Classe owners: balanced vs. unbalanced?


Hi, I've read here that some amps do better balanced, and some unbalanced. Have any Classe owners experimented with the difference? I have a CP-35 preamp and CA-200 (new style, similar to CA-201) amp. My question is about interconnect between preamp and amp.

I need a 25-foot run.

Thanks for any experience.
ehart
I would choose longer speaker runs. Lots can happen with low level signals in interconnects. Running balanced is better. I have 2 CA300's and when running balanced, noise is less. But the real improvement is achieved when running them bridged (mono). That smooth tube sound that Classe is known for is even more appearent when in bringed mode. It's not subtle!
Need a pair of Classe CA 300's? I bought a pair of 400's and don't need the 3's anymore.
I am using a Classe CA-151 amp to Classe SSP-25 preamp/processor. I orig. had it set-up as SE, then I switched to Balanced and heard a wonderful difference.
Lower noise floor, better bottom end. I am using the Purist Audio Venustas Balanced IC. The Venustas is an amazing cable!!!!
I have a CA 301. When I first got the system, I noticed a bit of low level noise/hum. At first, I thought it was the tubes in the ARC LS16 pre-amp, so I switched them out. Then, I put in a dedicated line. Still had hum. I called up the dealer, asking about balanced IC's. His opinion was that my 1 meter runs probably would NOT benifit from balanced operation, but why not try it. I went over and borrowed some old demo AudioQuest diamond XLRs. The difference was dramatic, the noise was cut so low that I have to put my ear to the speaker to hear it now. (Not my usual listening position;)

I bought the diamonds, then bought another pair here on Audiogon for the run between the CDP and the preamp. All balanced now.

The negative impact was the additional gain of the classe 301 in the balanced mode. My pre-amp volume position dropped in half. Generaly it is recommended to take as much voltage gain as early on for improved signal to noise ratio. However, I think that the inherent noise cancellation of the balanced mode outweighs the reduced SN ratio in my system.

I recommend that you try it, and let your ears make the decision.