RCA to XLR adapters…


I apologize if this has been covered before – I did a couple of searches in the archives, but I didn’t find it. I recently acquired a balanced preamp (Audio Research) and, of course, my CDP (Rotel) is single-ended only. I currently have a pair of typical Chinese-made adapters, which I purchased locally. Since I am at least 10 months away from a CDP upgrade, I am thinking that it would be worthwhile to invest in a pair of better quality adapters. Therefore, I am looking for a pair ‘audiophile’ RCA (female) to XLR (male) adapters.

Thus far, the only ones that I have found are the items on the Cardas website. I was wondering if anyone knew of any other quality adapters that I might consider before making a purchase.

My other option would be to have someone like Signal Cable make me a custom RCA to XLR cable. Naturally, such a cable would have little resale value. In addition, it might be a step backwards when compared to my current Tara Labs RSC Air 3.

What do you think? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
ekistler_sj
I would suggest purchasing a new CD player with Balanced outs. Take advantage of the Balanced connection. No Adapter is a good Adapter. Trust me.

Chris
Audio Research sells the adapters you describe for $50 pair. Call and talk to Leonard Gustafson.
I also had Signal Cable make a rca to XLR custom cable, it solved the problem and sounds great. They use their balanced cable and terminate one side with an rca (mine are Bullet plugs but you can get the standard plugs too).
I highly recomend them.