[Gillesdec]

Is there any reason electrically why a single 3 pin XLR plug and socket can't be used instead of a regular single ended 1/4" headphone jack and socket? I'm aware that this isn't the conventional connector type for headphones and headphone amps, but I want to avoid using any brass or nickle plated connectors in the signal path as this tends to sound more brittle and glassy compared to pure copper contacts. I'm currently building a 3 board  B22 and would like to use as superior connections as I can. I may convert the B22 and headphones into balanced configuration later on and simply add additional plugs/sockets. Any wisdom on this would be greatly appreciated!

 

[dsavitsk]

The only reason not to is that your friends' headphones won't fit in your amp, so you may need to make an adapter. But, it is otherwise a fine idea. Even better might be to use a 4 pin, connect pins 2 and 4 together, and then you can use balanced phones.

 

[Gillesdec]

Thanks for your suggestion Dsavitsk... can you point me in the direction where I can get a 4 pin XLR plug and socket that uses pure copper or high copper content contacts, like the  DH Labs or Furutech connectors? Thanks!

 

[Steve Eddy]

What's wrong with brass?
 
se

 

[Gillesdec]

Nothing really... my preference is pure copper because to my ears it sounds smoother. I find brass has an "edgy  bite" in comparison.

 

[Steve Eddy]

'Fair 'nuff. No arguing one's subjective preferences.
 
se

 

[samsquanch]

XLR?  PFFT.  Go with a milspec cpc.  Never stop at "good enough."

 

[nikongod]

Better men than I have hardwired their headphones to their amp.

 

[Gillesdec]

Hmm... I thought that mil-spec cpc connectors were typically used in the auto, aerospace industries and the military for harness'... might be interesting.
 

 

[Gillesdec]

I've never hardwired headphones to an amp, but I have hardwired a CDP, integrated amp and speakers together with very good results. In my opinion, the best connector is no connector at all. I'm changing the cable on my Hifiman HE-500s to Jena Ultrawire anyway so I may as well try it!

 

[samsquanch]

Quote:

...aerospace industries and the military...
 

 
If it's good enough for a space ship or stealth bomber....

 

[Gillesdec]

Hey, I'll try anything once...