Anybody use a single ended component with one that is balanced?

I have mixed single ended and balanced components for decades running single ended regardless of the design. I always had one or two pieces of Audio Research.

Over the last couple of years I acquired all new Audio Research Reference components. Since ARC recommends balanced. One by one, I slowly swapped single ended for balanced interconnects of the same brand. I was not committed to critical listening to the differences… but I didn’t notice a difference. I am sure it is there hidden in the sound somewhere. But, I sure wouldn’t prevent me from mixing or upgrading to a piece that is not… from Audio Research.

Yes, balanced is a bit louder… one small turn of the volume control, no difference in character or ability to play more loudly.

I am sure different companies components might act differently… it is all in the implementation of what ever is converted.

In summary. Don’t worry about it. Go for the best components you can, and if you end up with a system in which all components support balances, then , if you have the money you can swap interconnects to balanced and see if you can hear a difference… maybe, maybe not,

@jji666

+1 Don’t add an adapter. If the amp is balanced it a;ready has one and is likely to be of higher quality. The manufacturer has a vested interest in making both inputs sound good.