2. amps-preamps
  3. 995676363

Are they truly balanced?

I was wondering if all quality preamps that offer both single ended and balanced connectors are truly balanced designs. I'm pretty sure that the BAT equipment is of this design. But what about those preamps from the other high-end companies?

The reason I'm asking is that I've got an EMC-1 CDP that many people say sounds better using the balanced output. My current pre is single-ended only. My power amp is balanced though. I'm thinking that maybe a balanced pre would make the whole system sound better.

Any thoughts?
kenl

Showing 1 response by garfish

garfish
1,840 posts
 
All of Sonic Frontiers present pre-amps, ie the Line 1,2 and 3 are fully balanced. The new SE versions would also be fully balanced. But you're right, you have to specifically ask a knowledgeable rep., or see literature, of the product to know for sure.

BTW, not everyone agrees that fully balanced operation sounds best-- this is an area of contention, and their have been many threads discussing the subject. I don't use XLR, but then I haven't given it a fair trial either. Sonic Frontiers and Madrigal both strongly recommend balanced. Good Luck. Craig.
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