Joule 150A MKII versus Atma-sphere Preamps

As I understand it, the basis for balanced designs comes from studio equipment. Unlike home use where 1-2 meters is typical for interconnect, studios often run 10-30 meters so noise rejection becomes critical. So balanced may measure lower noise, even in a home system, but is it audible? I wish someone would run a reliable test on this.

Another point, a few years ago I ask Jud about a balanced version of the Joule preamp. He said to make it truly balanced would require another gain stage and he did not believe that would be worthwhile (increased complexity in the circuit). He also mentioned the unlikelihood of noise with good quality interconnects of moderate length.

I thought the goal of "balanced" cables was to keep the shield separate from the "-" wire. In many RCA's the shield is connected to the "-" so that the noise collected by the shield may become a part of the amplified signal. Doesn't a "balanced" cable drain the noise collected by the drain wire and connect it directly to chassis earth ground, bypassing the "-" wire, hence never giving it the opportunity to pollute the amplifed signal. Am I misunderstanding this?

My other issue beside design approach is whether or not the MP-3 is as inherently good a preamp as the Joule 150A MKII. I love the Joule after having experimented with CAT,Lamm, and Placette Active. So quiet or not, I just don't know if the MP-3 is as a good a preamp, but again, I guess I just won't know till I get one in my system.