You didn't list your components, and I gather they are of diffent mfg. Use a meter/ tester, and check for phase, continuity, etc., of the 3-pins at each end of cable.. If checks out Ok, Take apart the Male XLR and notice how it is wired. If shield is connected to Pin #1, snip it. Same goes for if shield is connected to shell. Also, if a strand from shield is touching shell that may be the problem also. Signal Ground is touching chassis Ground and causes hum from Ground loop. A .10uF ceramic cap from Pin 1 to chassis cures the hum also 9 0f 10 times. If all gear isn't Balanced, its really worthless with most home audio gear. Also mixing different Bal gear causes as many noise problems. Compatability is the answer. If it sounds good with SE cables leave it alone. Good Luck! Charlie CS Audio
Hum and Buzz on XLR Interconnect
Recently purchased a Balanced interconnect to install between pre-amp and amp. I have the same interconnect in balanced form from my CD player to pre-amp. The new interconnect connecting to amp has now a buzz/hum. When I re-install my RCA interconnect the buzz/hum is gone. Never had this problem before. My house is older and I don't think it is grounded although I use a 3 prong hospital outlet for the power cords. Any way to eliminate or is this particular unshielded interconnect just not compatible with my amp although it works on my CD player. Thanks, Steve