Transparent Cables interconnects question

The difference in sound would come from the components you are connecting. If both your components have internally balanced circuitry, then theoretically that may sound better than using the single ended connection. The manufacturer of my equipment recommends using XLR (Audio Research). I switched from Transparent RCA to XLR , just to be safe. I did not notice a difference, but I did not do an analytical assessment.

The issue is, if your components are not built balanced, the balanced output requires a conversion… and visa versa. It was not obvious in my components is because they are very high quality and they put a lot of effort into a neutral conversion.

XLR do sound louder (but your system cannot play louder… so not an advantage). Three conductors instead of two… hence higher cost.

The past is RCA… most companies are slowly moving towards XLR… so, probably the better way to go. Unless the saved money can help upgrade something else.

Some folks will chime in about XLR being better for long runs. But unless you have a 100’ run, it is extremely unlikely you will hear a difference..

I can't tell you which sounds better because I haven't listened to them back to back. 

I prefer balanced connections because of the increased signal level and the lower signal distortion.  

I'd try to audition them back to back if possible.

Both components have balanced connections. One is a Krell integrated, the other is a Rotel cdp, but not sure of the model; I believe it’s a 1570. I’m posting this query for a friend who advised these two interconnects are for sale somewhat close to him (two different sellers).

Rotel is generally not a balanced design, only offering XLR as a convenience, therefore no electrical advantage, though some believe XLR's offer a tighter connection...

Unfortunately it is not a question of if they have balanced connectors, it is a question of internal design. So if one of your components Is not balanced it is difficult to tell… I would go with RCA. Some day when your components are much better, it may matter and in the mean time you have more money for components.