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Ayre Codex and Output Transformer

I have an Ayre Codex connected to my amp via RCA.  I think everyone (even Ayre) agrees that using the XLR outputs from the DAC would be the best sound.  However, I only have RCA connections....  I read in an old (2016) thread a suggestion of using a Jensen Output Transformer.  

What would I do?  Go from XLR outs on the Codex to the transformer and then from there RCA to my amp?  And would that really preserve the better sound that comes from the balanced XLR outs?  

Any information about this would be appreciated!


soundchasr
tomstruck's avatar
tomstruck
353 posts
 
I have a Codex in my system and I used the RCA outputs with my Oppo disc player  the Codex is a much better DAC then the on board one used it four years that way
Back last April I upgraded my preamp and amp now using the XLRs
it's a great DAC

Enjoy the Music
Tom 
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
https://www.jensen-transformers.com/product/pc-2xr/

Is this what you're considering? It will take a balanced input and will output a single-ended signal. The issue is that it will reduce the gain of the balanced signal to that of an unbalanced RCA. I think you're losing the benefit of the balanced signal.
I believe using your RCA unbalanced would offer the same result.
 

oldears
386 posts
 
You should contact Ayre before you try that. I believe the manual specifically says not to. At any rate you don't get the benefit of balanced connections if everything is not balanced.
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jjss49's avatar
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
cardas makes those xlr ---> rca adapters that tvad mentions
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