XLR -vs- RCA

Randy Myers

Randy Myers

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The Teac DAC that I am getting has XLR outputs and my McIntosh has Balanced XLR inputs. Is it better to use these inputs versus RCA cables to connect the DAC to my amplifier?
 
The best answer is to try both and see which one you like better.

I usually opt for the XLR connection because it's quieter to me and affords longer cable runs.

The better the cable, the better the sound.
 
I'm with Paul on this one if we are just talking about the distance in the rack in your avatar. But do use the best cable you have regardless of termination type. I have tried it both ways with the same cable model.
 
Thanks for the input. I can't afford crazy cables now but I also don't like the throw in that usually are included in the box. I ordered a short gold plated XLR just to get a tad better cable.
 
true balanced XLR connections will give you a 6 db bump in gain regardless if you're running a 1 meter or 10. the other advantage is eliminating ground loop induced hum between components. single ended (RCA) works very well as it is depending on the 'environment' you use it in.
 
All depends on what flavor you like. Some very smart audio designers think XLR adds too much complexity. Comes down to personal choice.My feeling if an home audio item sounds "better" in XLR, then it was not designed right.
 
It depends on the equipment.

Many times XLRs are added as a convenience on single ended gear, on the input it might just short pin 3 to ground, for an output it might use opamps to convert it's native single-ended signal to balanced for the XLR outs. In this case the RCA ins and outs would be preferable imo.

However, if the gear is truly balanced than it's designed to use XLR from the start. Some DAC chips have balanced outputs in which case the source is truly balanced and the XLRs will sound better.

So if you don't know whether your gear is truly balanced or just has XLR jacks for convenience you should ask the manufacturer. It's best not to mix single ended with balanced components but if you have to the best way to convert from one to the other is with transformers, not adapters.

Here's more info:

http://www.rane.com/note151.html
 
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