RCA to RCA versus RCA to XLR

Without seeing the preamp schematic I can't say for sure but it is likely you'd get an improvement in ground noise rejection as long as ground is connected to only the cold wire (XLR pin 3) at the RCA end. This may come at the cost of increased thermal noise, again depending on the input architecture of the amp. If you have no issues with ground noise then you may be best sticking with unbalanced.

Without seeing the preamp schematic I can’t say for sure but it is likely you’d get an improvement in ground noise rejection as long as ground is connected to only the cold wire (XLR pin 3) at the RCA end.

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I try to explain thing simply.

The Tuner has RCAs only, going TO a pre amp with both, RCA (single ended) and XLR (a few variance). There would be ZERO benefit for the Tuner and the pre amp supposedly has a lower floor noise because of onboard XLR tech, anyways.

Now going from the pre amps XLRs to another piece of gear with XLR plugs, should have a benefit. Though they are not ALL wired the same much less balanced just because they use an XLR plug.

BUT the source, this OP has, will see NO improvement other than enjoying a better type of termination. XLRs, if they were used, you loose the ability to move a ground loop eliminator on either end of the run..
I think that is a better reason to have RCA to RCA on both ends..

If you really want to help with noise (RFI EFI or getting high :-)) use a weave it is one of the best noise eliminator via no shielding.
RCA benefits big time from using JUST a weave..

Regards

I try to explain thing simply.

Thanks for the simple explanation, I'll try to explain as simply as I can why you are not correct. If you connect ground to pin 3 then it will be inverted at the input and there will be some benefit of the balanced common mode rejection (summing of inverted interference with signal interference). In addition to this the ground signal will see the input impedance which will vastly reduce the amount of current flowing through it... current flowing through ground is the definition of a ground loop.

I’m not disagreeing with you, I’m saying YOUR way has no benefit to the TUNER, it can’t it is a single ended RCA going to the pre amp not from it. Your way may reduce noise in the cable via the shielding but not by inverting the signal. Doesn’t it have to terminate and then compare to cancel the outside noise, if there is a problem with that?

I’m just an old mechanic I’m always open to being taught by those MUCH wiser than me.. I welcome your experience pounding it through my thick head.. :-)

Second (ly) I’m pretty sure its a 110vac unit. It will have a difference in voltage vs the 120 vac preamp it will have noise. I was adding the ability to put the ground loop eliminator on either end of the run.. That was the biggest thing for me.. The weave addressed a great way to reduce noise without shielded cable.. Your way has it. AGAIN shielded cable gives way to certain SQ issues I can eliminate differently..

Is my way wrong? OR is there a bit of "different" thinking going on. Teach me.. :-) I’m ALL EARS.. It’s the second day of the week I’m ready for school.

With great respect and regards..

I don't think their would be any benefit to doing this. This would be a good question for Ralph to answer.