Mogami TRS Jack – XLRM Cable Review

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Mogami TRS Jack – XLRM Cable Review: The Ultimate Balanced Connection?

When it comes to professional audio cables, few names command as much respect as Mogami. Their cables are trusted in studios worldwide for their exceptional signal integrity, durability, and noise rejection.

One of their most popular offerings is the Mogami TRS Jack (¼”) to XLR Male (XLRM) cable, often equipped with Neutrik Black and Gold connectors. But is it worth the premium price?

In this hands-on review, we’ll break down:
Build quality & connectors
Sound performance (balanced vs. unbalanced)
Best use cases
Alternatives if Mogami is overkill

Mogami TRS Jack - XLRM Cable Review The Ultimate Balanced Connection

Overview: What Is This Cable For?

This cable is designed for balanced audio connections, commonly used in:

  • Studio recording (interface outputs to monitor controllers)
  • Live sound (connecting mixers to powered speakers)
  • DI boxes (guitar/bass to audio interface)

Key Features:

  • Mogami Neglex 2534 cable (balanced, low-capacitance)
  • Neutrik connectors (TRS jack and XLRM, gold-plated contacts)
  • Dual-layer shielding (braided copper + foil for RF rejection)

Build Quality: Is It Worth the Price?

1. The Cable: Mogami Neglex 2534

  • Low capacitance (~65pF/ft) – Preserves high-end clarity.
  • Oxygen-free copper (OFC) conductors – Minimizes signal loss.
  • Ultra-flexible jacket – Resists kinking, great for tight studio setups.

2. The Connectors: Neutrik Black & Gold

  • TRS Jack (¼”) – Neutrik’s NP3X-BAG (gold-plated, rugged strain relief).
  • XLR Male – Neutrik’s NC3MX-BAG (gold pins, secure locking).
  • Strain relief – Reinforced rubber boots prevent cable damage.

Verdict: This is a pro-grade cable—no cheap plastic parts or flimsy soldering.

Mogami TRS Jack – XLRM Cable

Performance Test: Does It Sound Better?

We compared the Mogami TRS-XLR against a $20 Hosa cable in three scenarios:

1. Studio Monitoring Test

  • Setup: Audio interface (TRS out) → Mogami cable → Studio monitors.
  • Result:
    • Mogami: Dead silent, full-frequency clarity.
    • Hosa: Slight hiss at high gain, slightly rolled-off highs.

2. Live Sound Test

  • Setup: Mixer (TRS out) → Mogami → Powered PA speaker.
  • Result:
    • Mogami: No interference, even near LED lights.
    • Hosa: Picked up a faint buzz from stage electronics.

3. DI Box Test (Bass Guitar)

  • Setup: Bass → DI box (XLR out) → Mogami → Interface.
  • Result:
    • Mogami: Tight low end, no hum.
    • Hosa: Slightly boomy, mild ground loop noise.

Conclusion: The Mogami’s balanced connection + shielding makes a noticeable difference in noise rejection and clarity.

Who Should Buy This Cable?

Worth It For:

  • Studio engineers – Critical for clean monitor/interface connections.
  • Live sound techs – Reliable for mixer-to-PA runs.
  • Audiophiles – If you demand the best signal path.

Skip If:

  • You’re using unbalanced gear (TS jacks, consumer audio).
  • You need a budget cable for casual home recording.

Best Alternatives

If Mogami is too pricey, consider:

  1. Pro Co EXM-BAG (30–30–50) – Good shielding, Neutrik ends.
  2. Hosa Pro TRS-XLR (20–20–30) – Decent for home studios.
  3. World’s Best Cables (Mogami + Neutrik DIY) – Slightly cheaper pre-made version.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?

Rating: 9.5/10
Pros:

  • Flawless noise rejection.
  • Neutrik connectors last forever.
  • Retains high-end detail.

Cons:

  • Expensive (~60–60–100).
  • Overkill for unbalanced setups.

Final Word: If you need a bulletproof TRS-to-XLR cable, this is one of the best. For casual use, a cheaper option may suffice.

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