Using both balanced and single ended outputs at the same time?

If you’re using components with truly balanced circuitry, you often get 6 dB greater output when using the balanced XLR connectors. Another way of looking at that gain is that for a given output level, you’ll get 6 dB greater S/N when using balanced connections. That’s a big deal.

Gain which you can’t use... and at the levels we are typically talking about, 90 dB signal to noise, sure, I can measure 90 vs. 96, but I can't hear it.

erik_squires

... at the levels we are typically talking about, 90 dB signal to noise, sure, I can measure 90 vs. 96, but I can't hear it.

Some people like the addition of noise in their systems, feeling it adds a sense of "spaciousness." Suit yourself!

I did it successfully with a Classe CP35 and Six...long ago ...

I have a BHK pre with both balanced & RCA out. The BHK instructions state one of the uses for the RCA’s out we’re Subs. The only issue is the balanced out was +6db, as @cleeds said over the RCA out so had to adjust the sub volume up to compensate.