RCA vs XLR Output on DACs - Noticeable Differences?

[Dragonmilenario]

Hi everyone,

I’m considering upgrading my DAC and I’m curious about the differences between a good DAC with a 2V RCA output and a similar DAC with a 4V balanced XLR output. Specifically, I’m wondering if there’s a significant difference in the final volume level when connected to an amplifier and if the overall sound quality is noticeably better with the balanced output.

For context, I plan to connect the DAC to a Violectric V202, which only has unbalanced headphone outputs (the 4.4 its only for convenience). Any insights or experiences you could share would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

 

[dunring]

Balanced is 4db louder, and 6db is double volume so it helps if that keeps you in a lower gain setting. Good shielded RCA cables work fine, unless you have a H.A.M. radio or live near a Doppler radar tower, then XLR can have a lower noise floor with its shielding.
If you can pause a song and max the volume with no hiss, and stay in low or medium gain while equalizing, RCA is just fine.

 

[megabigeye]

Balanced is 4db louder, and 6db is double volume

I agree with everything else you say, but balanced is 2x the voltage of RCA (RCA standard is 2V, balanced is 4V), which equates to +6dB. +10dB is double perceived volume.

 

[Dragonmilenario]

Thank you for the answers. So, I understand that as long as there is no audible noise and I use low or medium gains, there is no difference in quality, right? I bought the Violectric to get the most out of the Liric II.

 

[megabigeye]

Correct, unless you're using 10+ meter long interconnect cables, the only difference will be that balanced is louder.