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Is there any quality or audio difference if I use a mic cable that is XLR on both ends vs an XLR to 1/4"? I'm setting up two permanent mics for my small drum set, one in the bass drum and one overhead. I have some cables, trying to avoid making a run to the music store for more.

Here's the video that motivated me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=749b4_6maB0

as long as you are using TRS cables you would likely have no issues with HUM etc. but the need to be going into Line level or Mic inputs (like Neutrix combo jacks) on your interface not Instrument / DI inputs.

http://www.sweetwater.com/sweetcare/art ... rs-cables/

Hi,
Make sure the TRS input is mic level so you get a good level from your mic. Some combo XLR / TRS connectors could be wired so the TRS is line level. Your manual may state this. Also an XLR to 1/4 TS would be unbalanced. Again you would need a mic level input. These can work if they are short in length, and you don't have many noise generating sources, like light dimmers... .

- Myran

Qualitatively, there's no theoretical difference between 1/4" TRS and XLR; either way, you have a positive a negative and a common ground, but so far as the connectors themselves go, XLR is the more robust of the two. I'm not sure how helpful the above is, in your situation, but my default is to use XLR when hooking up microphones, mainly because that connector is the modern standard for professional microphones. There are some exceptions, like if you plug a crystal mic into a tweed Fender and you blow harp, but generally speaking, you can always use a few more XLR cables, because pretty much all the best professional mic and line-level outboard hardware features XLR I/O. Where I like 1/4" TRS is for mixer inserts on an analog or digital mixer, cuz it cuts weight/cost.