Does using XLR cables (double voltage output) mean I can use lower powered amplifiers?


Hi

Does using XLR cables (at 4V output from most dacs) vs RCA cables (with 2V output) mean that I have doubled the gain hence I only need half the power from amplifiers?

Just as a background I am looking for tube amplifers which typically are less powerful compared to solid state amplifiers. So I was wondering if using XLR connection rather than RCA mean that I can venture into lower powered amplifiers?

Or does the voltage input from the dac not matter/affect the power that a amplifier needs to drive the speakers?

Thanks!

Regards
Ben
thegreenman
Does using XLR cables (double voltage output) mean I can use lower powered amplifiers?


no
@dweller 

Hi

I dont think so. From what I understand the dac must be able to be fully balanced to produce a proper 4v output, and the integrated amp must be fully balanced as well to accept the 4v output. If you connect a 4v input to a 2v only rca input...it wouldnt work well from what I understand.

Please correct me if im wrong!

Regards
Ben
@thegreenman.
You can see my systems by clicking on my ID.

You have great speakers. It strikes me as you have great opportunities over time to improve your overall system to achieve greater SQ. I mean, I always look for the “best” component and then look at it’s potential if all components were upgraded to be of an equal and synergistic level. I don’t think you mentioned your sources. I’m assuming the Primaluna is an integrated amp.
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Of course the power is more than about just loudness, but given the sensitivity of your speakers the more powerful amp you are looking at is likely to sound much better.

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Given what you have said, have you looked at the Audio Research VT80se? You get warm tube… and really detailed. Now, this is my philosophy… but I try not to spread my money out and try always to step up… and never less than a 2x step up… since that creates some aspects of a sideways move. Anyway, if this strikes you as an interesting idea, go find a dealer and sit down and listen to one. If there isn’t one locally, take a little trip. I have actually flown across the country to audition stuff.
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