Balanced output from Oppo DV-970HD

[Dan the man]

Just got the Oppo CDP but I am confused about the analog/digital outputs.

If I add a DAC like the Benchmarc how can I get balanced output to a balanced headphone amp? The Oppo has S/PDIF coaxial and optical digital outputs (are they balanced?) and Analog stereo audio RCA jacks (Mixed 2-channel left/right): 1 group (2 connectors).

Which digital connection to the DAC would give the best SQ or does it matter and what is the best moderate priced cable for this purpose. I will use the Oppo as a transport for the DAC.

I assume that the digital outputs would be used for the DAC.
What are the "mixed 2 channel" analog outputs?

 

[PFKMan23]

Assuming you're going to connect to something like the benchmark, I'd go with a coaxial cable to the benchmark and then XLR cables to the amp (assuming that it's balanced).