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Transsexual, Androgynous and Hybrid interconnects

Is it a better idea to have a custom interconnect cable terminated with a male XLR on one end and male RCA on the other? I'd rather not use an adapter if I didn't have to.

My amp only has XLR connections and the crossover that came with my newly purchased speakers only has RCA's. Is the custom cable I am proposing a good idea or is an adapter the best way to go?

Any advantages of one idea over the other?

thanks.....mitch
mitch4t

Showing 2 responses by tvad

tvad
9,467 posts
 
An adapter will allow you to change cabling easier and more cheaply. Is this for a subwoofer connection? If so, it would seem a custom cable is overkill, IMO.

Also, poor re-sale value on RCA/XLR cables due to lack of demand.

I'd recommend going with an adapter.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
But from an audible standpoint, would a custom cable be better than using an adapter?
Mitch4t  (System | Threads | Answers)

Honestly, this is something you have to hear for yourself. I did it both ways, and heard no degradation in sound using Neutrik adapters purchased from Audioparts, Inc versus custom XLR/RCA cables.

Whatever you decide, be certain to specify your PASS Labs amplifier's XLR pin configuration to the cable fabricator, otherwise you will hear hum and/or other problems. I learned the hard way that XLR pin configurations are not universal.
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