Let’s be careful mixing XLR and balanced in discussion. Just because a piece of equipment has XLR ins or outs doesn’t necessarily mean they are truly balanced. Balanced is a ground scheme the system uses, an XLR connection can be wired essentially like an RCA connection, therefore not actually balanced. Most balanced units will specify, particularly inputs. In a balanced or differential system that fact will be stated and the XLR ins/outs will indeed be balanced. If one component is balanced and the other is not, even connected to an XLR in/out, the line will no longer be balanced and the overall pluses of a balanced line are negated. In terms of absolute SQ, that is a hot topic. XLR’s provide a more robust connection, thus theoretically should be “better” but that isn’t always the case. You’ll have to try both and see which you prefer. Preference is key.
Transparent Cables interconnects question
Quick question on two Transparent interconnects (older models):
1. Musiclink Super (XLR)
2. Musiclink Super XL (RCA)
Which is the better cable? I see there is a rather hefty price difference between balanced and un-balanced interconnects. Just wondering if cable #2 is still better than cable #1 even though it is balanced? Or, doesn’t it matter?