Balanced vs. Unbalanced - What does it mean?


I have a McIntosh MC402, I am using the Unbalanced inputs - my dealer hooked it up for me. Everything sounds fine but I am wondering about the Balanced input. When do they get used? Does it sound different? Which is best?
cam3366

Showing 1 response by martykl

I'm not sure if this has already been noted here, but I'd like to clarify: You cannot be sure that an unbalanced output can be effectively run into a balanced XLR input merely by the simple addition of a physical adaptor. ARC gear will not work correctly in this set-up. That is why ARC sold their transformer.

IIRC, ARC's power amp protection circuitry will be triggered by the unbalanced input signal and severely limit the amp's power output. This is evidently a function of the protection scheme that ARC uses in its power amps. Other brands may (or may not) have similar problems. Probably best to check with the manufacturer.

Good Luck.

Marty