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Splitting Balanced Cables?

Hi All

I’m about to add 2 subwoofers to my 2-channel system. I have a Schiit Freya+, a PS Audio power amp, and two powered subs that all can be fed a balanced signal. The main left and right speakers will be run from the high level (full range) outputs of the amp. I plan to add the subs in at the natural roll off point of the main left and right speakers. There are only 2 balanced outputs on the Freya, and I’d like to drive the amp and the 2 subs from the balanced line outs. Is there any problem with using an XLR splitter cable and run one signal to the amp and one signal to the sub on each side?

I’m not sure if the Freya can drive both, or if there are bad side effects in doing so. Also, I can only find inexpensive splitting cables on Amazon. Are there better options? Or is there a better way to do this whole thing in the first place? 
Thanks
128x128spacecadet65
8 responses Add your response
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
What I did, with exactly the same pre amp. Split it with Ys.  I couldn't tell a lot of difference.

But the Ys the cable was copper/silver. With silver XLR ends, I paid a lot for them. Made 2 sets of two.  Actually took a while but ZERO floor noise. 6 speakers  4 amps, NO NOISE... 200-300 hours to sound good. The preamp was sent back but the Ys stayed until they were broke in, with a Mac. Quit nice actually, I used a #16 single shield PTFE weave. Nice sound, very neutral, leaves nothing out, add nothing to it..

Regards
spacecadet65's avatar
spacecadet65 OP
58 posts
 
Good to know! Do you have a brand or vendor for good balanced cables?

thanks.
mitch2
4,002 posts
 
Here you go. This is probably the best one;
MSB Sub Isolator
Something like this would also work for you;
Guitar Center Y adaptor
This might work also;
Sonifex
maxwave's avatar
maxwave
984 posts
 
https://www.puristaudiodesign.com/Data/products/misc/adp.html#

Y adaptor    1 XLR  female to  2 XLR male 
oldhvymec
5,101 posts
 
Op I DIY, You have some good options right here. Just look at what they are made out of. Make your choice. Don't spend a fortune ..

Good luck

Regards


spacecadet65's avatar
spacecadet65 OP
58 posts
 
I was thinking about the DIY route. I DIY my speaker cables to good effect. There seem to be some well constructed "mic cables" that appear to be made from quality materials for prices that may make DIY irrelevant. Not sure though. 
speedskater
23 posts
 
Splitting an XLR output can work great or not! It depends on how well the two XLR inputs are designed.Try it with the subs volume turned to zero. Does the sound in the mains change?* * * * * * * * *XLR 'Y' splitter cable:https://www.bluejeanscable.com/store/balancedaudio/index.htm
spacecadet65's avatar
spacecadet65 OP
58 posts
 
Hey Speed-

Thanks for the link. I'd heard about Blue Jean before but have no experience with them. 

The subs have hi-level inputs as well. I wonder what the consensus is about running speaker wire to them and letting them play that way?

Thanks 

G
 
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