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Connecting a unbalanced output preamp to Krell FPB350 balanced amp

Hello everyone,

I own a Conrad Johnson 17LS and a pair of Krell FPB350 amps. The CJ has only RCA unbalanced outputs and the Krell has balanced inputs (either in their proprietary CAST configuration or a standard XLR connection). I've been trying to upgrade my interconnects and have been experiencing buzz and hum. I was wondering if anyone has a cable configuration that best minimises these problems. I have seen the "rane.com" suggestions and tried their configuration #17. I've tried other configurations such as 3 cores with a shield that is connected at the XLR end to ground and the RCA end to the return conductor/pin. I've also tried with only one end (XLR balanced end) connected to ground. None of these solved the problem though the second option above seems to have the least amount of hum or buzz.

Regards.
swcng2001
sgonzalez33
13 posts
 
@swcng2001 
I know this is some time later but I have an extra ARC BL-1 if you're still interested in going that route. I used one between a phono pre and preamp. Worked well for me.
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
Get a used Krell KCT preamp...dead quiet and extremely musical!  Krell amps are designed to be run fully balanced.  You will not hear what the amps can do unless you run Balanced!
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,733 posts
 
dave_b
are you still enjoying your Krell Vanguard?  Happy Listening!
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
Yes, longest I’ve owned a piece of audio...no plans to change or sell!  It is a gem and a superb DAC to run my BlueSound through.  I have found a worthy replacement for my previous Krell Cipher for my vast CD/SACD collection.  I bought a Yamaha CD/SACD player.  Built like a tank...32bit resolution and discrete components hardwired.  Amazingly clear, sweet dynamic sound with tremendous extension.
dave_b's avatar
dave_b
3,159 posts
 
The Yamaha is a stone cold steal!!  

CD-S2100 High-grade CD Player
  •  
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The CD-S2100 provides a new circuit design for elimination of audio loss, plus a high precision drive mechanism for reproduction accuracy. This high-grade CD player delivers the new sound of Yamaha and is equipped with high-performance USB audio and DAC and other advanced functions.

  • Left-right symmetrical construction, independent digital/analog circuit configuration, with top priority on sound quality
  • Digital/analog circuitry with integrated power supplies and screw type connections eliminate signal transmission loss
  • Single-stage configuration I/V conversion circuit enables direct analog output
  • Independent power supplies with complete separation of digital and analog
  • High precision CD drive for greater vibration resistance and high precision signal reading
  • High rigidity aluminum CD tray
  • Exceptionally high performance 32-bit D / A converter from ESS
  • Built-in USB DAC functions and ASIO 2.3 Yamaha Steinberg USB Driver
  • Beautiful, sleek design and half-mirror display

My Vanguard was a steal as well...I bought it as one of the first integrated units released at the initial projected msrp of $3500 plus a discount of $300!  A few days later my dealer told me the actual price was $4500 :)  later that year Krell put the digital upgrade in for $1000 and Re-badged it as an original Vanguard Digital which I believe goes for close to $7000 or more now?




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