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 yyzsantabarbara

yyzsantabarbara
5,022 posts
 

My Livingroom Benchmark gear is AES48 compliant. I very happy running relatively low cost Benchmark XLR interconnect between preamp and amp (both Benchmark). I have tried more expensive XLR's. On my sources that are from varies manufacturers I found that the interconnects matter. So there I use Audience Au24 SE and various WyWire.

On my office system, I have a KRELL amp and CODA preamp which I am not sure is AES48 compliant. I am running the 15+ foot Benchmark XLR between the 2. I am afraid to try any expensive XLR between them. My ignorance will save me money.

 

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