Neutrik NC3MRX Right-Angle Male 3-Pole XLR Connector – Nickel Housing, Silver Contacts
Build professional XLR cables for tight spaces, compact equipment and controlled cable routing with the Neutrik NC3MRX Right-Angle Male 3-Pole XLR Connector, featuring a rugged nickel-plated metal housing, silver-plated contacts and seven selectable cable outlet positions.
Part of Neutrik’s professional RX Series, the NC3MRX is the right-angle male counterpart to Neutrik’s widely used XX Series XLR cable connectors.
Its extra-slim design makes it particularly useful where a conventional straight male XLR connector would:
- Project too far from equipment
- Require excessive clearance
- Force the cable into an awkward bend
- Interfere with neighbouring connectors
- Prevent a rack or case from closing correctly
- Create poor cable routing
The NC3MRX allows the cable direction to be selected during assembly from seven different outlet positions, giving cable builders much greater control over how the finished lead sits once connected.
It is particularly useful for:
- Professional audio cables
- XLR interconnects
- Equipment racks
- Mixing consoles
- Stage equipment
- Broadcast systems
- Recording studios
- Touring systems
- Theatre
- Film and television
- Professional AV
- Pedalboards
- Custom equipment
- Cable manufacturing and repair
Neutrik RX Series Right-Angle XLR
The RX Series is Neutrik’s professional right-angle version of the established XX Series cable connector platform.
It was developed as the successor to Neutrik’s older RC Series and incorporates improvements to:
- Connector strength
- Assembly
- Contact integrity
- Cable retention
- Cable bend protection
The NC3MRX provides these features in an extra-slim male right-angle XLR format.
Seven Selectable Cable Outlet Positions
One of the most important features of the NC3MRX is its:
Seven selectable cable outlet positions.
Rather than supplying a fixed 90-degree cable direction, Neutrik allows the cable outlet to be oriented in different positions during connector assembly.
This gives technicians much greater control over the finished cable.
Depending on the installation, the cable can be routed:
- Up
- Down
- To either side
- At intermediate angles
to suit the orientation of the equipment connector.
Configure the Cable for the Equipment
The seven-position system is particularly useful when producing purpose-built cables.
Before final assembly, the technician can consider:
- Equipment socket orientation
- Available rack clearance
- Direction of cable travel
- Adjacent connectors
- Cable-management hardware
- Controls located near the connector
- Case or rack depth
The connector can then be assembled with the cable exiting in the most appropriate direction.
Ideal for Restricted Clearance
Straight XLR connectors can require considerable space behind equipment once the connector body and cable bend are taken into account.
In compact installations, this may cause problems.
The NC3MRX routes the cable away at an angle immediately behind the connector, reducing the depth required for the connection.
This makes it particularly useful for:
- Shallow equipment racks
- Touring fly racks
- Broadcast racks
- Compact AV systems
- Road cases
- Wall-mounted equipment
- Custom technical enclosures
Professional Audio Interconnects
The NC3MRX is a professional 3-pole male XLR cable connector.
It is particularly suitable for balanced analogue audio connections including:
- Mixer outputs
- Audio interfaces
- DSP systems
- Amplifiers
- Stage equipment
- Recording equipment
- Broadcast hardware
- Professional AV systems
For conventional balanced analogue audio, the commonly used wiring arrangement is:
Pin 1 – Shield / ground
Pin 2 – Positive / hot
Pin 3 – Negative / cold
Always confirm the equipment manufacturer’s pin assignment before wiring.
Mixer and Console Connections
Mixing consoles often contain large numbers of XLR outputs positioned close together.
Depending on the console, flight-case design or installation, a straight XLR plug may extend further than desirable.
The NC3MRX can help route output cables:
- Down toward the floor
- Across a patch area
- Away from neighbouring connectors
- Into cable-management systems
while reducing unnecessary rearward projection.
Equipment Racks
Rack systems are one of the strongest applications for the NC3MRX.
