Real experience - Balanced or Unbalanced between Luxman Pre & Power Amps

Anyone with a basic understanding of electricity will understand there is no difference with interconnects regardless of how they attach. Your hearing is normal and correct.

@roadcykler 

While I share your pessimism for cables making major differences, there are electrical properties from one cable to the next which can make a difference (like capacitance). With that said, almost NO manufacturer (besides BJC’s) will publish their specs so you have an idea of the differences so you avoid confirmation bias! 
 

I’m glad to hear some on hear say they have heard ‘no difference’ which gives me hope, but the profound differences some claim just have never existed for me regardless of the brand or non-science based explanations of why one cable is SO much different from another. 

It seems the experiment would be more instructive if using the same cable for balanced and non-balanced. Using the same cable length in each case, of course. If one’s equipment is capable of running balanced, there doesn’t seem to be any reason not to. 

Have experienced palpable differences (balanced vs unbalanced) with preamps feeding my active speakers.  Balanced cables between Luxman C900u and ATC active speakers, quite noticeable.  More dynamics, better resolution, faster attack and better sound stage construction.  Actually, surprised by that.  Between electronics, not so much of a difference.  YMMV.

Numerous combinations and permutations enter into that equation.  Regarding incessant pedantic droning of some that all cable upgrades are a waste of money, time, effort and brain power....... well, let them go on, we've no investment in their systems and don't listen to their creations.

Perhaps they pontificate upon the virtues of Denny's, drive Yugos, live in mom's basement and have ugly girlfriends... or no girlfriends.  Not our lives to live.

Smile and enjoy your system, your music as you please.