2. cables
  3. 156923-110858

RCA to XLR Adapter

I have a Herron pre amp that has only RCA outputs.  I'm considering buying a pair of used Merrill Audio Veritas Monoblocks that only have XLR inputs. I found these Cardas female RCA to male XLR adapters that would allow me to make the connection.  Are there any downsides to using adapters such as these? 
128x128oldschool1948
ebm
9,311 posts
 
You will always loose sound quality with adapters no matter how good.I think you best bet is to look at an amp that does single ended well such as PASS etc. 
gp4jesus
36 posts
 
ebm6 is correct - adapters in the path will degrade SQ

Concerning the “mixing and matching” connecting single ended to balanced or the reverse - some degradation can occur. 
My cables are the adapter - XLR on one end, RCA one the other. My balanced gear is forgiving - some is not😡 As I posted, one day better cables w/better connectors. Better ingredients better 🍕😊. 
maxwave's avatar
maxwave
978 posts
 
@ebm  +1
I use the Neutrik between my HT Processor and the subwoofers.
Loosing sound quality there is not that important. 
petg60
1,486 posts
 
Hi,
Use single ended only or balanced only. Adaptors are not such a good idea for sound quality no matter how fancy they look.
More to discover