Behind a professional rack there may already be:
- XLR cables
- Network cables
- Power leads
- Patch cables
- Speaker cables
- Multicores
- Cable-management bars
Space can disappear quickly.
A right-angle XLR connector can reduce the depth required for the audio connection and help maintain an organised cable path.
Touring Racks
Touring racks may need to:
- Close inside shallow road cases
- Remain fully patched during transport
- Fit within strict rack-depth limits
- Maintain clean cable routing
The NC3MRX can help solve these physical layout issues without abandoning the familiar professional XLR interface.
Broadcast Systems
Broadcast desks, control rooms and technical racks often contain densely packed connections.
Potential NC3MRX applications include:
- Broadcast audio
- Monitor systems
- Studio infrastructure
- Audio routing
- Intercom-related equipment
- Recording systems
- Control-room racks
The seven-position cable outlet provides valuable flexibility when the direction of the cable matters.
Recording Studios
Recording studios may use NC3MRX connectors around:
- Outboard racks
- Audio interfaces
- Patch infrastructure
- Monitor systems
- Custom wall panels
- Recording equipment
Right-angle connectors can be particularly helpful where equipment is mounted close to a wall or cabinet rear.
Theatre
Theatre audio systems commonly use custom-built cabling across:
- Amplifier racks
- Wireless racks
- Playback systems
- Stage infrastructure
- Technical racks
- Control positions
- Orchestra pits
The NC3MRX gives technical departments another option when a standard straight male XLR creates an awkward physical connection.
Film and Television
Film and television audio systems often need to be compact and highly configurable.
Potential applications include:
- Location sound carts
- Production audio racks
- Recording systems
- Studio equipment
- Custom technical carts
- Camera-support systems
- Broadcast hardware
The right-angle form factor can help keep cabling controlled in these space-limited setups.
Professional AV
Professional AV systems use balanced XLR connections throughout:
- Conference systems
- Presentation equipment
- Installed audio
- Auditoriums
- Corporate AV
- Control rooms
- Production racks
A configurable right-angle male XLR can be particularly useful where rear cabinet depth is limited.
Pedalboards and Instrument Systems
Some professional music and performance systems use XLR connections in compact pedalboards or instrument rigs.
A standard straight connector can consume valuable space or interfere with neighbouring pedals and controls.
The NC3MRX allows the cable direction to be selected to better suit the layout.
Extra-Slim Right-Angle Design
Neutrik specifically describes the NC3MRX as an:
Extra slim right-angle connector.
This helps keep the connector profile compact while still retaining a rugged metal XLR housing.
The slim design is especially useful where several connections sit close together.
Improved Windowless Locking Recess
The NC3MRX incorporates Neutrik’s improved male locking recess without the traditional housing “window”.
This creates a more continuous metal shell around the male connector.
Neutrik identifies this as improving housing durability and providing a more robust connector construction.
When connected to a compatible female XLR, the female connector’s latch engages with this locking recess.
Stronger Male Housing Construction
Removing the traditional locking window creates a more stringent housing structure.
This is particularly useful in professional production cables that may be subjected to:
- Repeated handling
- Touring
- Cable bins
- Transport
- Pulling
- Equipment changes
The XLR remains a precision connector and should still be treated appropriately, but the improved housing design is intended for professional repeated-use applications.
Nickel-Plated Zinc Die-Cast Housing
Neutrik specifies:
Shell Material: Zinc die-cast ZnAl4Cu1
Shell Plating: Nickel
The correct description is therefore:
Nickel housing
rather than:
Chrome body.
The nickel-plated metal shell provides the rugged construction expected from professional Neutrik XLR connectors.
Silver-Plated Bronze Contacts
Neutrik specifies:
Contact Material: Bronze CuSn8
Contact Plating: 2µm silver
These contacts provide the electrical interface with the corresponding female XLR connector.
The measurable contact specification is more useful than vague claims about “superior conductivity”.
Solder Termination
The NC3MRX uses:
Solder contacts.
