[erikzen]

I read a lot of the balanced threads but this question didn't come up that I could find. I have a DAC with balanced outputs. Is there any benefit to using the balanced outputs to the RCA inputs of my amp?

My eventual upgrade path will probably include going to a balanced amp and headphones but that is a while away.

 

[jpelg]

Higher voltage output signal. I have some inexpensive Hosa XLR->RCA adapters that you can try. If you can wait 'til the meet, I'll bring 'em.

 

[erikzen]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpelg /img/forum/go_quote.gif Higher voltage output signal. I have some inexpensive Hosa XLR->RCA adapters that you can try. If you can wait 'til the meet, I'll bring 'em.

Yes, that would be great. No rush, I'm just curious.

 

[Steve Eddy]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jpelg /img/forum/go_quote.gif Higher voltage output signal.

Since going from XLR to RCA only uses the output from pin 2 (i.e. just half of the balanced output), you wouldn't get any higher voltage output than you'd get from the unbalanced output.

se

 

[apatN]

Nope. Some designers may tweak the outputs however so they sound different. In any other cases there should be no difference in sound.

 

[WesMiaw]

Make sure your source will be okay with the XLR to RCA conversion mechanism you use. No load on the cold pin but load on the hot may be undesirable. Shorting cold to ground may be undesirable. Best to ask the manufacturer what will work okay.

 

[erikzen]

I've checked with the manufacturer and there should be no problem running the xlr output to the rca input of the amp. As to any sonic benefits this may provide, that is another story.