Jack connectors (also known as Jack plugs) are used to create or repair your own audio cables — for instruments, headphones, or balanced signals. The standard 6.3 mm Jack comes in mono (TS, two contacts, for guitar or unbalanced signals) and stereo (TRS, three contacts, for headphones or balanced signals); the 3.5 mm mini-jack is the compact version, used for headphones and portable devices. You can find connectors for the end of the cable (with a housing, to attach to the wire) as well as panel sockets for fixed installation on an amplifier, a connection box, or an instrument. Neutrik, the industry reference brand — used by major ready-made cable manufacturers — dominates the range, with gold or nickel-plated options depending on your budget and how often the cable is connected and disconnected. If you prefer a ready-made Jack cable instead of making it yourself, you can find complete audio cables in the adjacent category.
