2. amps-preamps
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Need help with priorities

I want to buy an intergraded but I don't understand some basics.I'm using Nola Viper Sig speaker's and a Wadia 860.
*Should I be concerned if the intergraded is fully balanced?
I've read that the Wadia may be better using the XLR's with a fully balanced unit.Also,some unit's have XLR input's but are not fully balanced.Any advantage there?
*Is it a good idea to get an intergraded that include's a phono stage.I want a simple system and a built in phono stage is one less piece.How important is the interaction between the phono stage and TT/cartridge?I plan on adding a TT later.

I've read that the Nola's like tube's and I would like to try tube's with them(I'm a little tube shy but I'm working through it).Most of the tube intergraded's in my price range (6k)do not have balanced input's.Big deal?Not a big deal?

I don't post much but I read along when I can.Thank's in advance for any help you guy's and gal's can give.

arbuk
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
XLR If not used for the correct reasons should just stand for Xtra Large Ripoff
kalan
185 posts
 
Arbuk, I spoke to one of the designers at Edge Electronics about the RCA vs. XLR situation in relationship to their gear in particular. In the Edge circuits, the unbalanced/RCA topology actually is quieter than their XLR prototype counterparts---exactly contrary to the vogue opinion of many so called High Enders.

According to Steve Norbert (spelling?-Norber[?] at Edge), the extra components to make the true balanced topology ADDS noise in the Edge amps rather than reducing it.

The interconnect length issue does hold an advantage for the balanced/XLR method. No question, there. An unbalanced/RCA, vacuum-tube pre-amp, for example, will require an output buffer stage to lower the impedance and strengthen the signal output for a long RCA interconnect run to the power amp--say, longer than about 2.5 meters or so. Adding this buffer stage will increase cost and perhaps deteriorate signal integrity.

So, you are right in your observation that many experienced A'goners (and reviewers, too) have very fine systems that use RCA through out.
arbuk OP
6 posts
 
Kalan-thank you.
chadnliz
3,736 posts
 
XLR cables when used in short lengths are for idiots with more money than brains IMO
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