XLR vs RCA

It's driven by what electronic you use. If they are truly balanced designs, then you're better off with balanced cables.

Welcome to Audiogon Codytara. Oh boy, are you ever in for a treat when Audiolabyrinth finds out that you are here! Get ready for a new BFF.

I agree with Onhwy61, it depends on what electronics you use. I've been down both roads, but I'm currently using RCA's.

Welcome Codytara
I tried both Rca and Xlr (Nordost Frey) when I had a Meridian G08 for a source. I would say the sound stage was a little wider with the Xlr. But what I didn't care for was the output was louder with Xlr when the volume wasn't changed. For that reason I chose Rca and that was a good thing when I changed my source to a Naim Unitiserve and dac (no Xlr).

That said I did really like the fact the Xlr's lock in place

Those who concern themselves with the direction in which their cables are connected don't have to worry about that with XLRs, as they only connect in one direction :-)

More seriously, see my comments dated 12-7-14 here, in which I cited many reasons why the performance of the two interfaces may differ, regardless of whether or not the internal signal paths in the components are balanced. The bottom line: "If the components provide both choices, and are not fully balanced, the only way to determine which interface will perform best in your particular setup is probably to try both of them."

Regards,
-- Al

Most gear today comes with XLR jacks and most audiophiles prefer this type of cable. Unless you have older equipment or tube gear, the choice appears to be XLR. IMO, RCA is fine for shorter lengths but for longer runs XLRs are better for CMRR.