Bow Technologies Amplifier's XLR inputs - jackpot question, help needed thanks.


Hello,

I have recently bought a Bow Technologies Wazoo (not XL) integrated amp to match my Esoteric K-07Xs SACD player.

Since both feature XLR connections, I have made myself a decent pair of balanced cables (hot+cold+ground, XLR plugs).

Now, the Esoteric has three selectable options for the XLR output: pin 2=hot, pin 3=hot and ESL-A (ESLink-Analogue); I am vaguely aware that pin 2=hot is EU while pin3=hot is US or so, but ESL-A is a proprietary format by Esoteric and requires a twin receiver circuit in the amp, which is only available on Esoteric amps.

I have connected the SACD to the Wazoo with the XLR-terminated cables, and it sounds in all three configurations.. Letting alone the ESL-A, which may be problematic without a proper receiving end, I cannot honestly say that I can hear a difference between pin2=hot and pin3=hot; yet I guess it's a matter of which side of the signal is inverted.

The Question(s):

Does anybody know by first hand experience or a reliable source if the Wazoo has a true balanced input (only available selecting input 1)?

Does anybody know by first hand experience or a reliable source if the Wazoo has its XLR input wired pin2=hot or pin3=hot?

Can anyone tell me if it's just a case of personal preference or if it matters? I HATE options and only wish to know if there is a proper connection and which one it is.

Thanks for your help.

M.

P.S. I have written to an address connected to Bow Technologies, which is currently no more active, and am still waiting for an answer.

martinguitars

Thanks. I've had a reply to my first question from the current owner of the Bow brand, who is also the man behind PrimaLuna.

As for the rest, I suspected as much; considering that pin2=hot is the current wiring in EU, I'll stick to that option.

Much appreciated, thanks again.

M.

It should only make a difference in absolute polarity and be inaudible.

Just off the top of my head, you can have it work both ways but one way would be out of phase.