2. amps-preamps
  3. 177204-110235

Balanced versus single ended

From my experience, every situation that had both options, the balanced connection and/or increased gain sounded better, regardless of the bolume knob’s final position. More detail , air, emotional connection etc. The single ended cables used were good, not the bargain or so called high end extreme.

Sometimes using balanced or xlr it involved just the source, but optimally it carried through thd entire chain.

Anyways, my question is: has anyone ever thought that single ended sounded better?given the 2 options. Im only referring to a truly balanced connection.

I ask, because a manufacturer who makes tube amps, recommends single over balanced connection. Is there something else involved in this decision, additional parts or labor complexity? Is the signal path extended?

Thanks in advance

 

recluse
arcticdeth's avatar
arcticdeth
1,572 posts
 

RCA’s sound just fine. 
 

used both, rca is great.

yyzsantabarbara
5,123 posts
 

My Livingroom Benchmark gear is AES48 compliant. I very happy running relatively low cost Benchmark XLR interconnect between preamp and amp (both Benchmark). I have tried more expensive XLR's. On my sources that are from varies manufacturers I found that the interconnects matter. So there I use Audience Au24 SE and various WyWire.

On my office system, I have a KRELL amp and CODA preamp which I am not sure is AES48 compliant. I am running the 15+ foot Benchmark XLR between the 2. I am afraid to try any expensive XLR between them. My ignorance will save me money.

 

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
12,176 posts
 

Then there is the argument that the AES48, as an application is a sonic limitation in itself, and is part and parcel and core to the idea that all AES48 applications have little noted differences in their sonic signatures.

You might try it. But keep in mind that if such were really the case the Golden Age of HiFi in the 1950s would never have happened. Basically what you seem to be suggesting is that the cables are too colored to be able to hear a difference, which is oxymoronic. Coloration is exactly what the balanced line system solves.

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