As I understand it, the basis for balanced designs comes from studio equipment. Unlike home use where 1-2 meters is typical for interconnect, studios often run 10-30 meters so noise rejection becomes critical. So balanced may measure lower noise, even in a home system, but is it audible? I wish someone would run a reliable test on this.
Another point, a few years ago I ask Jud about a balanced version of the Joule preamp. He said to make it truly balanced would require another gain stage and he did not believe that would be worthwhile (increased complexity in the circuit). He also mentioned the unlikelihood of noise with good quality interconnects of moderate length.
Another point, a few years ago I ask Jud about a balanced version of the Joule preamp. He said to make it truly balanced would require another gain stage and he did not believe that would be worthwhile (increased complexity in the circuit). He also mentioned the unlikelihood of noise with good quality interconnects of moderate length.