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      TS vs TRS vs Y-Splitters: The Real-World Pedalboard Guide

      Real-World Pedalboard Guide

      Pedalboard wiring usually seems straightforward. However, one small detail can change everything. Is the jack mono or stereo? Does that connection carry audio, expression, or MIDI data? Furthermore, is your "Y-cable" actually a breakout or a true splitter?

      Confusion regarding TS vs TRS cables is common among guitarists. This article clarifies these cable types in plain English. We will also apply this knowledge to a specific, high-end rig: The Meris LVX, MercuryX, and ToneX One.

      The Core Definitions: What the Cable Actually Does

      Before wiring your rig, you must understand the connector types.

      TS (Tip–Sleeve)

      TS cables utilize two conductors: a Tip (signal) and a Sleeve (ground). If you are connecting a standard guitar signal from one pedal to another, TS is the default.

      Use TS for:

      • Standard mono instrument audio.

      • Most patch cables are between stompboxes.

      • Typical input and output connections on amps.

      TRS (Tip–Ring–Sleeve)

      TRS cables have three conductors: tip, sleeve, and ring. However, TRS does not automatically mean "stereo." It simply refers to the connector shape. The signal it carries depends entirely on your specific device.


      TRS is commonly used for:

      • Stereo audio on a single jack (Left + Right combined).

      • Balanced mono audio (common in studio gear).

      • Expression pedals.

      • MIDI over TRS.

      The golden rule is simple. TRS describes the plug, not the application. Always check your pedal’s manual to define the port's function.

      The "Y-Splitter" Misconception

      When musicians ask for a Y-splitter cable, they often confuse two very different tools. Using the wrong one can kill your signal or damage components.

      Type A: The Breakout (Insert Cable)

      This cable takes one TRS plug and splits it into two individual TS plugs. It separates the Tip and the Ring into two distinct channels.

      Common uses:

      • Splitting a single TRS stereo output into Left and Right mono plugs.

      • Mixer insert points.

      Type B: The Duplicating Splitter

      This is a true splitter. It fully duplicates the Tip, Ring, and Sleeve to two outputs.

      Common uses:

      • Sharing one expression pedal between two devices.

      • Sending tap tempo to multiple pedals.

      Real-World Scenario: The Meris & ToneX Rig

      We recently helped a customer with a specific routing question.

      • The Gear: Meris LVX (Delay) and MercuryX (Reverb).

      • The Destination: Two ToneX One pedals.

      • The Question: "Can I plug TS into my delay, then use two TRS cables into my LVX?"

      The customer was confused about the stereo pedalboard setup. They assumed high-end stereo pedals required TRS cables for audio connections.

      The Correct Answer regarding Audio Wiring

      For this specific rig, standard TS cables are actually the best solution.

      Step 1: LVX to MercuryX The Meris LVX and MercuryX are modern stereo processors. Crucially, they have discrete Left and Right audio inputs and outputs.

      Therefore, you do not use a single TRS cable. Instead, use two standard TS cables.

      • Connect Left OUT to Left IN.

      • Connect Right OUT to Right IN.

      Step 2: Into the ToneX Ones The customer wanted to run into two separate ToneX One units. This creates a dual-mono configuration.

      • Run the MercuryX Left OUT to ToneX #1 IN (using a TS cable);

      • Then run the MercuryX Right OUT to ToneX #2 IN (using a TS cable) also.

      This setup delivers true stereo width. It dedicates one amp modeler to the left channel and one to the right.

      When Should You Use a Y-Splitter?

      For the audio routing described above, a Y-splitter is unnecessary. In fact, it is the wrong tool.

      Avoid Y-Cables When:

      • You are trying to replace two discrete cables (L and R) with one cable.

      • You want to combine two outputs into one input (passive summing causes issues).

      Use a Y-Breakout When:

      • A pedal explicitly outputs stereo on a single TRS jack.

      • You need to break that single jack out to two separate amps.

      Quick Buying Guide

      Here is a simple matrix to help you choose the right cable for your build.

      • Standard Mono Audio: Use TS Cables.

      • Discrete Stereo (L/R Jacks): Use two TS Cables.

      • Expression / MIDI: Use TRS Cables (check manufacturer specs).

      • Stereo on one Jack: Use a TRS to Dual TS Breakout.

      Conclusion

      Wiring a complex board does not have to be a headache. If your pedal has separate Left and Right jacks, your stereo audio likely needs two TS cables. Conversely, only reach for TRS if the manual explicitly calls for it.

      Building a new rig requires reliable connections. At TourGear Designs, we specialize in flat, low-profile patch cables that save space and preserve your tone.

      Whether you need standard TS patch cables or specific TRS adapters, we have you covered.