Jack Cables

Understanding Jack connector cables

Jack connector cables come in multiple varieties - connection, extension,  jack to USB adapter, cinch and many others. But where do AUX cables come into play?

Jack-to-jack cables provide the same type of connector on both sides

A jack-to-jack cable is useful in situations where both your player and connected device have an AUX connector. Common pairs include a telephone and headphones. A number of cars are also equipped with this input, which is why jack-to-jack is perfect as an AUX cable for a car.

Consider a Jack- to-cinch cables if you have a DVD player or Hi-Fi system

Jack-to-cinch cables have a 3.5mm jack on one side and a pair of cinch connectors on the other, with each of the cinch cables carrying one side of the audio signal. Cinch cables are part of the standard equipment for speakers, Hi-Fi systems, televisions, but also DJ consoles.

Check out our cinch-to-jack cable category for all your cinch needs.

Jack extension cables

Jack extension cables have an input on one side and an AUX connector output on the other. This comes in handy, for example, if your jack-jack cable is just too short.

AUX cables sorted by size - from 2.5 to 6.3mm

AUX cables are also divided by the size of the jack connector itself. Which one is right for you?

• 2.5mm jack connector can be found in older radios, phones or headphones.
• 3.5mm jack is the modern standard. Expect to see it on laptops, mobile devices, and MP3 players.
• 6.3mm jack is a special connector type used mainly by musical instruments, AV amps, mixing consoles or studio accessories.

Stereo or mono?

The jack connector offers both mono and stereo connections, and currently the vast majority of AUX audio cables are stereo. If you really want to be sure, note the number of pins (contacts or spacers) on the connector.

• Mono jack has two contacts (TS), a connector tip (audio) and one ring conductor (ground).
• Three-pin stereo jack (TRS) is the most common type. Cap contacts - ground, right and left channel.
• Four-pin stereo jack (TRRS) adds a connector for inline cable controls or a microphone.

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Depending on the number of spacers, the audio jack cable may be marked TS and TRS. TS stands for mono AUX cable without an additional ring, while TRS means stereo with one additional ring.