About the Comprehensive Cables MJ-S Stereo 3.5mm Mini Jack Audio Connector
The Comprehensive Cables MJ-S is a standard 3.5mm (1/8-inch) stereo mini jack audio connector, designed as a component for building or repairing custom audio cables. This connector is a ubiquitous interface used in countless consumer and professional audio devices, including smartphones, portable media players, headphones, computer sound cards, compact mixers, and multimedia speakers. The "stereo" designation indicates it has three conductors: tip (left channel), ring (right channel), and sleeve (common ground), allowing it to carry a two-channel unbalanced audio signal. As a raw connector, it is intended to be soldered onto the appropriate cable by an installer or hobbyist to create a patch cable, extension, or adapter tailored to a specific need.
The connector typically features a durable nickel or gold-plated metal shell for corrosion resistance and reliable electrical contact, with a plastic strain relief collar to secure the cable and prevent breakage at the solder joints. The internal solder terminals are clearly marked or designed to accept the left, right, and ground wires from a shielded stereo audio cable. The compact size and robust construction make it suitable for both stationary use and applications where the cable will be frequently plugged and unplugged, though the quality of the final cable largely depends on the skill of the assembler and the quality of the cable used.
This component is a fundamental part of the DIY audio and AV integration toolkit. It enables the creation of custom-length cables to minimize clutter, the repair of broken headphone cables, or the fabrication of specific adapters (e.g., 3.5mm to dual RCA) that may not be readily available commercially. By providing a reliable termination point, the Comprehensive Cables MJ-S connector helps ensure a secure and lasting connection for personal audio and basic line-level signal transmission in a wide array of electronic setups.