The Neutrik XX series is the successor to the 'industry standard' X series XLR cable connector, and offers several new features. A version of the XX series for use with larger cables, 8.0mm to 10.0mm diameter is the XX-14 series. These have a larger chuck and special gland. It is available in 3 pin configurations, with silver or gold plated contacts and nickel or black housings. Note that the black shell finish is non-conductive; for applications where the XLR shell needs to be conductive, please use the nickel plated versions.
They are easy to assemble, with only four parts and no screws. The contact block is hard plastic (polyamide), and is inserted from the rear of the shell. The female contacts are a unique cage design, with seven independent contact springs for low contact resistance and high integrity, and incorporate a solder barrier to prevent solder running into the contact mating area. The female connector has an improved solid metal latch which is larger and easier to handle, plus a new feature of additional ground spring contacts for better shell ground continuity. The male has an improved locking recess for more secure mating retention. The Neutrik chuck design gives secure clamping onto all cables 8.0mm to 10.0mm diameter, and now provides a higher resistance to pull-out. An improved ratchet lock helps prevent accidental opening of the strain relief while in use. Glands with polyurethane strain reliefs give high protection to the cable against bending stresses.
The gland and chuck are also available as an accessory, BXX-14, for use with standard XX series connectors - see Neutrik XLR Cable Connector Glands - XX series.
Ordering note
Type codes with no suffix denote nickel plated shell, with silver-plated contacts (standard type). Type codes with BAG suffix denote black shell, with silver-plated contacts. Type codes with B suffix denote black shell, with gold plated contacts. Note that the black shell finish is non-conductive; for applications where the XLR shell needs to be conductive, please use the nickel plated versions.