Jack plugs and sockets are widely found in audio/audio-video (AV) applications and are most commonly used for analogue audio signals. Jack plugs and connectors are available in various sizes, with 3.5mm and 6.35mm being the most common in the market. Jack plugs can have up to 4 contact points, depending on the signals they carry. Tip-Sleeve (TS) jack plugs have 2 contact points and carry signal (mono), while Tip-Ring-Sleeve (TRS) jack plugs have 3 contact points for stereo signals. Meanwhile, Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve (TRRS) jack plugs carry stereo and microphone signals.
A large variety of jack plugs and connectors available, here are some of the most common types of jack connectors you will find.
These tiny connectors were commonly used for audio output on older mobile phones, discreet microphones, or small portable devices with space constraints, such as walkie-talkies.
The most ubiquitous audio connector, 3.5mm jacks are used for headphones, earbuds, and auxiliary audio input/output on smartphones, computers, and portable media players.
Also known as 1/4-inch jacks, these are primarily found in professional audio equipment, connecting electric guitars to amplifiers, microphones to mixers, and headphones in recording studios due to their robust design.
These connectors transmit two channels of audio (left and right), typically identified by two insulating rings on the plug. They are essential for headphones and connecting MP3 players to speakers.
Professional Audio**
XLR connectors are standard for microphones, mixing consoles, and other professional audio equipment due to their balanced audio transmission capabilities.
3.5mm jacks are ubiquitous in headphones, smartphones, laptops, and portable speakers for personal listening and consumer audio connections.
1/4-inch jacks connect guitars, keyboards, and other instruments to amplifiers and sound systems.
Audio connectors facilitate connections in recording studios, broadcast setups, and live sound reinforcement systems. For instance, jack connectors connect microphones to consoles and transmission equipment.
Audio jacks are used for data logging and communication between different modules in industrial equipment. For example, a 6.35mm jack might be used to connect a control panel to a machine's control system.
Specialised audio connectors and cables are used in military aircraft and communication systems, including the NATO plug, specifically the U-174/U or Nexus TP120.
Audio connectors are found in car audio systems and other vehicle electronics.
RS Australia is the nation's top supplier and distributor of high-quality 3.5mm jack sockets, jack plugs and mini jack connectors for all your audio and audio/visual needs. We carry products from trusted brands such as RS PRO, Amphenol Industrial and Same Sky. We also stock other types of connectors, such as fibre optic and lightning connectors. Check out our delivery page for more details on our delivery services.