2. amps-preamps
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Differential from source to pre but not amp?

I am researching preamps and wondering if should go with differential connections. I know there are sonic benefits from going fully differential from source to pre to amp, but my amp, an Odyssey Khartago, only has RCA inputs. I have a cd transport and dac that have differential xlr outs, so would there be any benefit to spending the extra money for a preamp with xlr connections even though my amp doesn't have them? One benefit is that it allows me the flexibility to upgrade to an amp with xlr inputs in the future, but this is null since my next upgrade will be to a tube pre and amp, which will definitely be fully differential. The tube system is part of a long term plan, so this SS system will be with me for a while and I'd like to squeeze the best sound out of it I can.

Thanks in advance for your advice.
rischa

Showing 2 responses by reb1208

reb1208
518 posts
 
Balanced from pre-amp to amp gives you much of the "benefit" of balanced circuitry. The source component is not as critical - IME.
reb1208
518 posts
 
"Rischa
Ah, thank you, this is exactly what I'm wondering. So, with this in mind, I might as well save some scratch and go with the less expensive preamp."

Right, so just stick with single ended all the way thru with your solid state system.

Interconnects,

XLR from pre-amp to amp, one can still easily hear if a cable is capable of higher resolution vs another cable. (among other sonic attributes)

XLR from source to pre-amp, not easy to find a good sonic match. I find that I usually prefer single ended cables from the source. Much more sonic variety to chose from.
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