Thank you all for your input. I am getting a better idea of the what I need and do not need to consider in my decision making process. I am running a Musica Pristina A Cappella III connected via I2S to Denafrips Pontus that is connected to W4S STI1000 V2 using XLRs to Cornwall IVs. In this set-up I also rotate in a Fisher 500C that is connected to Pontus with hybrid XLR-RCA cable. The components are located on a rack between the speakers that are approximately 8-9 feet apart. I'd like to transition to a Decware mono set-up with a true balanced pre-amp (TBD/suggestions?) where I can locate the monos next to the speakers and move the rack to a side wall. Moving components to a side wall will necessitate a run of approximately 12' to for right channel mono and 18' to left channel mono. That is why I am inquiring into balanced vs XLR and balanced vs unbalance. Any suggestions for an preamp ($3K ballpark) that would work with this set-up or any other thoughts on this set-up are appreciated.
RCA vs XLR and Balanced vs Unbalanced
Newbee needs some help understanding the benefits (if any) of using RCA vs XLR connections and using a balanced vs unbalanced components. What are the benefits of using balanced components (DAC > pre-amp > amp)? Does balanced sound better for some reason? It is my understanding that to take advantage of a balanced system, you need to use XLR cables. Correct? RCA cables will negate the benefits of a balanced system? For example, if I have a set of cables that are terminated with XLRs on the DAC end and RCAs on the pre-amp end. If I have a balanced DAC should I be using a balanced pre-amp? A balanced amp? As my line of questioning indicates, I have no understanding of how a balanced system works and why it is preferable to a non-balanced system. Any guidance will be greatly appreciated. Cheers.