The theory that a long cable needs to have XLR's is not true. When Sheffield lab recorded in Wiley Chapel, they used a RCA-RCA cable which was a coax cable for about 300ft. If you have any of the Harry James Recordings, you will have to listen real hard for noise, and the dynamics are something most recordings only dream of. The XLR makes for a better connection as RCA's vary in size enough to have loose fits and noise. If the cable is shielded and low capacitance, long runs are benign, provided the impedance is appropriate. many "balanced " designs" use the XLR and only hook up two of the cables, using the pin 1-gnd, pin 2+, pin 3-. If this works and is quiet and sounds good, enjoy the music and forget about the parts. the best thing to do is just remove the rca, run the cable inside, and solder it to the board, no connection is the best.
XLR to RCA any bad in long runs?
Hi, I have a long run of XLR cable (about 40ft)between my HT proccesor and power amps(they are in different rooms). Now, I want to use a preamp close to my power amps so still have to use my long run of cable BUT because this preamp only has RCa's I need to use an adaptor at the end of the cables. My question: because I've always heard that is much better to use XLR cable in long runs to avoid noise, is neccesary to go XLR end to end or can I use an RCA adaptor at the end of the line with no adverse effects? Thanks in advance.