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


I have a Classe 30 line stage preamp and a 70 amp. I am currently using the RCA outputs with a splitter to allow me to run stereo subs also. I would like to use both outputs from the preamp using balance cables to the amp and RCAs to the subs.

Is this possible? Thanks.

128x128boonaroo

On my Krell Illusion and Krell 300xd they both have Balanced outputs and Rca outputs along with inputs So I use high quality locking xlr connection between units.

Some visitors to this thread might not understand that there are two types of circuits in stereo audio components: ’single-ended’ and ’balanced’. Single-ended is also known as as SE.

An RCA connector is used on a ’single-ended’ circuit. An RCA connector cannot be used on a ’balanced’ circuit. An XLR connector is only used on a ’balanced’ circuit. BUT, an XLR connector can be used on a ’single-ended’ circuit. It is simply piggy-backed on to the RCA wiring. Several manufacturers provide both RCA & XLR connectors on a ’single-ended’ circuit simply for convenience. (No need to buy new cables.)

A truly-balanced differential circuit is considerably more expensive to implement. A manufacturer will feature this design in their marketing. The benefit of balanced is best realized if all the components in a chain are also balanced. As with everything else in audio, ’single-ended’ vs ’balanced’ is subjective. They each of their advantages & disadvantages.

Having XLR connectors on a component, does not automatically mean that the circuit is balanced. And there’s the option of converting a single-ended circuit to balanced by installing a transformer. This would be for a different discussion.

@steakster , whether the circuit is truly balanced or the outputs are balanced in name only should not have an effect on OP using one pair connected to his amp and the other pair connected to his sub.