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Is it save to convert XLR to RCA?

Dear Audio Gurus,

I have a Harman Kardon HD990 player, which has two outputs: RCA and XLR. I'd like to use them both. However, my amps and pre-amps all take RCA. I know of XLR-to-RCA cables. But the HD990 specs mention that RCS is a 2V output whereas XLR is 4V. Am I going to damage my amps and pre-amps by trying this?

Thanks,
Walfredo
walfredo
zmanastronomy's avatar
zmanastronomy
738 posts
 
There is no benefit going XLR to RCA. The 4V you get from balanced XLR is voided when going to RCA.
You wont damage any equip., but you wont get the benefit of balanced XLR. In your case, RCA to RCA is the right way to go.

John
JW Audio
elizabeth
6,726 posts
 
If you wish to use BOTH outputs, and have the XLR using a XLR to RCA coverter, You will not have any problems doing so.
The two outputs (RCA, and XLR converted to RCA) may have slightly different output levels, but no harm will come to any of the equipment using both.
timlub
1,649 posts
 
The above answers are correct, I've done it without issue to drive a subwoofer when I didn't have an extra pair of rca out. Worked well.
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