Capping unused rca & xlr connectors???

What is this supposed to accomplish? Probably subjective but is it snake oil or does it provide quantifiable benefits?

Thanks

mihilli12-12-2005 7:52pm

nsgarch Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,524 posts 12-12-2005 at 08:14pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete It is customary to short any unused RCA inputs on preamps. This prevents pops and clicks when switching your source selector between actual sources that are plugged in. Also prevents unused inputs picking up stray RFI. You can use pre-made shorting plugs or make them yourself. I don't recommend the Cardas caps because they don't actually short the input, but only shield the hot signal socket from RFI. Unused XLR inputs do not require this treatment since they are balanced and self-cancel any noise.
nsgarch Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 2,524 posts 12-13-2005 at 04:54pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Jeff, the Cardas cap doesn't actually short the input. It only shields it. So it's only doing half of what a true shorting plug does. I'm not sure who's making shorting RCAs these days. I always made my own by taking an RCA plug and soldering a wire (inside the barrel) between the pin and the ring, and then screwing the cover back on.