Once I went XLR (balanced), I never went back. Now, if if doesn't have XLR capability, it ain't for me.
Should I try XLR?
I've never tried XLR cables, just regular ICs with my components. I currently have a Luxman 505UXii integrated with Dynaudio Special 40s. My CDP/streamer is a Marantz ND8006. I'm currently using WyWires ICs with all of my equipment. Would adding XLR cables to the CDP/streamer make a huge difference---if so, should I stick with WyWires XLR or something else? Thanks in advance for your help.
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@68pete +1. @bluorion, Yes it's accurate to say, balanced cables will generally provide an advantage over longer runs than single ended cables. Sure, the firm "snap" connectors provide a physical advantage over RCA connectors. But the big advantage of balanced cables is the 6db reduction in noise if used used between components that are truly designed as balanced. That means double the circuitry inside the amp/pre etc. The left and right channels each have a separate path inside the component that leads to the cable. Balanced Audio Technology(BAT) has a detailed explanation on their site. @atma-sphere could give a TED Talk on the subject! Many companies consider this philosophy a key credo in their designs. Don't be fooled thinking that XLR connectors implies that the component is truly balanced. Many items like the Oppo I used to own have XLR outputs which are convenient when connecting to another balanced component, but the signal isn't balanced and doesn't give the advantage that those cables are born to leverage. Cheers, Spencer |
to spencer's points, which are key to this discussion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzEmKPTb18g&t=421s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I2um9XqcNiw then detail of implementation is also important... as usual details really matter https://sound-au.com/articles/balanced-io.htm |
- 19 posts total