Audio/Connector/RCA/Stereo
RCA Stereo Pair
- Two Audio/Connector/RCA connectors wired as one unbalanced analog stereo line, one per channel.
- Line level throughout — the usual link from a turntable preamp, CD player or mixer into an amplifier or a powered monitor.
Physical Specifications
- Connectors: 2, one per channel
- Contacts each: 2 (center pin, outer shell)
- Plug center pin: 1/8 in (3.175 mm) diameter
- Plug outer shell: 1/3 in (8.47 mm) diameter
- Orientation: no keying
Pin Configuration
- Center pin: that channel's signal
- Outer shell: ground and shield
Color Coding
- Red is the right channel in every convention. The left channel is white, black or grey depending on the maker.
Common Use Cases
- Turntable, CD player and tape deck outputs into an amplifier or receiver
- Line input on powered studio monitors, such as IK Multimedia/iLoud Micro Monitors
- Mixer main outs into a recorder
Compatibility
- Breakout cables carry an Audio/Connector/Phone/TRS/3.5mm plug on one end and the RCA pair on the other, tip to left and ring to right.
- The signal pin meets the jack before the shells ground, so connecting a live pair hums or buzzes when the two devices share no ground. The same happens when a plug works its way half out.
Related References