2. amps-preamps
  3. 150222-14845

Balanced vs RCA between amp/preamp

Well I'm taking my first step into separate components with a Marantz SC-11s1 and SM-11s1. Would like to know about the +/-'s of using RCA vs balanced interconnects between the two. All my input sources are single ended.

I understand the Marantz components balanced connections have pin 2 wired cold and pin 3 wired hot. Does this mean I need to reverse the cables going to my speakers (if I decide to use balanced connections between amp/preamp).

I also understand the RCA connections conserve absolute polarity. But is there a performance "hit" taken by using singled ended connections between amp/preamp?

Thank you in advance......
wec56
runwell
279 posts
 

So that's it. I will feedback when I receive and install the transformer in my system.

I tried the direct  RCA to xlr cable before, and I can hear the soundstage is not good.

 

runwell
279 posts
 

Just connect the ISO MAX transformer in between my RCA pre and XLR power amp,The sound is changed too. It is not very  active as it before and Sound volume is not gain +6db,but become a little small.  Totally different sound. I just remove it from connection. No good for thus isolation transformer.

 

imhififan's avatar
imhififan
2,205 posts
 

@runwell 

Just curious what RCA pre and XLR power amp connected via ISO MAX transformer?

runwell
279 posts
 

Rega Cursa 3 pre and  audio Research VT100 Mk III ( this model has rca input and I just do the test and if ok will move to Audio Research Ref 75se.)

 

More to discover