XLR to RCA Adapter Dilemma

So, I've read a fair amount on the forum about degraded sound when using adapters. I have a BAT preamp with single ended as well as balanced inputs/outputs. When I use the RCA output from the preamp to the RCA input of my single ended power amp, the sound becomes noticeably thinner than if I use an XLR to RCA adapter from the preamp's output to the RCA input of the power amp. I know that more connections SHOULD result in sound degradation; however, that is not the case with my system. Any thoughts on this? Thanks, folks.