Switchcraft

Switchcraft A3F05 XLR Female Connector 3-Pin

Name: Switchcraft A3F05 XLR Female Connector 3-Pin
Brand: Switchcraft
SKU: A3F05

A professional-grade 3-pin XLR female connector built for reliable, long-lasting audio connections.

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Overview

The Switchcraft A3F05 is a 3-pin female XLR cable mount connector designed for professional audio applications where connection integrity is non-negotiable. Whether you're building custom microphone cables, assembling a snake, or repairing existing lines, this connector delivers the precision and durability that Switchcraft has been known for across decades of professional audio use. The machined metal shell provides excellent shielding and mechanical strength, while the solder terminals accept standard wire gauges used in balanced audio cabling.

As a cable mount female XLR, the A3F05 is typically soldered to the destination end of a microphone or line-level cable. Its secure latching mechanism ensures connections stay firmly in place during performances and recording sessions, preventing accidental disconnects. The connector's single-port, 3-terminal design keeps things straightforward for experienced cable builders, and its adherence to the standard XLR form factor guarantees compatibility with mixers, preamps, interfaces, and any other equipment with male XLR inputs or outputs.

Specifications

Connector Type

XLR

Gender

Female

Number of Positions

Mounting Type

Cable Mount

Number of Ports

Terminal Type

3 Terminal

Brand

Switchcraft

Model

A3F05

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

Switchcraft's reputation for precision manufacturing ensures reliable electrical contact.
Robust metal shell construction withstands the rigors of professional use and repeated plugging cycles.
Standard 3-pin XLR design ensures universal compatibility with balanced audio equipment.
Cable mount design allows custom cable builds to exact length requirements.

👎 Cons

Requires soldering for installation, which demands some skill and tools.
Sold as a single connector, so outfitting an entire cable inventory requires purchasing in quantity.
No color-coded boot or strain relief included — these must be sourced separately if needed.
Premium pricing compared to generic XLR connectors from budget brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of mounting does the Switchcraft A3F05 use?

It is a cable mount connector, designed to be soldered onto the end of an audio cable.

How many pins does the A3F05 have?

It is a standard 3-pin XLR connector, compatible with balanced audio cables and microphone lines.

Is the Switchcraft A3F05 compatible with other brands' XLR male connectors?

Yes, it follows the standard XLR form factor and will mate with any standard 3-pin XLR male connector regardless of brand.

What makes Switchcraft connectors preferred in professional audio?

Switchcraft is known for tight machining tolerances, durable construction, and consistent contact quality, which is why their connectors are widely used in studios and live sound.