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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

billpete
vinci92
20 posts
 

I have a pair of Cardas Clear Beyond XLR because I have no choice if I want to use the Nagra Classic Preamp two pairs of parallel outputs for my sub (single pair of RCA outputs, so no sub in RCA). However, my source is connected in RCA.

In my second system as well as in two home theaters, I only have RCA Interconnects: two other pairs of Clear Beyond, two Siltech Crown Princess 35th Anniversary pairs, two Clear REV1 pairs and two Cygnus pairs.

The reason is: after more than 10 years of testing, I definitely prefer RCA interconnects, but only if there are high quality: The top frequencies seem clearer, to have more presence and impact, without being grainy

bassbuyer
266 posts
 

On short runs with well made equipment you probably won’t notice an audible difference.  I have both and choose to use XLR cables and connections when available.  The cables click or lock in place so it’s a secure connection especially with other cables around the equipment which is a benefit in my experience.  

vinylshadow
514 posts
 

If your equipment is True Balanced then XLR.

Otherwise I'd go unbalanced RCA. 

invalid
1,251 posts
 

@vinylshadow what is true balanced? 

vinylshadow
514 posts
 

@invalid 

It's where the component has isolated inputs and outputs.

There is some great information on the interweb about it. 

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