Balanced vs RCA preamps


How important is it that your Pre-amp has both balanced and RCA capabilities? I’m shopping for another pre, most likely tube, and it seems to make sense with any future component that it offers both XLR and RCA. And to further complicate the search finding both these features plus remote limits the offerings for both tube and SS particularly tube.

 

kckrs

Showing 1 response by perazzi28

First, as always, thanks to "atmasphere" for his input.  

I would add that there are a number of considerations to address when buying a preamplifier.  Connectivity being only one.  Your system arrangement and placement of components is another important part.  A good standard practice is to keep loudspeaker cables as short as practically possible. That leaves you with the interconnects.  Any well designed & engineered single-ended preamplifier with a low output impedance (~200 ohms) should be capable of driving long runs of interconnecting cable. Choosing an interconnect cable shouldn't be left to chance.

For several years I used 30' runs between my preamp and my mono block amps with no hum or any other issue.  My current arrangement in a new home is much different and my interconnects have stayed the same, but I just shortened them to about a meter in length. My mono block amps do not have balanced connectivity.  If they had I may have tried both single ended & balanced interconnects especially if the amps were truly of a balanced design.

I would encourage you to home demo any preamplifier that you are considering before you purchase.  Preamplifiers are a very important component in all things hi-fi. Afterall, it's all about the sound. 

Happy hunting