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Is this considered a "balanced" cable?

I have a Rotel 1056 processor and a Rotel 1080 amp. The 1056 has only rca outputs but the 1080 has both rca and xlr balanced inputs. If I use a rca cable with an xlr adapter going into the amp is it considered balanced? Or do I get the same results just staying with the standard rca unbalanced inputs/outputs.

If xlr/rca adapters are the answer I would appreciate any sources. Thanks
tigermark89
swampwalker's avatar
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swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
If you use the adapter, you are not running "balanced and you will likely get the same effect as running RCAs (although the adapter may introduce some alteration to the sound).
rushton's avatar
rushton
2,430 posts
 
I may be mistaken but I don't think the Rotel 1080 is a balanced topology internally, it just has both RCA and balanced inputs as a convenience to the user. In this case, it won't matter and you'll be better off without the extra contact points of the adaptors; stay with the standard RCA inputs.

If I am mistaken and the Rotel 1080 is a balanced circuit internally, it still won't matter since you're coming from unbalanced outputs from your processor; stay with the standard RCA connections.
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grannyring's avatar
grannyring
4,637 posts
 
It depends on your amp and how it was designed. If the amp is a true balanced design and more effort (money) put into these inputs, then use the adaptor. I have a Marsh a400s amp which even has difference specs for the XLR inputs. No doubt using the XLR inputs with an adaptor is a huge improvement on this particular amp. Experiment with using both the RCA and XLR inputs to find out for yourself.

Nothing like first hand experience and knowledge.

Bill
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