Which cable is commonly used to connect audio equipment in a television production?

The XLR cable is commonly used in television production for connecting audio equipment due to its robust design and ability to carry balanced audio signals. Balanced connections help minimize interference and reduce noise, which is essential in professional audio environments where sound quality is paramount. XLR connectors typically feature three pins, allowing for both positive and negative signal phases, which contributes to their effectiveness in canceling out electromagnetic interference.

This type of cable is widely used for microphones, mixing consoles, and various other audio devices, making it a standard in the television and recording industries. Its secure locking mechanism also ensures a reliable connection that can withstand the rigors of production settings, further emphasizing its suitability.

Other options, while useful in different contexts, do not meet the same standards for audio quality and reliability as the XLR cable. BNC cables are primarily used for video signals, especially in professional video setups, and RCA cables, while used for audio and video, do not provide the same shielding and grounding benefits as XLR cables. The 1/4" phone jack is often used for musical instruments and some audio applications, but it lacks the robustness and noise-canceling capabilities required in professional audio production. Hence, the XLR cable stands out as the preferred choice in this context