Balanced vs. Single Ended Interconnects

Though I might have read it wrong, I believe Ralph's (Atmasphere) belief in using equipment that adheres to the AES standard is that it minimizes cable artifacts (sound differences). Given that recording studios use such equipment, and their cables can stretch of long distances, it makes sense to use it.

So, if your equipment follows the AES standard, then XLR cables will/should not 'color' the sound as much as RCA cables. (And, from my limited experience moving between Mogami and AQ, there was very little difference in sound quality).

If your equipment doesn't follow AES standards, then any cable you use would be prone to 'coloring' the sound. At this point, it doesn't matter how much you spend, as your cable becomes a tuning method. So, you'd have to audition to see what makes your system sound the best.

HTH

Bob

If the lengths are short, and there is not hum, then one may not hear any difference… because there probably is not any significant difference.

I would add that short lengths will minimize the effects that a cable can exert on  sound reproduction-aka Cable coloration.

I think Ralph Karsten has it right. Equipment using the AES 48 standard will allow you to use an XLR cable that will have minimal effect upon sound reproduction. (Which is why they use that standard in recording studios).

Using an XLR cable with equipment that doesn't support the AES standard means that all bets are off-Any cable may or may not affect sound reproduction. And, YMMV.

FWIW, I used the cables Ralph sold me with his amps/preamps(-Mogami), when my dealer recommended AQ, I really couldn't hear much of a difference, despite the AQ being significantly more expensive. (I forget the model, but they did not have the dielectric system). Once again, YMMV.

B

@holmz ,

I am up to any trial you would want to perform.

Though I am an adherent to the new AQ cables, I am open to trying new things-esp, things that have an intrinsic scientific background- like using cotton instead of a DBS system.

You only know when you try it. And, as a gardener, I'll try anything-Except incest.😉

B