Preamp outputs - balanced vs unbalanced

[usbyte]

i see that the balanced outputs of a preamp have higher voltage ratings than unbalanced. does this translate into loudness or better sound quality for the balanced outputs?

[tdelahanty]

Originally Posted by usbyte

i see that the balanced outputs of a preamp have higher voltage ratings than unbalanced. does this translate into loudness or better sound quality for the balanced outputs?

Generally speaking, balanced outputs have higher gain (6db) and are quieter.

[Face]

Originally Posted by tdelahanty

Generally speaking, balanced outputs have higher gain (6db) and are quieter.

Yes, a lower noise floor.

But beware, not all gear with balanced connections are actually fully balanced.

[junker]

Just the connectors alone are worth it IMO even if they sound the same. I liked the sound better going from the D100 to the 452. Sounded a bit more clear and dynamic. More ballsy as well.

[Still-One]

Just like anything in this crazy hobby the end results are in the implementation rather than the technology used. Some of the most respected brands are single ended only.

[LordoftheRingsEE]

-- I agree with Face just above; it has to be truly fully balanced (in & out), and from the amp, the preamp, and the source, to truly make a sound improvement.

Not all products are truly fully balanced. What they do mostly is to add a 6dB gain.
But there is no guaranty of better Channel Separation (Crosstalk), THD+N, Signal-to-Noise Ratio, and Frequency Response over unbalanced RCA connections.

For short runs, say less than two meters, unbalanced RCA connections are just fine.
But XLR connections "can" give you a more solid connector. ..."Can" because we got excellent RCA locked connectors (plugs).
Noise contamination, not in short runs; only for longer runs, like in a recording studio for example (30 feet or so).
...Then XLR is their prime goal. ...Professional applications, for immunity to noise in the microphones.

[antipop]

Originally Posted by junker

Just the connectors alone are worth it IMO even if they sound the same.

+1

I frantically compared the two to conclude that there is no difference between the two (cable of 1 to 2m) but I'm keeping the xlr for the better connectors, they just feel more solid.

[jdandy]

Originally Posted by antipop

+1

I frantically compared the two to conclude that there is no difference between the two (cable of 1 to 2m) but I'm keeping the xlr for the better connectors, they just feel more solid.

antipop.......How can there be "no difference" and "better connectors" at the same time?

[LordoftheRingsEE]

-- He's talking "difference" in sound quality. ...He heard no difference.

The connectors are different though; 'generally' a more solid connection with the XLR end connectors.

[antipop]

Originally Posted by jdandy

antipop.......How can there be "no difference" and "better connectors" at the same time?

No difference in term of sound. In a blind test, I wouldn't be able to tell which cable is plugged in.

Better connector in term of use and quality of fabrication. I don't need to worry if it's air tight or not.