I get confused by the terminology around switches… I want to make either a two or three input to one output stereo XLR switch. Thats six poles (five if I wore the grounds together) right? I assume a rotary switch would be best, especially for three inputs?
2 poles for single-ended stereo, three throws for 3 input. For differential/balanced signals double the number of poles, so 4 pole for balanced stereo (assuming you are using XLR connectors balanced as is usual).
Poles is the number of separate channels, throws is the number of positions the switch has.
Poles is the number of separate channels, throws is the number of positions the switch has.
If it's a metal chassis:
Attach each XLR Pin #1 to the chassis at it's connector.
XLR Pin #1 is the shield not the ground.
Attach each XLR Pin #1 to the chassis at it's connector.
XLR Pin #1 is the shield not the ground.