IMO I think it depends on where it falls in the chain. Single end into a pre amp and then balanced out of pre to balanced amp you are getting a full balanced signal in the end. That is the job of a well designed pre amp. Converting a single end signal to discrete fully balanced for output. Also remember that not all xlr are are fully balanced. I am looking to add a new dac and top two must haves are R2R and balanced. Its a matter of preference and my system can accommodate.
Anybody use a single ended component with one that is balanced?
I currently have a single ended pass xa25 amp which is excellent but am looking to upgrade to an arc balanced pre. I was told arc works best balanced but I will have to use the rcas.
Anybody been in a situation like this? Will I really be compromising the sound of the arc using it in single ended mode? I know there are people who prefer single ended.