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Parasound A21 question - can I use both balanced and unbalanced input on the amp?

In my second system, I would like to double the duties for both HT and music. For preamp, I'm using a Cambridge Audio 851D, which unfortunately doesn't have any HT bypass or even analog inputs.

Originally, I was thinking that I might be able to connect the pre-outs from my AVR to the 851D. And then from 851D to Parasound A21 via balanced/XLR connection. But the problem is that my AVR has only RCA pre-outs and the Cambridge has only digital inputs.

Another option that comes to mind is something like this:
1. Cambridge 851D --> Parasound A21 via balanced/XLR -- for music listening
2. AVR --> Parasound A21 via unbalanced/RCA -- for movies

Is this even possible? Assuming it is, can this cause any potential harm to the amplifier if both balanced and unbalanced inputs are connected to different sources? What should I set the switch (Balanced/Unbalaned) to on the A21?
arafiq

Showing 2 responses by tls49

tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
A possible solution might be to use this on the front L&R pre outs of the AVR.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/660217-REG/Gefen_GTV_AAUD_2_DIGAUD_GTV_AAUD_2_DIGAUD_GefenTV_Analog_to.html

This will give you a PCM digital signal to input to your 851D. You would need to set the 851D's VC to a somewhat loud setting, make channel balance adjustments on the AVR, and then use the AVR's VC.

The reason I said possible is due to fact that the signal for the fronts is being converted to digital then back to analog. I am not sure if the front's volume will remain perfectly balanced with the center and rears as the AVR's VC is turned up and down. Hopefully someone else might have an idea if this could work.
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
Thanks Al, for your comment on my suggestion. This type of adapter can be found for less than $10 on either one of those huge online shopping sites, however, I chose to show the Gefen because I have experience with a few of their video products and they always worked very well with no signal degradation. The Gefen was the only one that showed specifications for SNR, THD, Frequency Response, and Crosstalk, which are reasonably good. Also, B&H Photo has a 30 day return policy.

Arafiq, if you want to look at the cheaper ones, just make sure it is the A to D, and not D to A. The majority of the cheaper adapters available are D to A. I did notice a review about someone being sent the wrong one.

And if you try this, I hope it works well, and glad to help.

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