Is it save to convert XLR to RCA?

Hi Scott,

Is the solution different for converting RCA to XLR vs converting XLR to RCA?

Yes, absolutely. The two situations are very different.

It is highly preferable, and will be necessary in many cases, to ground pin 3 when adapting to an XLR input. Otherwise that input connection would be referenced to the component's circuit ground only through a high impedance (the input impedance of that input), which would create a susceptibility to hum and noise.

On the other hand, grounding pin 3 of an XLR output accomplishes nothing constructive, and creates the risk that the circuit or device providing that output signal will misbehave (or even be damaged if it is not well designed) as a result of the excessive amount of current that will be drawn by the short circuit. See this thread for an example.

Best regards,
-- Al

al, thanks so much. your willingness to share knowledge and your time is very appreciated. sounds like the correct way to convert an RCA preamp output to XLR such that an XLR IC can be used is to connect pins 1 and 3 to the ground such as is made possible via this adapter.

i really appreciate the guidance!

Yes, that looks like a good choice, Scott.

FYI, this Jensen paper may be of interest, with respect to long term applications as opposed to the temporary situation you are addressing.

Best regards,
-- Al

Ok, I have a question. I want to use an xlr cable from my pre to amp. My pre is only RCA out. I want to purchase this Jensen transformer mentioned above and am not sure what to buy and if it will work? I assume they make one that accepts RCA from the pre and then use xlr from the Jensen out to my amp xlr? I did not see a pic of a Jensen unit so equipped?

Am I thinking right?