3‑Pole Male Inline XLR Connector (Black Housing, Silver Contacts)

Neutrik NC3MXX‑BAG – 3‑Pole Male Inline XLR Connector (Black Housing, Silver Contacts) Overview The NC3MXX‑BAG is part of Neutrik’s XX series of XLR cable connectors. It’s a 3‑pole male inline (cable‑mount) connector with a black shell and silver contacts. Designed for demanding audio use, it features enhanced mechanical durability, improved strain relief, and easier assembly compared to legacy XLR connectors. As an authorized distributor, Tri‑Tek Electronics provides genuine Neutrik parts with full warranty support, local pickup or fast delivery in the Phoenix / Mesa / AZ area, and reliable stock for both hobbyist and pro installations. Key Features & Benefits Black housing (KTL / black chrome style) with silver‑plated contacts Solder‑type terminations Rugged zinc die-cast shell, designed for long life Improved locking recess (no “window”) for better shell rigidity Chuck‑type strain relief for stronger cable retention Polyurethane boot for bend protection at the cable exit Internal thread on shell, protected from damage Available colored rings/boots for cable identification or color coding Ergonomic design for easier handling during assembly and connections Specifications Electrical Capacitance between contacts: ≤ 4 pF Contact resistance: ≤ 3 mΩ Dielectric strength: 1.5 kV DC Insulation resistance: > 10 GΩ (initial) Rated current (each contact): 16 A Rated voltage: < 50 V Mechanical / Cable Cable external diameter range: 3.5 – 8.0 mm Maximum wire cross section: 2.5 mm² (approx. 14 AWG) Insertion / withdrawal force: ≤ 20 N Mechanical life: > 1,000 mating cycles Operating temperature: –30 °C to +80 °C Protection class: IP 40 Materials & Construction Contacts: Brass, silver plated (2 µm) Shell / Locking element: Zinc die‑cast alloy Insert: Polyamide (PA66) Boot: Polyurethane Strain relief: Polyacetal (POM) Shell coating: Black KTL / “black chrome” style Typical Use / Application Scenario This connector is ideal for building or repairing microphone cables, instrument leads, patch cables, or custom balanced audio lines. You would strip the cable, pass it through the boot and strain relief, solder the three conductors to the solder cups in the contact insert, then tighten the shell and strain relief. The upgraded strain relief and shell design help resist cable pull or flexing stresses over time. For example, in a live sound rig you might use NC3MXX‑BAG connectors to build custom length mic cables that match your stage layout. The robust build helps prevent failures from repeated handling, and the option for color coded boots or rings makes quick cable identification easier during setup. Installation Tips & Best Practices Pre‑tin both wire ends and connector solder cups before final soldering for cleaner joints. Avoid overheating the plastic insert—use a controlled soldering iron, not excessive dwell time. Ensure proper strain relief: after soldering, tighten the shell and clamp so that mechanical forces act on the boot/relief, not on the solder joints. Use matching XX‑series female connectors to maintain shell contact and shielding. Use colored rings or boots (available separately) for cable identification or channel labeling without altering wiring.