connector you want. You probably don't need anything other than the standard connector, but a connector that is gold plated is more durable.
5. Make sure you have the necessary tools you need to install the connector. Check to make sure you have a soldering iron, solder, clamps and pliers.
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