Professional cable assembly should include:
- Correct cable preparation
- Clean conductor stripping
- Correct pin identification
- Controlled solder temperature
- Proper solder flow
- No solder bridges
- Suitable strain relief
Neutrik specifies solderability in accordance with:
IEC 60068-2-20.
Maximum Conductor Size
Neutrik specifies a maximum conductor size of:
2.5mm²
or:
14 AWG.
Most professional microphone and balanced-audio cables use substantially smaller signal conductors, but this defines the connector’s maximum conductor capacity.
Standard Cable Range – 3.5mm to 8.0mm
The standard NC3MRX strain-relief system accommodates cable outside diameters of:
3.5mm to 8.0mm.
This covers a large range of professional:
- Microphone cable
- Balanced audio cable
- Control cable
- Custom audio cable
Always confirm the cable diameter before assembly.
Optional BXX-14 for 8–10mm Cable
For larger cables, Neutrik offers the optional:
BXX-14
large bushing and chuck-type strain-relief accessory.
This extends compatibility to:
8mm–10mm cable O.D.
This can be useful for specialised professional cable constructions that exceed the standard NC3MRX cable range.
Improved Chuck-Type Strain Relief
The NC3MRX uses Neutrik’s improved:
Chuck-type strain relief.
The chuck grips the cable jacket inside the connector as the rear bushing is tightened.
This transfers pulling forces into the connector body rather than directly into the soldered electrical contacts.
Neutrik specifically identifies the revised system as providing:
- Higher pull-out force
- Faster assembly
- Easier assembly
than the previous RC-Series design.
Polyurethane Cable Gland
The rear boot incorporates a:
Polyurethane cable gland.
This supports the cable where it exits the connector and helps protect against repeated bending stress.
Cable bend protection is especially important for:
- Touring cables
- Hire inventory
- Stage systems
- Broadcast cables
- Production interconnects
where cables may be repeatedly flexed during setup and pack-down.
Seven Outlet Positions Plus Strain Relief
The outlet positioning and strain-relief system perform different jobs.
The seven selectable positions determine the direction the cable leaves the connector.
The chuck strain relief and polyurethane gland provide mechanical cable support.
Together they allow the cable builder to create a compact and mechanically controlled right-angle assembly.
Low Contact Resistance
Neutrik specifies:
Contact Resistance: ≤3mΩ.
This provides a measurable electrical specification for the connector.
Low Inter-Contact Capacitance
Neutrik specifies:
Capacitance Between Contacts: ≤4pF.
This helps characterise the connector’s performance for professional signal applications.
Rated Current
Neutrik specifies:
16A per contact.
This is a component electrical rating.
It does not mean the NC3MRX should be used for mains-power distribution.
Rated Voltage
Neutrik specifies:
Rated Voltage: <50V.
The NC3MRX is intended for professional low-voltage signal connections.
It is not designed as an Australian 230/240V mains connector.
Dielectric Strength
Neutrik specifies:
1.5kV DC.
This is an electrical test specification rather than a recommended operating voltage.
Insulation Resistance
Neutrik specifies:
>2GΩ initial insulation resistance.
Insertion and Withdrawal Force
Neutrik specifies:
Insertion Force: ≤20N
Withdrawal Force: ≤20N
These values characterise the connector’s mechanical mating behaviour with compatible XLR hardware.
More Than 1,000 Mating Cycles
Neutrik specifies a mechanical lifetime of:
More than 1,000 mating cycles.
This makes the NC3MRX suitable for professional cables that may be repeatedly connected and disconnected.
Actual lifespan will depend on:
- Handling
- Mating connector condition
- Contamination
- Cable strain
- Maintenance
IP40 Protection
Neutrik specifies:
Protection Class: IP40.
The NC3MRX is designed primarily for protected professional environments.
It should not be marketed as:
- Waterproof
- Weatherproof
- IP65
- Outdoor sealed
For outdoor applications requiring environmental sealing, select an appropriate Neutrik TOP connector system.
