balance XLR or RCA interconnects

olilugo

hi all,

what is the difference between the balance or unbalance interconects?
which is better?

I notice that main stream receiver manufatures don't even have the XLR connections.

I am in the middle of researching upgrading my receiver and amplifier and I want to make sure I get the best componets for the money ( I bet you have never hear this before

Thanks

rskarvan

XLR is better. Its a well-worn topic. I would recommend using the SEARCH feature.

MGPK

XLR is not necessarily better. It is used primarily for pro audio applications. It can also be used effectively for home audio applications if you have long cable runs.

danger boy

really long cable runs.. go with XLR, prob 95% or all home theater people use RCA's. I have the option out of my Outlaw Audio pre amp to use XLR cables.. i don't.. because for a 6ft run(s), it's throwing money away.

I bet most people won't even hear any difference between the two..

XLR is better at rejecting interference as long as you use sheilded cables.. which most are already..

olilugo

Thanks guys I am looking at outlaw Model 7200 as my first amp, this particular model has two extra channels but it does not have the XLR connections. The lenght of cables will also be about 6ft.

Are RCA interconnect cables special or can I use regular stereo cables while I order some good cables?

RVJII

Glad to see this thread. I am in the process of deciding between the 7700 and the 7200. From what I gather, the XLR's could make some very subtle differences but it is doubtful whether most people would notice it on a non pro system. Seems like the consensus is to only go that direction if you have long runs.

One question though...does using XLR have any benefit when it comes to ground loop hum?

rskarvan

XLR is unquestionably better due to the fully balanced circuitry internal to better amplifiers.

danger boy

olilugo wrote: »

Thanks guys I am looking at outlaw Model 7200 as my first amp, this particular model has two extra channels but it does not have the XLR connections. The lenght of cables will also be about 6ft.

Are RCA interconnect cables special or can I use regular stereo cables while I order some good cables?

you can use regular stereo cables till you order some good ones.

do a search on here for interconnects or RCA cables... there is tons of recommendations... as the cable topic comes up all the time.

RVJII

Ok, so what you are saying is that it is more the the XLR cables. In a amp that is truly balanced (internally and not just the output stage) there should be a sonic difference.

Any comment on internal resistance to ground loop hum? My system is dead silent now and I read about a lot of people running into this problem when they go with big power amps.

olilugo

very good. This is the kind of feedback I was hoping to get; keep them comming.

My 2c on the humming - I think it has to do with properly grounding electrical circuit.

I would think that a dedicated 20amp outlet with properly grounded circuit at the outlet as well as at the main pannel will do just right.
No wounder If I have to have a separate 20 amp run/outlet for amplifier.