Balanced XLR vs RCA for phono stage

@atmasphere Wrote:

This might be easier to understand if you think about a simple output transformer with only 2 output wires, driving pin 2 and pin 3 with no connection at all to pin 1 (which is chassis ground).

@cleeds,

The diagram below shows that!

Mike

The Absolute Best Right Way To Do It

The method specified by AES48 is to use balanced lines and tie the cable shield to the metal chassis (right where it enters the chassis) at both ends of the cable.

Figure 1a. The right way to do it.

I think it remains debatable that using a balanced circuit consistent with AES48 is the "absolute best right way to do it." That's why there are so many excellent components (such as the ARC that I mentioned) that use operational amp circuits to generate both halves of the signal.

The middle diagram matches the Zavfino XLR cable so if BAT and Goldnote got it right too, I should be good.

Thanks for posting.

High end audio designers are aware of standards. They will follow them when it results in the best sound. Frequently standards have large compromises embedded in them and may not be worth following to achieve the best result. There are always trade-offs.

Another thought (rhetorical question)...given the benefits of XLR in pro audio over long distances, why would high-end home audio designers bother implementing XLR if there was no sonic benefit over relatively short distances?