More on XLR vs RCA considerations?
Have read much about the differences between balanced vs unbalanced circuitry and the interconnects that go with it. The consensus seems to be "mostly" in favor of balanced when it is available. There are at least a few who seem to prefer unbalanced. Perhaps if the circuitry (caps etc.) becomes equal between the two, there is not much advantage to XLR? Not sure, myself. I like to have the option even though I've never used it, just makes me feel good, knowing it's there if I ever decide to use it. Long wire runs seems to be the main reason. Are there others? I heard, lowers noise floor with higher gain. OK.
I've never seen a Conrad Johnson amp or preamp with XLR connections. Maybe they exist, don't know but I've never seen it. CJ is certainly respected in the high end audio world. I'm just curious as to why they would never build with balanced circuitry. Any thoughts on why not? I'm just curious.
Bill
It's a misnomer that balanced circuits "double up" the circuitry. Balanced components such as the OP's Aesthetix Calypso use differential circuitry (probably operational amplifiers) to get the balanced outputs. That is a very common approach in high end audio. |
What makes you think your thread will be different? Ralph, the BAT crew, and their follwers will swear you can’t have a good system without XLR. Many of the rest of us who swear by RCA, aren’t so married to it and we’ll likely say it doesn’t matter. I have a custom amp made well beyond the price of most high end amps, and I had RCA inputs installed. Jerry |
I generally prefer balanced components for a number of reasons but I don't think your claim is true. I ran single-ended for years with excellent results. As is often the case in audio, implementation is everything - there are good and bad (relatively) examples of each. |
Jerry I remember you talking about having yours made with RCA and you are talking about nice high end gear. Also, I find it interesting that CJ does not use XLR's. It seems that both can be excellent but maybe balanced has some advantage in some situations. Certainly in long runs but maybe some other situations as well. I am no expert, that's for sure. I can only try it with mine and see what I think. Even that won't prove a whole lot due to so many other factors involved but at least I'll have a taste of it and maybe I'll lean one way or the other. Hard to say. I hope I haven't stirred more trouble. Not the intent at all. I appreciate all the input and I know there is a vast wealth of knowledge and experience here. Many thanks. Bill |