Temperature Range
Neutrik specifies:
-30°C to +80°C.
The complete cable assembly may have a narrower operating range according to the cable selected.
UL94 V-0
Neutrik specifies:
Flammability: UL94 V-0.
IEC 61076-2-103 Compliance
The NC3MRX is specified to:
IEC 61076-2-103.
This forms part of the connector’s professional XLR specification.
PA66 Contact Insert
The electrical contact insert is manufactured from:
Polyamide PA66.
This component supports and isolates the three electrical contacts.
POM Strain Relief
The internal chuck strain-relief component is manufactured from:
Polyacetal POM.
XLR Audio Applications
The NC3MRX is primarily a professional audio connector.
Strong applications include:
- Balanced analogue audio
- Line-level interconnects
- Equipment outputs
- Mixer outputs
- Rack connections
- Broadcast audio
- Custom professional cables
AES3 Digital Audio
Three-pole XLR is also widely used for professional AES3 / AES/EBU digital audio.
The NC3MRX may therefore form part of an AES3 cable assembly where the correct:
110Ω digital audio cable
and wiring are used.
Do not assume that every conventional microphone cable will provide appropriate AES3 transmission performance over all distances.
DMX Applications – Use with Care
Three-pin XLR connectors are found on some lighting equipment using 3-pin DMX connections.
However, professional DMX512 practice conventionally uses 5-pole XLR.
The NC3MRX should therefore be positioned primarily as an audio connector.
Where used with equipment that carries DMX over 3-pin XLR:
- Use suitable DMX data cable
- Confirm the equipment pinout
- Keep DMX cables clearly identified
Do not assume standard microphone cable is automatically appropriate for DMX transmission.
Right-Angle vs Straight Male XLR
The best connector depends on the physical application.
NC3MRX Right-Angle Male
Choose when:
- Equipment clearance is restricted
- Cable direction needs to be controlled
- Rear projection must be minimised
- A seven-position cable outlet is valuable
NC3MXX Straight Male
Choose when:
- Rear clearance is not an issue
- Standard straight cable construction is preferred
- The cable needs to flex naturally in any direction behind the connector
Both are professional Neutrik 3-pole male XLR cable connectors.
NC3MRX vs NC3FRX
The NC3MRX and NC3FRX belong to the same RX Series but have opposite genders.
NC3MRX
Gender: Male
Contacts: Pins
Cable Outlet Positions: 7
Housing: Nickel
Contact Plating: Silver
NC3FRX
Gender: Female
Contacts: Female sockets
Housing: Nickel
Contact Plating: Silver
Choose the correct connector according to the required end of the cable.
NC3MRX Variant Options
Neutrik also offers different NC3MRX finishes.
NC3MRX
- Nickel housing
- Silver contacts
NC3MRX-BAG
- Black KTL metal housing
- Silver contacts
NC3MRX-B
- Black metal housing
- Gold-plated contacts
The suffix is therefore important when ordering.
Colour Coding and Identification
Neutrik offers optional:
- BXX coloured bushings
- BXX-CR bushing with clear coding ring
- XXR coloured coding rings
- XXCR transparent coding rings
These can be useful for identifying cables by:
- Length
- Department
- Signal type
- Equipment
- Stage location
- Production
- Ownership
Coding Ring Can Be Changed Without Resoldering
Neutrik’s XXR coding-ring system can be changed without unsoldering the connector insert.
This can make later cable identification changes easier.
Touring Cable Identification
Production companies and hire businesses may use colour coding to distinguish:
- Different cable lengths
- Audio departments
- Specific equipment packages
- Digital audio cables
- Special-purpose leads
This can make cable sorting faster during bump-in and pack-down.
Cable Assembly
When assembling an NC3MRX cable:
- Determine the required cable exit direction.
- Slide the boot and strain-relief components onto the cable.
- Strip the cable to appropriate dimensions.
- Prepare shield and conductors.
- Identify pins 1, 2 and 3.
- Solder the conductors carefully.
