Bat VK-P10 and Sonic Frontiers SFP 1 Signature

as a rule of thumb the input sencitivity of phono preamp is higher on balanced inputs than on un-balanced and so the s/n ratio is higher.

it's ok to use adapters(Neutrik RCA-XLR pro-grade is OK Cardas is certainly better but$$).

I am not sure what kind of noise you are getting. If you are getting low level hum, you might want to move around or switch the position of the P-10, your preamp, and your turntable. The transformers in the P-10 are mounted vertically in the front corners. If you put it side-by-side or on a shelf directly under the turntable, the transformer will be very close to the cartridage. I don't know if this is your case but it might be something worth considering.

Good luck

I have a VKP10. I'd never describe it the way you are. I am running it with a VK50SE preamp. I'd send Victor a email or call BAT. Maybe something is up with yours. Bad tubes, cartridge mismatch, cap, gain, or resistance set way off. Hard to tell, bet you should be happier than what you are. Read the reviews on Balanced.com. Even with single ended gear the p10 is loved.

Some other good advice above...

The problem existed with both a Clearaudio and a Koetsu. In actuality it also exhibited a ground hum with the Clearaudio that only was there in the balanced mode. I switched back to an RCA phono cable and solved that problem. BAT acknowledged the issue with Clearaudio cartridges and earlier VKK-P10 that did not have truely balanced inputs. They did not offer to remedy the problem. The noise I am now referring to is an amplifiable hiss that is more of a problem with both jazz and classsical music. The preamp has been moved to isolated locations that would preclude other equipment from being the cause. As stated, the Sonic Frontiers Signature costing one third the price and also a tube preamp is much quieter.

i've never looked inside the bat units and also wonder if BAT makes tru-balanced design especially on units where both options are available.