Balanced XLR cables


I am purchasing a preamp with balanced xlr connections.  some of my other gear has xlr terminals but never used them for lack of source input until now with the preamp.  is there a big difference in xlr's?  not trying to start a cable war discussion, just dont want to spend an arm / leg. is $50 for a 3 ft cable on the cheap side?  i havr always found Mogami cables good value.  recommendations please
128x128markolsen
Just because you have balance inputs and outputs does not mean you have a balanced system. If your gear is truly balanced from input to out put, then yes a good balance cable can sound better.
You can get (balanced) cables made to order, using Mogami W2549 and gold Neutrik XLRs, by many pro audio shops. This is NOT expensive, certainly not by audiophile standards. I have had very good service from ProAudioLA.

Because of the length of interconnects in my system (25 ft), it’s been difficult to compare to many other cables. Another Mogami cable (W2534) and Gotham GAC-4/1 sounded very similar to W2549, with W2549 the most open by just a hair. A well-known audiophile brand costing 15x as much was superior in no way and was noticeably colored in the treble.

 I compared single ended premium cables against $60 balanced cables. I preferred the balanced cables. The difference was subtle, but noticeable. Pre, power, and cd were all "fully balanced".