Ralph didn't expand on this point (maybe he was being kind or else explained this elsewhere) but there are many components with XLR connectors that do not necessarily include balanced circuitry.
True balanced requires an additional gain stage. Even without true balanced design, sone might feel there is an advantage simply with the XLR connector over the more common RCA type, others may include XLR for marketing reasons. It is unfortunate all this leads to so much confusion among consumers.
