Where does the connection of the XLR cords typically take place?

The connection of XLR cords typically takes place at the mixer. This is because the mixer acts as a central hub for audio signals, allowing various audio sources, such as microphones and instruments, to be combined, processed, and sent out to speakers or recording devices. The XLR connectors are well-suited for this purpose due to their balanced audio design, which minimizes noise and interference over long cable runs.

While XLR connections can indeed be found at microphones and speakers, the mixer is where multiple sources are managed and adjusted, making it a pivotal point for audio mixing and routing. The use of XLR cables at the mixer ensures that sound quality is maintained as the audio signals are modified and directed to the appropriate outputs.