F-XLR to M-RCA recommendations

You might look at a product like:

https://aphex.com/products/124b

I've been using them for various applications for decades.

Thank you all for your suggestions! Definitely food for thought on compatibility, etc. Fwiw, the Laiv uDac doesn't have RCA outs and it was suggested to use XLR to RCA cables by one of the posters on Laiv's comment section - that was my only frame of reference. Appreciate the deeper insight on what specs to check on.

I've had very good experience with BJC, Anti & DH Labs - damn, now I have choices to make!

If the equipment with XLR also has RCA outs, you're better off just using the RCA's on both.  Once you use an adapter, you've already lost any (potential) advantage of using the XLR termination, which only exists with XLR terminations on both ends (and only if the XLR is properly implemented).  Any time you add more connectors (adapter=2) you've introduced another potential signal loss/degradation.

I would highly recommend that you don't buy anything until you can confirm that whatever type of adaptors you buy won't cause problems or even damage your system. Typically, XLR jacks and cables are used on balanced equipment and rca on single ended gear. These 2 modes of operation are not compatible. A balanced connection requires 3 conductors. 2 hots (++) and a ground (-). Single ended connections require 2 conductors. One hot and one ground. You're going 3 into 2. You need to do something with the extra signal conductor. Most adaptors shunt the number 2 pin to ground. When you combine one of the hots from the balanced side with the ground, you create a short circuit if you plug the adaptor into a component that's outputting a balanced signal. Its like disconnecting your speaker cables and touching them together while music is playing. 

There are different ways a balanced connection can be wired. You can use an adaptor in some cases, but you must make sure its OK before you do it. If your balanced component floats the ground, you should be able to use the adaptor. If not, you're going to get a short circuit. Check your owners manual for the balanced component and see if they give you instructions on how to make it work for unbalanced operation. If the info isn't in the manual, call the manufacturer and ask them if its OK to do it.

Assuming its OK to use an adaptor, the thing to remember is when you mix the components, you end up with end up with a single ended connection. Use a regular pair of rca cables, along with some xlr to rca adaptors. Purist and Cardas both make high quality adaptors. I would use either one. 

Just spoke with a gentleman from blue Jean cable, will do what you’re asking for. hopefully don’t get in too much trouble For doing this, but here’s his number (206)284-2924.

also ask them about their iconoclast stuff for audiophile friends. 

Or adapters like this.     I prefer them over Cardas.

I've hit up Moon-Audio for suff like this before. An XLR (female) to RCA (female) adaptor should do the trick - plug into DAC, then you can use your choice or RCA cables. Or I guess you could use an XLR cable run - then you'd need XLR (female) to RCA (male). Moon's "house" brand adapators are decent. They also sell Cardas adaptors that are quite nice. 

They can also make patch cables in this configuration, if you have a short run or just want to run directly without adaptors. I've used Blue Dragon (their basic copper cable) for this before; it's good, but you can go for Silver Dragon if you want silver wire. 

I think BJC and Anticables will both entertain this custom cable if you call them. It shouldn't be hard for them to accommodate.

If not, also look into the BL-1 Series II from DH Labs. You can call Greg directly from their website and he will be able to make them for you. Tell him Juan sent you.

In full disclosure am one of his dealers, but honestly that may be the best money spent on a cable in your price range.