Balanced Inputs

I don't think any of my gear is truely balanced.  I have a modest system:

Technics SL-100C turntable

Ortofon 2M Black cartridge

Denafrips Ares II DAC

Audiolabs 6000CDT transport

Parasound Zphono XRM

Parasound Halo P6 preamp

Parasound Halo A23+ power amp

Does the implementation of your XLR input use a jensen transformer?

The Denafrips Aries II is stated to be truly balanced.

I have mine (Aries II) going from its balanced outputs and into the balanced inputs of my Belles Aria Signature pre.

If I had to choose between the DAC and phono, I would probably go with the DAC.

@holmz 

It is my understanding that balanced audio circuits typically  “add” 6 db of gain compared with a single ended circuit.

Charles

Two questions:

1.  Do your DAC and Phono stage both have differential balanced circuitry?

2.  What source do you use the most?

In my preamp a balanced input has 6 db of gain compared with RCA.  I'd prioritize using XLR for components designed to optimize the signal path first then the source I use the most.