Since Joeb's post seems to me NOT about the difference in sound between balanced or unbalanced ICs but about the difference of XLR and RCA connectors, I must say, that I personally prefer XLRs to RCAs, although I cannnot really discern any difference in the sound. I prefer XLRs male and female, because they often give a better fit, are easier to solder, are more easily cleaned and more rugged in case of rough handling. No wonder they have been the connection of choice for professional use for years now. If after all, you would insist on a difference in sound, I often have the impression that XLRs are quieter ( also unbalanced ), but that may well be my imagination, rewarding me for the job of having unsoldered RCAs and put in XLRs.