@snowdog57 Going from a balanced source to RCA can be tricky.
The thing to understand is balanced and single-ended are mutually incompatible, so you have to jump through some hoops.
If just using a cable you can’t just use an adapter or cable with different connectors on either end in all cases. Some balanced outputs are solid state so if you ground one side, could be damaged.
If the balanced output is using an output transformer its very easy since the transformer doesn’t care if one side is at ground, so they inherently are always able to convert from one to the other.
If just running a cable though and hoping for the best, the best way to do it is this:
Pin 2 (non-inverting output) of the XLR end should be tied to the center pin of the RCA. Pin 3 (inverting output; don’t make the mistake of calling it ’cold...) of the XLR is tied to the barrel connection of the RCA.
Pin 1 (ground) of the XLR is connected via an extra connection to the chassis of the equipment with the RCA input.
If this connection sounds familiar, its the same as you often see on a turntable with RCA outputs.
So if you’re still with me the cable can be a balanced line cable with the RCA connected to the signal wires at the output and the connection to the chassis being an extension of the shield of the balanced cable, with a lug or alligator clip to allow you to connect it to the chassis ground. On no account should the shield (ground wire) and the barrel connection of the RCA cable touch.
If you’re having someone make up the cable have them read these instructions.
FWIW we’ve been doing balanced connections longer than anyone else in high end audio.