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 stringreen

Some electronics are designed single ended with balanced operation included so that the buyer would think that the component is a greater performer. The truth is that those circuits that are designed single ended with XLR options sound the same in either configuration. Circuits like those that are designed around a balanced circuit such as Ayre will greatly benefit from balanced operation, although single ended operation is available for convenience.