Is it save to convert XLR to RCA?


Dear Audio Gurus,

I have a Harman Kardon HD990 player, which has two outputs: RCA and XLR. I'd like to use them both. However, my amps and pre-amps all take RCA. I know of XLR-to-RCA cables. But the HD990 specs mention that RCS is a 2V output whereas XLR is 4V. Am I going to damage my amps and pre-amps by trying this?

Thanks,
Walfredo
walfredo
The above answers are correct, I've done it without issue to drive a subwoofer when I didn't have an extra pair of rca out. Worked well.
The 4V refers to the DIFFERENCE between the non-inverted and inverted signals that are provided to pins 2 and 3, respectively, of the XLR connector. Each of those signals individually has a maximum amplitude of 2V. By adapting the XLR output to an RCA input, you would only be using one of those signals (the non-inverted one), so the RCA input would see a maximum amplitude of 2V.

Something to keep in mind, however: Most XLR-to-RCA adapters, and perhaps some adapter cables, short the inverted signal on XLR pin 3 to ground (XLR pin 1). Many components won't have a problem with that, but some will (if it is done on an XLR output; it is no problem on an XLR input). Use an adapter or adapter cable that leaves pin 3 unconnected. Talk to the supplier to be sure that is what they will provide.

Another approach to consider would be to just use the RCA output, via a y-adapter that would allow you to connect it to two destinations. That should work fine as long as the total of the two cable lengths is not extremely long.

Regards,
-- Al
Thanks so much for the response, folks!!

I am fully aware I'm losing the XLR benefits by using a convertor. I just want a second output.

+1 to all the above. I use Cardas XLR > RCA adapters to connect preamp to subwoofers. Cardas disconnected pin 3 for me at no extra charge.
Assuming you get the correct adaptor, while you will have no benefit going from balanced to RCA, it shouldn't be worse than RCA-RCA.

Also, if you go with an RCA splitter, I would go with a one-piece metal splitter, rather than a Y-cable.