2. amps-preamps
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Are they truly balanced?

I was wondering if all quality preamps that offer both single ended and balanced connectors are truly balanced designs. I'm pretty sure that the BAT equipment is of this design. But what about those preamps from the other high-end companies?

The reason I'm asking is that I've got an EMC-1 CDP that many people say sounds better using the balanced output. My current pre is single-ended only. My power amp is balanced though. I'm thinking that maybe a balanced pre would make the whole system sound better.

Any thoughts?
kenl
jtinn
1,124 posts
 
The BAT preamp is a true balanced design from input to output. There are not that many that are really balanced. The Atma-sphere from what I understand is another one.
garfish
1,840 posts
 
All of Sonic Frontiers present pre-amps, ie the Line 1,2 and 3 are fully balanced. The new SE versions would also be fully balanced. But you're right, you have to specifically ask a knowledgeable rep., or see literature, of the product to know for sure.

BTW, not everyone agrees that fully balanced operation sounds best-- this is an area of contention, and their have been many threads discussing the subject. I don't use XLR, but then I haven't given it a fair trial either. Sonic Frontiers and Madrigal both strongly recommend balanced. Good Luck. Craig.
albertporter's avatar
albertporter
4,949 posts
 
The only ones I am certain of are Aesthetix Callisto, BAT, Atmasphere, and Elliott EASE Magnum. There are probably others, but I will leave that to others who are positive as to which ones.
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