Balanced XLR vs RCA for phono stage

I've found that BAT gear sounds better using balanced connections myself.  Glad it worked out for you.

@tko956 thank you

Using balanced XLR connections in audio setups can offer several advantages over single-ended RCA connections, even for relatively short cable runs. However, the specific benefits you'll gain can depend on various factors, including the quality of your equipment and the listening environment. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of balanced XLR vs. single-ended RCA connections and whether it's worth getting an XLR cable for your setup:

Pros of Balanced XLR Connections:

1. Noise Rejection: Balanced XLR cables use two conductors and a ground, with one conductor carrying the inverted (phase-flipped) audio signal. This configuration allows for common-mode noise rejection, meaning any interference that affects both conductors is canceled out. This makes XLR connections more resistant to noise and interference.

2. Improved Signal Integrity: The noise rejection capabilities of XLR cables can result in cleaner and more accurate audio transmission. This can lead to improved audio quality, especially in high-end audio systems.

3. Greater Signal Strength: XLR connections typically have higher voltage levels, which can result in better signal strength over long cable runs. While your setup may not have long cable runs, this increased signal strength can still benefit signal quality.

4. Better Grounding: XLR connections provide a more secure ground connection, which can be beneficial in reducing ground loop issues and hum in your system.

Cons of Balanced XLR Connections:

1. Equipment Compatibility: To take full advantage of balanced XLR connections, both your source component (Goldnote PS-10) and your amplification component (BAT VK 3500) must support balanced XLR connections. If one of them does not, you won't be able to use XLR connections effectively.

2. Cost: In some cases, XLR cables and equipment may be more expensive than their single-ended counterparts. However, the price difference can vary depending on the brand and specific models.

Should You Get an XLR Cable for Your Setup?

Given that your BAT VK 3500 has balanced inputs, and your Goldnote PS-10 offers a balanced output, there are potential benefits to using balanced XLR connections, even for a relatively short cable run of 1.5 meters. These benefits include reduced noise and potentially improved signal integrity.

While your existing Zavfino Fusion RCA cable is likely of good quality, if you're interested in exploring the advantages of balanced XLR connections, you could consider getting the same Zavfino Fusion cable but terminated with XLR connectors. This would allow you to compare the performance between the two cable types and determine whether you notice a significant improvement in your audio quality.

Ultimately, whether the investment in a balanced XLR cable is worthwhile depends on your listening preferences and how discerning your ears are. If you appreciate cleaner, more pristine audio and are interested in the technical benefits of XLR connections, it may be a worthwhile upgrade. However, it's always a good idea to audition the cables in your specific setup to determine whether the difference in sound quality justifies the expense.

@tokushi 

Nice write up.

ghdprentice

Nice write up.

It hurts me to be the one to tell you, @ghdprentice, but user @tokushi is AI. It's pretty obvious.