The Azden MX-R1 is a specialized, short-length adapter cable designed to interface audio equipment with different connector types and signal levels. It features a 3.5mm (1/8-inch) male TRS (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) plug on one end and an XLR male plug on the other. The primary function of this cable is to connect the unbalanced stereo headphone or line-level output from a consumer device—such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or portable media player—to a professional balanced microphone or line-level input on a mixing console, audio interface, or recorder. The TRS plug carries a stereo signal (left and right channels), but when connected to a single XLR input, the cable is internally wired to combine these two channels into a single mono signal, typically by summing the left and right channels. This allows audio from a consumer device to be integrated into a professional audio system for playback, recording, or as a sound source.

The cable is constructed with quality materials to ensure reliable signal transfer and durability, featuring standard Azden build quality with robust strain relief at the connectors. Its short length makes it ideal for permanent patch connections or for keeping setups tidy near a mixer. It is important to note that this cable is designed for connecting a device's output to a mixer's input; the XLR male end is intended to plug into a female XLR input on the console. This cable does not provide ground lift or level matching; it is a straightforward passive adapter. As such, users must often manage the significant level difference between a consumer line/headphone output (which can be very high) and a professional mic-level input by carefully setting the gain on the mixer to avoid distortion.