Which output should I use on my Audio-Technica wireless system, the XLR or the 1/4"?

Answer: Most Audio-Technica wireless systems, including System 10 PRO, 2000 Series and 3000 Series, have both an XLR and 1/4" output (see below). Note that the 1/4" output is “unbalanced” and the XLR output is “balanced.” An unbalanced cable uses a single conductor and a shield, while a balanced cable uses two conductors that are twisted and surrounded by a shield. Now to answer the question, which output should you use? First, consider the device you are connecting the wireless system to. If it only has 1/4" inputs (such as a guitar amplifier) then your only choice is the 1/4" output. If your device has only XLR inputs (such as some PA systems) then your only option is the XLR output. Some devices, however, have both 1/4" and XLR inputs, so which output should you use then? There is a lot of science involved, which we will not get into in this discussion, but balanced connections are less prone to noise induced by electromagnetic interference (EMI). This is especially true over long distances. If you are in an environment that has a lot of EMI sources, or if your cable run is more than 10 or 15 feet, you will want to use the balanced output. In fact, regardless of the environment, we recommend using the balanced connection whenever possible. We hope this post has provided good direction on using the outputs on Audio-Technica wireless systems. But, as always, if you have additional questions, please contact our Audio Solutions Department for personal assistance.