- Inspect for solder bridges or excess solder.
- Seat the connector insert correctly.
- Select the required one of seven cable outlet positions.
- Ensure the chuck grips the cable jacket.
- Tighten the rear bushing securely.
- Confirm the finished outlet orientation.
- Test the completed cable.
Follow current Neutrik assembly information when producing professional cable inventory.
Test Every Completed Cable
After assembly, test:
- Pin 1 continuity
- Pin 2 continuity
- Pin 3 continuity
- No pin-to-pin shorts
- Correct shield connection
- Mechanical cable retention
- Correct mating and locking
For AES3 or other digital applications, suitable transmission testing may also be appropriate.
Product Specifications
Brand: Neutrik
Model: NC3MRX
Series: RX Series
Connector Type: Right-angle male XLR cable connector
Number of Poles: 3
Gender: Male
Cable Outlet Positions: 7 selectable positions
Housing: Zinc die-cast ZnAl4Cu1
Housing Finish: Nickel plated
Contacts: Bronze CuSn8
Contact Plating: 2µm silver
Termination: Solder contacts
Cable O.D.: 3.5–8.0mm
Maximum Conductor Size: 2.5mm² / 14 AWG
Locking System: Latch-lock compatible locking recess
Contact Resistance: ≤3mΩ
Capacitance Between Contacts: ≤4pF
Dielectric Strength: 1.5kV DC
Insulation Resistance: >2GΩ initially
Rated Current: 16A per contact
Rated Voltage: <50V
Insertion Force: ≤20N
Withdrawal Force: ≤20N
Mechanical Life: >1,000 mating cycles
Insert: Polyamide PA66
Strain Relief: Polyacetal POM
Boot / Gland: Polyurethane
Protection Class: IP40
Flammability: UL94 V-0
Standard Compliance: IEC 61076-2-103
Solderability: IEC 60068-2-20 compliant
Temperature Range: -30°C to +80°C
Optional Large-Cable Accessory: BXX-14 for 8–10mm cable O.D.
Why Choose the Neutrik NC3MRX?
Choose the NC3MRX where a professional male 3-pole XLR cable requires:
- Genuine Neutrik quality
- Extra-slim right-angle construction
- Seven selectable cable outlet positions
- Nickel-plated metal housing
- Silver-plated contacts
- Improved windowless male locking recess
- Solder termination
- 3.5–8.0mm standard cable compatibility
- Up to 2.5mm² / 14 AWG conductors
- ≤3mΩ contact resistance
- Improved chuck-type strain relief
- Polyurethane cable gland
- More than 1,000 mating cycles
- Optional colour coding
- Compatibility with larger 8–10mm cable using BXX-14
It is particularly useful where a straight male XLR produces excessive rear projection or where the cable must leave the connector in a specific direction.
Why Buy Neutrik NC3MRX from GigLife?
GigLife supplies professional connectors, adaptors, cables, tapes, consumables and technical accessories specifically for the entertainment and production industries.
With more than 25 years of hands-on live entertainment industry experience, GigLife understands that connector selection is not only about electrical compatibility. In real production systems, clearance, cable direction, strain relief and serviceability can make the difference between a neat professional installation and an awkward connection that constantly gets in the way.
Products are selected by people who work in production and understand the requirements of:
- Audio engineers
- FOH engineers
- Monitor engineers
- Theatre technicians
- Touring crews
- Production companies
- Recording studios
- Broadcast facilities
- Film and television departments
- AV technicians
- Festivals
- Schools and performing arts centres
- Conference production
- Exhibition contractors
- Equipment-hire businesses
- Cable manufacturers and repair workshops
Whether you are building a specialised rack lead, reducing cable depth behind equipment, manufacturing an AES3 cable, maintaining touring inventory or solving a difficult equipment connection, GigLife supplies genuine professional components selected by people who understand the job.
Orders are dispatched from Brisbane, with Australia-wide shipping available.
GigLife is proudly by the professionals… for the professionals.
