XLR or RCA cables

On simlar length runs with same type of cable, XLR just sounds more dynamic and more refined than RCA. Yes, I have taken into consideration that a XLR connection will sound louder and had adjusted volume control to compensate.

This I have tried on equipment with dual RCA / XLR inputs and outputs (Denon AVP-A1HD sound processor, Bel Canto DAC3.5VB MKII, Bel Canto REF1000MKII).

This is the reason why Ayre amplification has only XLR connections. When you had tried both, you would only want to use XLR.

(Audio)

Thanks to all for your helpful responses. The Jensen transformer sounds intriguing. Where can I get information on them or purchase one?

The Jensen transformer sounds intriguing. Where can I get information on them or purchase one?

Jensen Home Page (click on "Iso-Max Audio Isolators" in the upper left, and then scroll down)

PI-2RX Datasheet (same as PI-2XX shown, except with RCA input connectors)

PI-2RX Manual

It would be best to give them a call before ordering, though, to confirm that this specific model is what they would recommend for your particular system.

Also, if your amp(s) are monoblocks, to keep the cable length between transformer and amp short (as required for an "input transformer" such as this) you should get two of the single-channel version, which would be model PI-1RX.

Regards,
-- Al

Thanks again, Almarg etal.

My preamp (Dspeaker Dual Core 2.0) has XLR outputs and my amp has RCA inputs. I had Simplifi Audio make me a XLR to RCA DNM HFTN cable and have no issues with it. Perhaps that might be a good way to go?
Less in the signal chain is sometimes best.