2. amps-preamps
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Single Ended vs Balanced Output Gain

I run an ARC Ref 3SE phono with VAC Sig Mkll SE pre and VAC Phi 200 monos; the gain in the phono is 6 dB less in Single Ended  compared to Balanced; the pre specs show no difference in output gain Single Ended vs Balanced; the gain in the amps is 6 dB greater Single Ended compared to Balanced.  Why the difference in output gain between the two?  Is this typical on pre and amps that have both Single Ended and Balanced Outputs?

post2338
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runwell
284 posts
 

I know for sure XLR system get good sound, and get big sound , (I mean the sound get spacious) and get high,mid,bass in balanced. But in reality, it won’t win in all situations.

In my case, I listen vocal Jazz 99%, I want a low voice most of the time as I do not want to disturb kids learning.

I want the singer voice outstanding among all sound.

So in this case, definitely go RCA connection.

runwell
284 posts
 

The most important thing I forgot to mention is that my RCA pre get perfect sound in my point of view,if I changed the pre, the sound is different. I also try RCA to xlr cable, the sound is also different.I will stay with this pre,that's the reason, and this pre does not have xlr port.

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
12,001 posts
 

In my case, I listen vocal Jazz 99%, I want a low voice most of the time as I do not want to disturb kids learning.

I want the singer voice outstanding among all sound.

Never mind that the recording was made using balanced connections!

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