S/N ratio Balanced input vs. Unbalanced input


Hi, is it normal that signal to noise (S/N) ratio at rated output of balanced input (XLR) is lesser than unbalanced input (RCA) ?

eg. Accuphase E280 , S/N ratio balanced is 96dB, unbalanced is 107dB.

 

Also E280 , at preamp stage , dB gain : balanced/unbalanced to pre output is 18dB gain, power amp stage dB gain : 28dB, total of 46dB.

What about other integrated amplifiers specs for comparison ? 

S/N ratio (balanced) :

S/N ratio (unbalanced):

Preamp gain :

Poweramp gain: 

 

auronthas

Showing 8 responses by auronthas

@kijanki Thanks for pointing out. I hope so.

But, when i checked the previous model E270, the S/N ratio for balanced input is 91dB, unbalanced input (high level input) is 108dB.  

I am confused.

@kijanki the reason I ask is I can hear noise (hiss) from tweeters when my balanced input (Denafrip Ares II) is connected while music is stopped playing. Volume changing not affected the hiss sound. 

Can you hear it from distance of 1m?

@kijanki Nope, only audible at near field,  close to tweeter.

If this is not abnormal, then I am relief.

Auronthas - can you compare the hiss, changing to single ended input?

@o_holter since my Ares II manual stated only XLR or RCA can be connected at one time, I have tried RCA before, and I can hear the same hiss.

@o_holter yes, the hiss is constant, with no variance on volume, the hiss is there with power standby on my DAC Ares II , only it’s gone when I unplug the power cord

Are you sure other sources into the amp don’t give the hiss?

@o_holter Ya, I tried my old Sony CD player which connect to integrated amplifier via RCA, I did not notice any hiss near tweeter.  I will do fast "switching" from balanced input (Ares II DAC) and RCA input (Sony CD player) to test the hiss noise.

adding "Cable Clamp Clip RFI EMI EMC Noise Filters “ 

@westcoastaudiophile my audio equipment are connected to a good power conditioner of Novaris brand.  I would think EMI issue shall not be the case, wouldn't it ?

@atmasphere What you said make sense. I will leave it if this not a defect, just not perfect.  Thanks