2. amps-preamps
  3. 177204-110235

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 perazzi28

perazzi28's avatar
perazzi28
224 posts
 

Unfortunately this question can not be answered in absolute terms in a general manner. It is always component to component dependent. 

Example: all of my components are single ended: preamp, mono blocks & sources. My preamp is capable of driving long runs of quality se Interconnects.  25 feet from preamp out to the mono blocks with no issues. Other quality preamps may not be so endowed.  

Additionally,  many "balanced" preamps output from 6-9V to the amplifier(s). My mono blocks only require 1V to achieve full rated output. 

My se Interconnects are all the same throughout my system, are hand made by myself with great shielded cable & superb connectors. 

Essentially, one "size" doesn't work for everyone.  You must not have an inflexible mindset & experiment. 

That said, if you have equipment with XLR connectivity exclusively then you have no choice. 

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