2. amps-preamps
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Balanced versus single ended

From my experience, every situation that had both options, the balanced connection and/or increased gain sounded better, regardless of the bolume knob’s final position. More detail , air, emotional connection etc. The single ended cables used were good, not the bargain or so called high end extreme.

Sometimes using balanced or xlr it involved just the source, but optimally it carried through thd entire chain.

Anyways, my question is: has anyone ever thought that single ended sounded better?given the 2 options. Im only referring to a truly balanced connection.

I ask, because a manufacturer who makes tube amps, recommends single over balanced connection. Is there something else involved in this decision, additional parts or labor complexity? Is the signal path extended?

Thanks in advance

 

recluse

Showing 1 response by clearthinker

clearthinker's avatar
clearthinker
1,582 posts
 

Balanced makes for a more reliably low noise system.  Others have noted hum, earth loops and noise can creep into single ended systems, requiring detective work to locate and rectify.

There is also talk of more gain with balanced.  As I understand it the extra 6dB is a lower noise floor rather than extra gain.  Anyhow, this is a free benefit from running balanced.

I have run my whole main system balanced for about 30 years now, from cartridge to power amp.  It is very quiet and I don't get noise problems.  There is a little additional cost on cabling, but otherwise it's a free lunch.

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