3-Way Audio Crossover Connector Details with Diagram
When setting up a DJ audio system, a 3-way audio crossover is an important device that helps to split the sound into low, mid, and high frequencies. This makes sure each speaker gets the right range of sound for the best audio quality. For example, the low-frequency sound for the subwoofer, mid-frequency sound for the mid-range or vocal speaker, and the high-frequency sound for the Tweeter.
In this article, I will show you how to connect a 3-way audio crossover step-by-step, with an easy-to-understand diagram where you will get all the connector details and the function of each switch. You will also learn about the different connectors and settings on the crossover, so you can get the most out of your DJ sound system.
This article will be very helpful for DJs, audio technicians, or anyone interested in improving their sound system setup. Understanding how to properly connect and configure your 3-way crossover can greatly enhance your overall audio experience. With the help of our clear diagrams, even beginners can follow along easily and avoid common wiring mistakes.
Connector Details Diagram
Here, in the diagram below, you can see the names of each connector an audio mixer has and the function of each switch.
Connection Guide
INPUT(Female XLRs) - CH1, CH2
These are the input connectors for the crossover. Using these, the device accepts two separate audio signals, one for Channel 1 or CH1(Left) and one for Channel 2 or CH2 (Right). Each input is a female XLR connector, which is a common balanced audio input type used in professional audio setups to reduce noise and interference.
Generally, we need to connect the audio source outputs (such as a DJ mixer or audio interface) to these inputs using male-to-female XLR cables. In stereo mode, CH1 input receives the first channel’s signal, and CH2 input receives the second channel’s signal, and in Mono mode, only CH1 might be used, depending on the design of the crossover.
OUTPUT(Male XLRs) - CH1, CH2
Both the Channel 1 and Channel 2 outputs work similarly, just the difference is that, in stereo mode, the Channel 1 output takes input from the Channel 1 input, and the Channel 2 output takes input from the Channel 2 input. In mono mode, both channel 1 and channel 2 outputs might take input from channel 1 input, depending on the design of the crossover.
As you see in the above diagram, the channel outputs are divided into three separate frequency bands.
- Low: It sends the low-frequency audio signal (bass)
- Mid: It sends the mid-frequency audio signal (vocals, instruments)
- High: It sends the high-frequency audio signal (treble, cymbals)
Each output is a male XLR connector designed to send balanced audio signals to your amplifiers or powered speakers assigned to handle those specific frequencies. You can also see that each channel output has a Switch(2-Way / 3-Way). Actually, this switch changes how Channel 1's output is configured.
- 2-Way: In this mode, the crossover splits the signal into two frequency bands (typically low and high), so the mid output is disabled or combined.
- 3-Way: In this mode, the crossover splits the signal into three bands(low, mid, and high), which allows more precise sound separation and control.
When you use 2-Way mode, you will only need to connect to the Low and High output XLRs, ignoring the Mid output. But when you use 3-Way mode, connect to Low, Mid, and High outputs, each going to its respective amplifier or speaker.
MONO OUT – SUB (Male XLR)
This output is a mono subwoofer output that sends only low-frequency signals dedicated to a subwoofer or bass speaker. It has a switch(80Hz /120Hz) which is used to set the crossover frequency cutoff for the subwoofer output. At 80Hz, frequencies below 80Hz are sent to the subwoofer. At 120Hz, frequencies below 120Hz are sent. It should be chosen depending on the subwoofer’s specifications and overall speaker setup to get the best bass response.
The Mono Out subwoofer output needs to connect to the powered subwoofer or subwoofer amplifier input using an XLR cable.
Remember that in stereo mode, the mono output usually provides a signal by summing both Channel 1 and Channel 2 inputs. However, in mono mode (depending on the design of the crossover), only Channel 1 input may be active, and it can feed both Channel 1 and Channel 2 outputs or just certain outputs, such as the mono subwoofer out.
Ground / Float Switch
This switch controls the grounding method for the crossover’s signal ground. When Ground Mode is selected, the signal ground is connected to the chassis earth ground, which can reduce noise in some setups. When the Float Mode is selected, the signal ground is isolated (floating) from the chassis ground, which helps avoid ground loop hum in certain configurations.
So, use Ground Mode for those setups where grounding noise isn’t an issue, and use Float Mode if you experience hum or buzz caused by ground loops.
Screw Earthing Terminal
This is the earth (ground) terminal for the chassis grounding of the crossover unit. Connect this terminal to a proper earth ground or grounding rod if required for safety or noise reduction in your system.
Explore all DJ Wiring Guides:
- DJ Amplifier Connector Guide & Back Panel Settings (with Diagrams)
- Audio Mixer Connector Guide & Settings (with Diagram)
- DJ Amplifier, Mixer, Crossover, and Speaker Connection Diagram
- Wiring Diagram for Connecting a DJ Amplifier in Stereo Mode
- Wiring Diagram for Connecting a DJ Amplifier in Parallel Mode
- Wiring Diagram for Connecting a DJ Amplifier in Bridge Mode
- Multiple DJ Amplifiers Connection Diagram in Stereo Mode
- Multiple DJ Amplifiers Connection Diagram in Parallel Mode
- Multiple DJ Amplifiers Connection Diagram in Bridge Mode