What is a TRS Cable?

A TRS cable is an audio cable that uses a Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) connector with three conductors. These three parts allow the cable to carry either balanced mono audio or stereo audio signals depending on how it is used.

In balanced audio connections, the tip carries the positive signal, the ring carries the inverted signal, and the sleeve acts as the ground. This configuration helps cancel out noise and interference during transmission, similar to XLR cables.

TRS cables are commonly used in professional audio equipment, mixers, audio interfaces, headphones, and patch bays. They often appear as ¼-inch (6.35 mm) connectors, though smaller 3.5 mm TRS connectors are also widely used for headphones and portable audio devices.