Description
Neutrik NC3FXX‑BAG – 3‑Pole Female Inline XLR Connector (Black Housing, Silver Contacts)
Overview
The NC3FXX‑BAG is a 3‑pole female (socket) cable‑mount XLR connector in Neutrik’s XX series. It uses a rugged black metal shell (KTL / black chrome finish) with silver‑plated contacts. Designed for durability, superior shielding continuity, improved strain relief, and easier assembly, it’s ideal for professional audio cable builds and repairs.
As an authorized distributor, Tri‑Tek Electronics offers genuine Neutrik parts with full manufacturer warranty and support, along with convenient local service for Mesa, Phoenix, and the surrounding Arizona region.
Key Features & Benefits
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Black metal housing (black chrome / KTL coating) with a sleek, professional finish
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Silver‑plated contacts (2 µm Ag over base) for low resistance and reliable signal path
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Female contact includes a solder barrier to prevent solder from flowing into the mating area
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Unique “cage” contact design provides consistent contact pressure and minimal resistance
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Solid metal latch mechanism for secure mating and easy handling
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Grounding spring contacts improve shell-to-shell continuity
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Chuck‑type strain relief for strong cable retention and simple assembly
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Polyurethane boot protects against bending stress on cable exit
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Internal thread design shields threads from external damage
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Ergonomic, compact body design
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Compatible with optional colored rings/boots for cable ID or coding
Specifications
Electrical
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Capacitance between contacts: ≤ 4 pF
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Contact resistance: ≤ 3 mΩ
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Dielectric strength: 1.5 kV DC
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Insulation resistance: > 10 GΩ (initial)
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Rated current per contact: 16 A
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Rated voltage: < 50 V
Mechanical / Cable
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Cable outer diameter range: 3.5 – 8.0 mm
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Maximum wire size: 2.5 mm² (approx. 14 AWG)
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Insertion / withdrawal force: ≤ 20 N
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Mechanical life: > 1,000 mating cycles
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Locking mechanism: Latch lock (solid metal construction)
Materials & Construction
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Shell / Housing: Zinc die‑cast (black KTL coating)
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Contacts: Bronze base with 2 µm silver plating
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Insert: Polyamide (PA66)
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Strain Relief: Polyacetal (POM)
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Boot / Gland: Polyurethane
Environmental
Application / Usage Scenario
The NC3FXX‑BAG is ideal for terminating balanced audio cables requiring a female XLR end — such as microphone leads, extension cables, or custom stage and studio wiring. The installer slides the boot and strain relief onto the cable, solders the conductors to the corresponding solder cups, secures the insert inside the shell, and finalizes the build with the strain relief and boot for cable protection.
For example, in a touring rig, this connector is used to build durable mic cables with solid mating integrity and consistent signal performance across many setup/tear-down cycles. Its sleek black finish and solid mechanical design make it a preferred choice for both aesthetics and function.
Installation Tips & Best Practices
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Pre-tin the conductors and solder cups for clean, consistent joints
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Use a temperature-controlled soldering iron to avoid damaging the plastic insert
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Ensure the strain relief grips the cable jacket, not just the conductors
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Use matching XX-series male connectors for optimal compatibility
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Add colored boots or rings for quick channel identification