Signal Degradation Balanced Output


Has anyone developed a workaround that solves signal degradation when splitting. The problem that I have occurs even when the preamplifier has two balanced outputs.

Years ago I became aware of this problem when using my Sonic Frontiers Line 3, which has 2 pairs of balanced outputs, to drive a Theta Dreadnaught amp and a pair of Entec LF-20 subs. I thought the sound was excellent until oneday, I disconnected the cable to the sub and that’s when I heard what I had been missing from the Wilson Cub I, transparency and reverb that allows you to hear deep into the music.

Now, I’m running Focal Mini Utopia Be, Denafrips T+ DAC to Athena Pre, which has 2 pairs of balanced outputs driving a ARC VT-130 and a Focal Sub6. Same problem! I’ve tried inserting my Jeff Rowland Model 112, then tapping off the speaker terminals with a Jensen ISOMAX transformer which then goes to sub.. the problem persists.

The problem isn’t huge, it’s just that the higher the resolution of the components, the more noticable it is. My setup needs the lower fundamentals that a sub brings, but at a cost I’m not happy with.

Any ideas?




cathy062

Showing 3 responses by russ69

I'm totally confused at this point. When that happens, I break down my system to the bare essentials. Source, amplification, and speakers. Everything else sits in the corner for now. If you can't get your system sounding right with the bare minimum components, you'll be able to isolate the culprit. 
If the subs are the issue....are they forward firing and between your mains?  If not that is where I would start. My next step would be stereo woofer towers and a good crossover. That would be a big step up.