The biggest issue is if the two channels are in the same phase. If the channels were out of phase with each other you would be getting a substantial lack of focus. Things would sound diffuse. Particularly any center image. If the channels are in the same phase a surprising number of people cannot tell the difference when it is inverted. The easiest tell is the loss of bass which would signify "out of phase". Or to put it another way phase inverted. Assuming the channels are in phase with each other than the phase inversion or lack of inversion will show on the increase of base and possibly some increase in image focus. That last part is very equipment dependent. The increase or decrease of base can be very minor or easily detectable depending on your system.
Interesting! How does this compare with the native single ended out on the Ares? As far as I know since it doesn't have an output stage wouldn't it only be using one ladder as well? Or is that different?I wouldn't use a cable like that for balanced to unbalanced connection. It appears to connect one of the active XLR outputs to ground. Thats a bad thing to do a Denafrips. One ladder will get good impedance and the other a virtual short.
A more elegant solution is to use a transformer. That way both ladders are being used, so the sound quality might be a little better.
Upon more research, instead of shorting one of the ladders, it seems like this cable from Benchmark would leave one floating. Would this be a better method if I didn't want to go through a transformer?I wouldn't use a cable like that for balanced to unbalanced connection. It appears to connect one of the active XLR outputs to ground. Thats a bad thing to do a Denafrips. One ladder will get good impedance and the other a virtual short.
A more elegant solution is to use a transformer. That way both ladders are being used, so the sound quality might be a little better.
