2. tech-talk
  3. 1022289135

Can you convert balanced inputs to RCA inputs help

I have a pair of Aragon Palladium monoblocks and they are
much to my surprise Balanced Inputs.. I need to have them converted to RCA inputs... Where can I have such a thing done and is there an easier way, ie . rca to balanced input convertor or connector... am I compromising anything with that type of connector if it exists.. Balanced is not an option with my Reference 20 Processor...
Please Help
Kindly,
Joe DiMonte
jdimonte4
jeffloistarca
1,004 posts
 
Balanced Audio Technology (BAT) and Purist Audio Design (PAD) both make balanced-to-RCA connectors, check out their websites perhaps hunt down a local dealer and you should be all set. Expect to pay $100 or so for a pair
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
2nd the above, however, you can usually find the bat adaptors for sale on audiogon from time to time...
ghostrider45
449 posts
 
If you want to make an input adaptor, connect the center conductor of the unbalanced shielded cable to pin 2 of the balanced XLR connector. Connect the shield of the unbalanced shielded cable to pin 1 of the balanced XLR connector. Connect a jumper from pin 3 to pin 1 of the XLR connector.

The above assumes the US standard.

There are two penalties for using the adaptor. First you lose 6db of gain. This won't be an issue if your preamp is active and provides reasonable output levels.

The second penalty is that you lose the theoretical noise rejection provided by a true balanced connection.
More to discover